Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Gender, Sexuality, and Women's Studies at Simon Fraser University (SFU) - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-12-03

Program overview

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Program Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Gender, Sexuality, and Women's Studies is a joint major offered by the Department of Gender, Sexuality, and Women's Studies and the Department of Political Science at Simon Fraser University. This program is designed for students who are passionate about exploring the intersections of gender, sexuality, and women's issues within the political landscape. Students are encouraged to collaborate with advisors from both departments to tailor their educational journey, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of these critical areas.

Program Structure

The program is structured to provide a well-rounded education in both political science and gender studies. The key components of the program include:

Program Length: Students must complete a total of 120 units to earn their degree.
Lower Division Requirements: Students will complete a minimum of five courses in political science and 18 units in gender, sexuality, and women's studies.
Upper Division Requirements: Students are required to complete 24 upper division units in political science and 20 upper division units in gender, sexuality, and women's studies.
Residency Requirements: At least half of the program's total units must be earned through Simon Fraser University study.
Elective Courses: Students should consult an academic advisor to plan the remaining required elective courses.

Additionally, students have the opportunity to engage in various program options, such as co-op placements or internships, to gain practical experience in their fields of study.

Featured Experiences

Joint major program that combines insights from both political science and gender studies.
Opportunity to work closely with advisors from both departments to customize the educational experience.
Engagement in community-based projects and research initiatives related to gender and political issues.
Potential for co-op placements or internships to gain real-world experience in relevant fields.

Career Options

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Gender, Sexuality, and Women's Studies can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

Policy Analyst: Analyze and develop policies related to gender and social issues, providing recommendations to government and organizations.
Advocacy Coordinator: Work with non-profits or advocacy groups to promote gender equality and social justice initiatives.
Researcher: Conduct research on gender, sexuality, and political issues, contributing to academic and public discourse.
Community Outreach Specialist: Engage with communities to raise awareness and educate on issues related to gender and politics.
Public Relations Officer: Manage communications and public relations for organizations focused on gender and social issues.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Visit Simon Fraser University (SFU) official website

Last updated on 2025-12-03

Program overview

Academic Requirements

For students interested in the Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Gender, Sexuality, and Women's Studies program, the following Academic Requirements apply:

International Students:
- For Vietnamese students, the following documents are required:
  - Bàng Tót Nghiêp Phó Thông Trung Hoc (Upper Secondary School Graduation Certificate).
  - Submit a transcript that includes interim marks for the senior year. Admission is calculated based on senior-level academic subjects.
Quantitative and Analytical Skills: All applicants must meet the university's Quantitative and Analytical Skills requirements. Specifically, you need a minimum of 6/10 in Senior Mathematics for admission (based on a 50% pass scale).
Prerequisite Courses:
- For the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, which includes the Gender, Sexuality, and Women's Studies program, there are no additional faculty/program course prerequisites beyond the general Academic Requirements.
Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

Students are advised to apply as soon as possible to ensure they meet all necessary deadlines. For any clarification and support, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

English is the language of instruction at SFU. All applicants, regardless of country of origin or citizenship status, will be required to have demonstrated competence in the English language prior to admission. Competence is required in all four of the following skills: listening, reading, speaking, and writing.

As an applicant to undergraduate studies, you must demonstrate English language competence through one of the options below:

Completion of the last three (3) years of full-time secondary school education in English in Canada
- Minimum requirement: 70% in a senior level English
Completion of the last three (3) years of full-time secondary school education in English, in a country in which the principal language of instruction is English
- Minimum requirement: 70% in a senior level English
Completion of the last four (4) years of full-time secondary school education in English at a recognized international school in a country in which the principal language of instruction is not English
- Minimum requirement: 70% in a senior level English
Completion of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program including English A (HL/SL) or English Literature and Performance (SL)
- Minimum requirement: Grade of a 3
Completion of a three unit English (ENGL) course or a certified W (writing intensive) course for which SFU grants transfer credit
- Minimum requirement: Grade of a C- (C minus)
GCSE O-Level English (or GCSE English Language B)
- Minimum requirement: Grade of a 4 (or C)

Alternatively, you may complete a Language Proficiency Exam:

International English Language Testing System (IELTS - Academic)
- Minimum score: Overall 6.5 with no part less than 6.0
Cambridge English Qualifications
- B2 First
- C1 Advanced
- C2 Proficiency
- Minimum score: Overall score 176 with no part less than 169
Test of English as a Foreign Language internet based test (TOEFL iBT)
- Minimum score: Overall score 88 with no part less than 20
Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL)
- Minimum score: Overall score of 70, with no part less than 60
Pearson Test of English (PTE)
- Minimum score: Overall score of 65, and a minimum score of 60 in the Communicative Skills
Duolingo English Test (DET)
- Minimum score: Overall score of 125

Enrolment in first-year writing intensive courses requires higher grades than admission grades. Students must meet the University’s literacy requirements in addition to the English language Requirement.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!

Last updated on 2025-12-06

Program overview