Bachelor Of Arts - Public Policy And Governance at St. Francis Xavier University - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-04-22

Program overview

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy and Governance at St. Francis Xavier University is an interdisciplinary program designed to explore how societies address complex economic, social, and political challenges. This program emphasizes the importance of effective governance and policy development, equipping students with the analytical tools and skills necessary to tackle real-world issues. With a focus on collaboration among various stakeholders, students will learn how to identify problems, devise solutions, and implement and evaluate policies. The program stands out as one of the few of its kind in Canada, providing a unique educational experience that prepares graduates for diverse career paths.

Program Structure

The Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy and Governance is structured to provide a comprehensive understanding of public policy and governance systems. The program is delivered in-person and spans a four-year duration, allowing students to immerse themselves in both theoretical and practical aspects of the field. Key features of the program structure include:

Small class sizes that foster close relationships with professors and peers.
Interdisciplinary approach, integrating courses from Political Science, Economics, and Statistics.
Opportunities for involvement in student societies, enhancing the learning experience.
Access to the Brian Mulroney Institute of Government, a hub for public policy studies.

Students are encouraged to engage in extracurricular activities, such as attending guest speaker events and participating in student-led organizations, which enrich their educational journey.

Featured Experiences

The Public Policy and Governance program at StFX offers several unique experiences that enhance student learning and engagement:

Access to the Brian Mulroney Institute of Government, which hosts leading scholars and practitioners in the field.
Hands-on learning opportunities through real-world projects and case studies.
Participation in the Public Policy and Governance Student Society, fostering community and collaboration among students.
Guest lectures and talks from experienced professionals in public policy and governance.
Field experiences that provide practical insights into the policy-making process.

Career Options

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy and Governance can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

Advocacy and Lobbying: Working with organizations to influence policy decisions and advocate for specific causes.
International Relations: Engaging in diplomatic efforts and international policy development.
Journalism: Reporting on public policy issues and providing analysis on governance matters.
Law: Pursuing a legal career focused on public policy, regulatory issues, or human rights.
Public Policy Administration: Managing and implementing government policies at various levels.

These career options reflect the diverse skill set and knowledge base that students acquire throughout their studies, preparing them for impactful roles in society.

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

Visit St. Francis Xavier University official website

Last updated on 2025-04-22

Program overview

Academic Requirements

For students interested in the Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy and Governance program at St. Francis Xavier University, the Academic Requirements are as follows:

The minimum Academic Requirements for high school students include:

An overall average of 70% in Grade 12.
No grade below 65% in each of the required subjects.

It is important to note that admissions to limited enrolment programs are competitive, and meeting the minimum average does not guarantee admission.

Students who are currently in Grade 12 and applying for early admission must have the program requirements completed in Grade 11 and be registered in the program prerequisites in Grade 12 to be eligible for an early offer. Otherwise, offers will be made after receipt of the final first term Grade 12 transcript.

For international students, the following requirements apply:

Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

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

Language Requirements

At St. Francis Xavier University, students whose first language is not English are typically required to demonstrate their proficiency in the English language as part of the admission process. This requirement is applicable to applicants from countries where English is not an official language. The university reserves the right to request proof of language proficiency regardless of the applicant's country of origin, citizenship status, or language of instruction.

To fulfill the English language proficiency requirement, applicants must achieve the following minimum scores on recognized English language proficiency tests:

IELTS: 6.5 overall with no band lower than 6.0. Accepting IELTS One Skill Retake.
TOEFL: 90 iBT with no band lower than 20. MyBest Scores accepted.
MET: 55.
CAEL: 70 overall with no band lower than 60.
C1 Advanced: 180 overall with no band lower than 170.
C2 Proficiency: 180 overall with no band lower than 170.
Duolingo: 115 with no integrated subscore lower than 100.
Pearson Test of English – Academic: 60 overall with no score below 50.
Oxford ELLT Digital: 7 overall with no band lower than 6.
Oxford ELLT Global: 7 overall with no band lower than 6.

Students may be exempt from providing proof of English language proficiency if they meet certain criteria, such as having studied for the last two years in an English-speaking high school or university, or if they have achieved a minimum of 70% in Grade 12 English through the Nova Scotia International Students Program (NSISP).

If an applicant's test scores do not meet the minimum requirements but they fulfill other admission criteria, they may be offered conditional admission into the English for Academic Purposes program, which allows them to improve their English skills before starting their degree program.

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!