Bachelor Of Arts - Honours Arts And Business - Political Science at University of Waterloo - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-11-18

Program overview

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Program overview

Explore the dynamic world of politics with the Bachelor of Arts - Honours Arts and Business - Political Science program at Waterloo, one of Canada's leading universities. This program is designed for those passionate about understanding and influencing the political landscape, from civil unrest to global trade negotiations. Students will develop essential skills in analysis, writing, critical thinking, and research through a blend of lectures, seminars, and workshops. With a focus on comparative politics, international relations, social sciences, and political theory, graduates will be well-equipped to make a meaningful impact in today's complex world.

Program structure

The Bachelor of Arts - Honours Arts and Business - Political Science program offers a comprehensive structure that allows students to tailor their education to their interests. The program length is four years, with options for co-op placements that provide valuable work experience. Key features of the program structure include:

Co-op opportunities available, allowing students to gain practical experience while studying.
Flexibility to choose a second major or minors from a wide range of subjects.
Integration of classroom learning with real-world experience through alternating study and work terms.
Access to a diverse array of courses, enabling students to explore various political topics.

Students can expect to engage in a mix of academic and practical experiences, preparing them for a successful career in political science.

Featured Experiences

The Bachelor of Arts - Honours Arts and Business - Political Science program at Waterloo offers several unique experiences that enhance learning and career readiness:

Co-op program that allows students to gain up to 20 months of paid work experience.
Hands-on learning through seminars and workshops, providing practical skills in political analysis.
Opportunities to study under top scholars involved in international policy debates.
Customization options, including an International Relations specialization and various minors.
Engagement in topical courses covering issues like global security and women in politics.

These experiences not only enrich the academic journey but also prepare students for the challenges of the professional world.

Career Options

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts - Honours Arts and Business - Political Science program can pursue a variety of rewarding careers in Canada. Here are some potential job options:

Policy Analyst: Analyze and develop policies for government or organizations, focusing on social, economic, and political issues.
Public Affairs Coordinator: Manage communication strategies and public relations efforts for organizations, ensuring effective messaging.
Research Analyst: Conduct research and analysis on political trends, providing insights to inform decision-making.
Trade Policy Officer: Work with government agencies to develop and implement trade policies that affect international relations.
Legal Counsel: Provide legal advice and representation for clients in various sectors, including non-profits and government.

These roles highlight the diverse opportunities available to graduates, allowing them to make significant contributions in various fields related to political science.

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

Visit University of Waterloo official website

Last updated on 2025-11-18

Program overview

Academic Requirements

For the Bachelor of Arts - Honours Arts and Business - Political Science program at the University of Waterloo, the following Academic Requirements apply:

Minimum GPA: Not specified.
Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.
Prerequisite courses:
- English and Mathematics with a minimum grade of 7.5 in each.
Overall average required: 8.3.

For international students, particularly those from Vietnam, the following general requirements must be met:

Bàng Tốt Nghiệp Phố Thông Trung Học (Secondary School Graduation Certificate).

It is advisable to apply as soon as possible to ensure your application is considered. For any clarification and support regarding the application process, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

English Language Requirements

English is the language of instruction at the University of Waterloo. Success in our programs requires a high level of English language proficiency.

You need to provide an English language test score if:

your four most recent years of full-time education have NOT been in an English-language school system AND
your first language is NOT English.

Required English Language Scores

Tests that do not appear on this chart are not accepted for admission consideration.

Official test scores must be sent by the testing agency directly to Waterloo's Office of the Registrar. Emails, faxes, and student copies of test scores are not accepted for admission.

Test	Minimum Score	How to Send Test Results
Internet-based TOEFL (iBT), including Home Edition and Paper Edition	90 overall, 25 writing, 25 speaking	Waterloo's institution code is 0996 and our department code is 00. We do not accept electronic TOEFL scores for undergraduate admissions.
IELTS Academic	6.5 overall, 6.5 writing, 6.5 speaking, 6.0 reading, 6.0 listening	We accept the electronic Test Report Form (TRF). Waterloo's e-transfer institution name is University of Waterloo – Undergraduate OR University of Waterloo Admissions.
CAEL or CAEL online	70 overall, 60 per band, 70 writing, 70 speaking	You must log in to your affiliated account and select University of Waterloo as a recipient institution.
PTE Academic	63 overall, 65 writing, 65 speaking	Send your Score Report Code or Registration ID to myapplication@uwaterloo.ca.
Cambridge English test (C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency)	180 overall, 176 writing, 176 reading, 176 speaking, 176 listening	Go to the Candidate Results Online portal, input your ID and secret number then click on "Send my result."
Duolingo English test	The minimum requirement for tests completed before July 1, 2024 is an overall score of 120, with minimum Literacy and Production scores of 110. Tests completed after July 1, 2024 require an overall of 120 with Literacy and Production scores of 125 for direct entry to a Waterloo program.	Results will not be accepted without subscores. You must log in to your affiliated account and select University of Waterloo – Undergraduate as a recipient institution.
EFAS - English for Academic Success	75% overall in 400 levels, 75% in each of academic, oral, and writing	Your scores will be sent to us automatically by the English Language Institute.

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!