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Department of Political Science
(Faculty of Public Affairs)
B640 Loeb
613-520-2777
carleton.ca/polisci

This section presents the requirements for programs in:

Program Requirements

M.A. Political Science (5.0 credits)

Details on all program requirements are provided in the departmental Guidelines for M.A. Candidates.

All master's candidates will fulfill a 5.0-credit program. A maximum of 1.0 credit may be taken at the 4000-level. The student may choose to take a maximum of 1.0 credit at the graduate level outside the Department of Political Science.

Requirements - Coursework pathway (5.0 credits)
1.  5.0 credits in approved courses5.0
Total Credits5.0
Requirements - Research essay pathway (5.0 credits)
1.  1.0 credit in:1.0
PSCI 5908 [1.0]
M.A. Research Essay
2.  4.0 credits in approved courses4.0
Total Credits5.0
Requirements - Thesis pathway (5.0 credits)
1.  2.0 credits in:2.0
PSCI 5909 [2.0]
M.A. Thesis
2.  3.0 credits in approved courses3.0
Total Credits5.0

M.A. Political Science
with Collaborative Specialization in African Studies (5.0 credits)

Requirements - Coursework pathway (5.0 credits)
1.  0.5 credit in:0.5
AFRI 5000 [0.5]
African Studies as a Discipline: Historical and Current Perspectives
2.  0.0 credit in:0.0
AFRI 5800 [0.0]
Scholarly Preparation in African Studies
3.  0.5 credit from:0.5
PSCI 5107 [0.5]
Globalization, Adjustment and Democracy in Africa
PSCI 5203 [0.5]
Southern Africa After Apartheid
4.  0.5 credit in course designated as having sufficient African Studies content, approved by both the Graduate Supervisor in Political Science and the Graduate Coordinator of the Institute of African Studies0.5
5.  3.5 credits in approved courses3.5
Total Credits5.0
Requirements - Research essay pathway (5.0 credits)
1.  0.5 credit in:0.5
AFRI 5000 [0.5]
African Studies as a Discipline: Historical and Current Perspectives
2.  0.0 credit in:0.0
AFRI 5800 [0.0]
Scholarly Preparation in African Studies
3.  0.5 credit from:0.5
PSCI 5107 [0.5]
Globalization, Adjustment and Democracy in Africa
PSCI 5203 [0.5]
Southern Africa After Apartheid
4.  0.5 credit in course designated as having sufficient African Studies content, approved by both the Graduate Supervisor in Political Science and the Graduate Coordinator of the Institute of African Studies0.5
5.  1.0 credit in:1.0
PSCI 5908 [1.0]
M.A. Research Essay (in the specialization)
6.  2.5 credits in approved courses2.5
Total Credits5.0
Requirements - Thesis pathway (5.0 credits)
1.  0.5 credit in:0.5
AFRI 5000 [0.5]
African Studies as a Discipline: Historical and Current Perspectives
2.  0.0 credit in:0.0
AFRI 5800 [0.0]
Scholarly Preparation in African Studies
3.  0.5 credit from:0.5
PSCI 5107 [0.5]
Globalization, Adjustment and Democracy in Africa
PSCI 5203 [0.5]
Southern Africa After Apartheid
4.  0.5 credit in course designated as having sufficient African Studies content, approved by both the Graduate Supervisor in Political Science and the Graduate Coordinator of the Institute of African Studies0.5
5.  2.0 credits in:2.0
PSCI 5909 [2.0]
M.A. Thesis (in the specialization)
6.  1.5 credits in approved courses1.5
Total Credits5.0

M.A. Political Science
with Specialization in Latin American and Caribbean Studies (5.0 credits)

Requirements - Thesis pathway (5.0 credits)
1.  0.5 credit in:0.5
LACS 5000 [0.5]
Interdisciplinary Approaches to Latin American and Caribbean Studies
2.  0.0 credit in:0.0
LACS 5800 [0.0]
Scholarly Preparation in Latin American and Caribbean Studies
3.  2.0 credits in:2.0
PSCI 5909 [2.0]
M.A. Thesis (in the specialization)
4.  2.5 credits in electives at the 5000-level, as approved by the graduate supervisor2.5
Total Credits5.0
Requirements - Research essay pathway (5.0 credits)
1.  0.5 credit in:0.5
LACS 5000 [0.5]
Interdisciplinary Approaches to Latin American and Caribbean Studies
2.  0.0 credit in:0.0
LACS 5800 [0.0]
Scholarly Preparation in Latin American and Caribbean Studies
3.  1.0 credit in:1.0
PSCI 5908 [1.0]
M.A. Research Essay (in the specialization)
4.  3.5 credits in electives at the 5000-level, as approved by the graduate supervisor3.5
Total Credits5.0
Defences

In the case of the student choosing a thesis, the thesis will be evaluated by three people: the student's thesis supervisor from the Department, a second reader from the Department, and an internal third reader who is generally from another Carleton Department but may sometimes come from outside the University. A thesis must be defended orally before the three evaluators. No letter grade is assigned, but notations of Satisfactory and Unsatisfactory are assigned.

In the case of the student choosing a research essay, that essay will be evaluated by two of the Department's faculty members including the supervisor and a second reader, and a letter grade will be assigned. An oral defence of the essay is not required but may be requested by the supervisor or second reader.

Washington Center Internship Program

The Washington Center Internship Program is open to full time master's students who have completed at least two terms of study at Carleton. Admission is open to students with at least a 9.5 GPA in Political Science graduate courses. Successful completion of the program satisfies the requirements for one term of full-time study (1.5 credits). Students spend one term (fall, winter or summer) in Washington, D.C. They serve four days a week as an intern in Washington, D.C. and also take two seminar courses offered by faculty of The Washington Center. The normal 1.5 credit course load for participants in the program is: PSCI 5904 Washington Center Internship, PSCI 5906 Washington Center Seminar II, PSCI 5906 Washington Center Seminar II. Full information on the program and application forms can be obtained from the Department of Political Science.

Course Selection

Within the scope of the regulations, 4000-level undergraduate courses in Political Science may be taken by M.A. students.

Students are also encouraged to look for graduate courses at Carleton in the Departments of Economics, Geography, History, Law, Philosophy, and Sociology and Anthropology; the Schools of Business, Journalism and Communication, Public Administration, and the Norman Paterson School of International Affairs; and in the Institutes of European and Russian Studies, and Political Economy. Students may also look for courses in the Graduate School of Public Policy and International Affairs and the School of Political Science at the University of Ottawa.

All courses selected will be subject to the approval of the Department, on grounds of appropriateness to the program of study and the avoidance of excessive overlap between courses.

Ph.D. Political Science (5.0 credits)

Details on all program requirements are provided in the departmental Guidelines for Ph.D. Candidates.
The student may choose to take a maximum of 0.5 credit outside the Department of Political Science.

Requirements:
1.  2.0 credits in courses at the 6000 level in each of the candidate's two major fields of study. A GPA of 9.0 or higher must be obtained in these courses for students to be allowed to proceed to the comprehensive examinations.2.0
2.  1.0 credit in:1.0
PSCI 6900 [0.5]
Ph.D. Field Examination I
PSCI 6905 [0.5]
Ph.D. Field Examination II
Field examinations normally take place once per year, in August. At the discretion of the Department, candidates may be required to take an oral examination following the written examination. Full-time students are normally required to complete the comprehensive examinations within 24 months of entering the program.
3.  1.0 credit in electives at the graduate level, normally taken during the first or second year of the program, in fields allied to the major topics of the thesis. This credit will normally be fulfilled through regular course work rather than tutorials. A maximum of .5 credits can be fulfilled by tutorials.1.0
4.  1.0 credit in:1.0
PSCI 6907 [0.5]
Thesis Proposal Workshop I
PSCI 6908 [0.5]
Thesis Proposal Workshop II
5. An oral defence of a written dissertation proposal:
Full-time students must normally complete the oral defence of the proposal, preceded by its formal acceptance by the supervisory committee, in the third year of their doctoral program.
6.  0.0 credits in:0.0
PSCI 6909 [0.0]
Ph.D. Thesis
Total Credits5.0

Ph.D. Political Science
with Collaborative Specialization in African Studies (5.5 credits)

Requirements:
1.  2.0 credits in courses at the 6000 level in each of the candidate's two major fields of study. A GPA of 9.0 or higher must be obtained in these courses for students to be allowed to proceed to the comprehensive examinations.2.0
2.  1.0 credit in:1.0
PSCI 6900 [0.5]
Ph.D. Field Examination I
PSCI 6905 [0.5]
Ph.D. Field Examination II
Field examinations normally take place once per year, in August. At the discretion of the Department, candidates may be required to take an oral examination following the written examination. Full-time students are normally required to complete the comprehensive examinations within 24 months of entering the program.
3.  0.0 credit in:0.0
AFRI 5800 [0.0]
Scholarly Preparation in African Studies
4.  1.0 credit in:1.0
AFRI 5000 [0.5]
African Studies as a Discipline: Historical and Current Perspectives
AFRI 6000 [0.5]
Thinking from Africa: Historical Perspectives, Contemporary Dimensions
5.  0.5 credit in electives at the graduate level, in fields allied to major topics of the thesis. This credit will normally be fulfilled through regular course work rather than tutorials.0.5
6.  1.0 credit in:1.0
PSCI 6907 [0.5]
Thesis Proposal Workshop I
PSCI 6908 [0.5]
Thesis Proposal Workshop II
7. An oral defence of a written dissertation proposal. Full-time students must normally complete the oral defence of the proposal, preceded by its formal acceptance by the supervisory committee, in the third year of their doctoral program.
8.  0.0 credits in:0.0
PSCI 6909 [0.0]
Ph.D. Thesis (in the specialization)
Total Credits5.5

Ph.D. Political Science
with Collaborative Specialization in African Studies (Advanced Completion Option - 5.0 credits)

Applicants to the Ph.D. Political Science with Collaborative Specialization in African Studies who have completed a master's program with specialization in African Studies may be considered for admission to an Advanced Completion Option of the Ph.D.

Requirements:
1.  2.0 credits in courses at the 6000 level in each of the candidate's two major fields of study. A GPA of 9.0 or higher must be obtained in these courses for students to be allowed to proceed to the comprehensive examinations.2.0
2.  1.0 credit in:1.0
PSCI 6900 [0.5]
Ph.D. Field Examination I
PSCI 6905 [0.5]
Ph.D. Field Examination II
3.  0.5 credit in:0.5
AFRI 6000 [0.5]
Thinking from Africa: Historical Perspectives, Contemporary Dimensions
4.  0.5 credit in electives at the graduate level, in fields allied to the major topics of the thesis. This credit will normally be fulfilled through regular course work rather than tutorials.0.5
5.  1.0 credit in:1.0
PSCI 6907 [0.5]
Thesis Proposal Workshop I
PSCI 6908 [0.5]
Thesis Proposal Workshop II
6. An oral defence of a written dissertation proposal. Full-time students must normally complete the oral defence of the proposal, preceded by its formal acceptance by the supervisory committee, in the third year of their doctoral program.
7.  0.0 credit in:
PSCI 6909 [0.0]
Ph.D. Thesis (in the specialization)
Total Credits5.0

Ph.D. Political Science
with Collaborative Specialization in Political Economy (5.0 credits)

Requirements:
1.  2.0 credits in courses at the 6000 level in each of the candidate's two major fields of study2.0
2.  1.0 credit in:1.0
PSCI 6900 [0.5]
Ph.D. Field Examination I
PSCI 6905 [0.5]
Ph.D. Field Examination II
Field examinations normally take place once per year, in August. At the discretion of the Department, candidates may be required to take an oral examination following the written examination. Full-time students are normally required to complete the comprehensive examinations within 24 months of entering the program.
3. Proficiency in a research skill, as outlined below under Research Skill Requirement
4.  0.5 credit in:0.5
PECO 6000 [0.5]
Political Economy: Core Concepts
5.  0.5 credit in:0.5
A relevant political economy course from the approved list
6.  1.0 credit in:1.0
PSCI 6907 [0.5]
Thesis Proposal Workshop I
PSCI 6908 [0.5]
Thesis Proposal Workshop II
7. An oral defence of a written dissertation proposal. Full-time students must normally complete the oral defence of the proposal, preceded by its formal acceptance by the supervisory committee, in the third year of their doctoral program.
8.  0.0 credits in:0.0
PSCI 6909 [0.0]
Ph.D. Thesis (in the specialization)
Total Credits5.0

Political Science (PSCI) Courses

PSCI 5003 [0.5 credit]
Political Parties in Canada

A seminar on political parties and party systems in Canadian federal politics, including an examination of patterns of historical development, party organization and finance, relationships with social movements, and the impact of Canadian federalism.

PSCI 5006 [0.5 credit]
Legislatures and Representation in Canada

The role of Parliament and of the individual M.P. in terms of policy making, party discipline, and differing conceptions of representation.
Also offered at the undergraduate level, with different requirements, as PSCI 4006, for which additional credit is precluded.

PSCI 5009 [0.5 credit]
Canadian Political Economy

A seminar on political economy as a traditional and contemporary approach to the study of Canadian politics and the Canadian state. Canada's economic development, social relations (including gender and race relations), and position in the international political economy is explored.

PSCI 5010 [0.5 credit]
Executive Power in Canadian Politics

Consideration of prime ministers, premiers, cabinet ministers and senior public service leadership in Canadian politics and government.
Also listed as PSCI 4010.

PSCI 5100 [0.5 credit]
Indigenous Politics of North America

Issues of governance regarding the original peoples of Canada, Mexico and the United States before and since the European invasion, including: movement for restoration of cultural, socio-economic, political, land and self-government rights.
Also offered at the undergraduate level, with different requirements, as PSCI 4206, for which additional credit is precluded.

PSCI 5101 [0.5 credit]
Canadian Federalism

A study of the evolution and contemporary operation of the Canadian federal system, noting particularly the specific social, political, economic, and structural features which underlie its operational performance, its resilience in crisis, and its potential for adaptation.
Also offered at the undergraduate level, with different requirements, as PSCI 4005, for which additional credit is precluded.

PSCI 5103 [0.5 credit]
Canada-EU Relations

Relations between Canada and Europe in the context of European integration, with attention to policy issues affecting the relationship and/or areas of common policy challenges.
Also listed as EURR 5108.
Prerequisite(s): previous course in European integration or permission of the instructor.

PSCI 5106 [0.5 credit]
The Politics of Post-Soviet Successor States

A seminar on selected problems of nation-building in Russia, Ukraine, and other Soviet successor states.

PSCI 5107 [0.5 credit]
Globalization, Adjustment and Democracy in Africa

The nature of global pressures in Africa as states go through a "second wind" of political and economic change.
Also offered at the undergraduate level, with different requirements, as PSCI 4207, for which additional credit is precluded.

PSCI 5110 [0.5 credit]
Post-Soviet States and Societies

The relationship between social forces and state structures at both the national and local levels in the USSR and the post-soviet states.
Also listed as EURR 5002.
Also offered at the undergraduate level, with different requirements, as EURR 4002, for which additional credit is precluded.

PSCI 5111 [0.5 credit]
The European Union and its Eastern Neighbours

The EU's European Neighbourhood Policy and Eastern partnership policy, the Russia-EU “strategic partnership”. Policies and reactions of non-EU East European countries toward the EU. The interaction of Member state policies and EU policies. May include attention to historical legacies, cultural factors, public opinion, energy security.
Includes: Experiential Learning Activity
Also listed as EURR 5205, INAF 5807.

PSCI 5112 [0.5 credit]
Russian Domestic Politics

Examination of the evolution of Russian domestic politics and society since the collapse of the Soviet Union. Themes discussed include the transformation of Russia's political system, changes in the behavior of political elites, the evolution of Russia's social structure, and federal-regional relations.
Also listed as EURR 5101.

PSCI 5113 [0.5 credit]
Democracy in the European Union

Survey of empirical research and normative theorizing about democracy in the EU. Topics include: European Parliament and other channels for democratic input, patterns of citizen participation, impact of European integration on democracy in EU member states, Euroscepticism, theories of EU democracy.
Also listed as EURR 5113.

PSCI 5114 [0.5 credit]
The Politics of Israel/Palestine

The history and politics of Israel/Palestine. An examination of the interests and identities of Israelis and Palestinians, and the role of external actors and public opinion in shaping regional dynamics.

PSCI 5200 [0.5 credit]
Nationalism

A seminar on the historical and comparative study of nationalism, with emphasis on its role in the promotion of political change.
Includes: Experiential Learning Activity

PSCI 5201 [0.5 credit]
Politics in Plural Societies

A seminar on politics in multicultural societies and multi-national states, including settler and post-colonial societies. Topics may include: conflict relating to race, religion, language, regionalism, intra-state nationalism, multicultural policies and theories of pluralism.

PSCI 5202 [0.5 credit]
Development Theory and Issues

A seminar on historical and current debates in development theory, including the origins, nature, and critiques of development processes in the Global South.

PSCI 5203 [0.5 credit]
Southern Africa After Apartheid

An exploration of the pathology of apartheid, the reasons for its end, and prospects for democratization and development in southern Africa in the era of globalization.
Also offered at the undergraduate level, with different requirements, as PSCI 4203, for which additional credit is precluded.

PSCI 5204 [0.5 credit]
Elections

The conduct and meaning of elections in contemporary states. Attention to the connection of elections to concepts of representation, policy mandates, and political parties, and to electoral systems and referenda.
Also offered at the undergraduate level, with different requirements, as PSCI 4204, for which additional credit is precluded.

PSCI 5207 [0.5 credit]
International Political Sociology

A seminar exploring classical and contemporary social and political thought in relation to international, transnational, and global practices and institutions. Topics may include borders, capitalism, citizenship, civil society, constitutionalization, empire, governance, power, public spheres, risk, security, sovereignty, and world society.

PSCI 5208 [0.5 credit]
Global Social Policy

The seminar explores global initiatives in poverty reduction, inequality, development assistance and internationalization of the provision of social services. The seminar considers theoretical, institutional and policy implications of debates about global justice, policy transfer and global government of social policies.

PSCI 5209 [0.5 credit]
Forced Migration and Global Politics

Critical examination of the relationship between different aspects of forced migration and debates within global politics. Topics may include borders, global governance, political agency, sovereignty, security, globalization, gender and public policy.
Includes: Experiential Learning Activity

PSCI 5210 [0.5 credit]
Politics and Popular Culture

A critical examination of the increasingly important intersections of politics and popular culture. Theoretical approaches such as structuralism, semiotics, political economy, feminism, and postmodernism explore such core themes as political power, dissent, globalization, (post)colonialism, gender, race, class, and sexuality in various media.

PSCI 5211 [0.5 credit]
Migration, Globalization and Governance

Critical examination of the politics of mobility in a globalizing context. Seminar topics may include migration regimes, securitization of migration, temporary and permanent migration streams and patterns of inclusion and exclusion.

PSCI 5212 [0.5 credit]
Advanced International Relations Theory

Close reading and analysis of theoretical research in the academic discipline of International Relations; may include analysis of methodology, normative and critical theory, and key theoretical concepts such as anarchy, sovereignty, power, inequality, coloniality, security, gender.

PSCI 5302 [0.5 credit]
Democratic Theories

Analysis of various theories of democracy and community, from classical to modern.

PSCI 5303 [0.5 credit]
Genealogies of Politics and Governance

Examination of Foucault’s genealogical method for doing critical studies of politics and governance. Topics may include governmentality, sovereignty, biopolitics, neoliberalism, citizenship, and colonialism.
Also listed as SOCI 5407.
Also offered at the undergraduate level, with different requirements, as PSCI 4303, for which additional credit is precluded.

PSCI 5305 [0.5 credit]
Political Thought in the Modern Muslim Middle East

Contemporary political thought in the Muslim Middle East. Secular and religious responses to the challenges of modernity. Readings may include writings of Arab, Turkish, and Iranian intellectuals.
Also offered at the undergraduate level, with different requirements, as PSCI 4302, for which additional credit is precluded.

PSCI 5308 [0.5 credit]
Concepts of Political Community I

A critical survey of concepts of political community, including the common good, justice, citizenship, statesmanship, democracy, and legitimacy, from ancient, modern, and contemporary political theory.
Also offered at the undergraduate level, with different requirements, as PSCI 4318, for which additional credit is precluded.

PSCI 5309 [0.5 credit]
Concepts of Political Community II

A continued critical survey of concepts of political community, including the common good, justice, citizenship, statesmanship, democracy, and legitimacy, from ancient, modern, and contemporary political theory.
Prerequisite(s): PSCI 5308 or permission of the Department.
Also offered at the undergraduate level, with different requirements, as PSCI 4319, for which additional credit is precluded.

PSCI 5310 [0.5 credit]
History of Political Thought

Western political thought from classical times to the nineteenth century: may include the study of Plato, Aristotle, Machiavelli, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, Marx and other thinkers.

PSCI 5407 [0.5 credit]
Reproductive Rights Policy in North America

The interaction between social movements, legislatures and courts in formulating reproductive rights policy in Canada, the U.S. and Mexico.
Also offered at the undergraduate level, with different requirements, as PSCI 4403, for which additional credit is precluded.

PSCI 5410 [0.5 credit]
Postcolonial Theories and Practices

This seminar familiarizes students with different approaches to postcolonial theory, discussing issues like the decolonization of knowledge and development and examining colonial practices of states and responses by indigenous movements.

PSCI 5501 [0.5 credit]
Selected Issues in Political Economy I

A research seminar exploring a selected topic of current research having a political economy perspective, such as power and stratification; dynamics of state action; contrasting views on administration as an instrument of political economy; culture, ideology, and social relations; and the labour process.
Also listed as PECO 5501, SOCI 5404.

PSCI 5502 [0.5 credit]
Selected Issues in Political Economy II

A research seminar exploring a selected topic of current research having a political economy perspective, such as power and stratification; dynamics of state action; contrasting views on administration as an instrument of political economy; culture, ideology, and social relations; and the labour process.
Also listed as PECO 5502, SOCI 5505.

PSCI 5504 [0.5 credit]
Selected Topics in Work and Labour I

Topics and emphasis vary from term to term according to current policies and events influencing the distribution and benefits of work and labour including migration, technological and environmental change, privatization, austerity, and transnational legislation.
Also listed as PECO 5503, SOCI 5503.

PSCI 5505 [0.5 credit]
Selected Topics in Work and Labour II

Topics and emphasis vary from term to term according to current policies and events influencing the distribution and benefits of work and labour including migration, technological and environmental change, privatization, austerity, and transnational legislation.
Also listed as PECO 5504, SOCI 5502.

PSCI 5506 [0.5 credit]
Gender and Politics

Selected gender dimensions of politics in a comparative perspective. Topics may include: gendered nature of authority, gender regimes and state forms, feminist accounts of citizenship, representation, power and democracy, women's movements and anti-feminist movements, identity politics, gendered accounts of nationalism and multiculturalism.

PSCI 5601 [0.5 credit]
Analysis of Canadian Foreign Policy

A research seminar on contemporary Canadian external policies, with emphasis on the analysis of cases and issues, and comparisons with other national actors.
Includes: Experiential Learning Activity

PSCI 5602 [0.5 credit]
Ethics in International Relations

Historical and contemporary approaches to normative theory and ethics in international relations, including Kantian, Hegelian, Marxist, postmodern and feminist ethics. Issues may include poverty and justice, human rights and humanitarian intervention.

PSCI 5607 [0.5 credit]
Politics of North America

Continentalism in Canadian foreign policy during the twentieth century, charting regional, economic, political, and defence relations in North America.
Precludes additional credit for PSCI 4607 if taken before 2006-07.

PSCI 5608 [0.5 credit]
European Integration and European Security

A seminar focusing on issues related to the formation of supra-national decision-making structures in Europe.
Includes: Experiential Learning Activity
Also listed as EURR 4104/5104.
Also offered at the undergraduate level, with different requirements, as PSCI 4608, for which additional credit is precluded.

PSCI 5609 [0.5 credit]
Selected Topics in European Integration Studies

A seminar focusing on selected topics related to European integration in the post-World War II period.
Also listed as EURR 5106.

PSCI 5700 [0.5 credit]
Basic Research Methods

A course in applied research design and methodology, with emphasis on empirical research strategies that are amenable to quantification.

PSCI 5701 [0.5 credit]
Intermediate Polimetrics for Micro Data

Intermediate research designs and statistical techniques primarily used in analyzing survey data. Selected topics may vary from year to year. Students intending to do research based on micro data are advised to take this course.
Prerequisite(s): PSCI 5700 or permission of the Department.
Also offered at the undergraduate level, with different requirements, as PSCI 4701, for which additional credit is precluded.

PSCI 5702 [0.5 credit]
Intermediate Research Methods for Applied Political Science

Applied methods for policy, politics and public affairs. Primarily quantitative but may have qualitative elements.
Prerequisite(s): PSCI 5700 or permission of the Department.
Also offered at the undergraduate level, with different requirements, as PSCI 4702, for which additional credit is precluded.

PSCI 5703 [0.5 credit]
Ethnographic Research Methods

Introduction to ethnographic and related qualitative research methods in political science. Ethnography is the study of culture and social organization primarily through participant observation, supplemented by interviewing, archival research, and collection of audiovisual materials.

PSCI 5705 [0.5 credit]
Approaches to the Study of Political Theory

This course explores different methodological approaches to the study of texts in political theory. It examines the essential methodological considerations that are involved in designing and conducting a study in political theory.

PSCI 5802 [0.5 credit]
Political Economy of Global Money and Finance

An exploration of the organization of the global monetary and financial system. Issues covered include the relationship between global finance and the state, the politics of world money, and the problems associated with regulating internationally-active financial institutions.
Includes: Experiential Learning Activity
Also offered at the undergraduate level, with different requirements, as PSCI 4805, for which additional credit is precluded.

PSCI 5803 [0.5 credit]
Transatlantic Security Issues

NATO as a political and military alliance. NATO and 21st-century threats. Security roles for the European Union. Broader transatlantic security issues.
Precludes additional credit for PSCI 4806 if taken before 2006-07.

PSCI 5805 [0.5 credit]
Foreign Policy Analysis

A research seminar dealing with selected problems in the study of foreign policy formulations and outcomes.

PSCI 5806 [0.5 credit]
Strategic Thought and Issues in International Security

A research seminar on the evolution of classical and contemporary strategic thought, and on current issues in international security.

PSCI 5807 [0.5 credit]
Analysis of International Organizations

A research seminar on process and change in contemporary forms of international organization.

PSCI 5808 [0.5 credit]
International Political Economy

A seminar on current issues in IPE. Topics include theoretical issues in the disciplinary history of IPE and recent developments in the organization and operation of the global political economy in the fields of money, finance, production, work, trade, knowledge, geopolitical rivalry and empire.
Includes: Experiential Learning Activity
Prerequisite(s): permission of the Department.


PSCI 5810 [0.5 credit]
Approaches to Environmental Politics

Theoretical and methodological approaches to research in the field of environmental politics, including but not limited to public policy research. A variety of institutionalist, political economy, political ecology, and post-modern approaches will be examined.

PSCI 5900 [1.0 credit]
Tutorial in a Selected Field

Tutorials or reading courses on selected topics may be arranged with the permission of the Department. Students cannot accumulate more than 1.0 credit in tutorials towards their degree requirements.

PSCI 5901 [0.5 credit]
Tutorial in a Selected Field

Tutorials or reading courses on selected topics may be arranged with the permission of the Department. Students cannot accumulate more than 1.0 credit in tutorials towards their degree requirements.

PSCI 5904 [0.5 credit]
Washington Center Internship

A one-term internship in the NAFTA Leaders Program of The Washington Center, offered in Washington D.C.
Includes: Experiential Learning Activity
Prerequisite(s): permission of the Department.

PSCI 5905 [0.5 credit]
Washington Center Seminar I

A seminar offered by The Washington Center.
Prerequisite(s): permission of the Department.

PSCI 5906 [0.5 credit]
Washington Center Seminar II

A seminar offered by The Washington Center.
Prerequisite(s): permission of the Department.

PSCI 5908 [1.0 credit]
M.A. Research Essay

Tutorial for students who write a research essay rather than a thesis.
Includes: Experiential Learning Activity

PSCI 5909 [2.0 credits]
M.A. Thesis

Includes: Experiential Learning Activity

PSCI 5913 [0.0 credit]
Co-operative Work Term

Students may register in the co-op option according to the guidelines listed under Co-op Option in the Calendar of Graduate Studies.
Includes: Experiential Learning Activity
Prerequisite(s): permission of the Department.

PSCI 5915 [0.5 credit]
Special Topics in Political Science

A seminar on a selected topic in political science, to be determined by faculty, research, and teaching interests.

PSCI 6000 [0.5 credit]
The Political Process in Canada I

An analytical study of the democratic political process, with particular reference to political parties and elections, pressure groups, and political leadership in Canada.

PSCI 6001 [0.5 credit]
The Political Process in Canada II

An analytical study of the democratic political process, with particular reference to political parties and elections, pressure groups, and political leadership in Canada.

PSCI 6105 [0.5 credit]
Comparative Politics I

A research seminar dealing with theories, methods, and problems of comparison.

PSCI 6106 [0.5 credit]
Comparative Politics II

A research seminar dealing with particular themes.

PSCI 6200 [0.5 credit]
Theorizing Gender and Diversity

This course will provide students with the theoretical and methodological approaches necessary to study gender and diversity in the context of politics. The course will include feminist political theories, critical race theory, postcolonial theory, theories from sexuality studies and political economy.

PSCI 6201 [0.5 credit]
Gender and Diversity: Comparative and International Politics

Topics may include: representation and electoral politics; reproductive rights; social policy and welfare regimes; governance, resistance and transition; citizenship and migration; health and environment; security and violence (including sexual violence), and analysis of reproductive, informal and formal labour.

PSCI 6300 [0.5 credit]
Political Theory I

An intensive examination of the major questions in classical, medieval, modern, and contemporary political philosophy. This course is historically comprehensive in scope and thematically oriented in depth.

PSCI 6301 [0.5 credit]
Political Theory II

An intensive examination of the major questions in classical, medieval, modern, and contemporary political philosophy. This course is historically comprehensive in scope and thematically oriented in depth.

PSCI 6407 [0.5 credit]
Public Policy: Theory and Analysis

Introduction to major theoretical approaches in the study and analysis of public policy and to current topics and debates in the field.

PSCI 6408 [0.5 credit]
Public Affairs Management and Analysis

A seminar on theories and practice in the management of public affairs, including the environment and administration of the public sector, public opinion, and public communications.

PSCI 6600 [0.5 credit]
Theory and Research in International Politics I

An examination of the principal problems in contemporary international relations theory and research, emphasizing the state of the field and current directions in it.

PSCI 6601 [0.5 credit]
Theory and Research in International Politics II

An examination of the principal problems in contemporary international relations theory and research, emphasizing the state of the field and current directions in it.

PSCI 6900 [0.5 credit]
Ph.D. Field Examination I

Ph.D. preparation for the major field examination I. The grade to be awarded will be that obtained on the field examination.

PSCI 6905 [0.5 credit]
Ph.D. Field Examination II

Ph.D. preparation for the major field examination II. The grade to be awarded will be that obtained on the field examination.

PSCI 6907 [0.5 credit]
Thesis Proposal Workshop I

A survey of research methods and approaches to research design designed to assist in the preparation of thesis proposals. Coordinated by one instructor, but faculty from other fields will also participate. The grade for this course will be Satisfactory or Unsatisfactory.
Prerequisite(s): permission of the Department.

PSCI 6908 [0.5 credit]
Thesis Proposal Workshop II

Student-led workshop focused on the preparation, presentation, and discussion of drafts of students' thesis proposals. The final assignment for the course will be the presentation of a full written draft of the thesis proposal. Graded Satisfactory or Unsatisfactory.
Includes: Experiential Learning Activity
Prerequisite(s): successful completion of comprehensive examinations or permission of the Department.

PSCI 6909 [0.0 credit]
Ph.D. Thesis

Includes: Experiential Learning Activity

Note: Not all courses listed are offered in a given year. For an up-to-date statement of course offerings for the current session and to determine the term of offering, consult the class schedule at central.carleton.ca.

Summer session: some of the courses listed in this Calendar are offered during the summer. Hours and scheduling for summer session courses will differ significantly from those reported in the fall/winter Calendar. To determine the scheduling and hours for summer session classes, consult the class schedule at central.carleton.ca

Regulations

See the General Regulations section of this Calendar.

All master's candidates must obtain a B standing or higher (GPA 8.0). One grade of C+ may be allowed.

Regulations

See the General Regulations section of this Calendar.

Details on all program requirements are provided in the departmental Guidelines for Ph.D. Candidates.

All Ph.D. candidates will fulfill a 10.0-credit program requiring departmental approval. The student may choose to take a maximum of 0.5 credit outside the Department of Political Science.

Admission

The normal requirement for admission to the master's program is B.A.(Honours) (or the equivalent) in Political Science, with at least high honours standing.

The Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Affairs requires applicants whose native language is not English to be tested for proficiency in English. Applicants to the Political Science graduate program must meet the General Regulations requirements.

Applicants must have completed some political theory at the undergraduate level, or will be required to take PSCI 5310 History of Political Thought. This 0.5 credit counts toward the normal MA program requirements of 5.0 credits.

Applicants must have completed a social science research methods course at the undergraduate level, regardless of their desired field of specialization, or will be required to take PSCI 5700 Basic Research Methods  or PSCI 5705 Approaches to the Study of Political Theory. This 0.5 credit counts toward the normal M.A. program requirements of 5.0 credits.

Honours graduates in fields other than political science will be considered on the basis of their academic background and standing, and will be judged on a case-by-case basis. Those with only minor deficiencies may be required to take certain specified courses, while others whose degrees are less closely related to political science may be required to register in the qualifying year, at the discretion of the Department. Graduates of three-year programs in political science will be required either to complete the fourth year of an honours degree and reapply, or register in the qualifying year, depending on work completed to date and academic standing. The qualifying year is intended only for those students (with at least an 8.0 grade point average) whose universities do not offer an Honours degree or for graduates in other fields who did not major in political science. The qualifying year program is not intended to be a method for improving a student's undergraduate record. Admission to the qualifying-year program does not imply automatic admission to the master’s program.

Accelerated Pathway

The accelerated pathway in the Department of Political Science is a flexible and individualized plan of graduate study. Students in their final year of a Carleton B.A. Honours degree in Political Science with demonstrated academic excellence and aptitude for research may qualify for this option.

Students in their third‐year of study in the B.A. Honours degree in Political Science should consult with both the Undergraduate Supervisor and the Graduate Supervisor to determine if the accelerated pathway is appropriate for them and to discuss the selection of courses for their final year of undergraduate studies.

Accelerated Pathway Requirements
  1. At least 0.5 credit in PSCI courses at the 5000‐level with a grade of B+ or higher.
  2. Minimum overall CGPA of 10.5.

Students may receive advanced standing with transfer of credit of up to 1.0 credit which can reduce their time to completion.

Admission

The Ph.D. program in political science normally will be undertaken on a full-time basis. However, in cases of exceptional merit, the Department may accept a few candidates for the degree on a part-time basis.

The normal requirement for admission to the Ph.D. program is a master's degree (or its equivalent) in political science with high honours standing or better.

Ph.D. candidates must have completed a political theory course at the undergraduate or master's level, regardless of their desired field of specialization, or will be required to take PSCI 5310 History of Political Thought. This 0.5 credit counts toward the normal Ph.D. program requirements of 5.0 credits.

Ph.D. candidates must have completed a social science research methods course at either the undergraduate level or master’s level, regardless of their desired field of specialization, or will be required to take PSCI 5700 Basic Research Methods or PSCI 5705 Approaches to the Study of Political Theory. This 0.5 credit counts toward the normal Ph.D. program requirements of 5.0 credits.

The Faculty of Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs requires applicants whose native language is not English to be tested for proficiency in English. Applicants to the Political Science graduate program must meet the General Regulations requirements.

Upon entry to the program, each Ph.D. candidate will be assigned a faculty member to advise them on their studies. Students' programs, including the choice of supervisor and the thesis committee, must be approved by the Department. The thesis supervisor will normally be chosen from among faculty members in the Department of Political Science. Upon approval of the thesis supervisor and the Department, committee members may be chosen from elsewhere within the University.

Co-operative Education

For information about how to apply for the Co-op program and how the Co-op program works, visit the Co-op website.

All graduate students participating in the Co-op program are governed by this Graduate Co-operative Education Policy.

Application Requirements

Graduate students are encouraged to apply to the Co-op Program during their first term of studies. Alternatively, students may delay their participation until later on, provided that they have mandatory credits remaining for degree completion.

Participation Requirements

Graduate students:

  • must be registered as full-time before they begin their co-op job search and their co-op work term.
  • will be registered in a Co-op Work Term course while at work. This course does not carry academic course credit, but is noted on academic transcripts.
  • may register in a 0.5 credit during a work term, provided the course is offered during the evening or is offered asynchronously online.
  • are not permitted to hold a Teaching Assistantship while on a co-op work term. Where eligible, Teaching Assistantships will be deferred to a later term.
  • in receipt of internal or external scholarships should contact the Faculty of Graduate and Post-Doctoral Affairs to discuss the possible funding implications of being on a co-op work term
  • must have mandatory courses left to complete following their final co-op work term. In cases where the graduate student has just a 0.5 credit left, he or she may request permission of the Co-op Office to complete this course during the work term.

Co-op Participation Agreement

All graduate students must adhere to the policies found within the Co-op Participation Agreement.

Communication with the Co-op Office

Graduate students must maintain regular contact with the Co-op Office during their job search and while on a work term. All email communication will be conducted via the student’s Carleton email account.

Graduation with the Co-op Designation

In order to graduate with the Co-op Designation, graduate students must satisfy all requirements of the degree program in addition to the successful completion of two work terms.  Students found in violation of the Co-op Participation Agreement may have the Co-op Designation withheld. 

Employment

Although every effort is made to ensure a sufficient number of job postings for all Co-op students, no guarantee of employment can be made. The Co-op job search process is competitive, and success is dependent upon factors such as current market conditions, academic performance, skills, motivation, and level of commitment to the job search. It is the student’s responsibility to apply for positions via the Co-op job board in addition to actively conducting a self-directed job search. Students who do not obtain a co-op work term are expected to continue with their academic studies. It should be noted that hiring priority for positions within the Federal Government of Canada is given to Canadian citizens.

Work Term Assessment and Evaluation

Work Term Evaluation

Employers are responsible for submitting to Carleton University final performance evaluations for their Co-op students at the end of their work terms.

Work Term Assessment

In order to successfully complete the co-op work term, graduate students must receive a Satisfactory (SAT) grade on their Co-op Work Term Report, which they must submit at the completion of each four-month work term.

Voluntary Withdrawal from the Co-op Option

Students who are currently on a co-op work term or who have already committed to a co-op work term either verbally or in writing may not leave the position and/or withdraw from the co-op option until they have completed the requirements of the work term.

Involuntary or Required Withdrawal from the Co-op Option

Graduate students may be removed from the Co-op Program for any of the following reasons:

  1. Failure to attend all interviews for positions to which the student has applied;
  2. Declining more than one job offer during the job search;
  3. Reneging on a co-op position that the student has accepted either verbally or in writing;
  4. Continuing a job search after accepting a co-op position;
  5. Dismissal from a work term by the co-op employer;
  6. Leaving a work term without approval from the Co-op Management Team;
  7. Receipt of an unsatisfactory work term evaluation;
  8. Receiving a grade of UNS on the work term report;

International Students

All Graduate International Students are required to possess a Co-op Work Permit issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada before they can begin working. The Co-operative Education Office will provide students  with a letter of support to accompany their Co-op Work Permit application. Students are advised to discuss the application process and application requirements with the International Student Services Office.

Co-op Fees

All participating Co-op students are required to pay Co-op fees. For full details, please see the Co-op website.

Political Science
Co-operative Education Option

Students are encouraged to apply for admission to the Co-operative Education Program by the end of their first term of academic study.

To be eligible for admission to Co-op, students must:

  1. be enrolled in the M.A. in Political Science;
  2. have successfully completed, by the start-date of the first work term, 2.5 credits of required courses;
  3. be registered as a full-time student in each academic term prior to a work term;
  4. be eligible to work in Canada (for off-campus work terms)

For more information, please refer to the Co-operative Education Policy.