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A political science degree gives you the training you need to succeed in a number of exciting industries. Our alumni work in a wide variety of careers including law, policy analysis, consulting, government lobbying, data analytics, journalism, non-profit organizations, business administration and all levels of government.
Our curriculum focuses on developing skills in today’s (and tomorrow’s) labour market: critical thinking, research, data analysis, writing and evidence-based decision-making. In addition to career success, our students graduate as engaged citizens who are involved in conversations and actions that better our society.
Political science graduates are efficient and critical readers who can distill and synthesize complex information. They are also clear and concise writers who can convey important findings and messages to a diverse audience. Upper-division courses in the discipline provide many opportunities for public speaking and discussion, as oral communication skills are essential for nearly all relevant careers.
To assist you in making career choices, we also participate in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences co-operative education program.
We encourage all our students to speak to a Career Advisor for individualized advice and information. Visit the Career Services website to make an appointment.
Co-Op
The Co-op program offers Political Science students the opportunity to improve their skills, gain relevant paid experience, and explore career options while completing their degree. By applying what they learn in the classroom to real work situations and graduating with a year of industry experience, Co-op students are equipped with the tools they need to succeed.
Based on our alumni survey, SFU discovered that 94% of co-op students found it easier to acquire work post-graduation.
Opportunities in a range of sectors include:
- BC Ministry of Labour – Employment Standards Officer
- Infrastructure Canada – Junior Analyst
- Elections BC – Senior Event Support Advisor
- Canada Border Services Agency – Enforcement Assistant
- Global Affairs – Trade Commissioners Assistant
- Crown Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada – Junior Research Analyst
- Consulate General of Mexico – Seasonal Agriculture Worker Program (SAWP) Intern
- U.S. Consulate – Political/Economic, Consular and Public Relations Interns
- Business Improvement Association – Research and Special Projects Intern
- Policy Reporter – Data Annotation Specialist
- BC Investment Management Corporation – Internal Communication
Co-op students also have the option of applying to Co-op opportunities abroad. By living and working in another country, you open post-graduation career opportunities in the wider world and/or can bring in-demand knowledge and skills back to Canada.
Find out more about Co-op through our website, Info Sessions or drop-in advising.
If you are interested in co-op, the first step is to check your eligibility. Contact the Undergraduate Advisor if you have further questions.
Boost your confidence, hone your skills, and get the edge after graduation with Co-op!
Internships
There are a number of internship opportunities for current and past political science students. These short-term opportunities can supplement your degree with first-hand experience.
Internships can take place during or after your degree.
Opportunities for current students include Jaimie Anderson Parliamentary Internship (Ottawa), The NATO Association of Canada (Toronto), The Atlantic Council (Washington, D.C.) and Embassy of Canada Internship Program (Washington, D.C.) among the others.
For recent graduates, we have internship opportunities ranging from BC Legislative Internship Program (Victoria) to Parliamentary Internship Program (Ottawa).
To know more, see our Internship Database for all current opportunities!
Apply to SFU or get more info
To take the next step toward your career in political science, contact us.