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Your POL Journey
SFU’s Department of Political Science strives to deliver world-class experiences and outcomes for our students. Make the most of your undergraduate career by getting involved in volunteer work, campus clubs, study abroad and work experiences. Click on the picture, "How to Graduate with a Major in Political Science," to access hyperlinks and download the .pdf.
Your First Year (0-30 units)
You might feel a little anxious or excited about beginning university. Don't worry—we've got your back! During your first year, we suggest you take courses from a wide variety of subjects.
Inside the Classroom
POL lower division required courses:
- POL 100 - Introduction to Politics and Government
- One of:
- POL 121 - Political Engagement: From the Streets to the Ballot Box
- POL 141 - War, International Cooperation and Development
- POL 121 - Political Engagement: From the Streets to the Ballot Box
Additional POL courses to consider:
- POL 151 - Justice and Law
- POL 222 - Introduction to Canadian Politics
You might also take courses towards your breadth requirements, where you can choose from a variety of disciplines. Or, you may find another program that interests you, and begin taking courses that lead to a minor, certificate or joint/double major.
Outside the Classroom
Your first year is the perfect time to discover everything that SFU has to offer. You should get involved with the campus community, build connections and start planning your future.
- Meet with an Academic Advisor in Student Services to plan your first two years.
- Take advantage of the awesome workshops with the Student Learning Commons to ease your transition into university.
- Check out the various clubs and societies at SFU, like the Political Science Student Union.
- Get connected to a mentor with the FASS Connections Mentorship program.
Your Second Year (31-60 units)
You're settling in, and are able to evaluate different majors while discovering your areas of interest, passion and success. It's time to consider our co-op program. You'll likely be declaring a major close to when you complete 60 units.
Inside the Classroom
POL lower division required courses:
- POL 200W - Investigating Politics: Research Design and Qualitative Methods
- POL 201 - Introductory Quantitative Methods in Political Science
- POL 210 - Introduction to Political Philosophy
- One additional 200-level POL course such as:
- POL 232 - US Politics
- POL 253 - Introduction to Public Policy
Declaring your major
As soon as you complete all of POL 100/101W, POL 200W, POL 201 and POL 210 with a grade of C or better, you can declare your political science major.
Outside the Classroom
In your second year, focus on the things that matter most to you.
- Start thinking about whether you'd like to study abroad. You can choose from an international exchange, field school or short-term summer program.
- Consider participating in the co-op program. You'll broaden your career outcomes and sharpen your skills.
- Talk to career services to explore career opportunities.
- Engage in volunteer opportunities at SFU or in our community.
Your Third Year (61-90 units)
You're focusing on your degree and declaring a major. It's a great time to start researching and talking to professors about requirements for potential careers, and considering the merits of going on an international exchange.
Inside the Classroom
Now's the time to start working through the upper division requirements for your POL major. You might look at taking popular courses such as:
- POL 314 - Theory and Explanation in Political Science
- POL 324 - The Canadian Constitution
- POL 381 - Japanese Politics
- And many more...
Outside the Classroom
This is a great time to focus on building experience and paving the path to your post-graduation career.
- Check in with the department's Undergraduate Advisor to make sure you're on the path to success.
- Go on an international exchange.
- Participate in your first co-op work term.
- Come to one of our department's upcoming events.
- Join the executive of the Political Science Student Union.
- Talk to career services to begin exploring future career paths.
Your Fourth Year (91-120 units)
You complete remaining required and elective courses, apply to jobs or graduate studies, and apply to graduate. You're well on your way to accomplishing your goals!
Inside the Classroom
POL upper division courses:
- At least two 400-level POL courses (8 units).
To enhance your experience in POL you may want to take more than two 400-level courses while completing your degree.
Note: SFU requires that you take one upper division W course from within your major. Make sure that at least one of your 400-level POL courses has a W designation.
Outside the Classroom
In your final year, you'll be finishing up requirements and getting ready to graduate.
- Look into internships for recent graduates that you can begin after you finish your degree.
- Make sure to check out career fairs and network with companies of interest.
- Think about attending graduate school.
Apply to SFU or get more info
To take the next step toward your career in political science, contact us.