Department of Political Science

In the Department of Political Science, we teach our students about the political world, the ways in which institutions and behaviours come together, and about the methodological skills required for research in the social sciences. 

We offer courses in the main fields of political science -- political theory, international relations, Canadian politics, comparative politics, local government, and public administration -- and we are a leader in research methodology.

We aim to deepen students' understanding of (1) key ideas and values, such as democracy, freedom, justice, and equality; and (2) central institutions and practices, such as the state, law, constitutions, elections, leadership, interest groups, public opinion, political conflict, war, and peace.

We also enable students to focus on some of the critical issues currently facing modern societies; from the threats of climate change and nuclear war, to the promise of global justice, human rights, and the welfare state.

Academic Programs

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News and Updates

2024 Symposium on the Political Theory of Place Governance

The Department of Political Science and Western’s Centre for Urban Policy and Local Governance will host a symposium on May 24, for political theorists and urban researchers on political theory perspectives on how places are governed. Dr. Trevor Latimer, author of Small Isn’t Beautiful: The Case Against Localism (Brookings 2023) is the keynote speaker. For more information, visit the event website.

Western Faculty Scholar Award 

Professor Chris Alcantara has been selected as one of Western's Faculty Scholars for the 2024-25 and 2025-26 academic years. The award celebrates the complete scholar who has maintained an excellent record in teaching and research, and who has recently achieved prominence in one of these two domains. Congratulations!

MapleMeth Conference 2024

MapleMeth is a regional methodology conference with the goal of engaging quantitative scholars both within and beyond Canada. The second annual MapleMeth Conference will be held on May 3-4 on the campus of Western University in beautiful London, Ontario.

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