Politics

Politics is a very important and complex part of every human life - that is why almost every university has various study programs in Political Science. It deals with the theory and practice of government and politics, and relationships between society and government. Political Science is a very interdisciplinary science, which combined methods and topics of Geography, Law, History, Economics, Philosophy and many other academic disciplines.

Political Science specializations

Political Science is a very diverse discipline, which includes such specializations as:

• Public Policy
• Public Administration
• Political Communication
• International Relations
• Political Economy
• Political Theory, etc.

All these disciplines can be taught either as a part of a Political Science study program, or as a separate degree.

Program structure

Most universities provide Bachelor, Master and PhD degrees in Political Science, sometimes the list of undergraduate study programs in Political Science also includes Associate degrees, which lasts two years and often consists of two first years of Bachelor study program.

Political Science students usually need to undertake several basic courses in History, Philosophy and Law during the first year(s) of education. The next courses are dedicated to more specific courses dedicated to the chosen specialization. Students are enrolled in research activity during the final years of education - they choose a topic for their dissertation and submit their thesis at the end of education to receive a degree.

Bachelor study programs in Political Science usually last from three to five years, Master study programs - from one to two years. Sometimes a study program includes an internship is various governmental or private organizations.

Entry requirements for Political Science applicants

Those who wish to apply for an undergraduate study program in Political Science in foreign country need to have excellent grades in Social Sciences, such as History, Geography or others - check the special requirements of the chosen study program to find more. Applicants should also be able to demonstrate their English fluency by providing a language certificate - IELTS, TOEFL or equivalent (in case if their mother tongue is not English). For some specific study programs focused on the political situation in particular countries, basic language knowledge of this country is also required.

Best Universities

According to QS Top Universities Ranking by Subject 2016-2017, the best institution with study programs in Political Science is Harvard University in USA. All information about Harvard University, including study programs, history of universities, student facilities and entry requirements for international applicants, can be found on the university’s profile. The list of further world’s leading institutions specializing in Political Science include University of Oxford, London School of Economics and Political Science, Sciences Po, University of Cambridge, Australian National University, Yale University, Princeton University.