Chair’s Message

Welcome to the Department of Political Science at Carleton University!

Politics is the process of making collectively binding decisions for a community of people. It occurs at the level of states, municipalities, or international organizations; in parliaments and bureaucracies; in political parties, interest groups, and social movements; in interactions between states and across international borders. It involves questions of power and justice; identity and interests; the distribution of resources; inclusion and exclusion. Politics matters for how we live, and how we face challenges such as climate change, international conflict, racism and sexism, or the legacies of colonialism and the ongoing marginalization of Indigenous peoples. What could be more important, and more fascinating, than studying politics?

Located in Canada’s national capital, on the unceded territory of the Algonquin nation, our department contributes to debates about all of the above issues, and many more. We are one of the largest and most respected political science departments in the country. Our accomplished and award-winning team of 35 full-time faculty members is dedicated to research excellence and committed to student success.

Our undergraduate and graduate programs offer a wide range of courses and can be tailored to our students’ particular interests. They address real-world problems and teach essential, job-relevant research and communication skills. Our graduates have gone on to successful careers in diverse fields, including the Canadian public service, international organizations, the media, political parties, businesses, or research institutions.

Please take the time to explore our website, and do not hesitate to reach out to us if you have any questions.

Achim Hurrelmann
Chair, Department of Political Science