The University of Ottawa’s combined Honours Bachelor of Social Sciences (BSocSc) with Specialization in Political Science and Juris Doctor (JD) integrates the study of political science and common law.

The program is designed for students interested in the relationship between law, government and public policy. By studying these complementary disciplines, you gain a broader perspective on the political, social and legal issues that shape Canadian and international affairs.

The program is an opportunity for students who have been admitted to the Faculty of Social Sciences to complete all the requirements of both programs in six years and receive two separate degrees.

The Juris Doctor (JD) and Honours Bachelor of Social Sciences with Specialization in Political Science combined program is offered only in French.

Why choose this program

Park in front of Fauteux

Study political science and common law within a single interdisciplinary program. 

The program provides you with complementary perspectives on legal and political issues, helping you understand the relationship between law, government and public policy. This interdisciplinary approach is well suited to students interested in careers at the intersection of legal practice, public policy, government and political affairs.

You benefit from the academic resources and expertise of both the Faculty of Social Sciences and the Common Law Section while pursuing your interests across the two disciplines.

Admission requirements (undergraduate)

To be eligible, you must:

  • Apply to the combined program on entering first year at the University of Ottawa.
  • Meet the academic requirements for admission to the Political Science program in the Faculty of Social Sciences.
  • Meet the admission requirements for the French Common Law Program.
  • Demonstrate the ability to complete a rigorous program of study in French, with some knowledge of English.
  • Complete the required first- and second-year political science courses before proceeding to the common law portion of the program.

After the second year, you must achieve a minimum cumulative grade point average of 8.3/10 and complete the required courses to continue into the common law portion of the integrated program.

You don’t have to submit LSAT results for the French Common Law Program.

For more information, search our program prerequisites based on your background.

Why choose uOttawa Common Law

Study at the world’s largest English French bilingual university, located in the heart of the nation's capital. At uOttawa Common Law, we’re educating tomorrow’s leaders in law and society. You’ll benefit from exceptional professors, hands-on learning opportunities, strong connections to government, courts and legal organizations, and a vibrant student community. Gain the knowledge, practical experience and professional network to prepare for diverse careers in law and beyond.

Student experience

Courtroom

Advocacy at the Faculty of Law

Build your advocacy skills through first-year internal moot competitions and advanced competitive mooting opportunities.
earth glass globe

International Exchange Program

Study abroad and gain an international perspective through exchange opportunities.
person watering a plant

The Spirit Garden: Cultivating connection

A space dedicated to reflection, reconciliation and community.

Course sequences

Contact us

Common Law admissions

Fauteux Hall
57 Louis Pasteur Private
Ottawa, Ontario
K1N 6N5

Email: [email protected]

Join the virtual line to speak with the Common Law Admissions Office