Question the ideas that shape public life and contribute to more just, democratic and thoughtful societies.

The Joint Honours in Philosophy and Political Science allows you to examine the major questions that shape our societies, including justice, power and collective responsibility. By combining the study of philosophical traditions, critical reasoning and ethical debates with the study of institutions, collective action and public policy, this program prepares you to analyze contemporary issues with rigour and nuance. Located in the heart of Canada’s capital, it offers a bilingual and interdisciplinary education that helps you better understand the ideas that shape political life.

Why choose this program

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This bidisciplinary program allows you to explore the ideas, values and principles that influence political decisions and public debates. You will develop strong skills in argumentation, critical analysis and ethical reasoning, while deepening your understanding of democracy, citizenship and power relations.

The University of Ottawa offers a unique learning environment to study philosophy and political science in the heart of the federal capital. This proximity to the capital’s political, institutional and intellectual ecosystem enriches your education and helps you connect theoretical reflection with the concrete issues of public life.

You will learn to examine major contemporary questions with rigour and discernment: how to define justice, reconcile freedom and responsibility, think about inclusion, understand conflicts, and assess the collective choices that shape the future of societies. This education prepares you to contribute to more nuanced public debates, better-informed decisions and more democratic and accountable institutions.

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Joint Honours in Philosophy and Political Science

4 years - 120 units

Admission requirements and deadlines for the Joint Honours in Philosophy and Political Science

After your studies

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This program can lead to a wide range of careers in the public, parapublic, community, political, international and private sectors, including:

  • Public policy analyst
  • Public affairs or political advisor
  • Government program officer
  • Ethics, governance or social responsibility analyst
  • Researcher, writer or editor specializing in political and social issues
  • Government relations advisor
  • Community or international development officer
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Career development and experiential learning

Discover ways to gain valuable experience during your studies, through both in-program and extracurricular opportunities, including co-op and experiential learning.

Student experience

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International opportunities offered by the Faculty

Starting in your third year of study, you can experience: International internships, Field research courses, A Model United Nations Course

Contact us

FSS Student Experience and Outreach

Social Sciences Building
120 University Private, room 3001
Ottawa, Ontario  K1N 6N5
Canada (maps)

[email protected]