phd international relations in canada

Ph.D. Degree

The Department of Political Science at McMaster University offers the Ph.D. degree in the fields of Comparative Public Policy and International Relations.

The public policy specialization will include courses and comprehensive examinations in:

• Approaches and methods for policy analysis
• A Policy field
• and at least two political systems (one of which may be Canada)

The international relations specialization will include courses and comprehensive examinations in:

• International Relations Theory
• International Political Economy
• Globalization and Transnationalism

Graduands can expect to be qualified to conduct research and teach at the university level in comparative public policy or in international relations and in one other field of political science in Canada.

A. Admission Procedures

Admission to the Ph.D. program normally will require an M.A. degree with an average of at least an A- from a recognized university. Applicants must complete the required online McMaster Admission Form, arrange to have 3 academic references submitted to the Department, submit one original transcript(s) from all universities and evidence of English proficiency where required, i.e., TOEFL, and submit a 500 word statement of their research interests and reasons for choosing McMaster University for their Ph.D. degree in Political Science. The deadline for submission of applications is February 1 .

B. Degree Requirements

Normally, candidates for the Ph.D. will:

• Complete 18 units (6 half courses) of course work beyond the M.A. level
• Demonstrate reading and research competence in an approved language other than English.
• Complete the required comprehensive examinations in Public Policy or International Relations and one other field; and
• Submit a thesis on an approved subject and defend it by oral examination.

Required Courses

For students in public policy.

• POL SCI 783 / Comparative Public Policy
• POL SCI 784 / Quantitative Political and Policy Analysis
• POL SCI 796 / Research Design and Methods

For Students in International Relations

• POL SCI 772 / Theories of International Politics
• POL SCI 774 / Global Political Economy

Additional Information

Other approved courses will be drawn from other departmental courses, and courses offered by other departments and schools. At least three of these selected units should be from Major Field 2.

All courses are half courses (three units) unless otherwise specified.

C. Supervisors and Supervisory Committees

Successful applicants will be assigned a temporary supervisor of studies upon admission. Not later than six months following arrival, a supervisory committee for each Ph.D. student will be appointed by the Graduate Committee, on the recommendation of the student and a willing thesis supervisor. This committee will consist of at least three members: a thesis supervisor, one other member of the Department and a third member, whose scholarly interests include the area of the student’s main interest, and who may be from outside the Department.

D. Comprehensive Examinations

Students in the Ph.D. program will write comprehensive examinations in two fields:

Students will write comprehensive examinations in two fields – international relations and a second field drawn from one of Canadian politics, comparative politics, political theory, or public policy.

Major Field 1

In the International Relations field, students will write an examination covering the following subfields of international relations:

• International relations theory / State of the Field
• Global Political Economy
• Globalization, governance and security

In addition, students must write a major paper that provides a review of current literature in an area of international relations approved by the student’s supervisor. Normally, this paper must be submitted prior to the written comprehensive examinations.

Major Field 2

To be selected from:

• Canadian Politics
• Comparative Politics
• Public Policy
• Political Theory

Students are normally required to have completed at least three units beyond the M.A. level at McMaster in this area prior to writing their comprehensive examination.

Normally, students will write their Major Field 1 exam in August of their first year and their Major Field 2 exam in December of their second year. Accordingly, the major paper that comprises part of the International Relations field will be submitted in December of that year.

E. Other Regulations

Applicants should consult the Graduate Calendar for a complete listing of Regulations for the Degree Doctor of Philosophy.

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PhD Program

The primary goal of the doctoral program is to provide a strong foundation for the pursuit of a career in university teaching and conducting research.

The department offers five fields of study within the doctoral program: 

• Canadian Politics
• Comparative Politics
• Gender and Politics
• International Relations
• Political Theory

In addition, the department has particular strengths in the study of divided and diverse societies as well as peace, conflict and security.

Applicants must have an A- average in a Master's degree in political science, or equivalent. Between four and seven candidates are accepted into the doctoral program each year. The PhD program requires successful completion of six one-term courses, a second-language examination, field examinations in two fields, and the presentation and defence of a Ph.D. dissertation. The average completion time for the doctoral program is just over five years.

PhD Students’ Handbook 2023-2024 (PDF)

Article-Based Dissertation Guidelines (PDF, 15KB)

Degree Level Expectations - PhD (224 KB)

Students who are accepted for doctoral studies will be provided financial assistance. Each offer of admission includes a funding package that guarantees a minimum level of funding for the duration of the student’s period of funding-eligibility (four years of full-time enrollment for PhD students). This funding typically consists of a Queen's Graduate Award and a Teaching Assistantship, but may include a Research Assistantship, or a Queen’s internal award.

Our students have an excellent track record of securing external scholarship support (SSHRC, OGS, etc.). In the past, our doctoral students have been honoured with the Trudeau Scholarship and the Vanier Scholarship. 

Please note that PhD students should apply for all major external and internal scholarships for which they are eligible in order to qualify for the minimum funding guarantee.   

External Opportunities

The department encourages and supports the participation of doctoral students in external opportunities and offers access to two major skill-building summer schools:

The Institute for Qualitative and Multi-Method Research (IQMR)

Held annually by the Consortium for Qualitative Research Methods in Syracuse, NY, the institute seeks to enable participants to create and critique methodologically sophisticated qualitative research designs, including case studies, tests of necessity or sufficiency, and narrative or interpretive work. IQMR attendees receive constructive feedback on their own qualitative research designs, and the course also includes discussions led by the authors of well known works which employ qualitative methods. Funding is provided through the department.

- Samantha Twietmeyer, PhD Candidate

The International Summer Research Institute

The UQAM Summer Institute is a bi-annual two-week summer school for graduate students that is organized and financed by a broad academic network headed by Professor Alain Gagnon at the Université du Québec au Montréal.

In 2017, the summer institute took place in Bolzano/Bozen, in cooperation with the Eurac Research-Institute for Minority Rights and Institute for Comparative Federalism. The 2017 edition (June 19 - 30, 2017) of the summer school focused on “A World in Turmoil: Territory, Power-Sharing and Conflicts” and examined the challenge of complex diversity through theoretical and empirical perspectives from all over the world. The two week program consisted of lectures given by distinguished scholars and experts—mainly coming from the network of partners-—seminars, institutional visits and other non-academic and cultural activities. Students also had the opportunity to deepen their expertise regarding the school's topics by presenting and discussing their own work, such as doctoral dissertations, on-going research, or research papers. Funding is provided through the department.

- Alexandra Liebich, PhD Candidate 

PhD IN GLOBAL GOVERNANCE

• Program Information

Specializations

Program requirements.

• Frequently Asked Questions
• Program Handbook and Forms
• Scholarships and Awards
• Global Governance, Laurier
• Global Governance, U Waterloo

Joint University Program with an Interdisciplinary Focus

The world faces increasingly complex problems that have taken on global significance – including conflict and peace-building, humanitarian crises and intervention, international economic inequality and instability, and global environmental change. How are these problems addressed at the global level? And are the mechanisms adopted to address them effective and just?

The PhD in Global Governance, offered jointly by Wilfrid Laurier University and the University of Waterloo, is a unique opportunity for interdisciplinary examination of power and authority in the global arena. Graduate students in the program examine the variety of actors, institutions, ideas, rules, and processes that contribute to the management of global society. In addition to international organizations and inter-state relations, the study of global governance examines the various non-state actors as well as the realities of contemporary life that contribute to the establishment and functioning of global rules, norms and institutions. The Global Governance PhD program interrogates the concepts, tools, and assumptions that have served scholars in the past and assesses new approaches for addressing contemporary and future challenges.

The Global Governance PhD program is committed to providing students with training for a wide range of careers in the field of global governance. In addition to the academic curriculum, we offer supplementary “professionalization” programming, and are normally able to offer funds to support field research and travel to academic conferences. We also provide students with opportunities to gain relevant international work experience, whether as a visiting scholar at a top-ranked university, a fellow at a leading think tank, or an intern with an internationally recognized non-governmental organization or in the UN system.  See what some of our graduates are up to .

Students admitted to BSIA-affiliated academic programs may enroll in the Technology Governance Summer School, free of charge. On completion, students will gain knowledge of the key concepts underlying data science, data sets, data analytics, modelling and the use and application of these approaches in key policy areas. Read more information about our pilot course that was offered in Summer 2023.

“As an international student from Brazil, I have benefitted tremendously from being involved in academic and policy debates with northern counterparts, while receiving unremitting support on my research on South America.”

—J. Ricardo Tranjan, PhD Graduate (2012)

We look forward to welcoming you to the joint PhD program at the Balsillie School of International Affairs

We are about humanity-driven outcomes - developing new solutions to some of the world's most critical problems by improving international relations and global governance for the enhancement of people's lives around the world.  Our joint-doctoral degree will provide you with a wide range of careers working in the area of global governance.

“At the BSIA you will discover an environment for learning both hard and soft skills and co-creating a meaningful life. Our doctoral program is known for building relationships with peers within and across the years, enriching your intellectual community and professional network. In addition to the notable accomplishments of our faculty, staff, students, and alumni, they are empathic, have a sense of humour, and manage a healthy work-life balance. Join us and take the next step in your education to support your future solving large-scale, complex problems.”

Colleen Loomis

“BSIA’s emphasis on interdisciplinarity and collaboration makes it the perfect incubator for groundbreaking research on current and looming global challenges. Here you will acquire the knowledge, skills, and connections to contribute meaningfully to solving those challenges no matter where life takes you — the academy, public service, civil society, or the private sector. Our alumni are having an impact in all four areas, and you can, too.”

David Welch

Students must choose to specialize in one of the six fields of the program. To prepare for the comprehensive exam in that field, they must select at least two courses from their chosen field. Of these two, at least one course must be a course identified as “core” for that field.

Conflict and Security

This field is concerned with the referent objects of security and associated threats; the causes and management of conflict; and the global governance challenges of human, state, societal, national, international, ecospheric, and global security. Courses in this stream examine the theory and practice of security at all levels of analysis.

Global Environmental Governance

This field is concerned with the global governance of environmental issues. Courses in this stream examine contemporary dilemmas relating to the ways in which environmental challenges are being addressed and managed by multiple agents through a range of transnational institutions and governance structures, both existing and proposed. Conceptual issues and debates, set within the context of a variety of internationally significant sustainability challenges, are investigated. Multilevel governance of these challenges at the international, regional, national and local levels are examined. Key topics covered include: global climate change, agriculture and food security, international water resource management and environmental aspects of the global economy.

Global Justice and Human Rights

This field is concerned with the study of the relationship between global governance and issues of global justice and human rights. Courses in this stream explore themes such as: the practical and ethical challenges that international human rights and relief organizations encounter when operating in the global south; theoretical approaches to understanding global justice as a contemporary social justice issue, with a particular focus on the cultural constructs relating to conceptions of freedom, obligation, and community; and contemporary debates in the field of human rights, such as those related to cultural relativism and universal human rights, human rights and foreign policy, the place of economic rights, the relationship between gender and human rights, and human rights and retrospective justice.

Global Political Economy

This field is concerned with the governance of the global economy and contemporary issues in international economic relations. Courses in this stream focus on the theoretical and public policy debates relating to governance of the global economy, as well as the evolution of international trade policy. Topics covered include: international finance and intellectual property rights; labour and environmental standards; the control of illicit economic activity; the removal of tariffs on goods and services; and current efforts to integrate services, investment, and intellectual property into the trading regime through the increasing overlap of trade policy with monetary, competition, cultural, environmental and labour policies.

Global Social Governance

This field examines the prospects for the supranational governance of social issues with a particular focus on the political and philosophical underpinnings of transnational social policy cooperation and in relation to governance challenges of migration and mobility arising in relation to borders and intersecting governance systems. Topics covered include: the implicit and explicit prescriptions for and impact upon national social policy of intergovernmental organisations (such as the UN and Bretton Woods Institutions), international non-governmental organisations and international private actors (such as TNCs and consultancy companies); the contribution of supranational organisations, international NGOs and other global actors to the global discourse on social policy; the role of private actors and global public-private partnerships in global health policy; migration/refugee policy and governance, the development of systems of transnational social redistribution, social regulation and social provision and empowerment; and the methods and concepts used by development agencies to assess the social policy of countries and shape their interventions.

Multilateral Institutions and Diplomacy

This field is concerned with the formal and informal practices, institutions and organizations which generate global governance. Courses in this stream focus primarily on the theory, practice and machinery of international organization, public policy, and diplomacy. Topics covered include organization theory, multilateral co-operation, foreign policy, diplomatic history, global social and public policy, representation and negotiation.

All students must complete six courses, including the following four mandatory courses: the global governance core course, an economics component, the history component, and Research Methods. Students are required to maintain an overall average of 80% in the course phase.  See full list of courses

Core Course component  (must be completed in the first term of registration in the program)

• GGOV 700 Globalization and Global Governance (UW registration) / GV 710 Globalization and Global Governance (Laurier registration)

Economics Component

• GV 730 Economic Analysis and Global Governance (Laurier registration) / Econ 637 Economic Analysis and Global Governance (UW registration)
• or equivalent (students who have higher than second year macro/micro economics are required to take an economics course other than GV 730/Econ 637)

History Component

• HIST 605 Global Governance in Historical Perspective (UW registration) / GV720 The History of Global Governance (Laurier registration)

Research Methods

• GGOV 701 Research Methods (UW registration) / GV 701 Research Methods (Laurier registration)

Comprehensive Examinations

Normally, candidates must write comprehensive examinations in two areas within 16 months of starting the program. Normally, students will write comprehensive exams in September at the start of their second year. The first examination will be on Global Governance and will test the breadth and depth of a student’s comprehension of the leading literature. For their second examination, students will choose to write a comprehensive examination in one of the six fields of the program. Students can only write an examination in a field if they have completed two courses, one of which must be a “core course” in that field.

Dissertation Proposal

Normally, students will complete and have approved a doctoral dissertation proposal by the end of February of their second year in the program. Completion of the proposal will normally involve a formal presentation and defence of the proposal to the Supervisory Committee. Normally, committee members and the student will also complete their second Annual Progress Report following the defence/approval of the dissertation proposal.

Within one week after completion of the presentation and defence, the student will make any final changes to the proposal that arise from the defence and provide the respective Program Director or Associate Director as well as the respective Program Graduate Coordinator/Program Officer with a copy of the final proposal for their records and the student’s file.

Normally, the doctoral dissertation research proposal will be no more than 30 pages or approximately 15,000 words, exclusive of bibliography. A proposal will include the following: a statement of the principal research question(s) and a justification of the question or questions; an outline of the principal theoretical orientations that are framing the research questions; a detailed outline of the research methods and steps to be taken to obtain answers to the research questions; an assessment of the likely contribution to knowledge of the dissertation research; a timetable for completion of the research.

Laurier students are required to complete the Dissertation Proposal Approval form .

Dissertations – Multiple Manuscript Thesis Guidelines

Doctoral theses can take various forms. The traditional thesis is a sole-authored document with various chapters. However, some theses – the multiple manuscript thesis – consist of a collection of papers that are published or submitted for publication; any such thesis must comply with the following guidelines:

• The multiple manuscript thesis must comply with the policies and guidelines of the student’s host institution.
• Any multiple manuscript thesis must contain at least three articles.
• At least two of the articles must be single-authored, and one may be co-authored provided the student first obtains approval from their supervisor committee, preferably at the time of the proposal defence. If an article is co-authored by the student and authors, the relationship should be explicitly stated with regards to the nature and extent of contributions to the work by all parties involved.
• There must be a common theme among the three articles that is explained in the introduction and conclusion.
• All articles must be of a publishable quality. Acceptance of a manuscript from a journal is separate from and does not constitute acceptance or approval by the advisory committee.

More information about the PhD in Global Governance program can be found in the handbook or on the Wilfrid Laurier University or University of Waterloo program pages.

PhD Program Handbook and Forms

• Graduate Handbook: Joint Laurier-UW Global Governance PhD Program
• GGOV Reading Course Form
• Annual Progress Report Form (Laurier)
• Annual Progress Report Form - year 1 (UW)
• Annual Progress Report Form - year 2 (UW)
• Annual Progress Report Form - year 3 (UW)
• Dissertation Proposal Form (UW)
• GGOV PhD (Laurier) Dissertation Format
• How to use the PhD Dissertation Template
• Petition for Extension Form (UW)
• PhD Student Forms (Laurier)
• BSIA Graduate Student Research/Travel Support Application Form
• BSIA Conference Travel Support Application Form
• Laurier Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies (FGPS) Travel Award Application
• UW Graduate Studies Research Travel Assistantship Application
• UW Field Work Risk Management Program
• Laurier International Research Travel Guidelines

Additional program information is available from Maureen Ferraro (Laurier) or Andrew Thompson (UW).

PhD program

Waterloo’s PhD in Political Science is the most innovative program of its kind in Canada, offering students considerable flexibility in core research activities, formal professional development for both academic and non-academic career paths, an experiential option (including access to the world’s largest co-op program of its kind, or other internship/placement experiences) and a teaching option (including mentored teaching experiences and formal pedagogical training).

Students will have the opportunity to work with internationally and nationally-renowned scholars in the discipline.

Students have the option of choosing from three major fields: Canadian Politics , International Relations , and Political Economy . For their secondary field, students may choose either a second major field or create their own ‘custom concentration’ based on coursework in a designated area of the discipline (for example: comparative politics, democratic theory, public policy, gender and politics) or from a subfield of their major field (for example: security, rights, etc.).

The program includes one year of coursework featuring a mandatory, team-taught methodology course, two courses in the student’s major field, two courses in the student's second major field or custom concentration, and one elective. Students must also complete the PhD Professional Development Seminar , a series of half-day seminars offered by the Department and additional workshops delivered by campus units like the Writing and Communications Centre , Centre for Career Development , or Centre for Teaching Excellence . Professional Development training gears students to both academic and non-academic job markets, fostering skills enhancements in research methods, communications to non-academic audiences, fieldwork, conferencing best practices, and career planning.

The capstone research project (the PhD thesis) requires students to complete and defend a thesis proposal. Students may choose a traditional dissertation (ranging from 200-350 page in length), or a ‘publication model’ consisting of at least three sole-authored (submitted, in press, or published) works and including an original introduction, conclusion and any necessary bridging chapters to reflect a coherent project. In rare cases, and with the approval of the student’s supervisor and the Department Graduate Committee, students may opt for a non-traditional thesis formal that meets the standards of an original doctoral-level contribution to knowledge but in a different form (for example, a documentary). The Department is especially cognizant of the potential for alternative approaches to knowledge generation and dissemination, such as Indigenous approaches to knowledge, as something to be accommodated on a case-by-case basis. Regardless of format, the completed thesis will be subject to an oral defence before a committee, including the supervisor(s), two other political science faculty members, an internal-external examiner from another department/program at Waterloo, and an external examiner.

For further details on the program, please visit the Graduate Studies Academic Calendar .

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Each year, approximately 8-10 candidates are accepted into the PhD program. Our graduates go on to research and teach political science throughout Canada and the world.

Superior applicants, normally understood as students who are at least in the top 10 percent of their graduating class or who have a CGPA of at least 3.5 or its equivalent, will be eligible for admission into the PhD track.

For further details on Political Science PhD programs see our 2022-2023 PhD Guide or visit the Graduate Student Documents page.

For general information on graduate admissions and application procedures at McGill, see the Graduate Admissions website.

Please note that as of June 2021 GREs will no longer be required or considered for the PhD application. 

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Doctorate in Philosophy International Development

The School of International Development and Global Studies (SIDGS) offers an interdisciplinary graduate program leading to the degree of PhD in International Development. The program caters to students from both academic and professional backgrounds, and is offered in both English and French. In accordance with the University of Ottawa regulation, students have the right to produce their work, their thesis, and to answer examination questions in French or in English. The program is offered on a full-time basis.

Two fields are offered in the PhD Program:

• Development Theory and Critique
• Development Policy and Practice

Further information on the fields and research interests of the professors is posted on the program website .

The program operates within the framework of the general regulations in effect for graduate studies. 

For the most accurate and up to date information on application deadlines, language tests and other admission requirements, please visit the  specific requirements  webpage.

Admission to the PhD program is governed by the general regulations in effect for graduate studies. 

To be considered for admission, applicants must:

• Hold a master’s degree or equivalent in International Development Studies or in a related discipline. Examples of related disciplines include Economics, Education, Geography, Law, Political Science, Sociology and Anthropology.
• Have achieved a minimum average of 80% (A-) calculated in accordance with graduate studies guidelines.

Language Requirements

An active knowledge of French or English is essential. Applicants must indicate in their application the language in which they intend to take the majority of their courses. Applicants whose first language is other than English or French and who have completed their BA and MA degrees in a language other than English or French must provide proof of their level of competence in one of these languages. In the case of English, applicants must have a TOEFL score of 100 or an equivalent score on another test. In the case of French, the applicant must obtain a level of F7 on the Immersion Admission Test administered by the University of Ottawa’s Official Languages and Bilingualism Institute (OLBI). The School of International Development and Global Studies (SIDGS) reserves the right to conduct an interview and to require a test in either language. If a student’s doctoral research requires knowledge of a language other than French or English, the School may require proof of such knowledge.

Fast-Track from Master's to PhD Program

Students enrolled in the MA program in Globalization and International Development may be allowed to fast-track to the PhD program in International Development without being required to write a master’s thesis, provided they meet the following conditions:

• Completion of six master’s courses (18 units) including at least three courses in Globalization and International Development with a minimum average of 8/10 overall and 8.5/10 in three Globalization and International Development courses.
• Satisfactory progress in the research program.
• Submission of a well developed research plan that must include, at a minimum, a thesis proposal and background literature review.
• Written recommendation from the proposed PhD thesis supervisor.
• Recommendation by the PhD studies committee.
• Approval of the vice-dean (graduate studies) of the Faculty of Social Sciences.

Students must request permission to fast-track during the fourth term of enrollment or earlier and, if approved, must enroll in the PhD in the fifth or, at the latest, in the sixth term. To receive the doctorate, students must successfully complete 30 units of courses (MA + PhD), the comprehensive examinations, the thesis proposal and the thesis. The total number of course units required may be reduced by six, as determined by the PhD Studies Committee.

The requirements of the PhD program in International Development include successful completion of 12 units of coursework, two comprehensive examinations, a thesis proposal and a thesis.

Requirements for this program have been modified. Please consult the 2018-2019 calendars  for the previous requirements.

The optional course is selected from the program’s list of SIDGS graduate courses. Under exceptional circumstances, students may select a course from another graduate program with permission of both the DVM doctoral program director and the director of the other program.

Subject to the successful completion of all the course requirements, enrollment in the Comprehensive Examination ( DVM 9995 ) is permitted.

The thesis proposal, prepared under the direction of the thesis supervisor, must be defended to the satisfaction of the Thesis Advisory Committee (TAC). The proposal must normally be successfully completed by the end of the fifth term. In the event of failure, the proposal can be resubmitted and defended the following term at the latest. A second failure leads to withdrawal from the program. The proposal must be successfully completed before submitting it to the Research Ethics Board (if required) and before undertaking any independent data collection.

Thesis Advisory Committee (TAC)

During the first term, a thesis advisory committee (consisting of the thesis supervisor and at least two other professors) is assigned in consultation with the student. At least two of the committee members must be professors within the School of International Development and Global Studies (SIDGS). The composition of the committee is confirmed at the end of the first year. This committee is responsible for approving the thesis proposal and for advising the student throughout the program.

Additional Requirements

The requirements outlined above are a minimum. The Admissions Committee reserves the right to add up to two other courses if considered essential in light of the student’s academic background.

Research Fields & Facilities

Located in the heart of Canada’s capital, a few steps away from Parliament Hill, the University of Ottawa is among Canada’s top 10 research universities.

uOttawa focuses research strengths and efforts in four Strategic Areas of Development in Research (SADRs):

• Canada and the World
• Molecular and Environmental Sciences

With cutting-edge research, our graduate students, researchers and educators strongly influence national and international priorities.

Research at the Faculty of Social Sciences

The Faculty of Social Sciences represents a place of excellence in knowledge creation, research and training. Driven by both disciplinary and interdisciplinary perspectives, research at the Faculty is rich, innovative and varied, contributing to the depth of understanding and breadth of discussions on a variety of issues nationally and internationally.  This research, whether it be fundamental, theoretical, applied or action-oriented, is generated by our renowned expertise, ultimately culminating in applications designed to influence individual communities and the betterment of society.

We have identified five research themes which collectively represent a large proportion of the research undertaken at the Faculty of Social Sciences:

• International Studies
• Francophonie
• Public Policy
• Health, Well-Being
• Justice, Society

Facilities, Research Centres and Institutes at the Faculty of Social Sciences

Centre for Interdisciplinary Research on Citizenship and Minorities (CIRCEM) , Centre for International Policy Studies (CIPS) , Centre for Public Management and Policy , Centre for Research on Educational and Community Service (CRECS) , Centre on Governance (COG) , Human Rights Research and Education Centre (affiliation) , Institute of Feminist and Gender Studies and Institute for Science, Society and Policy .

For more information, refer to the list of faculty members and their research fields on Uniweb . 

IMPORTANT: Candidates and students looking for professors to supervise their thesis or research project can also consult the website of the faculty or department of their program of choice. Uniweb does not list all professors authorized to supervise research projects at the University of Ottawa.

DVM 5100 Understanding International Development and Globalization (3 units)

Study of leading theories and debates on the meaning, challenges and possibilities of development and globalization. Analysis and discussion of the different aspects of development and globalization, including its cultural, political economic, security, legal and territorial implications. Interdisciplinary approach, with a focus on discussion and evaluation of key texts.

Course Component: Seminar

DVM 5101 Research Methods (3 units)

Research methods in international development and global studies. Analysis of epistemological foundations as well as ethical and practical issues associated with qualitative, quantitative and mixed research methodologies. Discussions of key aspects of research proposal development (stages, formulating sharp research questions, nature of a literature review).

DVM 5171 Monitoring and Evaluation (3 units)

The main approaches to development monitoring and evaluation of policies, programs and projects, which may include cost-benefit analysis, randomized controlled trials, qualitative evaluations, performance narratives, attribution analysis, outcome mapping, utilization-focused evaluation, participatory monitoring and evaluation. Consideration of links between monitoring, evaluation, and learning. Follows the guidelines of the International Development Evaluation Society (IDEAS).

Course Component: Lecture

DVM 5172 Gender-based Analysis (3 units)

Tools and critical analysis skills necessary for examining power dynamics and biases in gender relations, and commonly applied by major development organizations. Focus on human rights and gender-based analysis plus (GBA+) tools, gender mainstreaming techniques, and innovative approaches that will prepare students for conducting gender analyses.

DVM 5173 Financing for Development Initiatives (3 units)

Practical consideration of the modalities and issues associated with financing development initiatives. Particular attention will be paid, on the one hand, to the principal institutional sources of finance, such as multilateral, bilateral, public and public-private sources, and on the other hand, to innovative financing mechanisms such as microfinance, micro-insurance, social impact investing, crowdfunding, and public-private blended finance.

DVM 5500 Comprendre le développement international et la mondialisation (3 crédits)

Étude des principaux débats et théories sur le sens, les défis, et les possibilités du développement et de la mondialisation. Analyse et discussion des divers aspects du développement et de la mondialisation, des répercussions culturelles, politiques, économiques et juridiques ainsi que des conséquences sur les territoires et la sécurité. Approche interdisciplinaire mettant l'accent sur l'étude et l'évaluation de textes clés.

Volet : Séminaire

DVM 5501 Méthodes de recherche (3 crédits)

Méthodologies de recherche au sein des études du développement international et de la mondialisation. Analyse des fondements épistémologiques ainsi que des enjeux éthiques et pratiques des méthodologies quantitatives, qualitatives et mixtes. Discussion d'aspects clefs de l'élaboration du projet de recherche individuel (étapes d'élaboration, qualité d'une question de recherche, nature d'une revue de littérature).

DVM 5571 Suivi et évaluation (3 crédits)

Les principales approches de suivi et d’évaluation des politiques, programmes et projets de développement, incluant les analyses coûts-bénéfices, les essais aléatoires contrôlés, les évaluations qualitatives, le récit explicatif des performances, l’analyse d’attribution, la cartographie des incidences, l’évaluation axée sur l’utilisation, ainsi que le suivi et l’évaluation participatifs. Connecter les résultats issus des processus de suivi, d’évaluation et d’apprentissage. Élaboré autour du cahier de charges de l’International Development Evaluation Society (IDEAS).

Volet : Cours magistral

DVM 5572 Analyse axée sur le genre (3 crédits)

Les outils et les compétences d'analyse critique couramment utilisés par les principales organisations de développement pour étudier les dynamiques de pouvoir et les biais entourant les relations de genre. Accent sur des outils tels l’analyse comparative entre les sexes plus (ACS+) et les droits de la personne, l’intégration de la dimension de genre (mainstreaming) et les approches novatrices, et vise à préparer les étudiants à effectuer des analyses de genre.

DVM 5573 Financement des initiatives de développement (3 crédits)

Étude pratique des modalités et des enjeux du financement des initiatives de développement. L’attention sera portée, d’une part, sur les principales sources institutionnelles de financement telles que le financement multilatéral, bilatéral, public, privé et public-privé, et, d’autre part, sur les mécanismes de financement innovants, tels que la micro-finance, la micro-assurance, les investissements à forts impacts sociaux, les financements communautaires, et les financements mixtes privés-publics.

DVM 5910 Stage en mondialisation/Développement international / Internship in Globalization/International Development (3 crédits / 3 units)

Stage au Canada ou à l'étranger en milieu de travail. Noté S (satisfaisant) ou NS (non satisfaisant) par un professeur du programme en fonction du rapport écrit et de l'évaluation du superviseur de stage. / Workplace internship in Canada or abroad. Graded S (Satisfactory) / NS (Not satisfactory) by a professor in the program based on the written report and the evaluation of the internship supervisor.

Volet / Course Component: Stage / Work Term

Préalable : réussite des 12 crédits de cours obligatoires du programme. Exclusion : étudiants inscrits dans l'option coop. / Prerequisite: Successful completion of the 12 compulsory units in the program. Exclusion: Students registered in the co-op option.

DVM 5999 Exigence de langue / Language (3 crédits / 3 units)

Noté S (satisfaisant) ou NS (non satisfaisant). / Graded S (Satisfactory) / NS (Not satisfactory).

Volet / Course Component: Cours magistral / Lecture

DVM 6101 Economic Growth, Private Sector and Social Inclusion (3 units)

Understanding economic development, including the roles of the private sector and public policy, particularly in terms of their impact on economic growth, living standards, social inclusion, poverty and inequality, and human development.

DVM 6102 Livelihoods, Resources and Sustainability (3 units)

Interaction between society and nature. Consideration of how power shapes the use of resources such as land, water, food, or energy, and on how livelihoods adapt to environmental change in various rural and urban contexts. Theoretical lenses include commons theory, social ecological resilience, political ecology, and political economy.

DVM 6103 Conflict, Transitions and Peace (3 units)

Relationships between insecurity, transitions, peace and development. Key debates on links between development and security or, conversely, between insecurity, conflict and development. Different critical perspectives on the security-development nexus. Issues surrounding human (in)security, as well as key debates on transitions and peace.

DVM 6104 Social Movements, Equity and Human Rights (3 units)

Social movements, civil society, and informal networks, their roles, actions and impacts in the struggle against the vicious cycles of inequality and vulnerability in developing countries. Themes include class, gender, ethnicity, citizenship and migration.

DVM 6105 International Development Programming: Results-Based Approaches (3 units)

The evolving international policy context for development effectiveness; results-based management for different actors and modalities (national strategies, program-based approaches, projects); how to practice RBM through the programming cycle (design, budgeting, implementation, monitoring & evaluation, etc.); RBM in different contexts (e.g. in middle-income countries versus fragile and conflict-affected states); limits of RBM-based approaches.

DVM 6110 Directed Studies in Globalization and International Development (3 units)

DVM 6111 Special Topics in Economic Growth, Private Sector and Social Inclusion (3 units)

DVM 6112 Special Topics in Environment, Natural Resources and Sustainability (3 units)

DVM 6113 Special Topics in Conflict, Transitions and Peace (3 units)

DVM 6114 Special Topics in Rights, Social Movements and Power (3 units)

DVM 6115 Special Topics in Professional Skills for International Development and Globalization (3 units)

DVM 6120 Special Topics in International Development (3 units)

DVM 6501 Croissance économique, secteur privé et inclusion sociale (3 crédits)

Comprendre le développement économique, notamment à travers les rôles du secteur privé et des politiques publiques, ainsi que leurs impacts sur la croissance économique, le développement humain, l'inclusion sociale, la pauvreté et les inégalités.

DVM 6502 Modes de vie, ressources et durabilité (3 crédits)

Relation entre les sociétés et la nature. Une attention particulière est accordée à la manière dont les relations de pouvoir orientent et déterminent l'utilisation de ressources comme la terre, l'eau, la nourriture et l'énergie ainsi qu'à la manière dont les moyens d'existence s'adaptent aux changements environnementaux dans des contextes ruraux et urbains variés. Les diverses approches conceptuelles incluent la théorie des biens publics, la résilience sociale et écologique, l'écologie politique et l'économie politique.

DVM 6503 Conflit, transitions et paix (3 crédits)

Les relations entre l'insécurité, les transitions, la paix et le développement. Les débats principaux portant sur les liens entre développement et sécurité ou, à l'inverse, entre insécurité, conflit et développement. Les différentes perspectives critiques quant à la connexion entre sécurité et développement. Enjeux associés avec l'(in)sécurité humaine, ainsi que les débats actuels en matière de transition et de paix.

DVM 6504 Mouvements sociaux, équité et droits humains (3 crédits)

Rôles, actions et impact des mouvements sociaux, de la société civile, et des réseaux informels dans la lutte contre le cercle vicieux de l'inégalité et de la vulnérabilité dans les pays en développement. Les thèmes abordés comprennent les questions de classe, de genre, d'ethnicité, de citoyenneté et de migration.

DVM 6505 La programmation en développement international : Les approches axées sur les résultats (3 crédits)

Le discours de l'efficacité de la coopération internationale comme contexte clé; les approches axées sur les résultats (AAR) pour divers acteurs et modalités (stratégies nationales, approches programmatiques, projets); les AAR dans le cycle de programmation (conceptualisation, planification budgétaire, mise en oeuvre, suivi et évaluation, etc.); les AAR dans divers contextes (ex. économies a revenu moyen versus États fragiles); limites des approches AAR.

DVM 6510 Études dirigées en mondialisation et développement international (3 crédits)

DVM 6511 Thèmes choisis en croissance économique, secteur privé et inclusion sociale (3 crédits)

DVM 6512 Thèmes choisis en environnement, ressources naturelles et durabilité (3 crédits)

DVM 6513 Thèmes choisis en conflit, transitions et paix (3 crédits)

DVM 6514 Thèmes choisis en droits, mouvements sociaux et pouvoir (3 crédits)

DVM 6515 Thèmes choisis en connaissances profession. pour le développement international et la mondialisation (3 crédits)

DVM 6520 Thèmes choisis en développement international (3 crédits)

DVM 6998 Mémoire / Research Paper (6 crédits / 6 units)

Volet / Course Component: Recherche / Research

Préalables : DVM 5500 , DVM 5501 . / Prerequisites: DVM 5100 , DVM 5101 .

DVM 8108 Research Seminar in International Development (3 units)

Study of advanced techniques of qualitative and quantitative methods used in development research and analysis. Methods examined include the use of statistical analysis, comparative methodology, case study selection, discourse analysis, interview techniques and focus groups, and participative methods.

DVM 8111 International Development Theory, Policy and Practice (6 units)

Integrated study of the major theories and policies and practice in international development. Focus on the major texts that constitute the canon of international development studies. Key theories and approaches will include imperialism/colonialism, modernization theory, structuralist economics, dependency theory, neoliberal/neoclassical economics, and post-modern and post-colonial theory. Study of policy formulation and the role of strategic planning in the global South. Emphasis will be placed on how international institutions and policy documents impact upon the global South and how, in turn, changes in domestic and international environments shape these institutions and actors. Various political planning approaches are also examined.

The courses DVM 8111 , DVM 8109, DVM 8110 cannot be combined for units.

DVM 81111 International Development Theory, Policy and Practice (Part 1 of 2)

Integrated study of the major theories and policies and practice in international development. Focus on the major texts that constitute the canon of international development studies. Key theories and approaches will include imperialism/colonialism, modernization theory, structuralist economics, dependency theory, neoliberal/neoclassical economics, and post-modern and post-colonial theory. Study of policy formulation and the role of strategic planning in the global South. Emphasis will be placed on how international institutions and policy documents impact upon the global South and how, in turn, changes in domestic and international environments shape these institutions and actors. Various political planning approaches are also examined. (Part 1 of 2)

The courses DVM 81111 , DVM 8109, DVM 8110 cannot be combined for units.

DVM 81112 International Development Theory, Policy and Practice (Part 2 of 2) (6 units)

Integrated study of the major theories and policies and practice in international development. Focus on the major texts that constitute the canon of international development studies. Key theories and approaches will include imperialism/colonialism, modernization theory, structuralist economics, dependency theory, neoliberal/neoclassical economics, and post-modern and post-colonial theory. Study of policy formulation and the role of strategic planning in the global South. Emphasis will be placed on how international institutions and policy documents impact upon the global South and how, in turn, changes in domestic and international environments shape these institutions and actors. Various political planning approaches are also examined. (Part 2 of 2)

Prerequisite: DVM 81111 . The courses DVM 81112 , DVM 8109, DVM 8110 cannot be combined for units.

DVM 8508 Séminaire de recherche en développement international (3 crédits)

Étude des techniques avancées en méthodes quantitatives et qualitatives utilisées en matière de recherche et d'analyse en développement. Les méthodes examinées incluent l'utilisation des outils statistiques, la méthodologie comparative, la sélection d'études de cas, l'analyse de discours, les techniques d'enquêtes et d'interviews de publics cibles, et les méthodes participatives.

DVM 8511 Théories, politiques et pratiques du développement international (6 crédits)

Étude intégrée des principales théories, politiques et pratiques en développement international. Accent sur les textes et documents phares des études en développement international. Les théories et approches clés incluront l'impérialisme / colonialisme, la théorie de la modernisation, l'économie structuraliste, la théorie de la dépendance, l'économie néolibérale / néoclassique, le post-modernisme et le post-colonialisme. Étude de la formulation des politiques et du rôle de la planification stratégique dans les pays du Sud. L'accent sera mis sur l'influence des institutions internationales et des documents de politique dans le Sud, et sur la manière dont les changements de l'environnement national et international façonnent ces institutions et acteurs. Diverses approches de planification politique seront également examinées.

Les cours DVM 8511 , DVM 8509, DVM 8510 ne peuvent être combinés pour l'obtention de crédits.

DVM 85111 Théories, politiques et pratiques du développement international (partie 1 de 2)

Étude intégrée des principales théories, politiques et pratiques en développement international. Accent sur les textes et documents phares des études en développement international. Les théories et approches clés incluront l'impérialisme / colonialisme, la théorie de la modernisation, l'économie structuraliste, la théorie de la dépendance, l'économie néolibérale / néoclassique, le post-modernisme et le post-colonialisme. Étude de la formulation des politiques et du rôle de la planification stratégique dans les pays du Sud. L'accent sera mis sur l'influence des institutions internationales et des documents de politique dans le Sud, et sur la manière dont les changements de l'environnement national et international façonnent ces institutions et acteurs. Diverses approches de planification politique seront également examinées. (partie 1 de 2)

Les cours DVM 85111 , DVM 8509, DVM 8510 ne peuvent être combinés pour l'obtention de crédits.

DVM 85112 Théories, politiques et pratiques du développement international (partie 2 de 2) (6 crédits)

Étude intégrée des principales théories, politiques et pratiques en développement international. Accent sur les textes et documents phares des études en développement international. Les théories et approches clés incluront l'impérialisme / colonialisme, la théorie de la modernisation, l'économie structuraliste, la théorie de la dépendance, l'économie néolibérale / néoclassique, le post-modernisme et le post-colonialisme. Étude de la formulation des politiques et du rôle de la planification stratégique dans les pays du Sud. L'accent sera mis sur l'influence des institutions internationales et des documents de politique dans le Sud, et sur la manière dont les changements de l'environnement national et international façonnent ces institutions et acteurs. Diverses approches de planification politique seront également examinées. (partie 2 de 2)

Préalable: DVM 85111 . Les cours DVM 85112 , DVM 8509. DVM 8510 ne peuvent être combinés pour l'obtention de crédits.

DVM 8950 Thèmes choisis en développement international / Special Topic in International Development (3 crédits / 3 units)

Étude approfondie d'une problématique ou d'un sujet lié aux tendances émergeantes en développement international. / In-depth examination of a question or topic linked to emerging trends or research areas in international development.

Préalable: connaissance active soit du français soit de l’anglais et connaissance au moins passive de l’autre langue. / Prerequisite: Active knowledge of either English or French and at least a passive knowledge of the other language.

DVM 8955 Lectures dirigées / Directed Studies (3 crédits / 3 units)

Cours individuel ayant pour objectif d'approfondir les connaissances de l'étudiant dans un domaine particulier ou de lui permettre de se familiariser avec un nouveau domaine. Le sujet est déterminé et développé en consultation avec le professeur responsable et en conformité avec les directives du département. Le travail remis dans ce cours doit être différent de ce qui a pu être soumis dans d'autres cours, y compris le projet de thèse, le mémoire ou la thèse. Il y a une limite d'un cours de lectures dirigées par étudiant et la permission n'est accordée que dans des circonstances exceptionnelles. Préalable : Permission du responsable des études doctorales. / Individual course aimed at deepening a student's knowledge of a particular area or at gaining knowledge of a new area. The topic is selected and developed in consultation with the supervising professor in accordance with departmental guidelines. The work submitted for this course must be different from that submitted for other courses, including the thesis proposal, the master's research paper or the thesis. Maximum of one directed readings course per student and permission granted only under exceptional circumstances.

Permission du Département est requise. / Permission of the Department is required.

DVM 9995 Examen de synthèse / Comprehensive Exam

Préalables: Réussite de toutes les exigences de cours. / Prerequisites:Successful completion of all course requirements.

DVM 9998 Projet de thèse / Thesis Proposal

Préalable : DVM 9995 . / Prerequisite: DVM 9995 .

Undergraduate Studies

For more information about undergraduate studies at the University of Ottawa, please refer to your faculty .

Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies

For more information about graduate studies at the University of Ottawa, please refer to your academic unit .

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12 Universities in Canada offering International relations degrees and courses

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Are you looking for International relations courses? Here you can find course providers offering full-time, part-time, online or distance learning options.

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University of Windsor

THE World Ranking: 501

Western University (Ontario)

THE World Ranking: 201

Acadia University

University of Warwick

THE World Ranking: 106

Alexander College

University of Waterloo

THE World Ranking: 158

Mount Allison University

University of Toronto

THE World Ranking: 21

Trinity College in the University of Toronto

St. Thomas University

The University of British Columbia

THE World Ranking: 41

University of Calgary

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• The UConn School of Business has grown to become one of the most comprehensive business schools in the country.
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PhD in International Relations

Engage in problem-driven research with a truly global focus

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program in International Relations trains scholars to conduct cutting-edge, interdisciplinary research across key areas of international affairs and political science. A combination of in-depth hands-on fieldwork and comprehensive theoretical study enables Fletcher's PhD students to uncover the meaningful questions that ultimately shape both their future research and their careers.

Developing tomorrow's thought leaders

With approximately 50 students engaged in coursework or research, the PhD program is an integral and vibrant component of the Fletcher community. Working alongside our world-renowned faculty, Fletcher doctoral candidates acquire the theoretical and practical skills needed to produce research that will help shape future discourse on international relations. After completing their degrees, graduates go on to successful high-level careers in academia and research, and in the non-profit, government, and private sectors.

Fletcher’s PhD candidates come from around the world, bringing perspectives and experiences that inform their research and goals.  Get to know their stories and learn how they plan to shape the future of international affairs.

After completing their degrees, doctoral graduates go on to successful high-level careers in academia and research, and in the non-profit, government, and private sectors.  They make their impact on an array of fields, often maintaining a presence in both academia and practice.

Fletcher PhD students move through three program phases on their way from admission to graduation. They start with classes, arranged within a structured curriculum that still allows significant flexibility in course selection. When their class requirements are complete, students take comprehensive exams, and then move on as PhD candidates to research and write a dissertation.

Shaping Your PhD Through Coursework

In shaping their curriculum, students start with a primary field of study, through which they develop a depth of expertise unique to their interests. The primary fields of study that support PhD studies are:

• Comparative and Regional Studies
• Gender and Intersectional Analysis
• Human Security and Humanitarian Affairs
• International Business
• International Development and Environmental Policy
• International Security

Students build on their primary field of expertise by developing a breadth of foundational knowledge in a second field of study, which can be any of the  fields offered at Fletcher  or might be a self-designed field. Regardless of their choice of field, all students also pursue foundational courses in international relations theory and in research methodology. The two fields of study later become the basis for comprehensive exams.

Students seeking additional opportunities to individualize their studies may cross-register for up to a quarter of their classes at another graduate school at Tufts University or at Harvard University.

Students who have received their master's degree at another institution generally pursue twelve courses at Fletcher, with limited opportunities to have prior coursework applied to their degree. Those who possess a MALD generally pursue an additional four courses, for a total of twenty courses for the two degrees.

Demonstrating Knowledge Through Comprehensive Examinations

Students demonstrate mastery of their subjects through comprehensive examinations, composed of a written exam in each of the two fields of study and an oral exam that integrates the material from the two areas. Students generally sit for their comprehensive examinations within a year of completing their coursework.

Developing and Writing a Dissertation

Once they have passed their comprehensive exams and achieved PhD candidacy, students move on to propose, research, and write a dissertation. The completed dissertation should bear evidence of independent research and constitute a substantial contribution on the subject. When the dissertation is complete, the PhD candidate participates in a public oral defense of the dissertation.

Additional Graduation Requirements

In addition to the steps detailed above, students in the PhD program:

• Demonstrate proficiency in a second language.
• Submit a master's thesis for evaluation by a Fletcher faculty member. This could be a master's thesis written prior to enrollment at Fletcher, or a thesis written during the first year at Fletcher.

Length of Time Required to Receive the PhD

Once they have completed their coursework, PhD students generally take about five years to complete the degree, but the exact time varies according to the scope of each candidate's research, the amount of time devoted to PhD studies, and the time needed to research and write the dissertation.

Professional Development Opportunities

Fletcher's Office of Career Services  works with PhD students interested in a career in international relations practice. Our graduates have pursued careers at a wide range of institutions and organizations. For those focused on the academic job market, Fletcher offers support at a variety of levels. Fletcher faculty and the Office of Career Services support job candidates with career advice, professional development, and general assistance.

To develop teaching skills, students can participate in Tufts University’s three-week summer intensive  Graduate Institute for Teaching  and then to co-teach a class with a faculty mentor. Many students have also developed and taught classes in the University’s  Osher Institute  or  Experimental College .

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MA Global Politics

Undertake advanced graduate course work and a major research paper in one of the leading centres of critical international relations. Critical approaches to international relations reveal the unequal power relations of world order and seek to challenge those conditions.

Critical international relations draws on a wide variety of theoretical traditions including constructivist, ecological, feminist, historical materialist, post-colonial and post-structural approaches. McMaster is particularly strong in the areas of post-colonialism, alternative diplomacy, critical security studies, citizenship studies and international political economy.

About the Program

International Relations, Global Politics, Globalization, Global Political Econom y.

Undertake advanced graduate course work and a major research paper in one of the leading centres of critical international relations (IR). Critical approaches to IR reveal the unequal power relations of world order and seek to challenge those conditions. Critical IR draws on a wide variety of theoretical traditions including constructivist, ecological, feminist, historical materialist, post-colonial and post-structural approaches. McMaster is particularly strong in the areas of post-colonialism, alternative diplomacy, critical security studies, citizenship studies and international political economy.

Faculty Specializing in Global Politics:

Nathan Andrews : Political Economy of Resource Extraction, Social/Development Policy, Global Governance, International Relations Theory & Critical Pedagogy

Marshall Beier : Critical Approaches to Security, Militarization of Childhood, Indigeneity & International Relations, International Relations Theory

Thomas Marois : Neoliberalism & Development, Public Banking, Political Economy

Stephen McBride : North American Political Economy, Trade & Investment Governance, Austerity

Peter Nyers : Critical Security Studies, Citizenship, Borders, Refugees, Undocumented Migration

Robert O’Brien : Global Political Economy, Labour Internationalism, Global Civil Society, Climate Change, Global Governance

Tony Porter : Global Governance & Standard Setting, International Finance

Alina Sajed : Post-colonial International Relations, Political Violence & Revolution, Global South

Lana Wylie : Canadian & US Foreign Policy, Alternative Diplomacy, Cuba

Requirements and Timelines

Drawing on the Department’s research strength in International Relations and the presence of the Institute on Globalization and the Human Condition, this MA offers students the opportunity to take a wide selection of courses.

Students take five courses, one MA Colloquium and write a 10,000 word major research paper over twelve months.

Students in the MA in Global Politics are required to complete: a) Four (4) international relations courses; one of which must be POLSCI 772 Theories of International Politics

b) One (1) additional graduate course

c) MA Colloquium course, POLSCI 775

d) Major Research Paper (10,000 words), POLSCI 708

Selecting your courses

When choosing graduate courses MA Global Politics students should consider the broad range of offerings available in the Department of Political Science, other departments and the Institute on Globalization and the Human Condition. Consider combining your IR courses with others into a theme if you wish to learn about a particular area in depth.

MA Colloquium Course POLSCI 775 MA Colloquium

The Colloquium will take place every second week in the Fall and Winter terms under the leadership of the Convenor. It will be a three-hour meeting with all of the MA students. It will consist of faculty presentations highlighting their research and professional development sessions on topics such as grant writing, PhD programs and career information. Other sessions will focus upon skills needed for the Major Research paper (choosing a topic and supervisor, preparing an outline etc.)

Major Research Paper POLSCI 708 Major Research Paper In addition to completing 18 units of graduate level coursework, students enrolled in the M.A. in Global Politics are required to complete a Major Research Paper (MRP) or a Collaborative MRP in the spring/summer term following their coursework.

The major research paper (MRP) is an opportunity for students to do an extended piece of research on a topic of their choosing. A collaborative MRP involves the identification of a shared research interest among a group of two or more students and a division of labour that may specify both an identifiably individual component and a collaborative component that is coauthored. Guidance on the MRP will be provided in the MA Colloquium. Students will be assigned a faculty supervisor in consultation with the MA Colloquium Convenor/Political Science Advisor.

Admissions and Applications

Admission to the MA program requires a clear B+ average or better in an Honours Political Science Bachelor’s degree, a four year major political science degree or similar.

• Only COMPLETED applications will be reviewed by the Department
• Applicants to the MA program are strongly encouraged to apply for the SSHRC Canada Graduate Scholarships Competition (Scholarship Deadline is December 1st), provided they meet the eligibility requirements. For more information, visit the School of Graduate Studies: Scholarships

Required Application Documents:

Graduate Studies Online Application

Applicants are required to complete the Graduate Studies Online Application which opens October 1st each year. In addition to the online application, applicants must also submit the required documents listed below. Some required documents must be submitted through the online application.

Statement of Interest

• An electronic statement of interest (approximately 250-500 words, single or double-spaced, maximum of 1 page ).
• The statement must be uploaded as a PDF attachment through the online application system.
• Your statement of interest should clearly describe your reasons for pursuing an MA degree, research interests, previous studies, experience and your career objectives.

CV/Personal Resume

• An electronic copy of your CV/Resume must be uploaded as a PDF attachment through the online application system.

Official Academic Transcripts

• Upload a scan of ALL official university transcripts completed to date to the application system. Remember to include a copy of the transcript key/legend or scale from the transcript.
• Transcripts from institutions where you completed courses on Letter of Permission and/or as part of a Student Exchange Program must also be included.
• If the official language of instruction at your institution is not English, please include both the original language document and a certified English translation.
• DO NOT submit an unofficial transcript or a student record print.
• If you receive an offer of admission further instructions will be given on how to submit formal official transcripts.

Academic References

• Two (2) confidential e-reference reports from instructors most familiar with your academic work.
• All referees are required to complete the e-Reference.
• You will be required to include contact information and an email address for each referee.
• The electronic referencing system will send an e-Reference request on your behalf.

English Language Proficiency (if applicable)

• If English is not your native language, an official copy of your English Language Proficiency score or other evidence of competency in English is required.
• Such applicants are required to supply this evidence as part of your application.
• Applicants whose university studies were complete at an institution where English is deemed the official language of instruction may be exempted from this requirement (an official letter from the institution is required).
• The English Proficiency exam must have been completed within 2 years of the application due date.
• This requirement must be met prior to an offer of admission. There will be no exceptions to the language requirement.
• The most common evidence is a score on the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).
• TOEFL: minimum score is 92 (iBT-internet based), 237 (computer based) or 580 (paper based). The McMaster University TOEFL/TSE Institution Code is 0936 and the Department Code for Political Science is 89.
• IELTS (Academic): minimum overall score is 6.5, with at least 5.5 in each section.

NOTE: International students wishing to enter Canada on a study permit should also contact the nearest Canadian Embassy or Consulate for further information.

Application Fee

The system will charge a non-refundable application fee. Please have a valid credit card ready to pay the application fee. The fee will not be refunded or waived.

ANY LATE OR MISSING DOCUMENTS WILL DELAY YOUR APPLICATION AND NOT BE REVIEWED BY THE DEPARTMENT’S ADMISSION COMMITTEE.

Application Deadline: 

January 31, 2024 (for September 2024 admission)

We do not offer a Winter (January) or Spring (May) start date.

Financial Information, Scholarships and Awards

The awards listed below are only opened to current Political Science graduate students. Eligible students should apply to Mosaic.  

The Ellen Louks Fairclough Scholarship in Political Science 

The Ellen Louks Fairclough Memorial Scholarship in Political Science was established in 2004 to commemorate the life of The Right Honourable Ellen Louks Fairclough, P.C., C.C., F.CA., L.L.D., F.R.C.G.S., D.H., U.E., Canada’s first female federal cabinet minister and lifelong advocate for women’s rights. To be awarded to a student enrolled in a graduate program in Political Science who holds an Ontario Graduate Scholarship. Preference will be given to a student with an interest in Canadian public policy.  

The Political Science Travel Grant 

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Canada needs a focused and flexible foreign policy after years of inconsistency

Lecturer in Global Politics & Political Philosophy, Toronto Metropolitan University

Disclosure statement

Yasar Bukan does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

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Canadian foreign policy has often been rife with lingering dilemmas and abstract long-term objectives. It could become even murkier if Donald Trump is re-elected president of the United States this fall and Pierre Poilievre becomes prime minister in the years ahead.

The former American president’s policies tend to be unpredictable and quarrelsome while Poilievre has yet to offer clarity on key policy positions .

The world is engulfed in numerous conflicts, with many signs pointing to a contentious environment ahead . These factors, coupled with Canada’s strained relations with three major world powers — China , Russia and India — could further push Canada into the American orbit.

As Canada Day approaches, it’s a good opportunity to focus on how Canada could readjust its foreign policy to adapt to changing global conditions, and ground that policy in its history. Such a readjustment would need to be orderly, flexible and in Canada’s long-term interests.

Fluctuating policies

In a democracy, policy shifts are expected, even welcomed. But there’s usually a degree of continuity to key policy positions. Yet it’s difficult to discern much continuity in 21st-century Canadian foreign policy.

Paul Martin’s Liberal government, for example, aimed for an independent approach with a strong emphasis on multilateralism .

Stephen Harper pursued an aggressive policy: “ We know where our interests lie, and who our friends are ,” he once said. His government distanced itself from Canada’s past internationalist stance that focused on multilateralism and promoting liberal norms globally. During Harper’s tenure, Canada withdrew from the Kyoto Protocol , had radical pro-Israel and anti-Iran, anti-China and anti-Russia positions . His approach largely mirrored the hawkish neoconservative agenda of the George W. Bush administration.

When Prime Minister Justin Trudeau came to power in 2015, he was going to provide a “general continuity” to Canada’s foreign policy in line with pre-Harper governments . However, while he reversed some Harper policies, the concepts of multilateralism and rules-based global order have been largely limited to rhetoric. The majority of the Trudeau government’s strategic decisions, such as the Indo-Pacific Strategy , have paralleled American policies.

Enduring dilemmas

The Canada-U.S. relationship has primarily preoccupied Canadian foreign policymakers. Canada’s approach has oscillated between extremes: trade or independence, interest or fear.

In the early years of Canada’s existence, John A. Macdonald’s Conservatives favoured protectionist policies while Liberals Alexander Mackenzie and Wilfrid Laurier were proponents of tariff-free trade between the two nations .

Liberal Pierre Trudeau had a nationalist agenda rooted in prioritizing national interests . And while Brian Mulroney and his Conservative government were keen on a strong relationship with the U.S., Canadian independence was a priority for Jean Chrétien’s Liberals .

This ongoing predicament primarily stemmed from Canada’s disproportional dependency on the U.S. While the U.S. has been Canada’s main ally, Canada has been one of many allies for the Americans.

Another enduring preoccupation for Canada has been the scope of its role in the world. To what degree and how should it be involved in world affairs? Should Canadian policies be interest- or values-based, or both?

Liberal Louis St. Laurent’s vision was for Canada to play a constructive role in the world because it was in Canada’s security and economic interests . Under Lester B. Pearson, another Liberal prime minister, the concept of peace came to define Canada and continues to be an important aspect of how Canada is perceived .

Successive Liberal and Conservative governments, however, appear to have largely abandoned this peace-keeping identity in the post-Soviet Union era, which is saturated with “peace-makers” who rush to mediate conflicts around the globe , often unsuccessfully.

Inconsistencies

Canada’s post-Second World War objectives have largely centred around its commitment to multilateralism, the promotion of Canadian values and maintaining close relations with the U.S.

But these objectives face challenges.

Multilateralism has helped advance the global interests of nations the same size as Canada or smaller that lack large armies and economies. But, because of partisan politics multilateralism is now under threat , barring a few exceptions .

Furthermore, amid the global rise of ultra-nationalism, the perception of western values as admirable is changing and often equated with western domination. To defend or advocate for western values can now be viewed as naïve if not hypocritical, especially when international laws and institutions are routinely undermined by those who pioneered their construction.

Read more: Western countries demand Russia follows international law – so why don't they?

Perhaps a good starting point for a new direction in Canadian foreign policy can be found in Indigenous history.

Deganawidah , the founder of the Haudenosaunee or the Iroquois Confederacy, is considered a great peacemaker. The political and cultural union of six Indigenous nations still governs portions of present-day New York, Pennsylvania, Ontario and Québec.

The origin of the current close-knit Canada-U.S relationship, in other words, predates colonial British rule.

Read more: Historic Haida Nation agreement shows the world how to uphold Indigenous rights

Grounded, balanced foreign policy

So how should Canada reconfigure its foreign policy?

In this challenging environment, a Harper-style, assertive foreign policy is neither in the nation’s interest nor within its capabilities. There are simply not enough vital global interests that would warrant Canadian aggression or hawkishness. Such policy would only make enemies and create risks.

Yet Canada can no longer dwell in the security of its rich resources and vast geography either. The latest revelations of foreign interference in Canadian politics and the alleged involvement of the Indian government in the murder of a Sikh activist on Canadian soil signal that the immunity Canada enjoyed because of its geography and proximity to a superpower has waned.

Canada should therefore be proactive globally and enhance its defensive capabilities.

The way forward

In terms of the U.S., Canadian policymakers need to be more balanced and prudent. The U.S. is facing serious domestic and international strife . Canada can neither become entangled in American politics nor serve as a mere instrument of U.S. imperial ambitions as it struggles to protect its global interests.

Furthermore, in a world dominated by hostilities among major powers, principles of peaceful co-existence, multilateralism and value-based diplomacy are insufficient in guiding a foreign policy. They should be complemented by additional broad objectives.

A proactive diplomacy and strategically defensive mindset would be more viable for Canada. Policymakers should prioritize preservation over expansion and enhance bilateral relations — especially with the United Kingdom, France and Mexico — over selective engagement and isolation. Canada should also invest in education, emerging technologies and new domains, including outer space.

• Justin Trudeau
• Stephen Harper
• Melanie Joly
• Pierre Trudeau
• Jean Chretien
• Paul Martin
• Canada-US relationship

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