Admissions
Program Inquiries
Interested in a particular program? Visit the program website to learn more:
Application Inquiries
Inquiries related to the online application can be directed to SGPS at:
Email: gradapps@uwo.ca
Phone: 519-850-2341
Fax: 519-661-3730
Political Science
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)Meet Jane Kovarikova, PhD candidate in Political Science

Supervisor: Laura Stephenson
Why did you come to Western for your graduate degree?
I decided to attend Western for a number of reasons. First, Western is a highly reputed university. Second, the faculty members are well-published, world-class educated, and have real-world experiences. Third, the program offers competitive funding for graduate students.
Where’s your favourite place on campus?
My office is my favourite place on campus. Peer support is high when you are occupying the same space with colleagues at the same stage of study. It keeps you motivated and on track.
Have you worked as a TA or RA?
Yes, I am a TA. This experience is fundamental to any academic career. This is where you discover whether an academic route is suited to you. Also, many professors allow you the opportunity to gain experience by hosting a guest lecture. It is also rewarding to be part of undergraduate student’s success.
Do you engage in volunteer activities?
I observe elections on behalf of Canadian and Czech governments. Recently, I have observed in Ukraine, Russia and Macedonia.
What one thing would you like people to know about you?
At the provincial legislature, I was part of a team that put child rights for 16 and 17 year-old youth in need first time on the government’s agenda. New legislation will address the service gap that presently shuts these youths out of the child welfare system.
Program Websites
Program Contact
Teresa McLauchlan (tmclauch@uwo.ca)Graduate Program Advisor
Department of Political Science
Western UniversitySocial Science Centre Rm 4150
London, Ontario N6A 5C2
t. 519-661-2111 ext. 83657
Western's Political Science Department is known for the outstanding quality of its research and its expertise in Political Theory, Canadian Politics, Comparative Politics, Local Government, Public Administration, and International Relations. Among its members are scholars of national and international reputation whose research and writing will be familiar to many students of political science. The Department's graduate programs are widely known and attract excellent students from across Canada and around the world.
The strength and reputation of our PhD program is a result of our internationally renowned faculty, world-class facilities, and the students who thrive in an intellectually stimulating environment. Western is pleased to offer Own Your Future, a unique Doctoral professional development program that supports students in their academic studies and career engagement. Through Own Your Future, students will develop insight into their current and evolving skill set. To learn more, visit www.uwo.ca/ownyourfuture.
Program Length
- 12 Terms (4 years)
Program Design
- Full-time study
- Thesis-based
Funding Information
Applicants (domestic and international) are encouraged to apply for the following scholarships:
Admission Requirements
- An MA in Political Science with superior standing. Candidates must demonstrate a high level of academic performance.
English Language Proficiency
Applicants whose first language is not English must furnish evidence of their proficiency in the use of the English language:
- The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Minimum acceptable score is 550 for the paper and pencil version, 213 for the computer version, or 86 for the internet version with no individual score below 20. [Western's TOEFL ID is 0984].
- The International English Language Testing Service (IELTS). Minimum acceptable score is 6 out of 9.
- The Michigan English Language Assessment Battery (MELAB). Minimum acceptable score is 80 on each section and an overall score of 85.
- The Canadian Academic English Language Assessment (CAEL Assessment). Minimum acceptable score is 60.
- Fanshawe College's ESL Program. The requirement is graduation from Level 5, Advanced Academic Preparation, with a minimum 80% in all components.
Application Deadline
- February 1 - Acceptance notification in April, concluding in July