The Bachelor of Arts in Political Science (AB PolSci) is a four-year degree program that centers on the study of the types of government, the history and forms of political institutions, political behavior, and political policies. It covers important areas of study including Philippine Politics, Comparative Politics, International Relations, Political Theory and Methodology, Public Administration, Political Dynamics, Local and Global Governance, and Research in Politics. 

Recommended Senior High School Strand

Students who want to pursue a degree in AB in Political Science are encouraged to take the Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) strand under the Academic track. The curriculum focuses on human behavior, literature, education, politics, liberal arts, and society. The HUMSS strand will cover relevant topics that may be further discussed in their college lectures. 

Subjects and Curriculum

• Fundamentals of Political Science

• Introduction to the Philippine Government and Politics

• Philippine Public Administration

• Government and Politics of Southeast Asia

• An Introduction to Comparative Government and Politics

• Ancient and Medieval Political Theories

• Modern Political Theories

• Introduction to International Relations

• International and Regional Organizations

• Introduction to Political Analysis

• Quantitative Analysis of Political Data

Admission Requirements

Qualifications

• The student must be a high school graduate. 

However, if they were not able to graduate high school, they may opt to take the Alternative Learning System (ALS) and pass the Philippine Educational Placement Test (PEPT) to qualify for college; the availability of courses for PEPT passers depend on the university.

• The students must pass the College Admissions Test of the university.

Basic Requirements

• Form 138 - High School Report Card (Original and Photocopy)

• Recommendation letter from High school principal and guidance counselor

• Most recent medical and dental health record

• Copy of NSO Certified birth certificate

• Certificate of Good moral character

• Copy of honorable dismissal

• Copy of high school diploma

• (1) Latest 2”x2” ID Picture

Program Outcome

Graduates of AB in Political Science are expected to be able to:

• Discuss major concepts in the discipline

• Conduct research initiatives through quantitative and qualitative methods

• Apply theories and principles of the discipline on specific issues and problems

• Critique current issues and problems on a historical and contemporary understanding of national and global context

On-The-Job Training/Internship

During the fourth year of the program, students are required to attend an On the Job Training (OJT) in government offices, non-government organizations, or private businesses. 

Students are given the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in an actual work setting. Usually, universities require them to submit a written report on their tasks, learning experiences, and hours rendered. Their work performance will also be evaluated by their immediate managers and will be submitted to their respective OJT coordinator. The number of hours required may differ in each university.

Board Exam

The AB in Political Science does not have a board examination. However, graduates may opt to take the Civil Service Examination (CSE) conducted by the Philippine Civil Service Commission (PCSC) to qualify in working in government offices. Some graduates opt to take a Master’s degree followed by a Doctorate degree to gain expertise in the industry. 

Career Opportunities

Graduates of AB in Political Science may pursue a career path in government offices, non-government organizations, or private businesses. They may apply as a paralegal, public opinion researcher, corporate adviser for government relations, political consultant, or a professor.