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Canadian Government

Canadian Government

POLS 211
200-Level Courses
Winter 2027
3 Units
In-person

Course Description

How has colonialism shaped the development of Canadian government and politics? How did Canada become bilingual and multicultural? How does political change happen in Canada? During this course, we will explore these questions and others. In the first part of the course, we will examine important historical events that continue to shape Canadian politics today. In the second part of the course, we will assess the development and functioning of Canada’s electoral and governing institutions. In the third part of the course, we will analyze how historical events and political institutions shape contemporary issues in Canadian politics, including Quebec-Canada relations and ongoing issues of settler colonialism.

Learning Outcomes

  1. Define key concepts relevant to Canadian government and politics.
  2. Explain how history and political institutions shape contemporary politics in Canada.
  3. Assess evidence and arguments relevant to Canadian government and politics.
  4. Examine how Canadian political institutions matter for issues you care about.
  5. Reflect on your role as a political actor and possibilities for political change in Canada.