COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Arts specialization in Political and Legal Thought at Queen’s University is designed for students seeking an in-depth understanding of social, political, and legal theory through an interdisciplinary approach. Students in this specialization are required to complete a total of six term-length courses, with a minimum of four courses specifically designated as Political and Legal Thought (PLT), offered through the Department of Political Studies, the Department of Philosophy, or the Faculty of Law. These courses provide a rigorous foundation in key theoretical frameworks, enabling students to critically engage with topics such as justice, rights, governance, and legal reasoning, while also examining the philosophical and political principles that underpin contemporary society. In addition to coursework, PLT students are required to produce a major research paper (POLS-898) of approximately 50-60 pages, allowing them to develop advanced research, analytical, and writing skills under faculty supervision. This combination of specialized courses and a substantial research project ensures that graduates gain both comprehensive theoretical knowledge and practical scholarly experience. The program encourages interdisciplinary collaboration and intellectual engagement, providing students with opportunities to work closely with leading scholars in political studies, philosophy, and law. Graduates are well-prepared for further academic research, policy analysis, legal or governmental careers, and other roles requiring advanced critical thinking, research expertise, and a deep understanding of political and legal theory.