BSc (Hons) Political Science
Understand Power. Shape Policy. Transform Society.
Program Overview
Our BSc Political Science program provides a comprehensive understanding of political systems, power dynamics, and governance structures. You'll analyze political behavior, public policy, international relations, and comparative politics while developing critical thinking, research, and analytical skills. This degree prepares you to engage meaningfully in political processes, influence public policy, and contribute to democratic development in Nigeria and beyond.
Why This Program?
- •Gain practical experience through our mandatory internship program with National Assembly members, government agencies, NGOs, or international organizations.
- •Participate in our annual Model United Nations and Model ECOWAS simulations, developing diplomacy and negotiation skills.
- •Learn from faculty who are actively engaged as policy advisors, electoral observers, and consultants to national and international bodies.
- •Specialize in high-demand areas like International Relations, Public Policy, or Peace and Conflict Studies in your final year.
Real-World Importance
•Political scientists are essential to the functioning of healthy democracies and effective governance.
•They analyze voting patterns that determine election outcomes, design policies that address societal challenges, advise governments on international relations, and help citizens understand their political rights and responsibilities.
•In a rapidly changing global landscape, political scientists provide the evidence-based analysis needed to navigate complex issues like climate change, security threats, economic inequality, and democratic consolidation.
•They serve as bridges between citizens and institutions, ensuring that governance remains responsive, accountable, and effective..
Curriculum Overview
Program Structure
Key Topics
Course Outline
Year 1: Foundations of Political Inquiry
Year 2: Core Disciplines & Methods
Year 3: Advanced Analysis & Application
Year 4: Specialization & Capstone
Career Opportunities
Policy Analyst/Advisor
Potential Sectors:
Diplomat/Foreign Service Officer
Potential Sectors:
Political Consultant
Potential Sectors:
Legislative Aide
Potential Sectors:
NGO Program Manager
Potential Sectors:
Learning Outcomes
Admission Requirements
UTME Requirements
O'Level Requirements
- •English Language
- •Mathematics
- •Government
- •Economics
- •Any other relevant subject (e.g., History, Literature-in-English, Geography)
Five (5) O'Level credit passes at not more than two sittings. Government or History is often required. Private universities may accept one sitting.
JAMB Subjects
- •English Language (Compulsory)
- •Government
- •Economics
- •Any other Social Science or Arts subject
JAMB Score Requirements
Minimum Score
150
Competitive Score
190
Political Science may have a higher competitive score due to demand.
Direct Entry Requirements
Other Requirements
Grading System
Our Successful Alumni
Hon. Fatima Bello
Member, House of Representatives
Class of 2010
"SAU's Political Science program didn't just teach me about politics—it taught me how to practice it with integrity. The understanding of legislative processes and policy analysis I gained has been invaluable in my work representing my constituents."
Tunde Okeke
Policy Advisor, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
Class of 2015
"The rigorous training in research methods and international relations prepared me perfectly for a career in international development. The faculty's connections helped me secure my first internship at the UN, which launched my career."
Did You Know?
Meet Your Department Head
Dr. Adewale Balogun
Professor of Comparative Politics
“Political science is not just about understanding how power works—it's about learning how to wield it responsibly for the public good. We equip you with the analytical tools to dissect complex political phenomena and the ethical foundation to engage in transformative leadership.”
Dr. Balogun is a renowned political analyst who has advised both national and state governments on constitutional reforms and electoral processes. With a PhD from Oxford University, he has published extensively on democratization in West Africa and serves as a regular commentator on national news networks.
Accreditation
Exam Preparation
This program provides excellent preparation for foreign service entrance examinations, civil service exams, and graduate studies in law, public administration, and international relations.
Facilities & Resources
- •Model UN/ECOWAS Chamber: A dedicated space equipped for simulations of international organizations and legislative debates.
- •Political Research Lab: With access to major databases, statistical software (SPSS, Stata), and survey research tools.
- •Archival Library: Featuring extensive collections of government documents, policy papers, and historical political texts.
Industry Connections
Partners
Initiatives
- •Annual Democracy Lecture Series
- •Legislative Internship Program
- •Election Observation Missions
- •Policy Hackathons
Scholarship Opportunities
Future Leader Scholarship
Awarded to students with demonstrated leadership potential through student government, debate clubs, or community organizing.
Public Service Scholarship
For students from rural communities who demonstrate a commitment to returning to serve in local government or community development.