--- title: Learn about Policy, Governance, and SocialSystems description: "Shape policy. Challenge systems. Stand for justice.\nAt Carleton, you’ll study in the heart of Canada’s capital—where laws are made, movements begin, and public policy comes to life. If you care about human rights, social justice, government, or advocacy, our programs give you the tools to create real change. Explore topics like law and society, political activism, crime and justice, or community support—while gaining experience in the very institutions shaping our world. This is where your passion for fairness, equity, and leadership becomes a career with impact." image: https://fpga.youarein.ca/hubfs/Bgins-landing-thumbnail.jpg --- [![NEW-Black-B_Logo_FPA-H-CMYKFullColourReverse_180821](https://fpga.youarein.ca/hs-fs/hubfs/NEW-Black-B_Logo_FPA-H-CMYKFullColourReverse_180821.png?width=10998&height=1566&name=NEW-Black-B_Logo_FPA-H-CMYKFullColourReverse_180821.png "NEW-Black-B_Logo_FPA-H-CMYKFullColourReverse_180821")](https://fpga.youarein.ca/?hsLang=en) [![LOGO-FPGA-updated](https://fpga.youarein.ca/hs-fs/hubfs/LOGO-FPGA-updated.png?width=800&height=138&name=LOGO-FPGA-updated.png "LOGO-FPGA-updated")](https://carleton.ca/fpga/) [APPLY HERE](https://www.ouac.on.ca/?utm_source=landing+page&utm_medium=CTA&utm_campaign=UGR+recruitment) # Shape policy. Challenge systems. Stand for justice. Your Voice. Your Power. Your Future. At Carleton, you’ll study in the heart of Canada’s capital—where laws are made, movements begin, and public policy comes to life. If you care about human rights, government, diplomacy, law, economics and social justice, our programs give you the tools to create real change. Explore topics like law and society, political activism, crime and justice, or community support—while gaining experience in the very institutions shaping our world. This is where your passion for fairness, equity, and leadership becomes a career with impact. ### Straight from the Source ![landing-polsci-Sarah](https://21564577.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hub/21564577/hubfs/landing-polsci-Sarah.jpg?width=1200&length=1200&name=landing-polsci-Sarah.jpg) **Meet Sarah** Carleton University’s Political Science program is unmatched. In Ottawa, Canada’s political hub, Carleton gives students a unique advantage. With diverse courses, leading professors, and a co-op program, graduates gain the skills and experience to succeed in politics and public policy. ![ppm-alumni1-aaniyah](https://21564577.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hub/21564577/hubfs/ppm-alumni1-aaniyah.jpg?width=1200&length=1200&name=ppm-alumni1-aaniyah.jpg) **Meet Aaniyah** The PAPM program fosters a true sense of community. I am surrounded by motivated peers who push me to grow. Every class feels purposeful, and the welcoming, collaborative environment encourages both personal growth and academic development in ways that inspire lasting confidence. ![econ-alumni1-tyssir](https://21564577.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hub/21564577/hubfs/econ-alumni1-tyssir.jpg?width=1200&length=1200&name=econ-alumni1-tyssir.jpg) **Meet Tayssir**   Carleton’s Economics program reshaped how I solve problems. I learned to dig deeper than surface trends, use data science to test ideas, and tell clear stories from complex datasets. The program built both my analytical rigor and my ability to communicate findings to audiences beyond economists. ![landing-polsci-elad](https://21564577.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hub/21564577/hubfs/landing-polsci-elad.jpg?width=1200&length=1200&name=landing-polsci-elad.jpg) **Meet Elad**   Focused on a career in International Relations, I sought training that blended theory with practice. Carleton’s Political Science program, near Canada’s capital, delivered. I gained broad knowledge, French fluency, and a lasting network of peers and professors who continue to shape my career. ![ppm-alumni2-ellize](https://21564577.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hub/21564577/hubfs/ppm-alumni2-ellize.jpg?width=1200&length=1200&name=ppm-alumni2-ellize.jpg) **Meet Ellize**   PAPM’s Policy Connect experience truly brought academic learning to life in Ottawa. Studying near government offices, meeting policy leaders, and exploring the city’s history gave me real-world insight, built my confidence, and shaped my personal and professional journey. ### Future Change-makers Start Here # Choose your path ![landing-polisci-thumb](https://fpga.youarein.ca/hs-fs/hubfs/landing-polisci-thumb.jpg?width=600&height=600&name=landing-polisci-thumb.jpg "landing-polisci-thumb") #### Bachelor of Arts, Political Science [LEARN MORE](https://admissions.carleton.ca/programs/political-science/?utm_source=web&utm_medium=landing&utm_campaign=fpga-ugr-9&utm_id=fpga2526&utm_content=polisci-prog) Critical thinker, debate enthusiast, civically engaged, policy-driven For students who want to understand power locally, nationally, and globally. Political Science explores ideas, institutions, and movements, equipping you to analyze and shape the world. From elections to global affairs, it prepares you for careers in law, government, journalism, advocacy, or public service. ![landing-papm-thumb](https://fpga.youarein.ca/hs-fs/hubfs/landing-papm-thumb.jpg?width=600&height=600&name=landing-papm-thumb.jpg "landing-papm-thumb") #### Bachelor of Public Affairs and Policy Management (BPAPM) [LEARN MORE](https://admissions.carleton.ca/programs/public-affairs-and-policy-management/?utm_source=web&utm_medium=landing&utm_campaign=fpga-ugr-9&utm_id=fpga2526&utm_content=papm-prog) Policy-focused, socially aware, change-driven, strategic communicator  For students who want to shape public policy. BPAPM blends political science, economics, law, and public administration to study how decisions are made and improved. From climate change to social justice, it gives you the tools to analyze issues and drive change, preparing you for leadership in government, NGOs, and beyond. ![landing-econ-thumb2](https://fpga.youarein.ca/hs-fs/hubfs/landing-econ-thumb2.jpg?width=600&height=600&name=landing-econ-thumb2.jpg "landing-econ-thumb2") #### Bachelor of Economics [LEARN MORE](https://admissions.carleton.ca/programs/economics/?utm_source=web&utm_medium=landing&utm_campaign=fpga-ugr-9&utm_id=fpga2526&utm_content=eco-prog) Analytical thinker, data-curious, problem solver, globally informed  For students who want to understand how the economy shapes inequality, climate, and trade. Blending theory with real-world analysis, the program builds skills in economic thinking and data analysis, preparing graduates for careers in finance, policy, global organizations, or further study. ![landing-law-thumb](https://fpga.youarein.ca/hs-fs/hubfs/landing-law-thumb.jpg?width=600&height=600&name=landing-law-thumb.jpg "landing-law-thumb") #### Bachelor of Arts, Law [LEARN MORE](https://admissions.carleton.ca/programs/law-ba/?utm_source=web&utm_medium=landing&utm_campaign=fpga-ugr-9&utm_id=fpga2526&utm_content=law-prog) Analytical thinker, justice-driven, detail-oriented, persuasive communicator For students interested in how laws shape society and protect rights. The program develops research and critical thinking skills while examining justice, human rights, and governance, preparing graduates for careers in law, policy, advocacy, or advanced legal studies. ![landing-socialwork-thumb](https://fpga.youarein.ca/hs-fs/hubfs/landing-socialwork-thumb.jpg?width=600&height=600&name=landing-socialwork-thumb.jpg "landing-socialwork-thumb") #### Bachelor of Social Work [LEARN MORE](https://admissions.carleton.ca/programs/social-work/?utm_source=web&utm_medium=landing&utm_campaign=fpga-ugr-9&utm_id=fpga2526&utm_content=swk-prog) Policy-focused, socially aware, change-driven, strategic communicator  For students driven to improve lives and communities. You care about social justice, equality, and supporting vulnerable groups while building skills in counseling, advocacy, and engagement. This program prepares you for careers in healthcare, child welfare, mental health, and more. ![landing-crim-thumb](https://fpga.youarein.ca/hs-fs/hubfs/landing-crim-thumb.jpg?width=600&height=600&name=landing-crim-thumb.jpg "landing-crim-thumb") #### Bachelor of Arts, Criminology [LEARN MORE](https://admissions.carleton.ca/programs/criminology-and-criminal-justice/?utm_source=web&utm_medium=landing&utm_campaign=fpga-ugr-9&utm_id=fpga2526&utm_content=crim-prog) Socially conscious, critical thinker, justice-driven, investigative learner  For students who want to understand how crime, justice, and inequality connect. This program explores issues like criminalization, surveillance, and social control through law, sociology, psychology, and social justice. You’ll build research and critical thinking skills for careers in advocacy, policy, law, or social services. ### You Are In — Debate. Question. Advocate. Study how laws shape justice and rights, and turn your passion for fairness into a career in law, policy, or advocacy.   [Explore Our programs](https://fpga.youarein.ca?hsLang=en) ![landing-comms-jobs](https://fpga.youarein.ca/hubfs/landing-comms-jobs.jpg) ### Career Paths - Policy Analyst - International Development Officer - Legal Aid Worker - Paralegal - Community Services Worker - Youth Justice Worker - Restorative Justice Caseworker - Legislative Assistant - Economic Policy Analyst - Market Research Analyst - Program Manager (justice or social services) - Child and Family Services Worker - Community Outreach Coordinator ![PAPM-Landing-Parliament2](https://fpga.youarein.ca/hubfs/PAPM-Landing-Parliament2.jpg) ### Capital Advantage Studying at Carleton puts you at the heart of Canada’s media and political landscape, with direct access to national news outlets, major NGOs, and government agencies that offer unmatched opportunities for hands-on experience, networking, and career growth. ![PAPM-Landing-StuentLife2](https://fpga.youarein.ca/hs-fs/hubfs/PAPM-Landing-StuentLife2.jpg?width=2000&name=PAPM-Landing-StuentLife2.jpg) ### Stunning Campus & Prime Location Carleton sits at the scenic junction of the Rideau River, Dow’s Lake, and the historic Rideau Canal. Just minutes from downtown Ottawa and major research hubs, it offers a safe, vibrant, and inspiring setting. ### You Are In — You’re ready to explore new places and new ideas. At Carleton’s Faculty of Public and Global Affairs, you’ll study in Canada’s capital, learn from experts, and gain real-world experience. From media to politics to global issues, this is where future change-makers begin.   [Explore our programs](https://fpga.youarein.ca?hsLang=en) ## Our Grads are Making an Impact! ![landing-law-Nicholas](https://fpga.youarein.ca/hs-fs/hubfs/landing-law-Nicholas.gif?width=400&height=400&name=landing-law-Nicholas.gif) **Nicholas Miller** Labour Relations Officer, Canada Post Corporation I always had an interest in law, which led me to Carleton’s unique B.A. in Law program. It balanced courses on law as a social phenomenon with legal practice, and being in Ottawa added the benefit of proximity to Parliament, the Government of Canada, and the Supreme Court.   ![landing-comms-alumni-frohan](https://fpga.youarein.ca/hs-fs/hubfs/landing-comms-alumni-frohan.jpg?width=400&height=400&name=landing-comms-alumni-frohan.jpg) **Frohan Foroutan** Economist, Natural Resources Canada One of the best things about studying Economics at Carleton is that the professors have so many contacts in the field. They help connect real world situations to the theories learned in class.   ![landing-socialwork-raj](https://fpga.youarein.ca/hs-fs/hubfs/landing-socialwork-raj.jpg?width=400&height=400&name=landing-socialwork-raj.jpg) **Frieda Ahmed** Registered Social Worker with the French-language Public School Board of Eastern Ontario (CEPEO) I come from an immigrant family, and Social Work resonated as I saw the urgent need for support in the Muslim community. I started in physiology at McGill, but quickly realized it wasn’t the right fit. After completing my science degree, I pursued social work, with social psychology becoming the turning point that confirmed my path. ![Papm-landingpage-ICCC](https://fpga.youarein.ca/hs-fs/hubfs/Papm-landingpage-ICCC.jpg?width=800&height=533&name=Papm-landingpage-ICCC.jpg) ### Life at Carleton Carleton University offers a diverse, inclusive, and LGBTQ+ friendly community! With a vibrant student life with on-campus housing, diverse dining options, and top-tier athletics. Students engage in over 300 clubs, student government, and leadership programs. Strong academics, co-op opportunities, and support services enhance learning. Social life includes orientation events, seasonal festivals, and access to Ottawa’s cultural scene. ![PAPM-landing-Grads](https://fpga.youarein.ca/hubfs/PAPM-landing-Grads.jpg) ### Life After Carleton Carleton University alumni benefit from career services, mentorship, and professional development. They enjoy library access, insurance discounts, and reduced rates for campus facilities. Networking opportunities include alumni events, global chapters, and volunteer roles. Lifelong learning options include course auditing and specialized programs. ## Follow Us [Follow us on Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/fpgacarleton/) [Follow us on LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/fpgacarleton/) [Follow us on Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/cufpga/) [Follow us on Facebook](https://www.youtube.com/@FPGACarleton) [![LOGO-FPGA-updated](https://fpga.youarein.ca/hs-fs/hubfs/LOGO-FPGA-updated.png?width=500&height=86&name=LOGO-FPGA-updated.png "LOGO-FPGA-updated")](https://carleton.ca/fpga/) Faculty of Public and Global Affairs. 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, ON, K1S 5B6, Canada Carleton University acknowledges the location of its campus on the traditional, unceeded territories of the Algonquin Anishinàbeg nation