What is Political Science?

The famous philosopher Aristotle once remarked that "politics is the art of living together". Political science explores how political decisions and institutions, within and between states, make this possible. At NUS, we put the spotlight on Asian and Comparative Politics, International Relations, Political Theory, Governance and Public Policy and the Government and Politics of Singapore.

As a student of Political Science, you will be encouraged to pursue your own interests and projects and you will be able to work with internationally prominent researchers and award-winning teachers. Our graduates are always in demand and go on to pursue successful professional careers in many sectors, including the civil service, education, business, finance, law and media.

News & Events

April 9, 2026

New book spotlights “Buddhist diplomacy” and its influence on Asian foreign policy

Figures of Buddhist Diplomacy in Modern Asia reveals how Buddhist networks and ideas have been mobilised for soft power, peacebuilding and geopolitics.

April 2, 2026

2026 Distinguished Arts and Social Sciences Alumni Awards Honouring graduates who have dedicated their lives to the arts, diplomacy and social services

The awards, held on 1 April, honoured three distinguished alumni whose careers have shaped the arts, diplomacy and communities: Ms Lim Hai Yen (English Language and Chinese Studies ’92), Mr Ashok Mirpuri (Political Science Hons ’84), and Ms Ang Bee Lian (Social Work ’77). Though their careers have unfolded in very different arenas, they share a common thread: a commitment to serving society and shaping the world around them.

Young Asian married couple hold hands celebrating together, watching laptop computer in modern home office. Success job, love relationship, football sport cheering, or small business startup concept.
March 30, 2026

Congratulations to the five 2025 Faculty Research Awardees!

Congratulations to Assistant Professor Sureshkumar Muthukumaran (NUS History), Associate Professor Benjamin Schupmann (NUS Political Science), Assistant Professor Bei Hu (NUS Chinese Studies), Assistant Professor Ting Hui Lau (NUS Sociology and Anthropology), and Assistant Professor Jennifer Yip (NUS History), for winning the FASS 2025 Award for Excellent Researcher (awarded to Assoc Profs Muthukumaran and Schupmann), and […]

March 26, 2026

University of Geneva – Global Studies Institute – Spring semester 2025 – Seminar on Global Governance: the Art and Science of Negotiation

    Since 2024, NUS has collaborated with the University of Geneva to participate in a diplomacy negotiation simulation, with the first simulation taking place in May 2025. During the event, students travel to Geneva for two days to discuss and debate a topic that changes each year. While in Geneva, students also get the […]

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