The four main streams in Political Science are Comparative Politics, International Relations, Public Administration and Public Policy, and Political Theory. Comparative Politics examines the political institutions and societies of particular countries, and makes comparisons between them. International Relations concentrates on the relations between states. While it sometimes takes the form of studying the foreign policy of particular countries, it may also focus on particular aspects of foreign policy among a number of states within a particular framework. Political Theory is concerned with comprehensive theories about politics and society, and with the philosophical and methodological questions that inevitably arise in politics.
Papers focus on the major political thinkers of the past, as well as on contemporary theories.
Public Administration and Public Policy papers analyse and evaluate how national, regional and local institutions of the state formulate and implement policies. To complete the requirements of a major in Political Science students must pass a minimum of eight papers in the programme, including six above Level 1, and three above Level 2. All majoring students must include 0524.301. This paper examines New Zealand politics and its history, democratic government in New Zealand, the foundations of electoral competition, and the role of political parties and the media in politics. It provides an introduction to some key concepts in political science and comparative politics.