Bachelor of Arts (Politics and Policy Studies)

At Deakin, learning goes far beyond lectures and textbooks. In this program, you’ll get hands-on experience tackling real-world political and policy challenges, working alongside professionals in government, community organisations, and advocacy groups. From the start, you’ll develop skills that employers really value — critical thinking, research, and communication — all while gaining insight into how policies are shaped and implemented. Deakin’s Work Integrated Learning (WIL) program and other career-focused initiatives mean you can apply what you learn in class to real professional settings, preparing you for life after graduation.

Some of the practical opportunities and facilities you’ll benefit from include:

• Internships through Work Integrated Learning: Complete a WIL placement (100–160 hours) for credit, gaining real-world experience and professional connections.

• Industry engagement: Learn from government agencies, NGOs, and policy organisations via guest lectures, workshops, and project collaborations.

• Study tours and global experiences: Participate in programs that broaden your understanding of politics and policy in an international context.

• Career support via DeakinTALENT: Get help with resumes, job applications, internships, and professional development to become career-ready while you study.

• Campus facilities and resources: Modern learning spaces, libraries, and faculty support services are designed to help you succeed academically and professionally.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts (Politics and Policy Studies) from Deakin University leave with strong analytical thinking, research skills, and communication abilities that are highly valued across many professional fields. These skills open doors to careers where understanding political systems, public policy, and social issues is essential. Many graduates go on to roles such as policy analysts, political advisers, research analysts, communications specialists, or project officers in government agencies, international organisations, media, and non-profit sectors.

The university also provides strong support to help students transition from study into professional careers:

• Career support and employability services: Students can access DeakinTALENT, which offers career planning tools, personalised one-to-one advice, resume and interview support, and opportunities to connect with employers.

• Industry connections: Students engage with government departments, NGOs, and advocacy organisations, helping them build professional networks during their studies and after graduation.

• Strong graduate employment outcomes: Deakin graduates consistently achieve high employment rates, with surveys showing around 90% employed within months of graduation, reflecting the university’s reputation with employers.

• Global employability reputation: Deakin is recognised internationally for producing work-ready graduates, giving you competitive advantage in local and global job markets.

• Internships and industry partnerships: Through Deakin’s Work Integrated Learning (WIL) program and other professional networks, students gain practical experience and develop connections before they graduate.

Further Academic Progression:

After completing this degree, many students continue with postgraduate study to specialise in particular areas. Common pathways include the Master of Politics and Policy or other advanced social science degrees at Deakin, providing opportunities for leadership roles in policy, research, government, or international organisations, and equipping graduates for careers requiring high-level analytical and strategic skills.