Bachelor of Political Science

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Australian National University

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Political Science at ANU gives you a deep understanding of how politics shapes societies and influences everyday life. It’s perfect for students who are curious about public affairs, want to explore political ideas and behaviour, and hope to build a career in government, policy, diplomacy, or international organisations.

Curriculum structure

Year 1
In your first year, you’ll lay the foundations of political science with courses like Introduction to Politics and Introduction to Data and Methods for Political Science and International Relations. These units help you understand political systems, develop research skills, and begin exploring how ideas and behaviour shape society, while giving you the flexibility to choose electives that broaden your perspective.

Year 2
The second year moves into more specialised topics, such as Political Belief and Deceit and Ideas in Politics, where you’ll examine how political ideas evolve and influence public opinion. You’ll also explore comparative politics and Australian politics, gaining insight into how decisions are made across different systems and contexts.

Year 3
In your final year, you’ll tackle higher‑level subjects like Public Choice and Politics and select electives that match your interests. You’ll also have the option to explore regional or transdisciplinary studies, applying your knowledge to complex political issues and preparing for independent thinking and advanced analysis as you complete your degree.

Focus areas

Political theory, comparative politics, Australian politics, political behaviour, research methods, public policy, political institutions, transdisciplinary problem-solving

Learning outcomes

Analyse political systems and behaviour, apply political science theories, conduct research using qualitative and quantitative methods, communicate effectively, and collaborate on complex political issues

Professional alignment (accreditation)

While the degree does not carry formal professional accreditation, it is highly respected for providing analytical, research, and communication skills that are valued in government, policy, diplomacy, advocacy, and other public affairs roles.

Reputation

ANU is recognised globally as a leading research university, particularly for politics and international studies, and its alumni include leaders in government, public policy, and international organisations.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

In the Bachelor of Political Science at ANU, you won’t just be learning from textbooks — you’ll gain practical skills and real-world experience that prepare you for careers in government, policy, and international affairs. Being based in Canberra, Australia’s political heart, gives you unique access to Parliament, government agencies, think tanks, and diplomatic missions. The School of Politics & International Relations also provides opportunities to engage in research projects, attend guest lectures, and use ANU’s specialised libraries and digital tools to support your learning and professional development.

Here’s how practical learning is built into the program:

Australian National Internships Program (ANIP): You can undertake placements with Members of Parliament, Senators, government agencies, NGOs, or think tanks, carrying out policy research and professional projects that connect your studies to real public affairs.
Internships and work-integrated learning: ANU’s careers team helps you find internships in public policy, research roles, and other organisations, giving you hands-on experience and a chance to apply your analytical and research skills.
Research and library resources: The ANU Library offers extensive political science and public policy collections, digital research tools, and collaborative study spaces to support both independent and group work.
Canberra-based experiences: Your location allows you to attend parliamentary events, public debates, and networking sessions, bringing your classroom learning to life.
Academic and career support: ANU’s Careers & Employability services provide workshops, professional guidance, and networking opportunities to help you develop practical skills and prepare for the workforce.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Bachelor of Political Science at ANU leave with strong analytical skills, a deep understanding of political systems, and the ability to communicate effectively — all highly valued in government, policy, and international affairs. Many move into roles as policy advisors, government relations officers, political analysts, or international affairs specialists, while others work in diplomacy, advocacy, or research, applying their practical experience and academic knowledge to real-world challenges.

Some typical roles include: policy advisor in government departments or think tanks, political analyst or consultant in public policy, government relations or advocacy officer in NGOs, and international affairs specialist with diplomatic missions or intergovernmental organisations.

ANU offers a range of support and opportunities to help you move confidently from study into your career:

Career support services: The ANU Careers & Employability team provides personalised guidance, workshops, and access to job and internship listings, helping you plan your career, prepare applications, and connect with employers across sectors.
Strong graduate outcomes: ANU graduates are highly employable, with many securing meaningful roles soon after finishing their degree. The average starting salary for new graduates is around $59,000, reflecting the practical and professional skills you gain.
Location and professional exposure: Studying in Canberra gives you direct access to government institutions, national agencies, and policy networks, offering internships, placements, and networking opportunities that can directly lead to employment.
University–industry linkages: Programs like the Australian National Internships Program (ANIP) allow students to take credit-bearing placements with parliamentary offices, government agencies, NGOs, and think tanks — real experience that employers highly value.
Long-term professional value: While this degree isn’t formally accredited, its reputation as Australia’s only dedicated political science undergraduate program, combined with ANU’s global standing, ensures your qualification is recognised and respected in public affairs, policy, and international relations careers.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing your Bachelor of Political Science, you can continue your studies in a number of ways. Many students pursue honours to strengthen research skills and their academic profile, while others undertake postgraduate programs such as a Master of Public Policy, Master of Political Science, or specialised master’s in international relations or development studies. These pathways can lead to advanced research roles, senior positions in government or policy, or even a PhD, opening doors to leadership and specialist careers in both Australia and internationally.