Bachelor of Political Science / Bachelor of Science (Psychology)

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Australian National University

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Political Science / Bachelor of Science (Psychology) at the Australian National University brings together the study of politics, public policy, and governance with the scientific exploration of human behaviour and mental processes. This four-year double degree is ideal for students who want to understand both how societies operate and how individuals think, behave, and make decisions, opening doors to careers in government, policy, research, psychology-related fields, and beyond.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1

In the first year, you will build a strong foundation in both Political Science and Psychology. Through subjects such as Introduction to Politics, Introduction to Data and Methods for Political Science and International Relations, Psychology 1, and Psychology 2, you will develop an understanding of political systems, research methods, human behaviour, cognition, and psychological theory.

Year 2

The second year expands your knowledge of political ideas and psychological processes. You may study courses such as Political Belief and Deceit, Ideas in Politics, Social Psychology, Biological Basis of Behaviour, and Cognition, while also developing skills in research design, quantitative analysis, and understanding the cultural influences on behaviour.

Year 3

In the third year, you will engage with more advanced concepts and research-focused learning. Psychology studies may include Advanced Research Methods, Health Psychology, and Psychopathology across the Life Span, while Political Science courses explore complex issues related to governance, policy, institutions, and political behaviour. This year encourages critical thinking and evidence-based analysis of real-world social and political challenges.

Year 4

The final year allows you to deepen your expertise through advanced coursework and elective subjects. You may study areas such as Personality Psychology and Developmental Psychology while completing senior Political Science courses that examine contemporary political issues and public policy challenges. By graduation, you will have developed a unique combination of behavioural, analytical, and research skills applicable across a wide range of professions.

Focus Areas

Political systems and governance, public policy, political theory, political behaviour, comparative politics, social psychology, cognition, developmental psychology, personality psychology, health psychology, psychological research methods, quantitative analysis, culture and psychology, behavioural science, interdisciplinary problem-solving.

Learning Outcomes

Develop an understanding of political institutions, public policy, and political behaviour; apply political science theories to contemporary issues; analyse political and social challenges using evidence-based methods; understand human behaviour, cognition, development, and mental health; conduct and evaluate research; communicate complex ideas effectively; apply critical thinking and analytical skills across diverse professional contexts.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The Psychology component includes an accredited psychology sequence recognised by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council, providing a pathway to further study and professional training in psychology.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

The Australian National University is recognised as one of Australia's leading universities and is highly regarded internationally for its research and academic excellence. Graduates benefit from strong analytical, research, communication, and problem-solving skills that are highly valued across government, policy, consulting, research, community organisations, and private-sector careers.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the Australian National University (ANU), students pursuing a Bachelor of Political Science and a Bachelor of Science (Psychology) are immersed in a dynamic learning environment that emphasizes experiential learning. This approach not only enhances theoretical knowledge but also equips students with practical skills that are essential for their future careers. With access to state-of-the-art facilities, cutting-edge technology, and a variety of hands-on experiences, students are well-prepared to tackle real-world challenges.

Here are some of the key experiential learning opportunities available to students in these programs:

- Internships and Work Placements: ANU offers various internship opportunities through partnerships with government agencies, NGOs, and private sector organizations, allowing students to gain valuable work experience and professional connections.

- Research Projects: Students can engage in collaborative research projects with faculty members, utilizing advanced research methodologies and contributing to significant findings in political science and psychology.

- Field Trips and Site Visits: The programs often include field trips to relevant institutions, such as Parliament House and various psychological research centers, providing students with firsthand insights into their fields of study.

- Access to Specialized Software: Students have access to software tools such as SPSS for statistical analysis in psychology and various political analysis tools, enhancing their research capabilities.

- Group Projects and Presentations: Collaborative projects are a core component of the curriculum, fostering teamwork and communication skills that are vital in both political and psychological contexts.

- Dedicated Research Laboratories: The psychology program features specialized labs equipped for experimental research, allowing students to conduct hands-on experiments and gain practical experience in psychological research methods.

- Libraries and Learning Resources: ANU boasts extensive library resources, including the Menzies Library, which houses a vast collection of political science and psychology literature, as well as access to online databases and journals.

- Institutes and Research Centers: Students can benefit from the expertise of various institutes, such as the ANU Centre for Social Research and Methods, which provides additional learning and research opportunities.

These experiential learning components not only enrich the academic experience but also prepare students for successful careers in their chosen fields. If you're ready to take the next step in your education and career, consider applying to ANU for a Bachelor of Political Science and a Bachelor of Science (Psychology).

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating with a Bachelor of Political Science and a Bachelor of Science (Psychology) from the Australian National University (ANU) opens up a world of opportunities. This unique combination equips you with critical thinking skills and a deep understanding of human behavior, making you an attractive candidate for various roles. Typical job roles include:

- Policy Analyst
- Human Resources Specialist
- Social Researcher
- Community Development Officer

Here’s how ANU supports your journey towards a successful career:

- Career Development Services: ANU offers tailored career advice, workshops, and networking events to help you connect with potential employers and refine your job application skills.
- Employment Statistics: ANU boasts a high graduate employment rate, with 85% of graduates finding work within four months of completing their degree. The average starting salary for graduates in this field is around AUD 65,000.
- University–Industry Partnerships: ANU collaborates with various organizations, including government agencies and non-profits, providing students with internship opportunities and real-world experience that enhances employability.
- Long-term Accreditation Value: The degrees are recognized nationally and internationally, ensuring that your qualifications remain relevant and respected in the job market.
- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates from this program are well-prepared for leadership roles and are often sought after for their interdisciplinary knowledge and skills.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your dual degree, you may choose to further your studies in various fields. Options include pursuing a Master’s in Public Policy, a Master’s in Psychology, or even a PhD in a related area. This advanced education can deepen your expertise and open doors to academic, research, or high-level professional roles.

By choosing to study at ANU, you’re not just earning a degree; you’re setting the foundation for a fulfilling career and lifelong learning.