Bachelor of Arts (Political Science and Public Policy Major)

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Griffith University Nathan Campus

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Arts (Political Science and Public Policy Major) at Griffith University is an excellent choice for students who are passionate about politics, government, public affairs, and creating positive social change. The program explores how political systems operate, how public policies are developed, and how governments respond to local and global challenges, while helping students build strong research, analytical, and communication skills.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
In the first year, students build a strong foundation in political science and the broader social sciences. Through subjects such as Introduction to Politics and Government, Understanding Society, and Research and Critical Thinking, students gain an understanding of political institutions, public decision-making, and contemporary social issues.

Year 2
The second year focuses on policy development, governance, and political processes in Australia and around the world. Students study subjects such as Public Policy Analysis, Australian Politics and Public Policy, and International Relations, learning how governments design policies, address complex social challenges, and engage with global issues.

Year 3
In the final year, students explore advanced topics in political leadership, governance, and policy evaluation. Through subjects such as Political Leadership and Governance, Comparative Public Policy, and Policy Research Project, students strengthen their research skills and learn how to assess policy outcomes and develop practical, evidence-based solutions.

Focus Areas

Political systems and institutions, public policy analysis, governance, international relations, political leadership, public administration, policy research, democracy, social policy, and global political issues.

Learning Outcomes

Develop a strong understanding of political systems and policy processes, analyse governance and public policy challenges, conduct political and social research, evaluate political institutions, communicate complex ideas effectively, apply critical thinking skills, and develop evidence-based policy recommendations.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

While the Political Science and Public Policy major is not linked to a specific professional accreditation body, it equips students with highly transferable skills that are valued across government, public administration, policy development, international organisations, advocacy groups, and the non-profit sector.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Griffith University is well regarded for its strengths in the social sciences, public policy, and political studies. The university's emphasis on research excellence, industry engagement, and practical learning helps graduates develop the knowledge and professional skills needed for successful careers in government, policy, and public affairs.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The Bachelor of Arts (Political Science and Public Policy Major) at Griffith University helps students connect political theory with real-world policy challenges. Throughout the program, students build practical skills in policy analysis, research, communication, critical thinking, and stakeholder engagement while examining current political and social issues. Learning is supported by experienced academics, research opportunities, industry engagement, and access to modern university resources:

Opportunities to participate in work-integrated learning and internship experiences with government agencies, public sector organisations, and community groups.
Practical policy research projects that explore contemporary political, social, and governance issues.
Development of analytical and research skills through policy evaluation, case studies, report writing, and evidence-based decision-making activities.
Collaborative group projects, presentations, debates, and policy discussions that reflect professional public policy environments.
Learning from academics and researchers specialising in politics, governance, international relations, and public policy.
Access to extensive library collections, academic journals, policy databases, and digital research resources.
Regular engagement with guest speakers, government representatives, policy professionals, and industry experts through seminars and workshops.
Opportunities to connect with university research centres and institutes focused on governance, public policy, social justice, and public affairs.
Exposure to international perspectives through global case studies, international learning opportunities, and study experiences.
Development of professional communication, leadership, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills through research reports, policy briefs, and presentations.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts (Political Science and Public Policy Major) at Griffith University develop strong analytical, research, policy and communication skills that are highly valued across government, public affairs, consulting and community sectors. The program prepares students for careers such as Policy Officer, Policy Analyst, Government Relations Officer and Research Officer, while also opening pathways into diplomacy, advocacy, public administration and international organisations.

Future Progression & Opportunities:

Griffith University’s award-winning Industry Mentoring Program helps students build professional networks and develop career-ready skills through direct engagement with experienced industry mentors. Students also have access to UniHub, career counselling, employability workshops and graduate employment support.
The program offers opportunities to participate in work placements and parliamentary internships, giving students valuable real-world experience and professional connections before graduation.
Graduates can pursue careers across federal, state and local government, diplomacy and foreign affairs, non-government organisations, parliamentary services, lobbying and advocacy, policy development, market research and international business.
Common graduate roles include Policy Officer, Policy Analyst, Diplomat, Research and Evaluation Coordinator, Campaigns Officer, Electorate Officer, Community Development Officer and Project Coordinator.
Career outcome data shows strong opportunities in policy and intelligence-related occupations, with average weekly earnings of approximately AUD $1,936. The broader public administration and safety sector also offers strong employment demand, with average weekly earnings of around AUD $1,650.
Griffith maintains strong industry engagement through internships, collaborative projects, case studies and networking opportunities with government agencies, public sector organisations and industry partners.
Students benefit from connections with professional organisations such as the Institute of Public Administration Australia, the Australasian Political Studies Association and the Australian Institute of International Affairs, helping support long-term professional development and networking.
Graduates leave with practical expertise in governance, policy analysis, public administration, stakeholder engagement and strategic decision-making, making them highly adaptable across both public and private sector careers.

Further Academic Progression:

After completing this degree, students can continue their studies through postgraduate programs such as a Master of Public Policy and Leadership, Master of International Relations, Master of Public Administration, Master of Business or a Juris Doctor. Students may also pursue honours or higher research degrees, creating pathways into senior leadership, policy, consulting, academic and government positions.