Bachelor of Arts Honours (Politics, philosophy and economics)

In your honours year at La Trobe University, you’ll gain practical skills that go far beyond writing your thesis. You’ll learn how to apply research methods, tackle real-world problems, and develop analytical thinking that prepares you for both professional work and further study. La Trobe supports you with expert supervision, access to libraries and research facilities, and opportunities to connect with industry and community organisations:

Here’s how your honours year brings your learning to life:

• Professional competence in the workplace: You can take part in projects and placements within organisations that focus on political, philosophical, or economic issues, gaining hands-on experience and developing valuable workplace skills.

• Internships and placements: Tailored opportunities allow you to work with public policy bodies, research centres, or community organisations, helping you build professional networks and apply your studies in real settings.

• Fieldwork and study tours: You may participate in local or international field trips, giving you first-hand exposure to different cultural, political, and economic environments.

• Library and research support: La Trobe’s libraries provide extensive resources, quiet study zones, group work areas, and online tools to support every stage of your honours project, from literature review to thesis completion.

• Academic mentoring and workshops: You’ll receive guidance from supervisors and access workshops to sharpen your skills in research design, data analysis, academic writing, and presentations—ensuring you’re well-prepared for professional and academic challenges.

Completing the Bachelor of Arts Honours (Politics, Philosophy and Economics) at La Trobe University gives you strong research, analytical, and communication skills that are highly valued by employers. Many graduates go on to work as policy researchers, public policy advisers, analysts in government or non‑profit organisations, or research assistants in higher education, giving you the flexibility to build a meaningful career across public, private, and community sectors:

• Career support: La Trobe’s Career Studio provides personalised guidance throughout your honours year and beyond, including help with resumes, interview preparation, job search strategies, networking opportunities, and connections to employers in relevant fields.

• Employment outcomes: Honours graduates in arts and social sciences have a strong track record of finding full-time work shortly after graduation, with employers recognising the value of your research, critical thinking, and communication skills. Graduates could expect to earn between AUD 60,000 and 75,000 per annum.

• Industry and community connections: Through departmental partnerships and Career Studio initiatives, you can engage with government bodies, think tanks, research organisations, and community projects, helping you gain practical experience and build professional networks.

• Long-term value: Completing an honours year demonstrates independent research capability, analytical expertise, and professional communication — qualities that give you an advantage both in employment and in applying for postgraduate programs.

• Graduation outcomes: Graduates often move into roles such as policy researcher, social researcher, public affairs analyst, community development officer, or research assistant in think tanks and public institutions.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this honours year, you could continue your studies with a Master of Philosophy (MPhil), Master of Research, Master of Public Policy, or even a PhD. These pathways allow you to specialise further, open doors to advanced research or academic leadership roles, and provide opportunities for long-term career growth in policy, research, or consultancy.