Bachelor of Sustainability and Climate Change majoring in Politics

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Adelaide

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Sustainability and Climate Change majoring in Politics at the University of Adelaide is designed for students who want to understand climate challenges and play a role in shaping the policies that address them. The program combines environmental knowledge with political analysis, helping students explore how governments, communities and international organisations respond to climate change and sustainability issues.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
In the first year, students build a strong foundation in climate science and political systems. Courses such as Fundamentals of Climate Change, Humanity in a Changing Climate, and Introduction to Politics introduce the key environmental challenges facing the world and the political structures that influence decision-making. Students also explore how society and culture shape responses to climate change through subjects like Culture, Society and Climate Change.

Year 2
The second year focuses on understanding how climate policy is developed and communicated. Students study subjects such as Communicating Climate Change, Responding to Climate Change, and Policy and Practice in Australian Politics, learning how governments design and implement environmental strategies. These courses also encourage students to think critically about political debates, public communication and the social factors that influence climate action.

Year 3
In the final year, students examine global sustainability challenges and the political systems that influence environmental policy. Courses such as Climate Change and Sustainable Development, Environment and Citizenship, and Australian Electoral Democracy allow students to explore how political institutions and public participation shape sustainability outcomes. Many students also gain practical experience through work-integrated learning or internship opportunities that connect their studies with real policy or sustainability work.

Focus Areas

Climate policy and governance, environmental politics, sustainability and sustainable development, climate communication, global environmental challenges

Learning Outcomes

Understand the science and impacts of climate change, analyse environmental policy and political systems, evaluate sustainability strategies, communicate climate issues effectively and apply critical thinking to complex global challenges.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The program includes opportunities for work-integrated learning, giving students the chance to gain practical experience in sustainability and policy-related environments while building professional skills.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

The University of Adelaide is a member of Australia’s Group of Eight universities, a network of leading research institutions recognised internationally for strong academic quality and graduate employability.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

In the Bachelor of Sustainability and Climate Change majoring in Politics at the University of Adelaide, students gain practical experience by tackling real-world environmental and policy challenges. The program combines classroom learning with research projects, case studies, and professional development activities that reflect how sustainability and climate policy decisions are made in practice. Students also benefit from modern campus facilities, research resources, and collaborative learning spaces that support hands-on investigation and problem-solving.

Throughout the degree, students have plenty of opportunities to apply their knowledge and build professional skills:

Industry internships in the final year, giving students real workplace experience in sustainability, climate policy, or environmental management.
Work-integrated learning courses, where students apply climate and policy knowledge to practical projects and real-world scenarios.
Research projects and policy analysis assignments, covering issues like climate change, biodiversity, urban development, and food security.
Collaborative group projects and case studies, allowing students to work together to propose solutions to complex environmental and policy problems.
Access to modern campus facilities, including lecture theatres, labs, workshops, and collaborative learning spaces designed for environmental and social science research.
Comprehensive library and digital resources, providing access to climate science, sustainability, and policy research materials.
Guest lectures, networking events, and professional development activities, connecting students with sustainability experts, policymakers, and industry professionals.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Bachelor of Sustainability and Climate Change majoring in Politics at the University of Adelaide leave with the skills and knowledge to tackle real-world environmental challenges and influence climate and sustainability policy. With a mix of climate science, political understanding, and policy analysis, they are prepared for careers where they can make a tangible impact. Typical roles include policy adviser, sustainability consultant, environmental project manager, and climate change analyst.

The program also provides strong support and connections to help students transition smoothly into professional life:

Career and employability support: The University of Adelaide’s Careers Service offers personalised guidance, CV and interview workshops, networking events, and access to job boards to help students get started in sustainability, policy, or environmental roles.
Employment prospects: Graduates with expertise in sustainability and policy are in demand, with strong full-time employment rates and competitive starting salaries reported for related fields.
Industry connections and internships: Students can take part in professional placements and projects with organisations such as The Academy by Deloitte and local government agencies, gaining hands-on experience in environmental management and policy.
Accreditation and qualification value: This AQF Level 7 bachelor’s degree is recognised internationally, giving graduates credibility and flexibility in both professional and research roles.
Graduate outcomes: Alumni work in government departments, environmental consultancies, NGOs, policy research organisations, and international institutions, contributing to sustainability initiatives and climate policy development.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this degree, graduates can continue their studies with postgraduate programs to deepen or specialise their knowledge. Popular pathways include a Master of Climate Change, Master of Public Policy, or Master of Environmental Management, opening doors to senior advisory, research, or leadership roles in government, NGOs, international organisations, and the private sector.