Bachelor of Government(Politics and International Relations)

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Canberra

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Government (Politics and International Relations) is perfect if you’re curious about how governments operate and want to understand the forces shaping societies both in Australia and around the world. You’ll study politics, international relations, national security, public policy, and economics, gaining both the knowledge and practical skills to make an impact in public service, research, or policy roles.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1 — Building Foundations
In your first year, you’ll get a strong grounding in how governments work and how policies are developed. Units like Introduction to Politics and Government, Introduction to Economics, and Professional Orientation (Government and Policy) help you understand the systems and frameworks that shape everyday life. You’ll also begin developing your research, analytical, and communication skills — essential tools for any career in government or policy.

Year 2 — Expanding Knowledge and Skills
In your second year, you’ll explore more complex aspects of politics and society. Courses in behavioural science, economic development, and policy analysis allow you to connect theory with real-world challenges. This year helps you start thinking like a policy professional, learning to assess issues from multiple angles and make evidence-based recommendations.

Year 3 — Applying Knowledge Professionally
Your final year focuses on contemporary challenges in government and public policy. Units such as Contemporary Issues in Public Policy and Professional Evidence (Government and Policy) give you the chance to analyse real political problems and present solutions grounded in evidence. By the end of this year, you’ll be ready to step into roles where you can influence public decision-making and contribute meaningfully to policy development.

Focus areas

Government systems, public policy and administration, international relations, national security, applied economics

Learning outcomes

Develop a clear understanding of political institutions and policy processes, analyse both domestic and global political issues, apply critical thinking and research skills, communicate effectively in professional policy contexts, and solve real-world problems using evidence-based strategies

Professional alignment

This degree is shaped in consultation with experts in political science and public policy, ensuring your skills align with the expectations of employers in government and related sectors.

Reputation

The University of Canberra is well-connected with government agencies, think tanks, and public institutions in Canberra — Australia’s political heart — giving graduates an edge when seeking roles in policy, research, or public service.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Canberra, this degree is designed so you don’t just learn about politics and international relations — you experience it firsthand. From day one, you’ll have opportunities to apply what you’re learning in real-world settings, building practical skills, professional confidence, and industry connections along the way. Thanks to UC’s location in Canberra, surrounded by government departments, think tanks, and policy organisations, you’ll have unique access to experiences that bring your studies to life:

Work Integrated Learning (WIL): The degree includes internships, workplace simulations, and capstone projects, giving you hands-on experience and a chance to see how political ideas and policy decisions work in practice.
Internships with real organisations: You can gain experience with the Australian Civil‑Military Centre, Australian Border Force, Centre of Defence and Strategic Studies, or the Australian Institute of International Affairs, helping you build your professional network while earning academic credit.
Professional practice units: Units such as Business, Government & Law Professional Internship or Extended Internship let you integrate work experience into your degree, developing skills that employers value.
Industry and community engagement: You’ll have opportunities to work on real-world case studies, research projects, and simulated workplace activities that show you how government and policy interact with society.
PIRaNaS student association: Join the Politics, International Relations and National Security student group to collaborate with peers, attend events, and connect with professionals passionate about public affairs.

By the time you graduate, you’ll not only have theoretical knowledge but also a portfolio of practical experiences, professional contacts, and confidence that will set you apart in the job market.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from this degree are ready to step into careers where understanding government, public policy, and international affairs really makes a difference. Typical roles include policy adviser, diplomat or foreign affairs officer, public sector analyst, and government relations manager — careers where your research, analytical thinking, and communication skills are in high demand:

Career support: Careers UC provides personalised guidance, including one-on-one career planning, resume and interview workshops, and employer networking events. The university also helps you connect to internships and work placements that give you a real head start in your field.
Employment outcomes and salaries: Around 85 % of UC undergraduates secure full-time work after graduating, with a median starting salary of about AUD 71,000, showing that your skills and experience are highly valued by employers.
University–industry partnerships: Through Work Integrated Learning and placements, you’ll build professional connections with organisations like the Australian Civil‑Military Centre, Australian Border Force, Centre of Defence and Strategic Studies, and the Australian Institute of International Affairs.
Long-term value: This degree blends academic theory with practical skills, ensuring your qualification is respected in government, diplomacy, NGOs, and public advocacy, and equipping you with skills employers rely on.
Graduation outcomes: You’ll graduate not only with knowledge but also with hands-on experience, professional contacts, and confidence — all of which make you ready to contribute meaningfully from day one.

Further Academic Progression:
After this degree, there are many pathways to continue your studies and specialise further. You could pursue a Graduate Diploma or Master of Public Policy, a Master of International Relations, or a Master of Political Science to focus on diplomacy, policy analysis, or global governance. For those interested in research, honours programs or research-based postgraduate degrees like a Master of Philosophy or PhD offer the chance to deepen your expertise and take on advanced, specialised roles.