Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Politics and International Studies

1 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Melbourne

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Politics and International Studies is perfect for students who want to take their understanding of politics, global affairs, and governance to the next level. This honours year gives you the chance to combine advanced coursework with original research, so you graduate not only with knowledge but also with the analytical and research skills that make you stand out in careers or further study.

Curriculum Structure

Honours Year — Deepening Expertise and Research Focus
In this year, the focus is on refining your knowledge and developing your skills as an independent researcher. You’ll complete a 15,000‑word thesis, designing and carrying out original research under the guidance of experienced academic supervisors, which gives you hands-on experience in investigating political and international issues.

Alongside your thesis, you’ll take a research methods subject, helping you master the tools and techniques social scientists use to study politics rigorously.

You’ll also complete advanced coursework subjects tailored to Politics and International Studies, enabling you to critically analyse complex issues in governance, conflict, public policy, and global cooperation. By the end of the year, you’ll have a deep, specialised understanding of the field and experience presenting your ideas in a professional and scholarly way.

Focus areas

Politics and International Studies, political theory, public policy analysis, international relations, governance and global cooperation, research methods

Learning outcomes

Conduct independent research, critically engage with national and global political debates, communicate complex ideas clearly, apply analytical methods to real-world problems, and contribute effectively to both scholarly and professional communities

Professional alignment

The honours year builds on a major that is widely recognised in politics and international relations, and the research and analytical skills you develop are valued by employers in government, policy, diplomacy, NGOs, and research institutions.

Reputation

The University of Melbourne is globally recognised for excellence in humanities and social sciences. Students who complete honours in Politics and International Studies often go on to advanced graduate study or competitive careers in public service, research, advocacy, and international organisations.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The honours year in Politics and International Studies at the University of Melbourne isn’t just about reading and writing — it’s designed to give you meaningful, real-world experience that complements your research and academic skills. Even as you focus on your thesis, the program encourages you to step out of the classroom and engage with organisations, workplaces, and professional networks, so you can see how politics and international affairs operate in practice. These experiences allow you to develop professional confidence, understand the practical applications of your studies, and build a portfolio of tangible work that sets you apart when pursuing careers or further study.

Here’s how the program brings this to life:

Internships and professional placements: Units like Public Affairs Internship (POLS30003) let you work alongside professionals in policy, advocacy, or research organisations. You’ll contribute to projects, write reports, and experience the day-to-day operations of public affairs, while receiving mentorship from industry experts.
Parliamentary and government experience: Through Parliamentary Internship (POLS30001), you’ll work in settings such as the Victorian Parliament, its library, or electorate offices. This provides first-hand insight into legislation, policy development, and political communication, helping you connect theory to real-world governance.
Industry-linked projects: Some coursework offers opportunities to work on real challenges for external organisations, collaborating with teams to analyse issues and propose solutions. These projects strengthen your teamwork, problem-solving, and professional communication skills, all highly valued by employers.
Professional development workshops: The Faculty of Arts supports you with workshops and guidance on CV writing, interview preparation, networking, and reflecting on your experiences. This ensures you can translate your placements and projects into concrete career outcomes.
On-campus internships: Through the Students@Work Internship Program, you can gain paid or unpaid experience within the university, allowing you to develop workplace skills while staying connected to your studies.
Networking and mentoring opportunities: The University offers structured opportunities to connect with alumni, industry leaders, and faculty experts. These connections often lead to mentorship, advice, and potential career pathways in politics, public policy, and international affairs.
Access to specialist facilities: You’ll have access to the university’s libraries, archives, and digital research tools, as well as workshops and labs designed to support social science research, ensuring you can carry out your projects and internships effectively.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from this honours program leave with advanced research skills and a deep understanding of politics and global affairs, making them highly attractive to employers across a range of sectors. Typical roles include policy analyst, research consultant, public affairs officer, and diplomat — positions that value critical thinking, clear communication, and the ability to tackle complex problems:

Career support: The University of Melbourne’s Careers and Employability team offers tailored guidance, including job boards, workshops, resume feedback, interview preparation, and networking events. These services are available during your studies and for a period after graduation, helping you confidently transition into your first professional role.
Employment prospects: Melbourne graduates enjoy excellent outcomes, with most finding employment within a few years of completing their degree, reflecting the strong practical and analytical skills you develop during your studies.
University–industry experience: Through internships, research projects, and programs like the Melbourne Employability Accelerator, you’ll gain hands-on experience, tackle real-world challenges, and build a professional network before graduation.
Long-term value of your qualification: Completing an honours year demonstrates your ability to conduct rigorous, independent research — a skill that is recognised and respected in government, policy, NGOs, diplomacy, and research institutions.
Graduate outcomes: You’ll finish with a portfolio of research and analytical work, showing employers and graduate programs alike that you can independently investigate complex issues and contribute meaningfully to professional and academic debates.

Further Academic Progression:
If you want to continue your studies, this honours year sets you up perfectly for postgraduate research or specialised master’s programs. Many students go on to a Master of International Relations, Master of Public Policy, or other advanced humanities and social science degrees. For those interested in academia or high-level research, honours is also the ideal stepping stone to a Master of Philosophy or PhD, allowing you to pursue topics you’re passionate about and build a career in research, policy, or teaching.