Bachelors of Arts(Political Science)/ Social Science

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Queensland

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Arts (Political Science) / Social Science at the University of Queensland is designed to give you a strong understanding of both political systems and social issues, showing how societies function and how change happens. It’s ideal if you’re passionate about public policy, social justice, or global challenges, and want a degree that equips you with strong analytical, research, and communication skills.

Curriculum structure

Year 1:
In your first year, you’ll build a solid foundation in both political science and social science. Courses like Introduction to Politics & Public Policy and Society, Challenges and Solutions: Introduction to the Social Sciences will introduce you to how governments make decisions, how public policies are formed, and how social scientists study real-world issues. You’ll also start exploring your electives and major options, setting the stage for your future specialisations.

Year 2:
In the second year, you’ll take your learning further, studying subjects such as Political Problems and Public Policy alongside social science courses in research methods and social analysis. These courses give you practical tools to examine social inequalities, assess policy impacts, and tackle real-world social challenges. This year helps you connect theory with applied skills you can use in professional settings.

Year 3:
By the third year, you’ll start specialising more in both arts and social science. In political science, courses like Indigenous Politics & Policy or Gender and Global Politics allow you to explore how different communities are affected by political decisions. Social science courses provide depth in your chosen area, such as health and social policy or environment and society, helping you analyse complex social issues and consider practical solutions.

Year 4:
In your final year, your studies become more focused and independent. You’ll complete advanced political science courses that challenge you to engage critically with contemporary political debates, while social science courses may involve project work, research experiences, or fieldwork. This year ties together your political knowledge with strong social research skills and prepares you for professional life or further study.

Focus areas:
Political theory and practice, public policy, social research, social justice, global and local social issues, interdisciplinary analysis

Learning outcomes:
Critical thinking and communication, policy evaluation and analysis, social research design and implementation, understanding of political and social systems

Professional alignment:
This degree equips you with skills valued by employers in government, policy, community services, advocacy, research, and international development. It aligns with professional standards in social research and policy analysis, giving you a strong foundation for a wide range of careers.

Reputation:
The University of Queensland is highly regarded, ranked first in Queensland for arts and humanities and among the top globally for social sciences, reflecting the quality of teaching and the strong outcomes for graduates.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

In the Bachelor of Arts (Political Science) / Social Science at the University of Queensland, learning goes far beyond lectures and textbooks. The program is designed to give you hands-on, real-world experience so you graduate with practical skills that employers really value. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to build professional confidence through internships, applied research projects, group work, and networking, while also making the most of UQ’s excellent resources like libraries, research support, and student groups.

Here are some of the ways you can gain practical experience:

For‑credit internships: Courses such as POLS3801 let you work with government offices, community organisations, or research institutes on real projects. You’ll get guidance from both a workplace mentor and an academic, helping you connect theory with practical skills.
Work Integrated Learning (WIL): Through WIL, your coursework includes projects and activities that mirror real workplace challenges, giving you transferable skills like teamwork, problem-solving, and professional communication.
Global and domestic work experience: UQ Careers and Employability offers placements in Australia and internationally, including virtual and short-term opportunities, giving you exposure to a variety of professional environments in politics, policy, or social research.
Research programs: Summer and winter research programs let you work alongside experienced researchers on real projects, enhancing your analytical and research skills.
Student societies and networks: Clubs like the UQ Political Science and International Relations Society offer events, discussions, and networking opportunities with peers and professionals, helping you engage deeply with political and social issues.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts (Political Science) / Social Science at the University of Queensland leave ready to make a real impact in the world. Many go on to careers as policy analysts, community development officers, government advisors, or social researchers, using the skills they’ve developed to understand society, influence policy, and drive positive change. The degree gives you both academic knowledge and practical experience, so you step confidently into the workplace:

Career support: UQ’s Careers and Employability team provides personalised guidance, workshops on resumes and interviews, networking opportunities, and access to internships and placements tailored to your field. Faculty-specific support also helps you connect directly with opportunities in political science and social research.
Graduate outcomes: UQ graduates enjoy strong employment rates, with most securing full-time work shortly after graduation, and employers consistently report high satisfaction with the skills and readiness of our students. Graduates could expect to earn between AUD 55,000 and 75,000 per annum.
Industry connections: The university partners with a wide range of organisations across government, community, and non-profit sectors, giving you opportunities for placements, research projects, and networking events that can lead to meaningful work experience.
Long-term value: A UQ degree is recognised nationally and internationally, and the analytical, research, and communication skills you gain are highly valued in careers across government, non-profits, consulting, and social research.
Employment resources: From faculty-led internship programs to central career services, UQ equips you with the tools, guidance, and professional experiences to confidently launch your career.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this degree, you can continue your studies with postgraduate programs such as a Master of Public Policy, Master of Social Research, or Master of International Relations to deepen your expertise. If you’re interested in research or academia, you could also pursue higher-degree research options like a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) or PhD, opening doors to advanced careers in policy research, advisory roles, or academic leadership.