Bachelors of Journalism / Arts(Political Science)

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Queensland

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Journalism / Bachelor of Arts (Political Science) at the University of Queensland is a great choice if you want to understand what’s happening in the world—and tell those stories in a way that actually makes an impact. It brings together hands-on journalism training with a strong grounding in politics, so you’re not just reporting the news, you truly understand it.

Curriculum structure

Year 1:
You’ll ease into both fields by learning the essentials. In journalism, courses like Introduction to Journalism and Journalism Writing help you build your voice and reporting basics, while political science units such as Introduction to Political Ideas and Introduction to Australian Politics give you a clear picture of how political systems work. It’s all about building confidence in writing while understanding the bigger picture.

Year 2:
Things start getting more practical here. You’ll take on subjects like Digital Journalism and News Reporting, where you’ll create content and work with different media formats, while also exploring Political Problems and Public Policy. You’ll begin to see how journalism and politics connect—especially how media shapes public opinion.

Year 3:
By now, you’ll be refining your skills and thinking more independently. Journalism courses like Investigative Journalism and Feature Writing push you to tell deeper, more meaningful stories, while Political Thought: Machiavelli to Modernity helps you analyse ideas behind political decisions. You’ll start developing your own perspective as both a storyteller and a critical thinker.

Year 4:
In your final year, everything comes together. You’ll work on advanced projects—possibly with real-world or industry links—where you report on complex political issues or produce in-depth journalism pieces. By the time you graduate, you’ll feel ready to step into a newsroom or any communication-focused role with confidence.


Focus areas

News reporting, digital journalism, investigative storytelling, political ideologies, public policy, global politics

Learning outcomes

Clear and confident writing, strong research and analytical skills, media production experience, and the ability to explain complex political issues in a way people understand

Professional alignment (accreditation)

The program is designed with current media industry practices in mind, so what you learn reflects how modern newsrooms and digital platforms actually operate

Reputation (employability rankings)

The University of Queensland is consistently ranked among the world’s top universities, particularly in communication, media, and politics—giving your degree strong global recognition and employability

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Queensland, this program is all about getting real experience from the start. You won’t just learn how journalism works—you’ll actually create stories, produce media content, and analyse political issues using the same tools professionals use. With access to purpose-built media spaces and a strong focus on practical work, you’ll build a portfolio and confidence long before you graduate.

Here’s what that looks like in your day-to-day learning:

  • Real newsroom experience: You’ll work in spaces designed to feel like actual newsrooms, helping you get comfortable with reporting, presenting, and producing content

  • Student media platforms: Through JAC Radio, JAC TV, and JAC Digital, you can publish your own work—so you graduate with real stories, not just assignments

  • Professional media studios: Access to studios with cameras, podcast setups, green screens, and editing suites where you can create high-quality content

  • Hands-on production skills: You’ll learn everything from filming and interviewing to audio/video editing and digital publishing

  • Collaborative projects: Many assignments are group-based, so you’ll experience what it’s like to work in a media team and meet deadlines together

  • Journalism Bootcamp & workshops: Early training sessions help you quickly build practical skills and ease into the demands of the course

  • Research and media analysis tools: You’ll also explore how media covers political events, using analytical tools to understand bias, framing, and public impact

  • Modern learning spaces & libraries: UQ’s facilities give you access to digital resources, study areas, and collaborative zones to support both creative and research work

  • Global learning opportunities: You may have the chance to study abroad or take part in international experiences, giving your reporting a global perspective

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating from the Bachelor of Journalism / Bachelor of Arts (Political Science) at the University of Queensland puts you in a strong position to build a career where communication and real-world awareness go hand in hand. You won’t just know how to tell stories—you’ll understand the political context behind them, which is exactly what employers look for in today’s media and communication landscape. Many graduates move into roles like journalist, communications officer, policy adviser, or public relations specialist:

  • Career support that’s actually useful: UQ’s employability services help you with resume building, interview prep, internships, and networking events—so you’re not figuring things out on your own

  • Strong job outcomes: Graduates from journalism and arts programs go on to work across media, government, and communication sectors, both in Australia and internationally

  • Solid starting point financially: Entry-level salaries are competitive, especially as you build experience in media, digital content, or policy-related roles

  • Industry exposure: Through internships, projects, and connections within UQ’s School of Communication and Arts, you’ll get opportunities to work alongside professionals and build real experience

  • Flexible career pathways: This degree doesn’t lock you into one field—you can move into journalism, PR, marketing, government, or even international organisations

  • Graduate outcomes: UQ graduates are known for being job-ready, with practical skills and confidence that translate well into fast-paced work environments

Further Academic Progression:

If you decide to study further, you’ll have plenty of directions to choose from. You could specialise with a master’s in journalism or communication, or move into areas like public policy, international relations, or media research. The best part is that this degree keeps your options open—you can shape your path based on where your interests grow.

Program Key Stats

$45,792
$15,790
$ 150

Febr Intake : 1st NovJuly Intake : 30th Apr


40 %
No

Eligibility Criteria

CCD
3.0
27.75
70

1060
23
6.5
87
78

Additional Information & Requirements

Country Requirements

Career Options

  • Journalist
  • Political Correspondent
  • News Reporter
  • Policy Analyst
  • Public Relations Specialist
  • Communications Officer
  • Media Advisor
  • Content Writer
  • Research Analyst
  • Government Communications Officer

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