Bachelor of Arts(Politics) and Bachelor of Advanced Studies

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Sydney

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Arts (Politics) and Bachelor of Advanced Studies at the University of Sydney is a four-year program that combines a solid understanding of political systems, policy, and global affairs with opportunities for advanced research and independent learning. It’s ideal for students who want both a broad perspective on politics and the chance to challenge themselves with in-depth study, preparing them for leadership roles, specialist careers, or further academic work.

Curriculum structure

Year 1 – Building the foundations
In your first year, you’ll get a strong grounding in politics and social sciences through units like Introduction to Politics and Introduction to International Relations. These courses help you understand how political systems function, how societies are governed, and provide the critical thinking skills needed to analyse contemporary issues in both Australia and globally.

Year 2 – Deepening political understanding
During the second year, you’ll focus on more intermediate topics, such as Comparative Politics and Public Policy Analysis. You’ll learn to evaluate political institutions, policy decisions, and global systems while developing analytical and research skills that will be essential for your later independent work.

Year 3 – Advanced coursework and research preparation
Your third year involves advanced Politics units and introduces the Advanced Studies component. You’ll engage with complex political challenges and begin planning a substantial research project, which allows you to start applying your knowledge in a more independent and scholarly way.

Year 4 – Independent research and advanced study
In your final year, you’ll focus on 4000‑level units and complete a major project or research-focused unit within the Advanced Studies framework. This year is all about integrating your political knowledge, refining your analytical skills, and producing work that demonstrates your ability to think critically and independently.

Focus areas

Politics, political theory, comparative government, public policy, international relations, political economy, research methods

Learning outcomes

Develop critical thinking and analytical skills, understand political systems and policies in national and global contexts, conduct independent research, communicate complex ideas effectively, and interpret political events with depth and insight

Professional alignment (accreditation)

This dual focus combines the respected Bachelor of Arts with the Advanced Studies program, giving you enhanced research and analytical capabilities. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in government, public policy, international organisations, consulting, and research.

Reputation (employability rankings)

The University of Sydney is consistently ranked among the world’s top universities, with a strong reputation for graduate employability and excellence in humanities and social sciences.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The Bachelor of Arts (Politics) and Bachelor of Advanced Studies at the University of Sydney is designed to give you practical, hands-on experience alongside your academic studies. Throughout the four years, you’ll have opportunities to apply what you learn in real-world settings, work on collaborative projects, and gain professional skills — all supported by the University’s excellent research resources, libraries, and academic services:

Placements and internships: In your final year, units like FASS3000 allow you to complete supervised internships or placements that align with your interests. These experiences give you a chance to contribute to meaningful projects in policy, research, communication, or advocacy while building professional networks.
Politics-focused opportunities: Politics students often engage in placements related to policy research, political campaigning, and community advocacy, helping turn academic knowledge into practical skills.
Collaborative projects: Throughout the program, you’ll work on group research projects and industry-linked tasks that simulate professional environments, developing teamwork, strategic thinking, and communication skills.
Libraries and research facilities: You’ll have access to the University of Sydney’s extensive library collections, digital tools, and study spaces, supporting independent research and academic success.
Career support: The Faculty of Arts provides guidance for placements and future careers through workshops, coaching, and advice on connecting your academic work to real-world opportunities.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Completing the Bachelor of Arts (Politics) and Bachelor of Advanced Studies at the University of Sydney sets you up for a wide range of exciting careers where analytical thinking, strong communication, and political insight are highly valued. Many graduates go on to roles such as policy advisers, political analysts, government administrators, or consultants, using the research skills and in-depth knowledge gained through the program to stand out in competitive workplaces. By combining broad political understanding with advanced independent study, the degree gives you the confidence and expertise to tackle complex challenges:

University career support: The Careers Centre and Faculty of Arts offer personalised coaching, workshops, recruitment events, and access to the CareerHub portal to help you secure internships, graduate roles, and professional connections.
Graduate outcomes and earning potential: About 81 per cent of University of Sydney undergraduates secure full-time employment soon after graduation, with employers consistently recognising the quality and preparedness of Sydney graduates.
Industry partnerships: Through placement units and faculty initiatives, you can work with government departments, consulting firms, cultural organisations, and research institutions, gaining hands-on experience and building a professional network.
Long-term value: The combined focus on politics and advanced studies is highly regarded by employers, demonstrating your research ability, critical thinking, and independence — skills that are transferable across sectors.
Career pathways: Graduates have pursued careers in public policy, international relations, research, consulting, media, and community advocacy, all areas where your analytical and communication skills make a real impact.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this degree, you can continue your studies with postgraduate programs such as a Master of International Relations, Master of Public Policy, or Master of Political Economy to specialise further. For those interested in research, honours or higher research degrees like a PhD provide the opportunity to explore topics in depth and pursue academic, policy, or high-level advisory careers.