Bachelor of Liberal Arts(Politics) and Science

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Sydney

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Liberal Arts and Science (Politics and Science) at the University of Sydney is a unique degree that lets you mix political insight with scientific knowledge, giving you the tools to understand and solve complex global issues. It’s perfect if you’re curious about how politics, policy, and science intersect—whether that’s tackling climate change, shaping public health initiatives, or exploring technology in society.

Curriculum structure

Year 1
In your first year, you’ll lay a strong foundation in both politics and science while learning to think critically. You’ll explore units like Analytical Thinking (ATHK1001), Introduction to Politics (GOVT1641), and Introduction to International Relations (GOVT1621), helping you understand how political systems work and how to approach problems from multiple angles.

Year 2
Second year is all about applying what you’ve learned and connecting theory to real-world challenges. You’ll take units such as Making Policy in Political Context (GOVT2941) and Political Analysis (GOVT2991), while continuing your science studies. This combination helps you see how data and evidence shape decisions in politics, policy, and society.

Year 3
In your final year, you’ll dig deeper and specialise, choosing advanced topics that align with your interests. Units like Government, Business and Society (GOVT3641) or Political Campaigning (GOVT3644) let you tackle real-world political issues, while your science units strengthen your research and analytical skills, preparing you for complex problem-solving in any career path.

Focus areas:
Politics, public policy, international relations, scientific reasoning, interdisciplinary problem-solving

Learning outcomes:
Think critically, analyse policy, conduct research, make data-informed decisions, understand global issues

Professional alignment (accreditation):
While it isn’t professionally accredited, this degree opens doors to careers in government, policy, research, and science-driven industries.

Reputation (employability rankings):
The University of Sydney is consistently ranked in the QS Top 20 globally and enjoys strong graduate employability outcomes.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Sydney, the Bachelor of Liberal Arts and Science (Politics) isn’t just about lectures and textbooks — it’s about rolling up your sleeves and gaining real-world experience. You’ll get to see how political ideas and scientific thinking come to life through placements, research projects, and collaborative work. The university provides amazing resources, from world-class libraries to dedicated study spaces, and the chance to work with real organisations, giving you the practical skills employers are looking for:

Internships & placements: Work with government agencies, NGOs, or private organisations to apply what you’re learning in the classroom, build your professional network, and get real career experience.
Politics placement unit (optional): Advanced units like Politics and IR Placement (GOVT4622) let you spend time in an organisation, gain mentorship, and connect theory with practice in a structured way.
Research projects & honours pathway: Design and run your own research project if you pursue honours, developing skills in independent investigation, data analysis, and critical thinking.
Libraries & study spaces: Access the University of Sydney’s extensive libraries, including Fisher and SciTech, with quiet zones, group spaces, digital tools, and research support to help you tackle assignments and projects.
Collaborative workspaces: Modern study areas across campus with computers and software tools let you work in teams, practise presentations, and simulate real workplace collaboration.
Student clubs & societies: Get hands-on experience outside the classroom by joining debate societies, policy clubs, or political groups where you can organise events, run campaigns, and practise leadership and communication skills.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating with a Bachelor of Liberal Arts and Science (Politics) from the University of Sydney opens doors to careers where you can make a real impact. You’ll develop skills in analysis, communication, and problem-solving that employers love, whether you’re shaping policy, leading community initiatives, or conducting research. Many graduates go on to roles such as:

Policy Analyst – advising governments or organisations on policies that affect communities
Government Relations Officer – representing organisations and building connections with public institutions
Communications or Public Affairs Specialist – crafting campaigns and messages across media platforms
Research Assistant or Project Coordinator – contributing to social research, think tanks, or NGOs

Here’s how the University of Sydney helps you turn your degree into a career:

Careers and Employability support: Access workshops, one-on-one coaching, resume reviews, and interview prep through the Student Careers Hub to confidently launch your career.
Industry partnerships & internships: Connect with top organisations like KPMG, Commonwealth Bank, City of Sydney, and Pfizer through internships and placements that give you real-world experience.
Graduate outcomes & salary insights: Many graduates secure full-time roles shortly after finishing, with starting salaries averaging around AUD 70,000 per year.
Accreditation & reputation: While this degree isn’t tied to a professional license, employers around the world respect the University of Sydney’s global standing and its focus on critical thinking — a major advantage for long-term career growth.

Further Academic Progression:
After your bachelor’s, you can continue to advanced studies if you want to specialise further. Many students go on to honours or master’s programs in areas like public policy, international relations, social research, law, or business — setting you up for leadership roles or even a career in academia.