Bachelor of Arts(Politics, Policy and International Relations)

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Tasmania

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Arts(Politics, Policy and International Relations) at the University of Tasmania is a flexible and engaging degree that lets you explore the topics you’re most passionate about—from politics and international relations to languages, media, sociology, and creative arts. It’s ideal for curious thinkers who want to understand society, culture, and global issues, while developing skills in research, communication, and critical thinking that are highly valued by employers. This program is available in the Cradle Coast, Hobart and Launceston campuses.

Curriculum structure

Year 1
In your first year, you’ll build a broad foundation across different ways of understanding the world. Units such as Introduction to Sociology and World Politics and Policy will introduce you to social systems and global affairs, while language or media courses help you develop communication skills and cultural awareness. This year also gives you the chance to start shaping your degree by choosing subjects that reflect your interests in areas like history, creative arts, or gender studies.

Year 2
During the second year, your studies become more focused and in-depth. Core and major units like Politics and Policy and Media, Culture and Society allow you to explore government, society, and the role of media in public life, while electives give you the freedom to dive into complementary topics such as philosophy, sustainability, or languages. You’ll begin connecting ideas across disciplines, preparing for advanced research and independent learning in your final year.

Year 3
In your final year, you’ll take advanced units that bring together everything you’ve learned. Subjects like Advanced Social Research or Intercultural Communication let you tackle real-world issues through research and writing. You’ll have the opportunity to tailor your study to your interests and career goals, ensuring you graduate with a well-rounded understanding of your chosen fields and practical skills for work or further study.

Focus areas

Arts and humanities, social sciences, languages and culture, media and communication, politics and policy, sustainability, creative arts, international relations

Learning outcomes

Develop critical thinking and research skills, communicate ideas effectively, analyse social, cultural, political, and environmental issues, and apply interdisciplinary knowledge to real-world challenges with creativity and independence.

Professional alignment (accreditation)

This degree equips you with transferable skills in analysis, communication, and problem-solving that are highly valued in careers such as government, journalism, community services, international relations, education, and the creative industries. Certain majors, like Psychological Science, also meet accreditation standards that allow you to progress into honours programs.

Reputation (employability rankings)

Graduates from the University of Tasmania’s arts and social sciences programs are respected for their adaptability, practical skills, and ability to think critically. Many go on to careers in policy, media, public engagement, research, and cultural organisations both in Australia and internationally.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Tasmania, the Bachelor of Arts (Politics, Policy and International Relations) goes beyond lectures, giving you practical experience that prepares you for real-world work. You’ll engage with policy projects, research contemporary political issues, and collaborate with government and community organisations. The program supports your learning with modern libraries, study spaces, and opportunities to apply what you learn in practical settings across the Hobart, Launceston, and Burnie campuses.

Here’s how your degree brings hands-on experience into your studies:

Community and Public Sector Internship Program: Electives like HSS305 Community and Public Sector Internship Program allow you to work with public sector agencies, local governments, or NGOs. You gain real-world experience in policy-making, research, and administration while building professional connections.
Parliamentary Internship options: Work-integrated learning initiatives give you the chance to complete placements with parliamentary offices or public policy organisations, providing first-hand insight into governance and legislative processes.
Library and research support: UTAS libraries offer extensive print and digital collections, research workshops, and bookable study rooms, helping you develop strong research and critical thinking skills.
Collaborative campus spaces: Across all campuses, you’ll find group study areas and informal collaboration hubs to work on presentations, research projects, and policy briefs with your peers.
Access to university facilities: You can take advantage of student services, academic support, and cultural venues like The Hedberg, which enrich learning and help you develop professional communication and presentation skills.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating with a Bachelor of Arts (Politics, Policy and International Relations) from the University of Tasmania equips you with a strong set of skills that are highly valued across public, private, and community sectors. You’ll develop expertise in research, analysis, and communication, which can lead to careers such as policy analyst, government adviser, diplomat, or community development officer, giving you the chance to make a real impact in society:

Career support: UTAS’s Career Hub provides personalised guidance throughout your degree and beyond, including one-on-one career coaching, resume and interview workshops, job and internship listings, and networking opportunities with potential employers.
Employment outcomes and earning potential: Graduates in arts and social sciences from UTAS enjoy strong employability, with many securing roles that value their analytical and communication skills, and median salaries in line with or above national averages for similar fields. Graduates could expect to earn AUD 55,000 to 70,000 per annum.
Industry connections: The program offers placements, internships, and partnerships with government agencies, NGOs, and community organisations, giving you hands-on experience and professional networks that can open doors to your first job.
Long-term value: Your degree develops critical thinking, evidence-based analysis, and ethical judgment—skills that are highly sought after in policy, public affairs, research, advocacy, and international relations.
Graduate destinations: Many graduates go on to roles such as policy analyst, government adviser, diplomat or foreign affairs officer, and community development coordinator, or pursue work in research, advocacy, and public service.

Further Academic Progression:
If you’re interested in further study, you could continue with postgraduate programs like a Master of Public Policy, Master of International Relations, Master of Social Sciences, or a PhD. These pathways allow you to specialise, take on leadership or research-focused roles, and expand your career opportunities in policy, diplomacy, or international organisations.