Bachelor of Political Science

The Bachelor of Political Science is the only degree of its type in Australia offering unparalleled access and connections to the political heartbeat of the nation. The comparative nature of courses means you will develop an understanding of different systems of government using comparative methodology. The program places a major emphasis on students developing their research and analytical skills, with a required minimum of 12 units of courses on theory and 12 units of courses on method.

Students in this highly structured degree will examine:

  • Political theory
  • Public opinion
  • Political economy
  • Government behaviour
  • Government systems and principles
  • Different methods of social science research
  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history

Our scholarship programs are designed to support students from diverse backgrounds and abilities, and we automatically consider applicants for some of them upon application.

Political Science at ANU

Political Science can be studied in the Bachelor of Political Science, as a major in the Bachelor of Arts or the Bachelor of Policy Studies, or as a minor in any one of many ANU degrees. Courses in political science can be included in most undergraduate degrees at ANU and our commitment to research-led education means that you will be taught by some of the world’s finest political scientists.

Studying in the national capital means you’ll have access to a range of valuable resources unique to Canberra. ANU has many connections with the Australian Government and a range of non-government organisations. Canberra is home to the diplomatic community and members of embassies regularly visit ANU for events. Parliament House is only a short distance from the University, where you can witness politics first hand.

By choosing to study political science at ANU, you will receive a world-class education and an internationally recognised degree.

Flexible Double Degree

The Bachelor of Political Science can be combined with degrees in Arts, Business, Social Sciences, Sciences, or Law as part of the ANU Flexible Double Degree program. For a full list of degree combinations see study.anu.edu.au/study-options/flexible-degree-options-anu.

Study overseas

Internships are available in a range of locations including Australian Parliament House, US Congress in Washington DC, Australian Public Service (APS), ACT Legislative Assembly, Canberra-based embassies, non-government organisations and lobby groups. ANU is the only university with a Commonwealth Parliamentary internship program. ANU political science students have the opportunity to apply for an internship through the Australian National Internships Program (ANIP), undertaking a research project for academic credit. Interns are based in the offices of Members of Parliament and Senators and engage with a range of activities that shape national policy making.

*QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024

^Times Higher Education - Global University Employability Ranking 2023-24

Key facts

1 in Australia
8 for Politics in World*

3 years
Semester 1 & 2 intake
Honours option available

#1 in Australia for graduate employability^

UAC Code: 131162
CRICOS Code: 086219C

Career options

The Bachelor of Political Science will give you the knowledge, theoretical grounding and practical skills that underpin a successful career that engages with politics.

After completing the Bachelor of Political Science, you will graduate with a degree that is globally recognised and attractive to employers, with well-developed skills in research, critical and conceptual thinking and problem solving. Graduates may find work in government, the public service, non-government organisations such as aid and welfare groups, lobbying, business and many other fields.

Hear from our students

"ANU offers research-oriented internships at institutes like Australia’s Parliament House and foreign embassies... These factors, combined with ANU’s lively clubs and societies scene, convinced me to study at the nation’s best university.”
Isabella Gockel , Bachelor of International Relations and Bachelor of Political Science

My brilliant career

The most surprising thing about my course was learning about how little you knew and what fun it could be to travel down complete rabbit holes in the process of looking for answers to other questions. And how engaged and kind most of my professors and tutors were.
Martine Letts , BA '82

Watch the video

Fees, scholarships & apply

Tuition fees

Visit the handbook to see indicative fees and Commonwealth supported places for this degree.

Scholarships

ANU offers many scholarships both to overcome disadvantage and to recognise academic merit.

How to apply

You have decided that ANU is the right university for you. Ready to take the next step?

Learn more

Check our series of videos about degree programs, majors and disciplines, and research strengths for your enjoyment.

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