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