Australian National University
Bachelor of Arts (Political Science)
Nationally Recognised Higher EducationPolitical Science is the study of human relationships that involve power, rule, or authority. It is about how societies govern themselves and how societies ought to be governed. It is about the political behaviour of individuals and groups that occurs in all societies. It is about those who have political power in society and those who do not.
Political Science is a broadly-based discipline offering courses that span a number of sub-fields. The major in Political Science introduces students to core concepts and methods and exposes them to four key areas of the discipline: Political thought and political theory or ideas, Australian government and public policy, Comparative politics and comparative public policy including the study of particular countries or regions, and International politics/international relations.
Delivery mode
Australian National University offers this course through the following delivery modes:
On campus
Work with instructors and classmates in a supportive and collaborative environment.
- Brinkin
- Observatory Rd, Coonabarabran
- 496 Murramarang Rd, Kioloa
- Canberra
- Cotter Rd, Weston Creek
Entry requirements
Domestic Students
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
Applicants with recent secondary education are assessed on the following criteria:
- Completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent, and the minimum Selection Rank (from their academic qualifications, plus any adjustment factors) requirement for this program
- Co-curricular or service requirement (applies to applicants who complete secondary education in the year prior to commencing at ANU)
- English language proficiency
- Any program-specific requirements listed below
Applicants with higher education study are assessed on the following criteria:
- Previous higher education studies; or secondary education results if completed less than one full-time equivalent year (1.0 FTE) of a degree; or the result from a bridging or preparatory course
- English language proficiency
- Any program-specific requirements listed below
Applicants with vocational education and training (VET) study are assessed on the following criteria:
- Previously completed VET qualifications at AQF level 5 or higher (i.e. a Diploma or above); or secondary education results if the VET qualification is not completed
- English language proficiency
- Any program-specific requirements listed below
Applicants with work and life experience are assessed on the following criteria:
- ATAR or equivalent if secondary education was completed; or the Special Adult Entry Scheme (SAES); or work experience
- English language proficiency
- Any program-specific requirements listed below
Applicants must meet one of the following English language test scores:
- IELTS Academic and IELTS UKVI Academic: Overall score: 6.5
- TOEFL iBT [excluding Home Edition]: Overall score: 80
- Cambridge C1 Advanced: Overall score: 176
- PTE Academic and PTE Academic UKVI: Overall score: 64
International Baccalaureate:29
Additional requirements may apply.Course fees
For more information about this course and payment options please enquire now.
Career opportunities
The Bachelor of Arts (Political Science) will prepare you for the following roles.
Political Analyst
A Political Analyst studies political systems, trends, and developments to provide insights and support decision-making processes. You might work i...
Government Relations Manager
A Government Relations Manager develops and executes strategies to build strong relationships between an organisation and government entities. You’...
Political Consultant
A Political Consultant advises and supports political candidates, parties, and organisations in shaping and executing their campaign strategies. Yo...
Diplomat
Diplomats, also known as Public Diplomacy Officers, work for the Australian government and are responsible for advancing Australian interests overs...
Policy Analyst
A Policy Analyst provides advice and recommendations on policies affecting government departments, commercial businesses and not-for-profit organis...
Public Service Officer
Public Service Officers work for state, territory, and federal government agencies in a variety of job roles including administrative, technical, p...
Ministerial Advisor
A Ministerial Advisor provides strategic advice and support to government ministers on policy, legislative, and political matters. You might work i...
Ministerial Liaison Officer
A Ministerial Liaison Officer facilitates communication and coordination between ministers, government departments, and stakeholders. You might wor...
Foreign Service Officer
A Foreign Service Officer represents their country abroad and manages diplomatic relations. You might work in an embassy, consulate, or internation...
Government Consultant
Government consultants are independent professionals who provide advisory services to politicians and government agencies including federal, state,...
International Relations Officer
International Relations officers are marketing and PR professionals who manage how their company or organisational brand is perceived and experienc...
Government Agent
A Government Agent implements and oversees public policies, manages programmes, and provides administrative services within government agencies. Yo...
Foreign Affairs Adviser
A Foreign Affairs Adviser shapes and implements national foreign policy through strategic planning and research on international issues. You’ll ana...
Commentator
A Commentator provides analysis and insights on events, trends, or issues across various media platforms, including television, radio, or online. Y...
About Australian National University
ANU is a world-leading university in Australia’s capital. Excellence is embedded in our approach to research and education.
ANU has seven academic colleges that house a number of schools and research centres that specialise in a range of disciplines - all relevant but some unique in Australia and our region.
