Undergraduate Programs
This page contains an overview of the following undergraduate programs which incorporate courses from the School of Politics and International Relations:
- Bachelor of Political Science
- Bachelor of Arts
- Bachelor of International Relations
- Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics
- Bachelor of Public Policy
For program convenors please see our Contact Us page.
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’ll develop an understanding of different systems of government, using comparative methodology. In this highly structured degree you’ll examine political science theory, public opinion, political economy, government behaviour, systems, principles, and different methods and techniques of political science.
Capitalising on our ranking of number one in Australia and 10th in the world for Politics and International Relations*, the Bachelor of Political Science will provide you with a strong knowledge base of the global government landscape. Our commitment to research led education means that you’ll be taught by world-leading researchers. You’ll 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.
Applications
Further information can be found at https://cass.anu.edu.au/study/apply
For further information, please see the Bachelor of Political Science page on Programs and Courses
Bachelor of Arts
Don’t want to limit yourself? Keep every door open with our versatile Bachelor of Arts Program. This is the largest and most popular degree at The Australian National University because it allows you to explore all of the subjects that you love and perhaps discover more that you never knew existed. Whatever you choose to study, this program will keep you way ahead of the pack with transferable world class skills in critical analysis, research, written oral communication.
Political Science Major (48 units)
Political Science Minor (24 units)
Political 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 including political thought, Australian government and public policy, and comparative politics including the study of particular countries or regions.
Applications
Further information can be found at https://cass.anu.edu.au/study/apply
Bachelor of International Relations
The School of Politics and International Relations (SPIR) is home to one of the best international relations programs in the world. Studying international relations at the ANU will prepare students for a wide variety of professional opportunities such as journalism, advocacy, or work in governmental or international organisations to name a few. Our training also prepares students for further study in law, at the Honours or Masters level, or even a PhD.
Coursework focuses on a number of topics including the history and evolution of the modern state system, theories of international relations, international institutions, international political economy, and security. In addition to these ’traditional’ topics we cover many pressing global issues such as terrorism, the environment, human rights, and the role of ideas and emotions in politics.
The Bachelor of International Relations (BIR) comprises 144 units of study, consisting of the following:
- 24 core compulsory units:
- Introduction to International Relations: Contemporary Global Issues (typically taken in year 1)
Watch this video to learn more about this unit - Introduction to International Relations: Foundations and Concepts (typically taken in year 1)
- International Political Economy
- Foreign Policy Analysis
- Introduction to International Relations: Contemporary Global Issues (typically taken in year 1)
- Theory. A minimum of 6 units from a variety of options such as:
- Methods. A minimum of 6 units from options such as:
- Area Studies. A minimum of 12 units of coursework aimed at enhancing students’ understanding of one or two regions of the world. For instance:
- Security. A minimum of 12 units of coursework from a number of options such as:
- Global Politics. A minimum of 12 units of coursework from topics such:
- Internship/Vice Chancellor’s courses. A maximum of 12 units. Not compulsory:
- Language minor. A maximum of 24 units from language programs across campus. Not compulsory
- Elective study. Students may fulfil any remaining credits requirements through courses of their choosing. They may wish to consider an additional major, minor, or specialisation.
Applications
Further information can be found at https://cass.anu.edu.au/study/apply
For further information, please see the Bachelor of International Relations page on Programs and Courses
Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics
We all know that citizens in some countries have more freedom than citizens in others. But how do you measure freedom? If climate change is a world problem why don’t we do more about it? Should government compensate people who don’t bother to fully insure their homes against natural disaster? Why should those who do insure their homes have to contribute? There are many public policy puzzles and only through using the tools of politics, philosophy and economics can one see the problems from all angles: technical, ethical and practical. ANUs unique elite PPE degree will provide the student with all the skills needed to understand how to analyse public policy and provides an ideal degree for those wanting careers in the public service, politics, international organisations, policy advisors or simply those who want to understand our political, social and economic worlds. As well as following offerings in the three main disciplines the degree also has a seminar-based course only for BPPE students.
Applications
Further information can be found at https://cass.anu.edu.au/study/apply
For further information, please see the Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics page on Programs and Courses
Bachelor of Public Policy
Are you seeking a dynamic career in politics, the public service, advocacy organisations, not-for-profit social and community services or private industry?
The ANU Bachelor of Public Policy equips you with a comprehensive understanding of Australian public policies and related international policies.
This well-regarded education experience includes the Applied Policy Project, in which you will be engaged in an intensive student-led investigation of a policy issue or controversy relevant to your interests. You may also have the opportunity to attend the Australian National Internships Program.
Our program is designed to develop the skills and knowledge you need to gather and analyse a range of economic, demographic and social data, to evaluate public policies and programs, and to participate in policy design, advocacy and communication.
Applications
Further information can be found at https://cass.anu.edu.au/study/apply
For further information, please see the Bachelor of Public Policy page on Programs and Courses
