University of Adelaide

What you'll study

The Politics major provides a broad grounding in political theory, comparative politics, Australian politics, international relations and public policy. In the early years you study core topics such as introduction to political theories, institutions and behaviour, research methods for social sciences, and contemporary Australian politics. In later years you take advanced subjects including comparative government, public policy analysis, international security, global governance, and specialised elective topics such as gender and politics, political economy, environmental politics, and human rights.

The course typically includes a capstone or honours-style research project in the final year for students who pursue an honours pathway or an independent research subject in the single or combined degree. Students can choose interdisciplinary electives across the arts and social sciences to tailor the degree—options commonly taken are philosophy, history, sociology, media studies, languages and economics. Opportunities for internships, public policy practicums and study abroad are often available to complement classroom learning.

Entry requirements

Admission is based on satisfactory completion of secondary education or a recognised equivalent qualification. Domestic applicants normally qualify through the state-based tertiary selection rank (for example ATAR) or approved alternative entry pathways; mature-age entry and pathways from vocational education are also considered. There are no specific subject prerequisites for the Politics major, though strong communication and critical thinking skills are advantageous.

International applicants must hold an equivalent secondary qualification recognised by the University and meet the University's English language requirements; common evidence includes IELTS, TOEFL or other accepted English-language tests or completion of approved prior study in English. Applicants transferring from other tertiary institutions or applying with previous higher education study should supply academic transcripts for assessment.

Career prospects

Graduates of a Politics major are well placed for careers in the public and private sectors where analytical, communication and policy skills are needed. Typical career paths include roles in government and public service, policy analysis and advising, diplomacy and international organisations, non‑governmental and advocacy organisations, political campaigning, media and journalism, and research. Many graduates also use a Politics degree as a foundation for further study in law, public policy, international relations, or postgraduate research.

Employers value the degree for its focus on critical thinking, evidence-based analysis, report writing and stakeholder engagement. The University’s placement and career support services can assist with connecting students to internships, clerkships and graduate programs relevant to political and policy work.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide offers a research-led School of Social Sciences with experienced academic staff who teach subjects across politics, public policy and international relations. The University’s location in a state capital provides proximity to government agencies, non-government organisations and public institutions, helping to facilitate guest speakers, internships and applied learning opportunities.

Students benefit from flexible degree structures that allow combining politics with other disciplines, a pathway to honours and postgraduate study, and access to student support services including career development and international exchange programs. Small‑group tutorials and staff-supervised research projects give students practical research experience and direct engagement with current political issues and policy debates.