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About the course
This one-year honours program builds on prior political science study and reflects ANU’s research-led approach. You develop advanced theoretical and methodological understanding and undertake a substantial, supervised research project, typically a 20,000-word thesis. The degree is designed to prepare high-performing students for professional roles requiring analytical depth, or for progression to higher degree research pathways in political science and related fields.
What you might learn
You will strengthen your ability to design, justify and conduct independent political science research. The program develops advanced knowledge of research principles and methods, critical engagement with political theory and evidence, and skills in framing questions, selecting appropriate approaches, and communicating findings in scholarly formats. Through research training and the thesis, you learn to produce rigorous analysis that contributes new insights or addresses complex problems.
Career outcome
Graduates are prepared for roles requiring high-level political analysis and research capability, and for further study such as a PhD. Career pathways commonly include policy and research positions in government and the public service, political advisory and parliamentary offices, international organisations, NGOs, think tanks, advocacy and community organisations, and research-focused roles in consulting, media analysis, or academia and higher education support roles.
Entry requirements
Applicants must meet ANU program-specific academic and English language requirements, with admission competitive and limited by places. Entry to Honours also depends on supervisory capacity and approval by the relevant college authority. A recent (within two years) AQF Level 7 Bachelor of Political Science (or equivalent) is required with a weighted average mark equivalent to 70% calculated from the best 36 units (excluding 1000-level).
Living Costs in Canberra**
Restaurant (Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant) A$ 17 - 23 |
Rent per Month (1 bedroom in City Centre) A$ 1,584 - 2,095 |
Rent per Month (1 bedroom Outside of Centre) A$ 1,253 - 1,657 |
Transportation (Daily) A$ 4 - 10 |
Utilities per Month (Electricity, Mobile & Internet) A$ 264 - 348 |
Average Salary***
