Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics

The Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics at Deakin University offers an interdisciplinary exploration of the social, ethical, and economic forces that shape public life. Through a mixture of foundational and advanced units in political science, philosophical inquiry, and economic theory, students gain a sophisticated understanding of government, public policy, moral reasoning, and market dynamics. The course typically spans three years of full-time study and is structured into semesters, with students completing a series of core and elective units of study, each contributing to the accumulation of the required credit points for graduation.

Australian bachelor degrees such as this comprise a mix of compulsory core units and opportunities for specialisation or elective breadth, allowing students to tailor their learning to areas such as public policy, ethics, or applied economics. Deakin may also offer work-integrated learning experiences or professional placements, connecting classroom theory with practical challenges faced by organisations, governmental bodies, and industry partners in Melbourne and beyond. A capstone experience, often comprising an advanced research project or integrative unit, enables students to synthesise and apply their interdisciplinary knowledge in a real-world or research context.

Graduates develop strong analytical, critical thinking, and communication skills, learning to interpret complex information, construct compelling arguments, and contribute to debates on important social and economic issues. This degree suits individuals interested in how societies are governed, how economies function, and how ethical frameworks influence public decision-making. International students are welcomed and must meet English language requirements (usually IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 or equivalent), with study support available through Deakin’s resources.

While enrolled, students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight as permitted under Australian student visa conditions. Upon completion, graduates are eligible to apply for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream, facilitating career development in Australia. For specific unit offerings, credit point requirements, and practical experience opportunities, prospective students should consult the official Deakin University course page.

• Policy analyst in government departments and agencies
• Economic consultant for private or public sector organisations
• Political and social researcher
• Public affairs or advocacy officer for NGOs or think tanks
• Business or market analyst
• Advisor for international organisations
• Roles in the Australian public service, consultancy firms, and research institutions