Bachelor of Political, Economic and Social Sciences (Honours

Bachelor Honours Degree Sociology Full Time

Bachelor of Political, Economic and Social Sciences (Honours)

at University of Sydney · Sydney, New South Wales

CRICOS course code

075522J

CRICOS provider code

00026A

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

1 year

Tuition (whole course)

A$52,500 total

Per year

A$52,500/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

The Bachelor of Political, Economic and Social Sciences (Honours) at the University of Sydney is designed for high-achieving students seeking advanced knowledge and research experience in sociology and related disciplines. This one-year honours program follows completion of a three-year bachelor's degree and enables students to delve deeply into a specialised research area within the broad fields of political, economic, and social sciences. Students undertake a combination of coursework and an independent research thesis, supported by expert academic supervision and access to extensive resources.

Honours in Australia is considered a significant stretch of academic endeavour. The structure of this program typically involves dedicated honours seminars or units of study (measured in credit points) addressing advanced topics in sociological theory, research methodologies, and contemporary issues relevant to Australian and global contexts. The major component is a substantial piece of original research, known as the honours thesis, where students develop analytical, critical thinking, and academic writing skills.

Throughout the year, students further develop skills in critical inquiry, project management, data analysis, and communication. The program is particularly suited to those interested in pursuing research careers, policy roles, or advance to further study at the postgraduate or doctoral level. The University of Sydney's proximity to Australia's political, economic, and social institutions provides additional opportunities to connect theory with practice through guest lectures and networking events.

Applicants must demonstrate English proficiency, typically via an overall IELTS Academic score of 6.0–6.5 or an equivalent recognised test. International students may take advantage of work rights of up to 48 hours per fortnight during their studies, and eligible graduates may also be able to apply for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream. Prospective students should always confirm the latest course and admission details on the official programme page.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.

International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

Policy analyst in government departments and agencies
Social researcher in academic, commercial, or non-profit settings
Community development officer with local councils or NGOs
Market or social trends analyst in consulting firms
Advocacy and outreach roles in Australian think tanks and advocacy organisations
Preparation for postgraduate research or professional degrees

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Bachelor of Political, Economic and Social Sciences (Honours) at University of Sydney?

It typically takes 1 year, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$52,500 total. Fees change yearly, confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Policy analyst in government departments and agenciesSocial researcher in academic, commercial, or non-profit settingsCommunity development officer with local councils or NGOsMarket or social trends analyst in consulting firmsAdvocacy and outreach roles in Australian think tanks...

Apply View university