Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics – UNSW

Bachelor's Degree Economics Full Time

Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics

at University of New South Wales · Sydney, New South Wales

CRICOS course code

098376B

CRICOS provider code

00098G

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

3.5 years

Tuition (whole course)

A$152,500 total

Per year

A$45,575/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics at the University of New South Wales in Sydney offers an interdisciplinary approach to understanding some of the most complex issues facing Australia and the world. Drawing on the strengths of three rich disciplines, this course encourages students to analyse society through various lenses, political, philosophical, and economic, preparing them to think critically and engage with public debates at the highest level.

Structured over 3.5 years of full-time study, the degree is delivered through a combination of core and elective units of study, with credit points assigned to each unit. Students typically enrol in a diverse range of subjects that foster broad analytical skills and specialised knowledge, culminating in a capstone experience that synthesises their learning. The flexible structure allows students to tailor their studies to particular interests within the three fields, and provides opportunities for research-focused or work-integrated placements to help bridge academic theory with practical application where available.

Throughout the programme, participants develop skills in critical reasoning, effective communication, ethical reasoning, and advanced problem-solving, sought after by employers across many sectors. The course is suited to students who are curious about the foundations of society, interested in public policy, or keen to contribute to economic and political decision-making in Australia. With Sydney as its backdrop, the degree benefits from the university’s strong links to local industry, government, and research, supporting strong pathways into the workforce or further study.

International students will need to evidence English proficiency at the IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 or equivalent, with other English tests such as TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, or Cambridge C1 Advanced also accepted. Confirm all entry requirements and programme details via the official UNSW website or the CRICOS register.

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 think tanks
Economic or political consultant in private sector firms and NGOs
Research officer in Australian universities and research institutes
Advisor or advocacy officer for community and advocacy organisations
Public sector administrator or coordinator
Roles in journalism, communications, or media focused on social policy

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics at University of New South Wales?

It typically takes 3.5 years, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$152,500 total. Fees change yearly, confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Policy analyst in government departments and think tanksEconomic or political consultant in private sector firms and NGOsResearch officer in Australian universities and research institutesAdvisor or advocacy officer for community and advocacy organisationsPublic sector administra...

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