Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics

La Trobe's Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics gives you a multi-disciplinary perspective on the political and economic systems that shape the world. Develop the skills to respond to urgent problems and make a positive social impact

Through the study of politics, you'll enhance your knowledge of political institutions and their history. Analyse who is disadvantaged by existing institutions, and identify what opportunities exist for creative policy development.

Take subjects in philosophy that explore the debates around human rights and justice. Refine your critical thinking and logical reasoning skills and consider how our conceptions of self are informed by society.

Through the study of economics, you'll learn how the economy works in a world of globalised and interdependent markets, examining the relationships between economic systems, institutions, and policy.

Explore how governments can manage their economies to achieve important social objectives. Investigate competing theories of political economy, including institutional, feminist, post-Keynesian, behavioural, and ecological economics.

Equipped with these disciplinary skills, you'll discover the interconnections between philosophical thinking, the study of politics, and economics. From there, you'll apply these interdisciplinary insights to a range of policy contexts.

Tailor your degree to your interests and passions. Choose from five majors, including political economy, politics, economics, political philosophy, and philosophy. Depending on your major, you'll be able to build specialist knowledge in inequality, global institutions, climate change, human rights, political processes and behavioural science.

In your third year, you'll have the option of gaining practical experience and expanding your professional network through a work-based learning placement. Previous graduates have enjoyed internships in the public service and with the Victorian Parliament, as well as a range of non-government organisations and businesses, including Trades Hall, the Grattan Institute, and charitable organisations.

Graduate ready to tackle real-world problems, including climate change, the need for sustainable innovation, and the unequal distribution of wealth, opportunity, and power.

You'll Learn:

• Critical thinking and philosophy
  • Improve your ability to reason, both critically and empathetically, and develop human skills that will be sought after in the workplaces of tomorrow.*
• Political institutions and processes
  • Build your knowledge of political systems, how countries are governed, and the forces and players that influence policy.
• Economics and political economy
  • Explore economic concepts and principles from a variety of theoretical approaches and apply these to real-world problems, including climate change, sustainable innovation, and economic marginalisation.

* Forbes, 2019, The 10 Vital Skills You Will Need For The Future Of Work ; PwC, 2020, 10 skills you need for future employment

The qualification awarded on graduation is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) as Level 7 - Bachelor Degree.

You'll Learn:

• Critical thinking and philosophy
  • Improve your ability to reason, both critically and empathetically, and develop human skills that will be sought after in the workplaces of tomorrow.*
• Political institutions and processes
  • Build your knowledge of political systems, how countries are governed, and the forces and players that influence policy.
• Economics and political economy
  • Explore economic concepts and principles from a variety of theoretical approaches and apply these to real-world problems, including climate change, sustainable innovation, and economic marginalisation.

* Forbes, 2019, The 10 Vital Skills You Will Need For The Future Of Work ; PwC, 2020, 10 skills you need for future employment

The qualification awarded on graduation is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) as Level 7 - Bachelor Degree.

Career outcomes

A degree in politics, philosophy and economics can open doors to a wide range of roles. Previous graduates have found employment in the government, private, and non-profit sectors both in Australia and overseas.

Possible roles include:

• Think-tank analyst
  • Guide public policy and opinion by playing an important role in the creation, implementation and evaluation of policies and regulations.
• Political communications adviser
  • Take the lead in crafting messages and campaigns, developing media strategies, and helping senior staff promote their public image.
• Public servant
  • Work for government in areas such as community and social services, defence, economic management, education, employment and foreign affairs.
• Development sector manager
  • Support the wellbeing of diverse communities by creating solutions to complex problems.
• Government relations manager
  • Work with corporations to build government relationships and drive commercial objectives.
• Activist
  • Advocate political or social change by contributing to public campaigns or working for organisations such as NGOs, unions, and political parties.

How to apply

Apply now or ask us a question if you need more help. You can also call us on +61 3 9627 4805.

Note: Some courses start earlier than the standard semester, term or study period. Applications for these courses close one week prior. Always check your course's start date to ensure your application is submitted in time.

Check when course applications close

CRICOS code: 071901G