A Bachelor of Political Science is a three-year undergraduate degree that equips students with a deep understanding of political institutions, processes, and systems — both in Australia and around the world. The course examines how political power is acquired, exercised, and contested, covering core areas such as political theory and philosophy, Australian politics, comparative politics, public policy, international relations, and political economy. Students learn to analyse the identities, values, and norms that drive citizens' political behaviour, how government institutions function, and how policy outcomes are shaped at local, national, and international levels. The degree places a strong emphasis on developing research methods, critical thinking, and analytical writing skills that are transferable across a wide range of careers. In Australia, the qualification is most commonly offered as a specialisation or major within a Bachelor of Arts, or as a combined degree with law, international studies, economics, or communications — offering students considerable flexibility to tailor their education. Graduates are equipped to understand and engage with the forces shaping contemporary society, making the degree relevant across an exceptionally broad range of sectors. Key employers of political science graduates in Australia include all tiers of government (federal, state, and local), the Australian Public Service (APS), the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), think tanks, non-government organisations (NGOs), media and communications firms, advocacy groups, political parties, international organisations, university research centres, and private sector consulting firms. The degree suits students who are intellectually curious, passionate about current events and social justice, and eager to contribute to public life in a meaningful way.

For domestic students, entry to an undergraduate political science degree typically requires completion of Year 12 (or equivalent) with a competitive ATAR. Across Australian universities, ATAR requirements for programs with a political science or arts focus generally range from approximately 65 to 90, depending on the institution and program prestige. Some universities offer alternative entry pathways, including portfolio-based entry, mature-age entry, TAFE or VET qualification recognition, and bridging programs. Applicants without a formal ATAR may also be considered on the basis of work and life experience. Competitive programs may rank applicants on additional factors such as achievement in relevant senior secondary subjects (e.g., Modern History, Legal Studies, English, Economics) and equity or diversity considerations. There are no formal prerequisites in most cases, though strong English and humanities performance at secondary school is advantageous. For international students, academic requirements equivalent to Australian Year 12 completion apply, along with mandatory English language proficiency. A minimum IELTS Academic overall score of 6.5 (with no individual band below 6.0) is a common requirement, though some universities specify higher thresholds. Equivalent scores are accepted through TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced, or Duolingo English Test. Admission to most programs is competitive — meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee a place. Students wishing to pursue honours, postgraduate research, or combined law degrees should be aware that stronger academic records are expected, and GPA requirements (typically 5.0 or above on a 7-point scale) may apply for progression into honours components.