Course Overview

About This Course

If you've excelled in your Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics degree, you should consider an honours year to gain an in-depth understanding of a topic that interests you. The honours research topics available are varied and negotiable: if you are passionate about a topic and want to find answers, you'll be encouraged and supported to do so. Whatever your topic, being able to demonstrate your ability to achieve a complex goal, meet deadlines, investigate independently, use resources effectively and write coherently will be highly regarded by potential employers. The honours year has two functions; as an in-depth project at the end of undergraduate study and as a bridge between undergraduate study and advanced research. Studying honours will: Teach you research skills, navigation skills and how to use information systems (archives, the library, databases and electronic research networks); Provide an opportunity to articulate complex ideas in both verbal and written format; Provide the experience of working closely with a supervisor on a project and preparing a major project to meet a deadline; Provide experience in devising, researching and delivering an individual topic of study in an extended thesis of approx. 15,000 words.

Eligibility

Entry Requirements

Requirements

To qualify for entry into Honours, students must have completed the Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics (BPPE) with an average of at least 75% across the major (or majors) in which the Honours degree will be undertaken
There is an additional requirement of a Distinction in two of the 300-level subjects required by the major
Applicants are also required to complete a 500-word outline of the proposed thesis topic, indicating the topic the applicant wishes to research and providing a justification of the significance of the research from a personal and/or intellectual point of view
Students considering an Honours degree are encouraged to consult the Program Coordinator well in advance to seek approval for enrolment, discuss their program, and negotiate a thesis topic and supervisors
All UOW courses are taught in English; if English is not your first language, you must meet the University's English Language Requirements
Accepted international English test results include IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, Cambridge, and OET for specific health-related courses

Career & Study Pathways

Where this takes you

Career Opportunities

Business Development and Administration, Diplomacy, Economist, Foreign Affairs Advisor, Lobbyist, Political Advisor, Social Policy Development

Quality & Recognition

Accreditation & Migration

Accreditation Details

Academic Regulator

TEQSA

Accreditation Status

Accredited

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What average do I need to be eligible for the Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics (Honours)?

To qualify for entry into Honours, students must have completed the Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics (BPPE) with an average of at least 75% across the major (or majors) in which the Honours degree will be undertaken, with the additional requirement of a Distinction in two of the 300-level subjects required by the major.

What does the 500-word outline requirement involve for Honours applicants?

Applicants are required to complete a 500-word outline of the proposed thesis topic. The outline should indicate the topic the applicant wishes to research and provide a justification of the significance of the research from a personal and/or intellectual point of view.

How long is the Honours thesis and what skills will I develop?

The Honours thesis is an extended piece of work of approximately 15,000 words. Throughout the year, students will develop research skills, navigation skills, and how to use information systems (archives, the library, databases and electronic research networks), as well as gain experience in articulating complex ideas in both verbal and written format while working closely with a supervisor.

When does the Honours program start and how long does it take to complete?

The Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics (Honours) takes 1 year full-time, or part-time equivalent. It is available starting Autumn 2026 (session start: 2 March 2026) and Spring 2026 (session start: 27 July 2026) at the Wollongong campus.

What career opportunities are available after completing the Honours degree?

Graduates of the Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics (Honours) may pursue careers in areas such as Business Development and Administration, Diplomacy, Economics, Foreign Affairs Advising, Lobbying, Political Advising, and Social Policy Development.

Application

How to Apply

Three simple steps to get enrolled

Step 01

Enquire

Click "Enquire Now" and tell us a little about yourself. It's free and takes 2 minutes.

Step 02

Submit Documents

Our team will guide you on exactly which documents to prepare and submit.

Step 03

Get Enrolled

Receive your offer letter and confirm your enrolment. Welcome to the course!

Processing time: Offer letter issued within approximately 1 business days.

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