Political Science

Study the main issues, ideas, institutions and actors that dominate local, national and international politics. Expand your knowledge on democratic theory and human rights, public policy, Indigenous and environmental politics, globalisation and international relations.

Overview

Political Science explores the main issues, ideas, institutions and actors that dominate local, national and international politics. It focuses on how people engage in politics, and how governments and other bodies that exercise power make decisions that shape peoples’ lives. The topics covered include democratic theory and human rights, public policy making and administration, Indigenous and environmental politics, globalisation and international relations. The purpose is to understand how the world works, and how it can be changed. It enhances active citizenship, and provides a foundation for careers in politics, government, public service and civil activism, diplomacy and international relations. Rankings show we are among the world’s best universities for Politics and International Studies, ranked 25th in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2019.

Information for prospective Politics and International Studies major students

Associate Professor Tim Lynch,
Chair in Political Science
Political science at Melbourne will expose you to the most compelling ideas about the human condition, and about political power, that have been thought and said.

Key teaching and research areas

Key teaching and research areas include:

  • Political theory
  • International relations
  • Political economy
  • Australian politics
  • Comparative politics
  • Public policy, administration, and management
  • Contemporary social issues
  • Research methods

Study opportunities

Undergraduate

Graduate coursework

Graduate research