Program Requirements
The Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics requires the completion of 144 units, of which:
A maximum of 60 units may come from the completion of 1000 level courses.
A minimum of 18 units must come from the completion of 3000 level courses.
A minimum of 12 units of courses tagged as Transdisciplinary Problem-Solving.
A minimum of 90 units must come from the following lists:
54 units from the completion of the following compulsory courses:
ECON1101 Microeconomics 1
ECON2101 Microeconomics 2
PHIL1004 Fundamental Ideas in Philosophy: An Introduction
PHIL1005 Logic and Critical Thinking
POLS1002 Introduction to Politics
POLS1009 Introduction to Data and Methods for Political Science and International Relations
PPEI1001 PPE Integration 1
PPEI2001 PPE Integration 2
PPEI3001 PPE Integration 3
6 units from completion of one of the following courses:
ECON1100 Economics I (H)
ECON1102 Macroeconomics 1
12 units from the completion of any 2000 or 3000 level POLS course of which at least 6 units must come from one of the courses on the following list:
POLS2044 Quantitative Methods in Political Science and International Relations
POLS2094 International Political Economy
POLS2114 Australian Politics
POLS2130 Public Choice and Politics
POLS3029 Sharing Power: Federalism in Comparative Perspective
POLS3043 Pressure Groups and Political Lobbying
POLS3111 Elections, Political Behaviour and Public Opinion in Australia
POLS3125 Game Theory and Social Sciences
12 units from the completion of any 2000 or 3000 level PHIL course of which at least 6 units must come from one of the courses on the following list:
PHIL2057 Philosophy of Science
PHIL2122 Philosophy and Public Policy
PHIL2125 Rationality and Social Cooperation
PHIL2126 Science in Society: Ethics, Public Policy and Scientific Practice
PHIL2129 Normative Ethical Theory
PHIL2290 Philosophy, AI and Society
PHIL3073 Advanced Ethics, Social and Political Philosophy
PHIL3075 The Philosophy of Gender: Knowledge, Power, Bodies
6 units from the completion of any 2000 or 3000 level ECON, ECHI or EMET course, or EMET1001.
A maximum of 6 units of Experiential Courses from the following list:
ANIP3003 Australian National Internships Program A
ASIA2084 Study Tour: Modern Mongolia - Challenges to the Environment, Economy and Empire
ASIA3037 Study Tour: Cultural Landscapes and Environmental Change in Asia and the Pacific
CBEA3001 College of Business and Economics Special Industry Project
ENVS2005 Island Sustainable Development: Fiji Field School
MEAS2008 Middle East and Central Asia Study Tour
PASI2030 Regional Policy Making for Pacific Development
STST2020 Study Tour: Southeast Asia's Security Choices
A minimum of 48 units from completion of elective courses offered by ANU.
Capstone Courses
[ECON3056,Will be PPEI3001 once re-badged course is published by CBE
]Minors
Elective Study
Once you have met the program requirements of your degree, you may have enough electives to complete an additional elective major, minor or specialisation.
Study Options
Year 1 48 units | POLS1002 Introduction to Politics 6 units | ECON1101 Microeconomics 1 6 units | PHIL1004 Fundamental Ideas in Philosophy: An Introduction 6 units | Elective Course 1000 level course 6 units |
POLS1008 | PHIL1005 Logic and Critical Thinking 6 units | POLS1009 Introduction to Data and Methods for Political Science and International Relations 6 units | Elective Course 1000 level course 6 units | |
Year 2 48 units | ECON2101 Microeconomics 2 6 units | Non-compulsory Politics list Course 6 units | Non-compulsory Economics list Course 6 units | Elective Course 6 units |
PHIL2116 | Non-compulsory Philosophy list Course 6 units | Non-compulsory Politics list Course 6 units | Elective Course 6 units | |
Year 3 48 units | Non-compulsory Philosophy list Course 6 units | ANIP/ECON/PHIL/POLS 2000/3000 Level Course 6 units | Elective Course 6 units | Elective Course 6 units |
ECON3056 PPE Integration 3: Classic Literature in Politics, Philosophy and Economics 6 units | Non-compulsory Economics list Course 6 units | Elective Course 6 units | Elective Course 6 units |
Admission Requirements
At a minimum, all applicants must meet program-specific academic/non-academic requirements, and English language requirements. Admission to most ANU programs is on a competitive basis. Therefore, meeting all admission requirements does not guarantee entry into the program.
In line with the university's admissions policy and strategic plan, an assessment for admission may include competitively ranking applicants on the basis of specific academic achievement, English language proficiency and diversity factors.
The University reserves the right to alter or discontinue its programs and change admission requirements as needed.
Domestic applicants
Before applying for a program, you should review the general information about domestic undergraduate admission to ANU programs and how to apply, and the program-specific information below.
- Applicants with recent secondary education are assessed on:
- completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent, and the minimum Selection Rank (from their academic qualifications, plus any adjustment factors) requirement for this program; and
- co-curricular or service requirement (applies to applicants who complete secondary education in the year prior to commencing at ANU); and
- English language proficiency; and
- any program-specific requirements listed below.
- Applicants with higher education study are assessed on:
- previous higher education studies; or secondary education results if completed less than one full-time equivalent year (1.0 FTE) of a degree; or the result from a bridging or preparatory course; and
- English language proficiency; and
- any program-specific requirements listed below.
- Applicants with vocational education and training (VET) study are assessed on:
- previously completed VET qualifications at AQF level 5 or higher (i.e. a Diploma or above); or secondary education results if the VET qualification is not completed; and
- English language proficiency; and
- any program-specific requirements listed below.
- Applicants with work and life experience are assessed on:
- ATAR or equivalent if secondary education was completed; or the Special Adult Entry Scheme (SAES); or work experience; and
- English language proficiency; and
- any program-specific requirements listed below.
International applicants
Applicants who complete a recognised secondary/senior secondary/post-secondary/tertiary sequence of study will be assessed on the basis of an equivalent selection rank that is calculated upon application. A list of commonly observed international qualifications and corresponding admission requirements can be found here. Applicants must also meet any program specific requirements that are listed below.
Diversity factors & English language proficiency
As Australia's national university, ANU is global representative of Australian research and education. ANU endeavours to recruit and maintain a diverse and deliberate student cohort representative not only of Australia, but the world. In order to achieve these outcomes, competitive ranking of applicants may be adjusted to ensure access to ANU is a reality for brilliant students from countries across the globe. If required, competitive ranking may further be confirmed on the basis of demonstrating higher-level English language proficiency.
Further information is available for English Language Requirements for Admission
- ATAR:
- 94
- International Baccalaureate:
- 38
Prerequisites
There are no formal program prerequisites. But assumed knowledge is: ACT: Mathematical Methods (Major)/Further Mathematics/Specialist Mathematics (major)/Specialist Methods or NSW: HSC Mathematics Advanced or equivalent. More information about interstate subject equivalencies can be found here [https://www.uac.edu.au/future-applicants/admission-criteria]
Adjustment Factors
Adjustment factors are additional points added to an applicant’s Selection Rank (for example an applicant’s ATAR). ANU offers adjustment factors based on performance and equity principles, such as for high achievement in nationally strategic senior secondary subjects and for recognition of difficult circumstances that students face in their studies.
Selection Rank adjustments are granted in accordance with the approved schedules, and no more than 15 (maximum 5 subject/performance-based adjustment factors and maximum 10 equity-based adjustment factors) can be awarded.
You may be considered for adjustment factors if you have:
- applied for an eligible ANU Bachelor degree program
- undertaken Australian Year 12 or the International Baccalaureate
- achieved an ATAR or equivalent at or above 70
- not previously attempted tertiary study.
Please visit the ANU Adjustment Factors website for further information.
Indicative fees
Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
For more information see: http://www.anu.edu.au/students/program-administration/costs-fees
- Annual indicative fee for international students
- $56,120.00
For further information on International Tuition Fees see: https://www.anu.edu.au/students/program-administration/fees-payments/international-tuition-fees
Fee Information
All students are required to pay the Services and amenities fee (SA Fee)
The annual indicative fee provides an estimate of the program tuition fees for international students and domestic students (where applicable). The annual indicative fee for a program is based on the standard full-time enrolment load of 48 units per year (unless the program duration is less than 48 units). Fees for courses vary by discipline meaning that the fees for a program can vary depending on the courses selected. Course fees are reviewed on an annual basis and typically will increase from year to year. The tuition fees payable are dependent on the year of commencement and the courses selected and are subject to increase during the period of study.
For further information on Fees and Payment please see: https://www.anu.edu.au/students/program-administration/fees-payments
Scholarships
ANU offers a wide range of scholarships to students to assist with the cost of their studies.
Eligibility to apply for ANU scholarships varies depending on the specifics of the scholarship and can be categorised by the type of student you are. Specific scholarship application process information is included in the relevant scholarship listing.
For further information see the Scholarships website.
Are you a leader? The Australian National University is a leader too, especially in the fields of philosophy, politics and economics. This progressive and well-regarded degree will arm you with the moral, economic and political perspectives you need to make a real impact.
You will develop exceptional problem-solving skills and critical and conceptual thinking, all while gaining a passport to some of the world’s most promising careers.
Career Options
ANU ranks among the world's very finest universities. Our nearly 100,000 alumni include political, business, government, and academic leaders around the world.
We have graduated remarkable people from every part of our continent, our region and all walks of life.
Learning Outcomes
- describe and critically evaluate the methods and theories of political analysis, and the assumptions, ‘tools’ and limitations of political economy;
- describe and critically evaluate major philosophical theories and approaches to the evaluation of social practices and institutions;
- describe and critically evaluate the methods and findings of economics and apply them to the study of political institutions and processes;
- articulate and debate, both orally and in written form, arguments and positions drawn from the disciplines of politics, philosophy and economics; and
- critically reflect and draw upon the distinct contributions of diverse disciplines, including politics, philosophy and economics, to devise innovative solutions to real-world challenges, both independently and in groups.
Single degree
Three years full time (144 units) - 4 courses per semester (24 units)
54 units of compulsory courses
A minimum of 6 units from the following list, which may also be counted towards any other requirements :
. ECON2141 Strategic Thinking: An Introduction to Game Theory (P)
. POLS2125 Game Theory and Social Sciences
. POLS2130 Public Choice and Politics12 units from Political Science List of Courses
12 units from Philosophy List of Courses
12 units from Political Science List of Courses
12 units from Economics List of Courses
6 units from completion of 2000/3000 level from one of the following subject areas
. ANIP Australian National Internship
. ECON Economics
. PHIL Philosophy
. POLS Political Science
Eight Electives from across the ANU (48 units)
Double degree
This degree requires 96 units
A maximum of 36 units of 1000 level courses
Three years full time - 4 courses per semester (24 units)
54 units of compulsory courses
A minimum of 6 units from the following list, which may also be counted towards any other requirements :
. ECON2141 Strategic Thinking: An Introduction to Game Theory (P)
. POLS2125 Game Theory and Social Sciences
. POLS2130 Public Choice and Politics12 units from Political Science List of Courses
12 units from Philosophy List of Courses
12 units from Political Science List of Courses
12 units from Economics List of Courses
6 units from completion of 2000/3000 level from one of the following subject areas
. ANIP Australian National Internship
. ECON Economics
. PHIL Philosophy
. POLS Political Science
About this degree
Single degree
In a Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics degree program you will study a total of 144 units. Typically you will take 4 courses per semester (total of 24 units) as a full time student giving you a total of 24 (6-unit) courses across your whole degree.
You'll need to complete 15 compulsory courses and an additional course from you choice of Economics, Philosophy or Political Science.
You'll also get to choose eight electives from courses right across ANU. You can use these electives to try a range of courses or to take a major or minor in a non-Arts subject.
Double degree
In a Bachelor Politics, Philosophy and Economics degree program you will study a total of 96 units. Typically you will take 4 courses per semester (total of 24 units) as a full time student giving you a total of 16 courses across your whole degree. However, for each semester you are likely to take 2 courses from your Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and International Relations degree and then 2 courses from the other half of your double degree – still a total of 4 courses a semester.
You'll need to take 15 compulsory courses and an additional course from you choice of Economics, Philosophy or Political Science.
Enrolment Status
While it's possible to enrol in fewer courses per semester, which is called studying part-time, it will take you longer to finish your program and get your degree. If you are an international student you must always be full-time.
You need to enrol in courses for both First Semester and Second Semester.
You can’t study more than four courses (24 units) per semester, eight for the year.
You may take 1000-level courses later in your program. But remember you can’t count more than ten 1000-level courses (60 units) towards your single degree or six 1000-level courses (36 units) towards your Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics degree program half of the double degree
Important things to keep in mind when choosing your 1000-level courses
When
you enrol for the first time you will study ‘1000-level’ courses. These courses
have ‘1’ as the first number in their course code, such as POLS1234.
You must enrol in the following courses:
• ECON1101 - Microeconomics in First Semester
• PHIL1004 - Fundamental Ideas in Philosophy in First Semester
• POLS1002 - Introduction to Politics in First Semester
• POLS1009 - Research and Writing in Political Science in Second Semester
• PHIL1005 - Critical Thinking and Practical Reasoning in Second Semester
• POLS1008 - Integrative Seminar 1 in Second Semester
Majors and Minors
See available majors and minors for this program
There is no major or minor requirement for this degree, however you can use your 48 units of electives to complete a major or minor.
Electives
Single Degree
While you only need to enrol in the 15 compulsory courses and a course (from the designated list), you can use your electives to enrol in 1000-level courses for other Arts majors or minors. That way you keep your options open.
Study Options
Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics - Single Degree
This is a typical study pattern for the first year of a student undertaking a Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics.Study Options
Year 1 48 units | POLS1002 Introduction to Politics 6 units | ECON1101 Microeconomics 1 6 units | PHIL1004 Fundamental Ideas in Philosophy: An Introduction 6 units | Elective Course 1000 level course 6 units |
PHIL1005 Logic and Critical Thinking 6 units | POLS1008 | POLS1009 Introduction to Data and Methods for Political Science and International Relations 6 units | Elective Course 1000 level course 6 units |
Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics - Double Degree
Study Options
Year 1 48 units | POLS1002 Introduction to Politics 6 units | PHIL1004 Fundamental Ideas in Philosophy: An Introduction 6 units OR ECON1101; | Degree B 6 units | Degree B 6 units |
PHIL1005 Logic and Critical Thinking 6 units OR ECON1101; | POLS1009 Introduction to Data and Methods for Political Science and International Relations 6 units | Degree B 6 units | Degree B 6 units |