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 OR PHIL1008; | 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 | ECON1102 Macroeconomics 1 6 units | |
Year 2 48 units | ECON2101 Microeconomics 2 6 units | 2000/3000 level Politics list Course 6 units | 2000/3000 level Economics course 6 units | Elective Course 6 units |
PHIL2116 | 2000/3000 level Philosophy list Course 6 units | 2000/3000 level Politics Course 6 units | Elective Course 6 units | |
Year 3 48 units | 2000/3000 level Philosophy Course 6 units | Elective Course 6 units | Elective Course 6 units | Elective Course 6 units |
ECON3056 PPE Integration 3: Classic Literature in Politics, Philosophy and Economics 6 units | 2000/3000 ECON, PHIL, POLS course or ANIP3003 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
- 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
- $53,700.00
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.
Back to the Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics page
Enrolling for the first time can be overwhelming. Below, you will find information that will assist. Please note that advice on this page is indicative, and you are encouraged to contact the CASS Student office at students.cass@anu.edu.au or visit the the CASS student office website if you require tailored information.
Important items to note:
- We recommend you start a CASS Program Plan. This is a way to track how the courses you take fit within the overall structure of your degree and will help you plan for your later year courses.
- The Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics can be taken as a single degree or combined with another degree in a Flexible Double Degree (FDD). When the Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics is combined with another undergraduate degree through a Flexible Double Degree, 48 units of ANU electives units are replaced with the core requirements of the other degree and the total program duration is expanded to 192 units (4 years Full-Time) or 240 units (5 years Full-Time) depending on the duration of the other program.
Semester 2 commencers
Please note that if you are commencing your studies in Semester 2 there may be restrictions on the courses available for enrolment. If you have concerns, please contact students.cass@anu.edu.au.
Single degree
The Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics requires 144 units (24 courses), including:
- A maximum of 60 units from 1000-level courses (i.e. 10 x 6 unit courses)
- A minimum of 18 units must come from completion of 3000 level courses (i.e. 3 x 6 units courses)
- Nine compulsory courses
- A minimum of 12 units of courses tagged as Transdisciplinary Problem-Solving (i.e. 2 x 6 unit courses)
Double degree
The total number of overall units in a Flexible Double Degree (FDD) depends on the FDD combination e.g. Of which a minimum of 12 units (i.e. 2 x 6 unit courses) must be tagged as transdisciplinary problem-solving. These courses may be taken in either component of the FDD. The Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics component of an FDD requires 96 units, including:
- A maximum of 36 units from 1000-level courses (i.e. 6 x 6 unit courses)
- A minimum of 18 units must come from completion of 3000 level courses (i.e. 3 x 6 units courses)
- Nine compulsory courses
- A minimum of 12 units of courses tagged as Transdisciplinary Problem-Solving (i.e. 2 x 6 unit courses)
Enrolment Status
Duration
The Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics typically takes three years to complete on a full-time basis. Students will usually take 24-units (four x six-unit courses) each semester and there are two semesters each year. One course is typically worth six-units.
In total, students need to complete 144 units of study towards the Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics. This will be 24 courses if all courses are worth six-units, but may be fewer if one or more courses of 12-units or more are taken.
If you combine the Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics with another degree in a Flexible Double Degree, you will need to complete a total of 192 units (32 six-unit courses) or 240 units (40 six-unit courses) depending on the combination. This will typically take four years for a 192-unit degree or five years for a 240-unit degree on a full-time basis.
Domestic students may choose to enrol in fewer than 24-units in any semester or half-year study period. Students studying 18 or more units in a half year (January – June or July – December) are considered full-time. Students studying less than this are considered part-time.
If you take fewer than 24-units in any half year period, then your degree is likely to take longer than three years to complete.
International students on a student visa are required to enrol in a full-time study load of 24-units in each half year study period (Summer, Semester 1, Autumn or Winter, Semester 2, Spring) unless they have been approved for Reduced Study Load or program leave.
Maximum time for completion
- The maximum period for completion of the single Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics degree is 10 years from the date of first enrolment in the program. This 10 years includes any periods of leave.
- The maximum period for completion of a flexible double degree is 10 years for a 192-unit degree or 11 years for a 240-unit degree from the date of first enrolment in the program. The maximum period includes periods of leave.
A transfer of credit (status) from previous studies will reduce the total amount of time remaining to complete the balance of your degree. When you are assessed for credit, you will be notified of the new maximum end date for your degree in your credit offer.
Important things to keep in mind when choosing your 1000-level courses
In your first year, you will typically enrol in 1000-level courses – these courses have ‘1’ as the first number in their course code. E.g. POLS1002, POLS1009. Many 2000 and 3000 level courses build upon the specific knowledge achieved through 1000-level courses.
You may take 1000-level courses later in your program. But remember you can’t count more than 10 x 1000-level courses (60 units) towards your single degree or 6 x 1000-level courses (36 units) towards your Politics, Philosophy and Economics half of the double degree.
Electives
Electives are courses that provide freedom for you to select subjects that align to your personal interests and career aspirations in a more individualised way than is possible through general major or degree requirements. An ANU elective is a course that you can select without restriction, beyond the global requirements of your program (e.g. limits on 1000-level courses, etc).
In the Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics, you can select a minimum of 48 units of electives.? You can try a range of courses such as computing, history, or marketing. The choice is yours.
We also recommend holding some ANU electives in reserve to keep other opportunities open, such as international exchange, internships, and meeting the transdisciplinary requirements of your degree.
Study Options
Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics - single degree
For study plans, please visit cass.anu.edu.au/current-students/degrees-and-program-plansStudy Options
Year 1 48 units | ~ | ~ | ` | ~ |
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FDD
For study plans, please visit cass.anu.edu.au/current-students/degrees-and-program-plansStudy Options
Year 1 48 units | ~ | ~ | ~ | ~ |
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Disciplines
Transdisciplinary Problem-Solving Courses (TD)
Transdisciplinary courses at the ANU are courses that encourage students to collaborate across different disciplines and perspectives to solve complex problems. These courses help students develop skills to synthesise knowledge from different fields.
In this degree, you will have to complete 12 units of courses flagged as Transdisciplinary Problem-Solving (TD). TD courses can be identified using the Programs and Courses search engine.
You can satisfy this requirement through a course/s listed in the program or through the ANU electives it all depends on how you structure your degree and your other enrolment choices.
Academic Advice
Course credit
If you have undertaken previous study that is relevant to your current academic program, you can request to receive course credit. For more information and how to apply, see the CASS credit application webpage, or contact the CASS Student Office.
For further information on prerequisites and Arts and Social Science disciplines you can:
- Email us at?students.cass@anu.edu.au, or
- Come and talk to someone - you can attend a drop in session with an academic advisor here