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INTRODUCTION
Political Science is the study of how ideas, institutions and political
power interact in modern communities and in the wider international
setting. The focus is not only on how governments operate but on
how power and authority shape modern society. Politics and the use
of state power are central to relations between countries and between
governments and citizens. But power relations can be analysed in
other spheres as well, such as the role of business in market-based
societies and in the struggle over regional development policy within
communities. Ideas are crucial in politics. Political Science involves
the study of the major ideas that drive the modern world; from democracy
and liberty, to justice and authority.
Awareness of the nature of political activity is important for citizenship
in a democracy such as Australia. Understanding how and how well
we are governed is a central aspect to active involvement in the
community. Beyond this, the study of politics offers a way of better
understanding Australia's place in the international arena. To find
out more about the units and courses available go to the online courses and units entry
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Your studies in Political Science will provide essential skills
in research, reasoned argument, and written and verbal communication.
You will graduate from the program with a clear understanding of
how politics and governments operate.These skills provide an important
foundation for personal and professional development. Graduates
with a major (area of specialisation) in Political Science typically
find work with the following organisations:
- Public sector organisations (commonwealth,state and local government)
- Community and non government organisations
- Private companies, including policy-oriented think thanks
- Lobby groups
- Media groups
- Public relations firms
- Schools
- Police forces
- Unions and employer groups
LINKS WITH OTHER DEGREE COURSES
While primarily taken by Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Social Science
and Bachelor of Social Science (Police Studies) students, Political
Science is also available to students taking other degrees, for
example commerce, economics, law and science, and would be useful
for professional development. Students should check the rules of
their degree for major requirements, as restrictions may apply.
PARLIAMENTARY INTERNSHIPS
Students studying Political Science have the opportunity to undertake
internships at undergraduate (HSA361)
or Honours Level (HSA432)
with the Parliament of Tasmania. This involves a part-time placement
with a Member of Parliament or a Parliamentary Committee and involves
the intern undertaking a practical, research-oriented report. These
internships provide credit towards the completion of a major or
honours in Political Science.
HONOURS, POSTGRADUATE AND RESEARCH COURSES
The fourth-year (400 level) honours program is an advanced
exploration of selected issues in Political Science.
The program is open to students who have majored in Political
Science with a grade-point average of 6.5 or higher. The honours
year consists of specialised coursework units and a thesis, and
introduces students to the skills involved in independent research. The honours program also provides a stepping stone to Master of
Arts (MA) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees, as well as providing
an additional qualification.
The School of Government also offers three postgraduate coursework
programs in International Politics at the Hobart campus:
The School of Government has a strong reputation for research and
welcomes enquiries from those seeking to undertake a research higher
degree in Political Science, Public Policy, Public Administration
or International Relations.
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