COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics at La Trobe University requires students to complete 360 credit points, consisting of 240 credit points of core subjects and 120 credit points through a combination of a major, minor subjects, and/or electives. The course structure develops interdisciplinary knowledge across politics, philosophy, and economics while building analytical, ethical, and policy-focused skills. In the first year, students complete foundational subjects covering democracies and dictatorships, politics, philosophy and economics, critical thinking, markets and policy, economic growth, inflation, and decision-making. Students also select electives or subjects from a major or minor. In the second year, the curriculum expands into advanced study of economic systems, political economy, political ideas and ideologies, and ethics. Students explore subjects such as consumers, firms and competition, interactions between societies and economies, knowledge and society, modern Western worldviews, environmental and resource economics, and international trade. The third year allows students to complete advanced core subjects alongside their chosen major, minor, or elective areas. Throughout the degree, students develop skills in critical reasoning, research, communication, quantitative analysis, and evaluating complex social, political, and economic issues. Graduates are prepared for careers in government, public policy, research, consulting, advocacy, business, and organisations addressing contemporary social challenges.