Bachelor of Policy Studies (Honours) (CRICOS course code 082701C) is a Bachelor Honours Degree delivered by Australian National University over 1 year. This course is designed for international students who want to deepen their understanding of policy analysis, public policy formulation, and governance. As an honours-level program, it combines advanced coursework with a research component, preparing graduates for leadership roles in government, non-profit organisations, and the private sector. All information is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
Bachelor of Policy Studies (Honours) (CRICOS course code 082701C) is a Bachelor Honours Degree delivered by Australian National University over 1 year. This AQF Level 8 qualification sits within the field of Political Science and Policy Studies (090103). Australian National University (CRICOS 00120C) is a government-funded university consistently ranked among Australia's top research universities. This honours program is ideal for high-achieving students who have completed a bachelor degree in a related field and wish to pursue advanced study and research in policy studies. The course is intensive, with a strong emphasis on independent research under expert supervision. As a CRICOS-registered course, international students are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring quality education and consumer rights.
This honours program focuses on advanced policy analysis, research methodologies, and specialised topics in public policy. Students typically engage with theoretical frameworks, quantitative and qualitative research methods, and contemporary policy challenges in areas such as social policy, economic policy, and international governance. Graduates develop skills in critical thinking, evidence-based decision-making, and policy evaluation. The program culminates in a substantial research thesis or project that contributes to the field of policy studies. While specific syllabus details are set by the institution, the overall learning outcomes align with the Australian Qualifications Framework's expectations for honours-level study: independent inquiry, advanced knowledge, and the ability to generate new ideas.
According to the CRICOS register, this course has a duration of 1 year (52 weeks). It is delivered in English, with no dual qualification or foundation studies component. The program is a single award – upon completion, you receive a Bachelor of Policy Studies (Honours) degree. Study mode is typically full-time on campus, though you should check with Australian National University for any flexible delivery options. International students holding a Student visa (Subclass 500) must maintain full-time enrolment as per visa conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$53,110, with non-tuition fees of A$373, giving an estimated total of A$53,483. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by the institution. Please note that these fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students on a Student visa; costs vary by provider and coverage level. Living costs in Canberra, where the course is delivered, are estimated at around A$21,041 per year for a single student (as per Department of Home Affairs guidelines). For current and precise fees, always visit Australian National University's website: http://www.anu.edu.au/.
General English language requirements for this course are IELTS 6.0-6.5 overall with no band below 5.5-6.0 (or equivalent). For honours entry, you typically need a strong academic record in a related bachelor degree (e.g., policy studies, political science, public administration). Some programs require a minimum GPA or a demonstrated research aptitude. Foundation or pathway options may be available through the university's college or partner institutions – contact Australian National University for specific articulation arrangements. Always confirm exact entry requirements with the institution, as they may vary by intake.
No work component – this course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Ensure you comply with work restrictions and maintain your study obligations.
This course is delivered at Australian National University – Canberra City West, ACT. Canberra is the national capital and a major education hub, home to over 40,000 international students from more than 140 countries. The city offers a high standard of living with lower rental costs compared to Sydney or Melbourne (average weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around A$350–$450). Public transport includes buses and light rail, with campuses well-connected. Canberra's student population is diverse, and the city hosts numerous cultural and political institutions, making it ideal for policy studies.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: confirmed enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course (this one is), genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and meeting English language requirements. Student visa holders can work 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. OSHC must be maintained for the visa duration. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent – for visa advice, consult a MARA-registered agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to apply for Bachelor of Policy Studies (Honours) at Australian National University: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers – use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Bachelor Honours Degree), field (Policy Studies), and location (ACT). 2) Apply directly to your chosen institution – check entry requirements, prepare English test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.), and submit your application before the deadline. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Once you have a CoE, you can lodge your visa application. Need help? Explore our visa guides or contact the institution.
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Bachelor of Policy Studies (Honours) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian National University. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.