Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics (CRICOS course code 085659J) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by University of Wollongong (UoW) over 3 years. This interdisciplinary program, classified under Society and Culture (Field of Education 099999), equips students with analytical, ethical, and quantitative skills to address complex global challenges. As a CRICOS-registered course under provider code 00102E, it qualifies international students for a Student visa (Subclass 500) and is protected by the ESOS Act. UOW, a government university based in Wollongong, NSW, offers this program at its main campus. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000+ courses in Australia, HeadStart Academy helps you navigate options like this one – all data sourced directly from the CRICOS register (April 2026). Whether you aim for policy, business, or academia, this degree provides a solid foundation. Read on for fees, entry requirements, and application steps.
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The Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics (PPE) at University of Wollongong combines three complementary disciplines to develop critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and economic understanding. As a Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7), it typically requires completion of Year 12 or equivalent. The course is delivered in English over 156 weeks (3 years) and does not include a mandatory work component. It is a single qualification (not dual) and does not incorporate foundation studies. Graduates often pursue careers in government, non-profits, consulting, or further study. The program is registered on CRICOS under code 085659J, ensuring it meets Australian quality standards for international students. UOW is a well-regarded public university with a strong research focus, particularly in the social sciences.
This course falls under the broad field of Society and Culture (09), specifically 'Other Society and Culture' (099999). At AQF Level 7, students engage with theories of political systems, philosophical ethics, and economic models. While the exact syllabus varies each year, typical learning outcomes include analysing public policy, understanding moral frameworks, and applying economic concepts to real-world issues. The interdisciplinary approach encourages students to draw connections between disciplines – for example, using philosophy to question economic assumptions or political theory to evaluate governance structures. Assessment often includes essays, exams, presentations, and a capstone project. This general guidance reflects the nature of many bachelor-level programs in this field. For a detailed course structure, refer to the provider's website.
The Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics is scheduled for 3 years (156 weeks) on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification – students earn one Bachelor degree upon completion. There is no mandatory work component integrated into the course, though students may choose to undertake internships or part-time work subject to visa conditions (48 hours per fortnight during term). Full-time study is typically required for international students to maintain their Student visa. UOW's Wollongong campus offers on-campus learning with access to libraries, study spaces, and student support services. The 3-year duration is standard for an Australian bachelor degree, allowing 8-10 semesters of study with breaks between terms.
Tuition fees for the Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics are A$97,920 for the full 3-year program, as per the CRICOS register. Non-tuition fees amount to A$1,095, bringing the estimated total to A$99,015. Please note that these figures are indicative only – they are set by the University of Wollongong and may change. Additional costs include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) – approximately A$600–A$1,000 per year depending on the policy – living expenses (rent, food, transport) and the visa application charge (currently A$1,600 for a Subclass 500 visa). Wollongong offers a lower cost of living compared to Sydney; indicative weekly rent is around A$200–A$350 for a room, with groceries about A$80–A$120 and transport A$30–A$50. Always confirm current fees with the provider before applying. UOW's fee page is available at www.uow.edu.au.
International applicants typically need an IELTS overall band score of 6.0–6.5, with no band below 5.5–6.0. Equivalent English language tests (e.g., TOEFL, PTE) may be accepted. For academic entry, completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent overseas secondary schooling is required. Specific prerequisite subjects, such as mathematics or English, may apply – check with UOW. Foundation or pathway programs (e.g., UOW College) are available for students who do not meet direct entry requirements. This course does not have an integrated foundation year. As a general guide, bachelor-level programs in Australia require a minimum of 12 years of schooling and satisfactory English proficiency. Entry requirements are subject to change; always verify with the provider. HeadStart Academy does not assess eligibility – consult the institution directly.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. Students are not required to undertake internships, placements, or work experience as part of the program. However, many students choose to seek part-time employment during their studies. Under the Student visa (Subclass 500), international students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while their course is in session, and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. Work must not interfere with study commitments. UOW's Careers Centre can assist with job search and employability skills. Note that any work is voluntary and not assessed. The absence of a compulsory work component means students have flexibility to focus on academics or engage in extracurricular activities.
The Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics is delivered at the UOW Wollongong campus, located in the city of Wollongong, NSW. Wollongong is a coastal city approximately 80 km south of Sydney, with a population of around 300,000. It has a diverse international student community, with UOW hosting over 10,000 international students from 140+ countries. The city offers a more affordable lifestyle than Sydney, with lower rental and transport costs. Public transport includes trains and buses, with frequent services to Sydney (about 90 minutes by train). The campus itself is situated in the suburb of Gwynneville, with easy access to beaches, parks, and shopping. Wollongong has several CRICOS-registered providers including UOW, TAFE NSW, and private colleges, making it a viable study destination. For a full list of courses in Society and Culture in Wollongong, see our dedicated page.
This course qualifies international students to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). To obtain a visa, you must receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from UOW. Key visa requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and English language proficiency. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the duration of your stay in Australia – you can arrange OSHC through UOW or an approved provider. As of April 2026, the visa application charge is A$1,600 (subject to change). Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Always refer to the Department of Home Affairs for current conditions. HeadStart Academy provides general guidance only – for personal immigration advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA). All CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring tuition assurance and consumer rights.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics at University of Wollongong (UoW):
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Bachelor Degree), field (Society and Culture), and location (Wollongong). Confirm the course CRICOS code (085659J) and provider registration (00102E).
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check UOW's entry requirements, gather your academic transcripts and English test results, and submit an online application through UOW's admissions portal. Pay attention to application deadlines – typically for February or July intake. Some programs may require a personal statement or interview.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once UOW offers you a place, accept it and pay any required deposit. UOW will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application online through ImmiAccount. Provide evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE. After visa grant, you can travel to Australia and commence your studies.
Wollongong offers a balanced lifestyle with proximity to Sydney but at a lower cost. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment averages A$300–A$400 per week, while a shared room can be A$200–A$300. Groceries and utilities are in line with national averages. The city has a strong student vibe, with UOW's campus well-served by public buses and a free shuttle service. The region is known for its beaches, national parks, and outdoor activities. For students interested in politics and economics, Wollongong's links to government and industry in both the Illawarra and Sydney provide networking and internship opportunities. However, if you prefer a larger city with more diverse cultural events, Sydney or Melbourne might suit better. Consider your budget, preferred climate, and career goals. HeadStart Academy helps you compare locations and courses to make an informed decision.
Here are answers to common questions about this course.
Ready to apply? Research more courses at HeadStart Academy or contact University of Wollongong directly.
Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics is a CRICOS-registered programme at University of Wollongong (UoW). 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.