Bachelor of Arts (Politics & Journalism) / Behavioural Science

School of Arts & Sciences

Are you looking for a qualification that gives you a solid grounding in Australian political theory and contemporary journalism practice? This double degree from The University of Notre Dame Australia combines the Bachelor of Arts (Politics & Journalism) and the Bachelor of Behavioural Science. This unique program combines psychology, political science, cultural studies and sociology. Contact us today to find out more about this exciting opportunity.

• Why study this program?

  Employers want the skills you will develop in this double degree. The ability to research, analyse, interpret, draw conclusions and problem-solve is needed in the flexible workplace of the 21st century.

  The Bachelor of Arts (Politics & Journalism) combines two disciplines into a single program of study. In addition to studying Australian and international politics and international relations, you will receive a solid grounding in journalism's diverse theories and practices, including your legal and ethical obligations. You will gain practical experience in various forms of journalism, including print, broadcast and online.

  Your knowledge will be enhanced by completing a History course that provides an invaluable overview of the development of western society from the ancient world to the present. As the course description says, you will consider ‘the politics and construction of western history, the use of evidence and sources by historians and the skills and practice of history itself.’ A Business course, Introduction to Public Relations, expands your capacity to communicate effectively with various audiences.

  The Bachelor of Behavioural Science is a unique program that combines elements of psychology, political science, cultural studies and sociology. Integrating specialised knowledge developed in these social science disciplines and with a strong focus on critical psychology, the program forges a connection between traditional psychology and social work.

  As a graduate, you will be equipped with the skills and knowledge to work with those who may be experiencing marginalisation or disadvantage. As part of Behavioural Science, you will complete an internship which offers you the chance to apply your theoretical knowledge and learn much more in a professional workplace.

• Program summary

  Courses	Number of courses
  Core Curriculum courses	3
  Academic Writing, Communication & Research course	1
  Compulsory Politics courses	3
  Elective Politics courses	4
  Compulsory Journalism courses	3
  Elective Journalism courses	4
  Compulsory History course	1
  Compulsory Business course	1
  Behavioural Science courses	12
  Total number of courses in the double degree	32

  Core Curriculum

  • CORE I: Foundations of Wisdom
  • CORE II: Elective
    • Electives in philosophy and\or theology
    • Professional embedded electives that integrate studies in a profession with philosophy and\or theology
    • An option to undertake a pilgrimage embedded in the study of the philosophy and theology of pilgrimage, e.g., World Youth Day
    • An option to undertake a course that integrates philosophy & theology with community service and charity work
    • An option to undertake an elective in philosophy, theology, and the liberal arts contained within an international experience

  Full details of the program requirements are contained in the Program Requirements.

  More information regarding courses can be found at the course descriptions page.

  Please note: The availability of these courses is indicative only and may be subject to change.

• Entry requirements

  Entry requirements WA

  Academic requirements for this program are outlined below.  In addition, to be eligible for admission, all applicants need to satisfy the Minimum University Admission Requirements outlined. These include those relating to minimum age and English Language Proficiency.  We also consider your application more broadly – your non-academic achievements (such as any previous leadership roles, volunteering, work, church and/or community involvement) as well as personal qualities - your aspirations and interests and your capacity to complete your chosen program.  See Individual Factors for further details regarding this.

  Applicants with recent Secondary Education

  • Indicative ATAR/Selection Rank* of 70

  OR

  • International Baccalaureate (IB) score of 25

  *Selection Ranks include ATAR plus Adjustment Factors.

  Applicants with Higher Education Study

  • Successful completion of 4 subjects at an undergraduate level or higher*

  OR

  • Successful completion of the Notre Dame Tertiary Pathway Program (TPP), or a tertiary preparation program from another institution that is deemed to be of a similar academic rigour to the Notre Dame TPP

  *Applicants who have successfully completed subjects at another University, which are relevant to the selected program of study, may be eligible for credit (Advanced Standing).

  Applicants with Vocational Education and Training (VET) study

  • Successful completion of AQF Certificate IV or higher from an accredited provider such as TAFE or a Registered Training Organisation (RTO)

  Applicants with Work and Life Experience

  Applicants who left secondary education more than two years previously and who have not undertaken VET or higher education study since may be considered for direct entry. This includes applicants who have completed Steiner, Montessori or home school curriculums. To qualify, applicants must be 20 years of age as at 1 March in the year of intake and meet one or more of the following:

  • Applicants who have completed at least two years of relevant work experience may be considered for direct entry. Applicants must provide evidence of their work experience, including duties undertaken and years of experience, and they must demonstrate that they have the academic capability to undertake undergraduate studies. The Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT) may be required.

  OR

  • Completion of STAT with scores of at least 135 in the Multiple Choice section and 140 in the Written English section.

  OR

  • Completion of two Year 12 WACE, HSC or equivalent exams, with a result equivalent to the Indicative ATAR/Selection Rank listed under Secondary Education section above.

  *STAT results must have been obtained within the last three calendar years in order to be considered (e.g. for 2024 admission, STAT results obtained in 2023, 2022 or 2021 can be considered).

  Please note: all applicants must be of school leaving age or older to apply.

• Learning outcomes

  Upon successful completion of the Bachelor of Arts (Politics & Journalism) graduates will be able to:

  1. Demonstrate broad theoretical and practical knowledge, with depth in the underlying principles and concepts related to politics, international relations and journalism;
  2. Identify appropriate sources and evaluate information
  3. Demonstrate an awareness of different conceptual approaches and/or research methods
  4. Identify the ethical considerations informing the study and professional practice of politics,
     international relations, and journalism
  5. Synthesise knowledge and apply skills in order to solve complex political and cultural problems
  6. Communicate arguments and/or ideas to specialist and non-specialist audiences in a range of forms
  7. Exemplify the technical and professional skills required in the domains of politics, international relations, and journalism
  8. Work independently and, where appropriate, in collaboration with others
  9. Reflect upon personal knowledge, skills and experiences drawn from the study and practice of politics, international relations, and journalism.

  Upon successful completion of the Bachelor of Behavioural Science graduates will be able to:

  1. Identify and evaluate evidence-based resources and information
  2. Differentiate between individual, group/organisational, and societal level factors that influence human behaviour
  3. Analyse the complex nature of these influences to promote social and emotional wellbeing
  4. Analyse the socially constructed nature of knowledge, culture, and values and the role these factors play in shaping society
  5. Relate appropriate theoretical frameworks and models to specific social issues to achieve transformative practice
  6. Communicate arguments and/or ideas in a range of forms and forums.

• Practical component

  Students are required to complete BESC3940 Behavioural Science Internship or ARTS3002 Internship or Professional Project.

• Career opportunities

  Graduates of this program can follow diverse career paths in the private and public sectors; Many employers will welcome the transferable skills. The following careers are open to graduates of this program: diplomatic service officer, Member of Parliament, electorate officer, political campaign assistant, social research officer, public affairs consultant, media advisor, change manager, human rights worker, intelligence analyst, social media manager, aid worker/humanitarian worker and policy analyst.

• Real-world experience

  You will learn from academics who are industry leaders and, through our practicum placements and internship programs, you will gain real professional experience and make valuable contacts with potential employers.

• Honours

  An Honours award is available for this program. Further information can be found in the Bachelor of Arts (Honours) regulations, or by contacting the School of Arts & Sciences.

• Study abroad

  A global perspective adds a valuable dimension to your university education. At Notre Dame University you can study while experiencing the world. We encourage students to become active global citizens through a range of exchange programs, professional placements, study tours, and volunteer opportunities. Visit International Opportunities to find out more.

• Fees and costs

  This Program has the following loan scheme(s) available for eligible students:

  
  

  Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
  A Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) is a place at a university where the Australian Government pays part of your fees. This part is a subsidy, not a loan, and you don’t have to pay it back. However, this subsidy does not cover the entire cost of your study. Students must pay the rest, which is called the ‘student contribution amount’.

  In a Commonwealth Supported Place, your fees are subsidised by the Australian Government. Your fees will be split into two portions:

  The Commonwealth contribution, which is the portion paid by the Australian Government.

  The student contribution, which is the portion you pay. You may choose to pay upfront or defer your student contribution with a HECS-HELP Loan. The HECS-HELP loan scheme assists eligible students with the payment of all, or part, of their tuition fees, not including additional study costs such as accommodation or textbooks. Your HECS-HELP debt will be indexed each year in line with the Consumer Price Index.

  Eligible students will be offered a CSP – you do not need to apply.

  
  

  International Full-Fee Paying
  Tuition costs depend on an international student’s study load and discipline. Fees are payable each semester at least four weeks prior to the commencement of your program.

  
  

  For indicative fees and information on how to pay, including Government loan schemes and our online calculator, visit our Fees, costs and scholarships page.

• Student profile data

  The tables below gives an indication of the likely peer cohort for new students in this Program. It provides data on all students who commenced in this Program in the most relevant recent intake period, including those admitted through all offer rounds and international students studying in Australia.

  Fremantle Student Profile Data

  TABLE 1a – Bachelor of Arts (Politics & Journalism) / Bachelor of Behavioural Science BASIS OF ADMISSION IN SEMESTER 1, 2022 INTAKE

  Applicant background	Semester 1 2022
  	Number of students	Percentage of all students
  (A) Higher education study (includes a bridging or enabling course)	<5	N/P
  (B) Vocational education and training (VET) study	<5	N/A
  (C) Work and life experience (Admitted on the basis of previous achievement not in the other three categories)	<5	N/A
  (D) Recent secondary education: Admitted solely on the basis of ATAR  (regardless of whether this includes the consideration of adjustment factors such as equity or subject bonus points)	<5	N/A
  where both ATAR and additional criteria were considered (e.g. portfolio, audition, interview, extra test, early offer conditional on minimum ATAR)	<5	N/A
  on the basis of other criteria only and ATAR was not a factor (e.g. special consideration, audition alone, interview, school marks &   recommendation with no minimum ATAR requirement)	<5	N/P
  International students	<5	N/A
  All students	<N/P	100.0%

  TABLE 1b – Bachelor of Arts (Politics & Journalism) / Bachelor of Behavioural Science ATAR PROFILE DATA FOR APPLICANTS ENTERING ON THE BASIS OF RECENT SECONDARY EDUCATION IN SEMESTER 1, 2022 INTAKE

  RECENT SECONDARY EDUCATION - ATAR-based offers	ATAR (Excluding adjustment factors) *	Selection Rank (ATAR plus any adjustment factors) *[only if relevant]
  Highest rank to receive an offer	73.30	N/A
  Median rank to receive an offer	73.30	N/A
  Lowest rank to receive an offer	73.30	N/A

  Notes:  

  “<5” – the number of students is less than 5
  N/A – Students not accepted in this category
  N/P – Not published: the number is hidden to prevent the calculation of numbers in cells with less than 5 students

  In 2022, due to COVID, additional adjustment factor points were granted to applicants from NSW, ACT and VIC.

• More information

  Considering your uni options?

  Talk to one of our career advisors for a personalised advice session. Our advisors provide support while choosing a program of study and completing our application process. Book my session.

  
  

  For more information, please call our Prospective Students Office on +61 8 9433 0533 or email future@nd.edu.au.

  
  

  All international enquiries should contact the International Students Office on international@nd.edu.au.