School of Social and
Political Sciences
It is a pleasure to welcome you to our School which is at the forefront of teaching and research in the social sciences in Australia.
We have a team of dedicated academic and professional staff in the disciplines of Political Science, Criminology, Anthropology and Sociology as well as our allied research centres providing a dynamic and rewarding environment to further your studies.
The School offers a wide range of courses and programs in areas including criminology, development studies, international studies, political science, public and social policy, socio-legal studies, anthropology and sociology. Our courses are concerned with how we make sense of the world in which we live, the current challenges we face and how both Australian and international political, legal and social institutions ought to respond to complex problems which face us in an era of globalisation and rapid social change.
Our students move on to careers in a wide range of areas including local, state and federal government, non-governmental organisations, the media, education, justice, and further academic research. Whatever pathway students want to follow, we hope to provide a conducive environment where you will expand your knowledge and acquire many skills that will enable you to take advantage of your future opportunities.
We hope that you find your studies with the School enjoyable and intellectually rewarding.
Professor Adrian Little
Head, School of Social and Political Sciences
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Anthropology and Development Studies
Study the diverse ways that people today interact, organise and find meaning in their lives. Explore the processes of social, economic, political and cultural change that underlie poverty, inequality and insecurity in the contemporary world.
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Criminology
Examine crime and the various social responses to it. Improve your understanding of crime and deviance, and map the social and criminal justice policy implications.
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Gender Studies (Interdisciplinary program)
The Gender Studies program at The University of Melbourne offers students the potential to learn about issues such as sexual difference, gender equity, queer politics, and sexuality, from a variety of thought-provoking and provocative perspectives.
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Political Science
Study the main issues, ideas, institutions and actors that dominate local, national and international politics. Expand your knowledge on democratic theory and human rights, public policy, Indigenous and environmental politics, globalisation and international relations.
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Sociology, Social Policy and Social Theory
Investigate the complexity and breadth of living in today's societies. Challenge your understanding and assumptions about what it means to live with others.
- Research collaborators
The School has established many vital links with community and industry groups in Australia including the Brotherhood of St Laurence.
- Research projects
A list of all current research projects, as well as past projects from as far back as the early 2000s. For detailed examples of major projects, visit employment services research projects or the Minutes of Evidence project.
- Research publications
A comprehensive list of publications from 2011 and 2012. Publications for the previous year are updated in May.
- Graduate research
Information for prospective students and those currently enrolled in a PhD or Masters by Research program.
- Undergraduate
Information for current undergraduate students including essay writing guides and citation styles, cover sheets, minor thesis due dates, policy, and the On Country field trip subject.
- Honours
Information for current Honours students including essays and assignments, extensions, the minor thesis, and policy documents can be found here.
- Graduate coursework
Information for current graduate coursework students including essay writing guides and citation styles, cover sheets, minor thesis due dates, and policy.
- Graduate research
Information for prospective students and those currently enrolled in a PhD or Masters by Research program.
- Internships
Information for students interested in applying for the Parliamentary Internship program, Public Affairs Internship program and Masters of Development Studies Internship program.
- Scholarships and prizes
The School of Social and Political Sciences offers a range of awards to provide scholars with opportunities for development and research.