Study with the Department of Politics, Media and Philosophy

The Department of Politics, Media and Philosophy offers degrees and majors at La Trobe University’s Melbourne campus, as well as online.

We teach our students transferable skills like critical thinking, problem-solving and research methods so that they are equipped to address the complex political, ethical and social issues facing our world today.

Our courses offer pathways to careers in the public service, diplomacy and international relations, in policy analysis, consultancy and advocacy, and media and communication.

Courses

Politics courses

Politics courses

Learn more about the institutions, processes, beliefs and cultures that societies have developed for settling conflict, ordering priorities and distributing wealth.

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Global studies courses

Global studies courses

Look at international cooperation and conflict. Analyse the dynamics of power, sovereignty and security, exploring transformational changes in 21st century international relations

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Media and communication courses

Media and communication courses

Look behind the headlines and investigate the social, ethical, legal and technological questions that confront producers every day. Learn to tell stories in any medium.

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Philosophy courses

Philosophy courses

Explore human thought, behaviour and existence. Develop the skills to analyse issues like human freedom, how we acquire knowledge and values, religion and society’s evolution.

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Gender, sexuality and diversity studies courses

Gender, sexuality and diversity studies courses

Explore identity and its relationship to gender, sexuality, ethnicity, nationality, class and disability, and be exposed to a rich history of difference and diversity.

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Graduate research degrees

Graduate research degrees

Become a graduate researcher. Join a vibrant community that makes significant contributions to our society and is serious about supporting graduate researchers.

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RISE with La Trobe

RISE with La Trobe

Are you an Indigenous high school student or prospective mature age student? Our RISE with La Trobe Indigenous pathways program prepares you for university study.

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Student experience

Our students have diverse backgrounds and identities. Together, we are learning to understand the world in all its complexity and make a positive difference to the communities we serve.

We deliver an outstanding learning experience that helps students to find their voice and forge careers that make a real difference to our world.

Our staff have won teaching awards and our subjects are regularly among those with the highest student satisfaction ratings in the School of Humanities and Social Sciences.

Our student societies provide further opportunities to connect. The La Trobe International Relations Association and the Politics, Philosophy and Economics Society are vibrant hubs where students can engage with their peers through regular events and lectures.

Professional experience

Our students put their theoretical learning into practice through industry placements and internships.

Students in our Bachelor of Media and Communication, for example, can complete internships with media organisations, sports clubs, community groups and businesses. These internships may lead to full-time employment after graduation.

Our politics major gives students opportunities to complete placements in the Victorian Parliament or a range of non-government organisations.

A global perspective

The Department of Politics, Media and Philosophy is globally connected. Our academic staff are experts on countries such as China, Russia, Indonesia, India and the Philippines, and we work closely with partners in Australia and abroad.

Our students can access a range of global opportunities including field trips, student exchanges and study tours funded by the New Colombo Plan Mobility Program. Our students have been awarded New Colombo Plan scholarships to study in countries such as Indonesia, Singapore and South Korea.

Find out more about our exchange programs.