Introduction to Politics

Undergraduate | 2026

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Mode
Mode
Your studies will be on-campus, and may include some online delivery
On campus
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Area/Catalogue
POLI 4000
Course ID icon
Course ID
200777
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Campus
Adelaide City Campus East, Adelaide City Campus West, Magill
Level of study
Level of study
Undergraduate
Unit value icon
Unit value
6
Course owner
Course owner
School of Society and Culture
Course coordinator
Course coordinator
Kirsty Whitman
Course level icon
Course level
4
Work Integrated Learning course
Work Integrated Learning course
No
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Inbound study abroad and exchange
Inbound study abroad and exchange
The fee you pay will depend on the number and type of courses you study.
Yes
University-wide elective icon
University-wide elective course
Yes
Single course enrollment
Single course enrolment
Yes

Course overview

This course aims to develop a foundational understanding of key concepts, systems and ideologies that underpin the study of politics. At the summation of the course students will be equipped with an understanding of the field of politics through their exploration of power, the state, equality and justice, democracy, citizenship, liberalism, nationalism, fascism, Marxism and feminism. Using a range of theoretical approaches including classical, post-colonial, and post-structural approaches this course seeks to provide students with a sound understanding of the key concepts and theories they will expand on in their study of politics. 

  • The Foundations of Politics
  • Political Systems
  • Political Ideologies

Course learning outcomes

  • Discuss and communicate key concepts underpinning the study of politics and apply these concepts in relation to contemporary political events.
  • Identify political structures and systems and explore how they operate.
  • Develop critical thinking regarding power and how it operates in a range of political paradigms, both historical and contemporary.
  • Produce, in written and verbal communication, critically analytical and well substantiated arguments about politics.
  • Use research, including peer reviewed research, to develop both written and oral analysis and arguments regarding politics.
  • Communicate cross-culturally in a clear, inclusive and thoughtful manner with an understanding of and empathy to diverse beliefs, backgrounds and experiences.

Availability

Census date Icon
Census date
Fri 27/03/2026
Enrol by date
Enrol by date
Fri 13/03/2026
Last day to W
Last day to W
Fri 10/04/2026
Last day to WF
Last day to WF
Fri 08/05/2026

Class details

Adelaide City Campus East

Class number
Class number 25813
Section
Section WS01
Size
Size 80
Available
Available 80
Dates Days Time Campus Location Instructor
24 Feb - 14 Apr Tuesday 9:10am - 12pm Adelaide City Campus East Ligertwood, 231
5 May - 2 Jun Tuesday 9:10am - 12pm Adelaide City Campus East Ligertwood, 231
Class number
Class number 20751
Section
Section WS02
Size
Size 80
Available
Available 79
Dates Days Time Campus Location Instructor
26 Feb - 16 Apr Thursday 1:10pm - 4pm Adelaide City Campus East Ligertwood, 333
7 May - 28 May Thursday 1:10pm - 4pm Adelaide City Campus East Ligertwood, 333

Prerequisite(s)

N/A

Corequisite(s)

N/A

Antirequisite(s)

N/A

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The Student Contribution amount displayed below is for students commencing a new program from 2021 onwards. If you are continuing in a program you commenced prior to 1 January 2021, or are commencing an Honours degree relating to an undergraduate degree you commenced prior to 1 January 2021, you may be charged a different Student Contribution amount from the amount displayed below. Please check the Student Contribution bands for continuing students here. If you are an international student, or a domestic student studying in a full fee paying place, and are continuing study that you commenced in 2025 or earlier, your fees will be available here before enrolments open for 2026.