Canberra School of Government
Welcome to the Canberra School of Government (CSG), we are composed of a diverse group of academics researching and teaching in Political Science, Economics, Public Policy, International Relations and National Security.
Our courses provide students with a strong foundation in the social sciences to prepare for careers across government, business, and civil society. CSG offers a common first year experience which helps students build cross-disciplinary connections, networks and friendships. For research students, our staff have a range of expertise and are interested in supervising PhD, Masters by research and Honours students across all of the disciplines covered by the School.
Pathways for purpose-led careers
We are currently offering the Bachelor of Politics and International Relations and Bachelor of Social and Economic Policy. We are introducing a new Bachelor of Government, which will include majors in economics; politics and international relations; and public policy and administration.
We provide training for public servants through our Australian Public Service (APS) graduate certificate programmes. Our staff also teach in the post-graduate degrees offered by the Canberra School of Business.
Research that creates impact
Our research analyses big questions that confront government, business and contemporary society and contributes to public debate. Many of our staff have extensive experience in the public sector or the armed forces. Our school research priority areas are:
- applied economics
- econometrics
- international relations and defence studies
- political science
- public sector organisation and management
Our location in the nation’s capital provides us with strong networks in government and policy-relevant businesses, and the key players in international relations. We draw on these connections to support our research and keep our teaching offerings up to date and relevant to today’s students.
Dr. John Hawkins
Head of School
#1 in Canberra for student experience and student support in Social Sciences. (Good Universities Guide, 2025)
#3 in the country for full-time employment in Social Sciences. (Good Universities Guide, 2025)
#4 in Australia for political science​ (Research.com, 2025)​
Last updated 21/08/2025