International Relations Courses in Australia

Introduction to studying an international relations degree

International relations courses in Australia discuss the interactions between states, countries, and non-governmental organisations, including politics, economics, and security. Typically spanning three years for a bachelor's degree, students can expect to study topics such as international law, diplomacy, global governance, conflict resolution, and regional studies. Internships, study abroad programs, and language courses are readily available to enhance practical skills and cultural understanding, fostering a well-rounded education in international relations.

Australian universities' diverse and inclusive nature provides a unique environment for students to discuss global issues and gain a global perspective. The degree will equip students with strong analytical, communication, and research skills, making them attractive to employers in government agencies, non-profit organizations, international corporations, think tanks, and media outlets.

Upon completing an international relations degree in Australia, graduates can pursue rewarding career opportunities across various sectors. Typical employers include government departments and agencies dealing with foreign affairs and trade, international non-governmental organizations (NGOs), multinational corporations, research institutes, and media outlets. International relations graduates may find roles as diplomats, foreign affairs analysts, policy advisors, international development specialists, or corporate consultants, leveraging their deep understanding of global issues and diplomatic relations in a dynamic and interconnected world.

Types of International Relations Degrees in Australia

Many Australian Universities offer various international relations courses. The curriculum is curated by recognised experts who are well-taught in international relations theory, security, comparative politics, migration, and North-Southeast Asian politics. Here is the list of the degrees available in the Australian region. 

Bachelor of International Relations

The Bachelor of International Relations in Australia is a practice-oriented and professional program that provides conceptual knowledge and a real-world understanding of global challenges. The course will give you a deeper understanding of political, legal, economic, and historical perspectives. With a Bachelor of International Relations, you’ll have the knowledge and skills to work in various organisations and areas. Some career opportunities include diplomat, policy analyst, chief executive officer, and journalist. 

• Course duration: three years
• Course fees: $48,035
• Entry requirements: higher education studies and English language proficiency test

Master of International Relations

A Master of International Relations is a postgraduate degree that will develop your critical thinking and analytical skills in international security, social justice, and poverty issues. You will also learn to analyse complex global problems, build expertise in policy analysis, and engage with professionals in the field. Ultimately, you will complete a capstone project or a year-long dissertation and complete elective units as per the course requirements.  After completing a master of international relations in Australia, the degree equips you with a career in consulting, diplomacy, immigration, risk management, and government.

• Course duration: two years
• Course fees: $49,500
• Entry requirements: bachelor’s in international relations or relevant discipline with an English proficiency test

Scholarships

Jobs and Careers

Graduates in international relations can work in various fields, including government, non-profit organisations, and international organisations. Some popular career options are diplomat, intelligence analyst, political analyst, and global communications specialist. Graduates who want to conduct research and make a difference in the world can also opt for master’s or doctoral programmes, which will teach you and maintain positive diplomatic relations between the countries and prevent international conflicts. Xareer paths include being a professor, diplomat, and lobbyist. 

To have a successful international relations career, develop the right skills, such as learning foreign languages and upgrading your communication skills, creativity, and problem-solving skills. 

Salary

International relations is an intriguing and highly demanding subject that helps you develop and understand how people and societies work together. Students with a degree in IR can get into careers like diplomats and policy analysts, with an average salary of $ 75,512 annually, which is $37.19 hourly. The salary depends on experience, skills gained, and job location. The average pay scale for an entry-level position (with one to three years of experience) is around $72,512-  $90,023. On the other hand, experienced-level workers (with five to eight years) can make up to $106,282 annually. 

Top Universities for International Relations in Australia

To learn more about the best international relations universities in Australia, find details on the top ranking International Relations programs in the EduRank Guide 2024 below:

Study International Relations in Australia

If you want to learn more about studying for an international relations degree at an Australian university, arrange a free consultation with SI-Australia today.

FAQ

What are the admission requirements for international relations courses in Australia?

International applicants applying for international relations courses in Australia must meet specific requirements mentioned by the university. For a bachelor’s, the candidate must have completed higher education and an English language proficiency test, such as IELTS or TOEFL. For a master’s, the applicant must have completed a bachelor’s in a relevant discipline with an English proficiency test.

What is the typical duration of international relations courses in Australia?

The course duration for a Bachelor of International Relations is three years, and for a Master’s is two years. However, Australian universities also provide part-time degree programs in International Relations, mainly four to six years, depending on the credit scores and degree chosen. 

What are the career prospects after completing international relations courses in Australia?

Graduates of international relations can opt for various career options. One can get into different fields, from non-profit organisations to government agencies to educational institutions. Some career opportunities are policy analyst, diplomat, partnership specialist, and intelligence analyst.