Bachelor of Politics and International Relations

Make a lasting contribution to our global community

Enrol in Australia’s only Bachelor of Politics and International Relations degree and gain a solid knowledge of the principles, concepts and issues that are shaping the world around us. You’ll explore present-day issues in politics and policy, including national security, the challenges of modern terrorism, the concept of democratically informed citizenship, and contemporary regional politics in both an Asia Pacific and global context.

During your time on the course, you’ll engage in focused discussions of major issues, such as counter-terrorism, human security, global governance, foreign aid, trans-national crime, war, energy security, regionalisation, cybercrime and the rise of populism. You’ll graduate able to demonstrate a high-level of theoretical and empirical analysis and interpretation of world events and issues, ready for an exciting future in politics or international relations.

Study a Bachelor of Politics and International Relations at UC and you will:

• study theories, institutions, policies and practices in the disciplines of politics and international relations in both a contemporary and historical context
• recognise and assess political change at a local, regional and international level
• apply in-depth knowledge of political science and international relations in a rapidly changing geo-political environment
• examine the political pressures and challenges that societies, governments, security forces and businesses currently face
• evaluate and apply a range of research methods and analytical techniques to enhance your critical thinking, communication and problem-solving abilities in an Australian and international context.

Work Integrated Learning

The structure and content of this degree has been informed by the needs of employers and industry specialists, making it relevant to successful employment and career outcomes. It includes Work Integrated Learning (WIL) opportunities in the form of internships, capstone units, workplace simulations and Study Abroad opportunities. The discipline-based professional practice units have been developed in association with the Australian Political Studies Association (APSA), The Australian Sociological Association (TASA) and the Academy of the Social Sciences in Australia (ASSA). The degree also has its own dedicated student association – PIRaNaS (Politics, International Relations and National Security).

Past student internship placements been undertaken with the Australian Civil-Military Centre, Australian Border Force, Centre of Defence and Strategic Studies, Australian Institute of International Affairs, Citadel Group Limited and Aspen Medical.

Career opportunities

• Member of parliament
• Public affairs consultant
• Political researcher
• Intelligence officer
• National security adviser
• Foreign policy adviser
• Border control adviser
• Surveillance officer
• Consular officer
• Political adviser
• Diplomatic service officer
• Political journalist
• Program director
• International development worker
• Campaign director

 Course-specific information

The Bachelor of Politics and International Relations is a degree that offers flexibility in terms of the subject areas explored. It can be constructed to investigate other disciplines, such as sociology, economics or justice studies, or those further afield, including law, business, commerce or management, while providing a major grounding in politics, international relations and national security. 

You can also extend your studies in politics, international relations and national security through an honours year, which includes both course work and thesis components.