Introduction
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.
Admission Requirements
Requirements
Admission to this course is based on an entrance rank. A rank can be achieved by the following means:
- Year 12 ATAR
- other Australian Qualification
- work experience
- overseas qualification
We also offer a number of entry initiatives that give you the opportunity to gain entry to the University via alternate pathway programs and admissions schemes.
More information is available on our Alternative Entry page: http://www.canberra.edu.au/future-students/applications/apply-now/alternative-entry
Information on admission closing dates can be found here.
Credit Arrangements
Credit arrangements (if available) for this course can be found on the University's Credit Search website.
English Language Requirements
Academic IELTS of 6.0 or equivalent, with no band score below 6.0
Fees
Information for Fee Paying Students
Year | Domestic | International |
---|---|---|
2021 | CSP | $32,300 |
The fees detailed above are the annual fee rates for the course. The annual rate is the fee that applies to standard full-time enrolment, which is 24 credit points. The final fee charged is based on the proportion of 24 credit points in which a student enrols. Students enrolled in a Commonwealth Support Place (CSP) are required to make a contribution towards the cost of their education, which is set by the Commonwealth Government. Information on Commonwealth Supported Places, HECS-HELP and how fees are calculated can be found here.
Typical Study Pattern
Course Information
Course Requirements
In addition to course requirements, in order to successfully complete your course you may need to meet the inherent requirements. Please refer to the inherent requirements statement applicable to your course.
Course Duration
Standard six semesters full-time or equivalent. Maximum twenty semesters.
Unit Delivery Modes
Each unit within your course may be offered through the following delivery modes:
UC - Canberra, Bruce
Flexible: | The unit combines online study with optional on-campus, face to face activities. |
Intensive: | The unit is delivered on-campus and face to face in concentrated time blocks. |
Placement: | The unit involves an internship, practicum or other work place experience program. Some on-campus, face to face activity may also be required. |
On Campus: | The unit is delivered on-campus and face to face, supplemented with online content. Most classes are run on weekdays and during business hours. |
Online: | The unit is studied completely online. On-campus, face to face interaction is not required. |
Check how each of your units are delivered in the Course Requirements section.
Admission Periods
Year | Location | Domestic | International |
---|---|---|---|
2021 | UC - Canberra, Bruce | Semester 1 Semester 2 |
Semester 1 Semester 2 |
2022 | UC - Canberra, Bruce | Semester 1 Semester 2 |
Semester 1 Semester 2 |
2023 | UC - Canberra, Bruce | Semester 1 Semester 2 |
Semester 1 Semester 2 |
Assumed Knowledge
None.
Awards
Award(s) | Official Abbreviation |
---|---|
Bachelor of Politics and International Relations | B Politics&IntlRel |