Major overview
International relations is a dynamic, multi-disciplinary field that investigates the social, economic and environmental relationships between different political bodies.
This course provides you with an understanding of the complexities involved in global issues, through a range of analytical frameworks of political theory, international relations theory, foreign policy, strategic studies and political history.
You’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of the actors, institutions, and processes of international politics and organisations. You will also develop skills in critical analysis, problem-solving and written and oral communications – skills that underpin influential careers in international relations.
How to study this major
A major is a set of eight or more units you complete as part of a degree, including at least two in your final year. To study this major, you’ll need to apply for one of the degrees listed below.
Career outcomes
Careers
- Diplomat
- Embassy/Consulate/High Commission Officials
- Intelligence Analyst
- Signals Analyst
- International Trade Policy
- Strategic Policy Analyst
- Cyber-Security Analyst
- Research Officer
- Public Servant
- Law Enforcement
- Defence Force Officer
- UN Political Affairs
- Human Rights Advocate
- Multicultural Affairs Liaison
- Journalist
- Political Scientist
- Teacher
Industries
- State and Commonwealth Government
- International Non-Government Organisations
- International Trade
- International Development
- Think-Tanks
Why study at Curtin?
Transferable skills
Humanities courses teach transferable skills for international careers.
Global Education
You’ll have access to a range of international study opportunities.
Work experience
Develop your skills on an international study tour.
Major structure
What you’ll learn
In this course, you will study the art of diplomacy and policymaking, geopolitical change, and national and regional security in military, political and geo-economic contexts.
Political and regional globalisation are explored in-depth, with an emphasis on the Indo-Pacific. International trade, environmental change, resource management and human rights issues are also examined.
As a Curtin student you could participate in an international study tour, such as Timor Leste and India Sustainable Human Environments Practicum, and you could also do an internship, such as Parliamentary Internships, Disarmament Internships & Human Rights Internships (Australian Permanent Mission in Geneva), and the US Consulate Internship Program.
Detailed course structure and unit information
For detailed information and course structure, visit our Handbook.
Study combinations
International relations is offered as part of the Bachelor of Arts. You can enhance your studies with a secondary major or choose from a range of elective units to support your career goals.
When coupled with Business Law or Economics you can complete this major as part of the Bachelor of Commerce.
You can also study this major as part of a Bachelor of Laws, Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Commerce double degree.
How to apply
This major is part of a degree. To apply, choose the degree you want to study and review its entry requirements. Then, prepare any required documents and submit your application before the deadline for your chosen intake.
After you receive and accept your offer, you can enrol in this degree either at the start of your degree or later in your studies, depending on your course structure.
Choose your degree
To study this major, you'll need to apply one of the degrees listed below.Explore more
Find more resources to help you take the next step in your Curtin journey.