International Relations - A2020

Do you want to influence world affairs? Do you want to help build a more secure and just international system? If you are someone who wants to be part of building a better political future, the Bachelor of International Relations will equip you to analyse the ways power and politics shape how we live, and to use this knowledge to make a difference.

Discover Your Path to Impact: Degrees in Global Relations, Politics & Economics.
Clayton: Thursday May 22, 2025. 

Wondering which degree to choose: Global Studies; International Relations; or Philosophy, Politics + Economics? Discover how each program offers a unique global perspective. Hear from alumni, students, and scholars tackling today's and tomorrow's big issues and making a positive impact in the world.


Register for the information session

What is a Bachelor of International Relations?

The Bachelor of International Relations is a three-year specialist degree that allows you to concentrate on studying power, governance, conflict, and cooperation at various levels from local to global. Taught by experts in international relations and politics, this course helps you understand how politics impacts our lives; teaches you to analyse power dynamics; giving you the skills to make positive changes in the world.

Jobs with an International Relations degree?

This degree prepares you for impactful careers in international relations, addressing important global issues. It empowers you to analyse reasons behind conflicts, propose solutions, and advise governments and civil societies. Careers span diverse sectors, some examples of organisations and roles include:

  • Government organisations: Intelligence analysts ensure national security in agencies such as the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), the Office of the Minister for Immigration and Border Protection and the Australian Federal Police.
  • Non-government organisations (NGOs): Business consultants assist companies, such as Oxfam and Save the Children, in strategic decisions, focusing on philanthropy and foreign aid.
  • Intergovernmental organisations: Chief policy officers guide policy development in entities like the United Nations.
  • Multinational corporations: International partnerships managers in companies like Ernst & Young (EY) and Deloitte, facilitate strategic alliances in businesses and media outlets.
  • Diplomacy: Diplomatic service officers in departments like the Attorney General’s Department and the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, promote and protect national interests worldwide, shaping foreign policy.

At a glance

Subject prerequisites
English Maths Sciences / Other
Tick N/A N/A
View specific scores and subjects

Course Details

Location
  • On-campus at Clayton: Full time & part time
Duration
  • 3 years (full time)
  • 6 years (part time)
Start date
 First semester (February)
Second semester (July)
Qualification
 Bachelor of International Relations
Fees

Information about fees

Course Handbook

What will you learn?

In the Bachelor of International Relations you will study:

  • foreign policy,
  • security studies,
  • international political economy, and
  • global governance.

You will also learn to interpret political dynamics across multiple levels of human affairs.

In addition to core foundational knowledge including the option of an international study tour, you will choose to specialise in one of five streams, with the opportunity to use your free electives to pick up an additional stream.

Your specialist knowledge streams are:

  • Peace, conflict and security;
  • Policy and governance;
  • Comparative politics;
  • Development, rights and gender; and
  • Climate futures.

Entry Requirements

Entry Requirements (Domestic students)

There are many ways to be considered for entry to a Monash University degree depending on your educational background and history. The below options reflect the academic requirements for the different applicant categories (or the highest level of education previously completed) to be considered for this Monash course. All applicants must satisfy equivalence of the VCE subject prerequisites or equivalent tertiary units including the English language requirements.

Qualifications

Equivalent Australian Year 12

Alternative qualifications and prerequisites

For other domestic and international qualification entry requirements and scores for this course use the study credit and admissions eligibility search.

English requirements

Applicants must also meet the English language requirements.

University entrance requirements

Minimum entrance requirements for admission to Monash University Australia.

The course is structured in three parts.

Partner with another course

Double degree courses allow you to study towards two different degrees at the same time, and graduate with two separate qualifications. And because a required subject in one course can count as an elective in the other, our double degrees take up to two years less than if you studied for the two degrees separately.

Making the application

Future students

Semester one (February)

Applications for on campus studies should be made online through the Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre

Apply through VTAC

Semester two (July)

Applications for on campus studies should be made online through the Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre

Apply through VTAC

Current Monash students

You may apply to transfer from another Monash course. Transfers are a competitive process. You may apply mid-year for available courses however consideration will be given as to whether you will be able to follow your course progression.

Please note that if you apply for a course transfer, you should still enrol in your current course as if you were continuing so as not to jeopardise your enrolment in the Faculty if your transfer application is unsuccessful. More about Course Transfer...

Self assess for credit eligibility

Check for study credit using the "Credit search" link on the Credit for prior study page

Fees

Fees are subject to change annually.

Commonwealth supported place (CSP)

The average annual student contribution amount for 2025 is:

A$15,500

Note: see information on how fees are calculated.

Fee assistance

As a Commonwealth supported student, you may be able to either:

Full fee

Fees are per 48 credit points which represents a standard full-time course load for a year. The fees for 2025 are:

A$32,200

Scholarships

We offer over 360 types of scholarships, valued at up to $280,000. Some scholarships offer one-off payments while others continue for the length of your course. Learn more about Monash Scholarships.

Other fees

The Student Services and Amenities Fee applies to some students each calendar year.

Jerry Ngyuen
HEAR FROM OUR GRADUATES

“At Monash, passion meets purpose at every step. The vibrant student community we have built at the Monash International Affairs Society alongside classes taught by leading international relations professors meant our learning extended beyond the lecture room. From global study trips to local events, this degree opened the door to unforgettable experiences and connections.”

JERRY NGUYEN

Bachelor of Global Studies (International Relations and Politics) graduate; Monash International Affairs Society - 2023 President.

Why study International Relations at Monash?

  • Top 1% in the world

    Monash is highly ranked for humanities and social sciences, placing us in the top 1% worldwide and offering you a globally recognised education.

  • Global University

    With students from over 170 countries, and a presence in Australia, Italy, Malaysia, India, Indonesia and China, you’ll benefit from a truly global education.

  • Unique overseas study experiences

    As a Bachelor of International Relations student, you'll have access to many overseas study opportunities including: a Study Tour in Prato, Italy, exploring the challenges facing the European Union; and the Monash Global Immersion Guarantee.

  • Internships

    All of our degrees offer Industry Experience internships, in Australia or overseas. Gain invaluable hands-on professional experience and industry connections as you earn credit towards your degree.

  • Flagship events & opportunities

    Choosing to study the Bachelor of International Relations at Monash means you'll be taught by world-class experts and have access to several curated events, such as seminars from guest speakers, roundtables from practitioners, and career networking events.

  • Monash International Affairs Society (MIAS)

    Become a member of MIAS to connect with like-minded students who are passionate about international affairs and relations.

  • DID YOU KNOW?

    In your third year, you can apply for the chance to be one of only 13 students selected for a prestigious internship at the Parliament of Victoria! This immersive, hands-on experience allows you to work alongside influential politicians and top academics, gaining practical insights into politics and international relations. As part of the internship, you’ll also craft a 6,000-word public policy research report, which will be housed in the Parliamentary Library after assessment—an impressive and valuable addition to your academic portfolio!