Australian National University (ANU)
3 years full-time
The Bachelor of International Relations is a three-year undergraduate program that equips students with world-class training to understand complex global affairs. Ideal for aspiring diplomats, policy analysts, and international business professionals seeking careers in government, business, or research.
Applicants must meet minimum academic requirements including an ATAR of 85 or International Baccalaureate score of 33. Domestic applicants need completion of the Australian Senior Secondary Certificate of Education or equivalent, while international applicants must have completed recognized secondary or tertiary study. All applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency. Previous higher education, vocational qualifications, or work and life experience may also be considered for admission.
The program requires 144 units of study across three years. Core curriculum includes Introduction to Politics, Introduction to International Relations Foundations and Concepts, and Introduction to Data and Methods for Political Science. Students study International Relations Theory, International Political Economy, War and International Relations, and Global Cooperation and Institutions. Advanced study includes Foreign Policy Analysis, The Politics of Empire, Norms and International Law, International Terrorism, and Human Rights. Additional specializations cover geopolitics, regional studies (Asia-Pacific, Middle East, Pacific), security studies, and transdisciplinary problem-solving courses. Electives allow students to explore computing, history, marketing, and other disciplines.
ANU is Australia's national university and ranks among the world's finest institutions. The university is a leader in International Relations with nearly 100,000 alumni including political, business, government, and academic leaders globally. ANU's program combines rigorous academic training with practical experience in policy analysis and data literacy, preparing students for the complex, analytics-focused world of international affairs.
Graduates pursue diverse careers in government, business, and non-profit sectors. Career opportunities include foreign affairs analysis, international business, trade, journalism, research, and policy development. The degree prepares students for roles in diplomacy, international organizations, government agencies, multinational corporations, NGOs, and academic institutions. Many graduates work in analytics, strategic planning, and international development roles globally.