Bachelor of International Relations majoring in Environmental Management

Undergraduate | 2026

Mode

On Campus

Start date

February, July

Campus

Adelaide City

Duration

3 year(s) full-time

Program code

BINTR

Study as

Full-time

Indicative annual fees

$41,300

Non-tuition fees

Prerequisite

None

Assumed knowledge

None

English language requirements

IELTS Overall 6.5 IELTS Reading 6.0 IELTS Listening 6.0 IELTS Speaking 6.0 IELTS Writing 6.0 Equivalent English qualifications

CRICOS code

115722K

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum entry requirements and demonstrate they fulfil any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission. In cases where there are more eligible applicants than available places, admission will be competitive with ranks based on the entry criteria.

Secondary education (Year 12)

Completion of a secondary education qualification equivalent to the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE).

Vocational Education and Training (VET)

Completion of an award from a registered training organisation (RTO) at Certificate IV (AQF level 4) or higher.

Higher education study

Successful completion of at least 6 months full-time study (or equivalent part-time) in a higher education award program.

English language entry requirements

In addition, international students who speak English as an additional language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at Adelaide University. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.

IELTS Overall 6.5
IELTS Reading 6.0
IELTS Listening 6.0
IELTS Speaking 6.0
IELTS Writing 6.0

Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by Adelaide University and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements:

Equivalent English qualifications

International admissions by country

Country	Requirement	Score
Australia	ATAR	75
Bangladesh	Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC)	4.85
China	Gaokao	65%
China	Maple Leaf Education Systems World School Program	67%
Global	International Baccalaureate	26
Hong Kong	Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE)	17
India	CBSE and CISCE	75
India	State Board Examinations	85
Indonesia	SMA III	78%
Kenya	Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE)	B+
Malaysia	Matrikulasi	2.78
Malaysia	Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM)	2.78
Malaysia	United Entrance Certificate (UEC)	20
Nepal	National Examinations Board (NEB)	3.01
Phillippines	High School Diploma (Grade 12) (Academic Track) K12	87%
Singapore	Singapore GCE Advanced Levels	8
Sri Lanka	GCE A Levels	9
Taiwan	GSAT %	65%
Thailand	Matayom 6	3.40
UK / Global	GCE Advanced Levels	8
UK / Global	NCUK	8
USA / Global	Advanced Placement (AP)	8
USA / Global	America College Test (ACT)	22
USA / Global	Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT)	1130
Vietnam	Bằng Tốt Nghiệp Trung Học Phổ Thôxwng (Vietnamese Year 12)	8

Why Bachelor of International Relations?

Humans have placed a heavy burden on Planet Earth. Climate change is leading to fights over water and land. Countries are grappling with resource scarcity. Environmental displacement and migration are on the rise.

These challenges transcend national borders. To address them, international cooperation is crucial. That’s where you come in.

This degree prepares you to steer environmental conversations on the world stage. You can contribute to informed debates, analyses and problem-solving. Ensure economic policies align with sustainability goals. Advocate for and implement lasting environmental change.

You’ll graduate ready to innovate in a field vital to the future of our planet, with in demand skills for an international career.

Overview

Our Bachelor of International Relations will teach you how countries collaborate, compete and make decisions on global issues. It combines political science, sociology, economics and – in our Environmental Management major – ecology.

How can we tackle challenges like climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution and deforestation? What international environmental standards should be set? How do we balance economic and environmental pressures?

You’ll learn how to negotiate environmental agreements – and explore strategies for implementing them effectively. Expand your knowledge of green economies, sustainable cities and food security. Have lively debates with international peers on global issues. Study international policies and their environmental implications. Learn how to lead on-the-ground action.

You’ll develop high level skills in critical thinking and analysis. Improve your research and communication skills. Discover potential career pathways through internship opportunities and connection with industry experts. Graduate ready to make the most of the global need for professionals with expertise in both international relations and environmental management.

Key features

Explore climate change, biodiversity, urbanisation and food security. 
Learn how to translate environmental knowledge into action.  
Build a global network of eco-minded peers, researchers and industry experts.
Solve real-world problems through simulations, case studies and field trips.
Benefit from career planning, mentoring and a 15-day internship.
Satisfy your travel bug through study tours and exchange programs.

What you'll learn

This three-year degree covers crucial contemporary developments in global politics, with a specific focus on the Indo-Pacific region and Australia’s position within it. You’ll explore globally relevant geopolitical tensions, economic integration, diplomatic strategies, trade relationships and security partnerships.

You’ll attend research seminars led by visiting scholars and foreign policy professionals. Enjoy lively debates on world events. Interrogate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the ethics of war and peace, humanitarian intervention and historical memory. Develop analytical and research writing skills. Unpack your personal values and biases.

Your learning will be informed by cutting-edge research. You’ll be taught by research-active scholars, including two editors-in-chief of Australia’s premier academic journal in international relations. High-achieving students may even have opportunities to benefit from summer research scholarships.

In the Environmental Management major, you’ll evaluate different methods for meeting the environmental challenges we face as a society. You’ll interact with people from all around the world, growing your cross-cultural understanding and learning from their unique approaches.

You’ll study future-focused courses, including:

Economy, environment and place
Physical geography and human environmental impacts
Environmental management
Climate change
Cities and sustainability
Tourism and environment
Introduction to environmental impact assessment
Food security.

Through investigations, case studies, simulations, field trips and collaborative group projects, you’ll explore:

Alternative pathways to green economies
Solutions to environmental problems – locally and globally
Degraded water systems in Australia and around the world
Aboriginal Peoples' management of the Australian landscape
Biodiversity loss, invasive species, wetlands, fire and forest management
How land and resource use goals are developed and contested
How to mitigate and adapt to the impacts of climate change
Consequences of urbanisation and the complex road to sustainable cities
The environmental, ecological and social impacts of tourism
How people interact with food and water systems.

We work hard to build your professional skills and connect you with industry. You’ll take career planning courses and undertake a 15-day internship in the field. Or, you can take off on an international study experience.

Majors

The Bachelor of International Relations is also available with majors in the following:

History
International Development
International Security
Politics
Population and Migration Studies.

What courses you'll study

Complete 144 units comprising:

66 units for Core courses, and
48 units for one Major from Majors, and
12 units for all Work integrated learning, and
18 units for all Electives

Complete 66 units comprising:

18 units for all Common core, and
48 units for all Program Core

	Course code	Units
Course name UG Common Core 1	Course code AUXX1000	Units 6
Course name UG Common Core 2	Course code AUXX2000	Units 6
Course name UG Common Core 3	Course code AUXX3000	Units 6

	Course code	Units
Course name Introduction to Global Politics	Course code POLI1001	Units 6
Course name Introduction to Comparative Politics	Course code POLI1002	Units 6
Course name Australia’s Foreign Policy in the Indo-Pacific	Course code POLI1003	Units 6
Course name The State of the World: Post Covid-19	Course code POLI1004	Units 6
Course name Global Environmental Politics	Course code POLI1005	Units 6
Course name Approaches in International Relations	Course code POLI2002	Units 6
Course name Global Political Economy	Course code POLI3012	Units 6
Course name Ethics of War and Peace	Course code POLI3013	Units 6

Complete 48 units for ALL of the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Economy, Environment and Place	Course code ENVI1003	Units 6
Course name Physical Geography and Human Environmental Impacts	Course code ENVI1010	Units 6
Course name Environmental Management	Course code ENVI2003	Units 6
Course name Climate Change	Course code ENVI2004	Units 6
Course name Cities and Sustainability	Course code ENVI2005	Units 6
Course name Introduction to Environmental Impact Assessment	Course code ENVI3003	Units 6
Course name Tourism and Environment	Course code ENVI3004	Units 6
Course name Food Security	Course code FARM3000	Units 6

Complete 12 units for ALL of the following:

Course name		Course code	Units
	Course name Professional Pathways and Destinations 2	Course code SOCI2019	Units 6
	Course name Society and Culture Internship	Course code SOCI3902	Units 6

Complete 18 units for ALL of the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Elective 1	Course code AUXX1011	Units 6
Course name Elective 2	Course code AUXX1012	Units 6
Course name Elective 3	Course code AUXX1013	Units 6

Career outcomes

You’ll graduate with a sought-after dual skillset, ready to work alongside policy makers, government and industry to tackle global challenges.

You could guide major organisations – or even countries – in their transition to renewable energy. You might excel in diplomacy and advocacy, negotiating for sustainable practices in international forums. Perhaps you’ll work your way up to Chief Environmental Officer for the United Nations.

You could also be a:

Environmental compliance officer
Sustainability consultant
Climate change analyst
Environmental policy advisor
Immigration officer
Mediator
Human rights officer
International marketing strategist
Cultural affairs officer
Media spokesperson
International development worker
Director of sustainability.

Or, pursue a master’s or PhD in either field to give yourself the best shot at global impact.

Industry trends

Environmental issues are more and more central to international relations and national security. Countries around the world, including Australia, are shifting efforts towards sustainability. Governments, NGOs and international bodies need skilled individuals who can tackle complex challenges spanning geopolitical and environmental domains.

More broadly, there will be rapid employment growth in the green sector over the next two decades, with an estimated 300 million new green jobs projected worldwide (Deloitte’s Work Toward Net Zero report, 2022).  

At Adelaide University, you’ll gain sought after creative thinking and analytical skills. You’ll be strategically positioned to harness career opportunities driven by the increasing legislative and policy focus on climate change and environmental management around the globe.

How to apply

Check your eligibility

Before you begin, find the degree you wish to study and check you meet the academic entry requirements and English language requirements.

Entry requirements

Gather your relevant documents

Ensure you have all supporting documentation needed at the time of application to avoid delays.

How to apply

Complete and send your application

Apply through one of the University’s official agency partners, or via our online application system.

Apply now

How to apply

Applications for international students are open now, to begin your studies in 2026.

Apply through one of the University’s official Education Agents, or via our International Application System.

Find an Education Agent

Depending on your country of citizenship, you may be required to apply through one of our Education Agents.

Find an education agent in your country

FAQs

Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.

Applications for Australian students to study at Adelaide University will open in August 2025. Applications will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs.

Applications to study a 100% online degree will open in July 2025 via a direct application process.

In the meantime, you could start your studies at UniSA or the University of Adelaide in 2025 and continue on to Adelaide University in 2026.

Adelaide University is South Australia’s largest university with seven campuses across the state. Adelaide City Campus is in the heart of the central business district (including eastern and western precincts), while our Magill, Mawson Lakes and Waite campuses are located within the inner suburbs of Adelaide. Our Mount Gambier, Roseworthy and Whyalla campuses are set in the regions of South Australia. Building on our digital and online learning successes, we aim to also deliver online education to more students than any other Australian university.

Each of our campuses is equipped with cutting-edge, discipline specific facilities, contemporary study spaces and well-resourced libraries. Our city and suburban campuses also feature on-site gyms and eateries, and health services on, or nearby, campus.

You will be well supported academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually with access to on-campus facilities and services such as counselling, learning support, childcare, prayer rooms and more.

You will be well supported through a range of services at Adelaide University to ensure you get the most out of your student experience. Support services include:

Academic learning support, spanning assistance with writing, referencing, mathematics and more.
Advice and advocacy regarding access, adjustments and inclusivity if you have a disability, impairment, chronic health condition or significant caring responsibilities.
Libraries providing flexible study spaces, access to books, computer suites and online resources – as well as referencing support, search tips and more.
Career development hub, including extensive self-help resources, online learning programs, on-campus events, workshops and networking, one-on-one advice, and job search support.
Qualified counsellors who can provide confidential support to manage your mental health and wellbeing.
On-campus medical clinics on-site where you can make an appointment with a General Practitioner to discuss acute and preventative health care matters.
Information and advice for international students regarding accommodation, student life, and academic policies and procedures.
An active and visible LGBTIQA+ Ally Network that ensures the University provides a supportive environment where all staff and students can safely work and study free of harassment or discrimination.
Prayer rooms on campus, including gender specific spaces for worship purposes.
Campus security available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to ensure all students feel safe on campus.
A range of scholarships offered to commencing and continuing students each year to make university life a little easier.
A number of social outlets including student lounges, gyms, student-led clubs, sports teams and free events throughout the year.

Your tuition fees will depend on your program of study and enrolment load. You can find the annual fees relevant to your program on the specific degree page under the ‘fees’ section. The annual fee payable for your chosen program will also be outlined in your Offer of Admission.

Adelaide University will open in January 2026. Your studies will start at different times depending on what study period you’ve applied for. Adelaide University is currently using a semester model, which means most degrees start in Semester 1. Some degrees are also available to start in mid-year, sometimes with a different degree structure. 

Studies at Adelaide University typically commence in:  

February for Semester 1  
July for Semester 2.

Some degrees, such as the Bachelor of Medical Studies and Master of Business Administration, will have different starting dates. View the relevant degree page for more detail. 

For other key dates, including census dates and exam periods, you can view the Academic calendar. 

View all FAQs

Your study experience and support

Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.

You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.

Student services

We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:

Career advice and mentoring services
Personal counselling
LGBTQIA+ support
Academic support
Fees and finance help
Security services
Accommodation services
Common rooms
Prayer rooms.

You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.

Your campus

You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.

This degree is offered at the following campus(es)

Study hours

Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.

Assessment

During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include: