Security is about creating environments where people feel safe and free to flourish without fear.
From cyber threats, terrorism and territorial disputes to domestic conflicts and insurgencies, security issues have never been more complex.
Whether you want to start, advance or pivot your international security career, we’ll help you contribute to a safer future for societies worldwide.
Learn to analyse risks, develop strategic responses and lead discussions on global security. Gain skills in diplomacy, negotiation, conflict resolution and crisis management. Access an international network of peers, researchers and industry experts. Nurture your resilience and adaptability for personal and professional success.
Our Bachelor of International Relations is designed and taught by active researchers in the field. You’ll explore the many complexities of global affairs, Australian foreign relations and international cooperation.
The International Security major deep-dives into regional and global security challenges, particularly those affecting Australia and its allies in the Indo-Pacific. You’ll unpack traditional and non-traditional security threats, including military conflicts, terrorism, cyber warfare and environmental security.
You’ll develop crucial analytical and strategic thinking skills. Network with experts through seminars and industry internships. Advance your cultural awareness and ethical judgement.
Participate in simulations that mirror real-world crises, preparing to make informed decisions under pressure.
You’ll graduate with advanced skills to assess and address complex regional and international security threats. You’ll be ready for dynamic careers in diplomacy, foreign affairs, defence policy, intelligence and security analysis.
Explore international security issues through in-depth case studies. Use simulations to practise negotiation and crisis decision-making. Engage with foreign policy experts, industry leaders and researchers in the field. Enhance your strategic thinking and security analysis skills. Gain hands-on guidance and professional networks through an industry internship. Broaden your global security insights with study tours and exchanges. Adelaide University’s Bachelor of International Relations is interdisciplinary. Our courses draw on political science, economics, history, international law, sociology, philosophy, human geography, environmental studies and media studies. You’ll gain insights into global diplomacy, politics and trade partnerships. We specifically spotlight Australia's role in the Indo-Pacific. You’ll study the geopolitical tensions and economic policies affecting this crucial region.
Join seminars hosted by experts in foreign affairs. Contribute to debates and analyses of complex geopolitical issues. Learn from diverse international peers with differing perspectives. Study global governance, comparative politics, democratic and authoritarian systems and practical and moral dilemmas facing policymakers. Sharpen your research and analytical skills and critically reflect on your own viewpoints.
You’ll learn from accomplished scholars, including two editors-in-chief of Australia's premier international relations journal, the Australian Journal of International Affairs. If you excel in your studies, you may even have opportunities to work on cutting-edge research through summer scholarships.
In the International Security major, you’ll analyse a range of geopolitical and security issues around the world. You’ll develop your technical knowledge and problem-solving through case studies covering wars, conflicts, emancipatory struggles, colonialism and the establishment of international systems.
You’ll take specialised courses, including:
Through lively debates, practical case studies, simulations and group discovery projects, you’ll learn about:
We place a strong emphasis on career readiness, preparing you for the working world with professional planning courses and a 15-day internship. You’ll also have opportunities to join overseas study through international tours and exchanges.
The Bachelor of International Relations is also available with majors in:
Or, with a major in another language, such as:
Complete 144 units comprising:
Complete 66 units comprising:
| Course name | 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 name | 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 name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Introduction to International Security
|
Course code
POLI1009
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Security, Justice and Rights
|
Course code
POLI1010
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Terrorism and Global Politics
|
Course code
POLI2007
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Strategic Cultures and Grand Strategies in the Indo-Pacific
|
Course code
POLI2008
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Decolonising Security
|
Course code
POLI2009
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Threatening Periphery: Global Security and State Marginalisation
|
Course code
POLI3018
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Security in Asia: Managing Critical Challenges in Australia’s Backyard
|
Course code
POLI3019
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
International Negotiations and Crisis Decision Making
|
Course code
POLI3020
|
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 name | 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
|
You’ll be equipped to pursue careers in a range of strategic organisations, from Australia’s Department of Defence to the United Nations.
You might become a defence analyst, assessing risks and proposing plans to prevent conflicts. You could develop security protocols for national governments or international organisations. Perhaps you’ll advise on policy, working closely with international agencies to promote global peace and stability.
You could also be a:
Or, consider pursuing a master's – and even PhD – to multiply your expertise and job prospects.
Australia needs people with skills in diplomacy, defence strategy and regional security analysis. Security and cybersecurity jobs, as well as jobs in partnerships and alliances are included in the top 100 fastest growing roles worldwide (World Economic Forum, 2023).
There is also a promising labour market in the defence sector of South Australia, which is home to over 300 world-class defence industry and infrastructure companies across the maritime, aerospace, land, systems and cyber industries (Government of South Australia, 2024). Many of these have their headquarters – or at least significant operations – in the state, right next to Adelaide University.
Graduate with some of the most relevant and in-demand qualities needed in the modern workforce, including analytical, creative thinking and leadership skills (World Economic Forum, 2023). Be equipped with everything you’ll need to launch a successful international security career.
Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.
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:
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.
You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.
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.
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:
