Bachelor of International Relations

Undergraduate | 2026

Mode

On Campus

Start date

February, July

Campus

Adelaide City Campus

Duration

3 year(s) full-time

Program code

BINTR

Study as

Full time or part time

Indicative annual fees

Commonwealth supported

Non-tuition fees

Prerequisite

None

Assumed knowledge

None

Entry scores

2025 CUT-OFFS Guaranteed entry score (ATAR-based):70 Guaranteed entry score (Grades-based):B,B,B

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.

Work and life experience

Completion of an Adelaide University approved enabling, pathway or bridging program; OR
A competitive result in the Skills for Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT); OR
Qualify for special entry

Note:

Please note that entry requirements for this degree are provisional and subject to change.

Why Bachelor of International Relations?

Secure an international career that really makes a difference.

A single event in one country can send waves across the globe, shaping our lives in unexpected ways. Studying international relations isn’t just about learning – it's about understanding how we're all interconnected and discovering how we can make a real impact.

Discover the excitement of exploring different countries, diverse cultures, global cooperation and conflicts, and Australia’s role on the world stage. Engage with issues that matter – climate change, human rights, and the power to drive positive change in international affairs and humanitarian efforts.

With the insights you gain, you'll be prepared to debate pressing world issues and pursue an international career where you can truly make a difference.

Overview

Step into the exciting world of international relations, where you’ll uncover insights into today’s critical global challenges and explore Australia’s essential role in the Indo-Pacific and its commitment to regional security. Discover how health crises shape global politics and how social media transforms diplomacy.

Take on real-world challenges, bridging diverse cultures and political systems. Experience a hands-on blend of theory with case studies and immersive simulations. Build your industry connections by collaborating with top researchers and experts.

Sharpen your critical thinking, research, and communication skills, and develop a deep cross-cultural awareness. With these tools, you’ll be ready to analyse complex geopolitical issues and craft informed policy responses.

If a career in diplomacy calls to you, you could make a meaningful impact in diplomatic service, international organisations or non-governmental organisations.

Key features

Explore the geopolitical and socio-economic issues facing our world.
Engage with research-focused scholars, industry experts and diverse international peers.
Develop debating, negotiation and conflict resolution skills.
Analyse real-world case studies and simulations.
Complete an internship focused on mentoring and networking.
Gain international experience through study tours and academic exchanges.

What you'll learn

Our Bachelor of International Relations will ignite your interest with these subjects:

Political science
Economics
History
Law
Sociology
Philosophy
Geography
Cultural studies
Environmental studies
Communication and media studies.

You'll examine emerging issues in the field, including geopolitical tensions, economic connections and security concerns. You'll cultivate a deeper appreciation of Australia’s diplomatic strategies, trade ties, and security partnerships.

Your future-focused learning experience covers issues like:

Power, statehood and sovereignty
Practical and moral dilemmas facing policymakers worldwide
Global governance and international law
Methods for comparing and critiquing major global powers
The global impact of pandemics
Global environmental politics
Theoretical approaches to understanding international relations
War, terrorism, humanitarian intervention and historical memory.

Connect with our active researchers and dedicated teaching staff, including editors of the prestigious Australian Journal of International Affairs, who are leading impactful research projects. This access to top academic minds will allow you to learn from and contribute to cutting-edge research in the field.

Attend seminars with visiting scholars and foreign policy experts, where you’ll engage in lively discussions on current events and reflect on your values. Build your cross-cultural empathy and global perspective.

Sharpen your professional goals in focused career planning courses. Develop your leadership skills and teamwork through collaborative projects. Apply theory in real-world contexts with hands-on simulations, internships, and field experiences – including a 15-day placement or an international exchange opportunity.

Majors

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

Environmental Management
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 one Major from the following:

Major name
	Major Chinese Studies
	Major Environmental Management
	Major French Studies
	Major German Studies
	Major History
	Major International Development
	Major International Security
	Major Italian Studies
	Major Japanese Studies
	Major Politics
	Major Population and Migration Studies
	Major Spanish Studies

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 Internship: Society and Culture	Course code SOCI3903	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

Upon graduation, you’ll be ready for exciting roles in diplomacy, foreign service, international organisations, not-for-profits, and international journalism. Your keen understanding of global political and economic shifts will be a sought-after skill across various fields.

Your capacity for diplomacy, advocacy, partnership-building, and policy analysis could guide you toward impactful roles with the United Nations, World Trade Organization, Department of Defence, or Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. You might also apply these skills in consulting or public relations, where strategic communication is key.

Be inspired by these potential careers:

Foreign service officer
International trade specialist
Immigration officer
Mediator
Human rights officer
International marketing strategist
National security agent
Cultural affairs officer
Economic development officer
Policy analyst
International relations consultant
International development worker.

Or continue your studies with a Master or PhD of International Relations to boost your career to the next level.

Industry trends

The COVID-19 pandemic ignited questions about major global issues – such as global health, food security, climate change, human rights, economic globalisation, and neoliberal capitalism.

A growing number of professions demand a deeper understanding of international relations. Adelaide University’s Bachelor of International Relations provides specialised knowledge in this field, developing your critical thinking, leadership qualities and digital literacy.

The World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs Report 2023 highlights top skills for the future, emphasising analytical and creative thinking, which are central to our program.

In South Australia, the defence sector also presents a promising labour market. Our state is home to over 300 world-class defence and infrastructure companies across maritime, aerospace, land, systems and cyber industries – offering a wealth of potential future careers.

Ready to apply?

Find your program

Discover the programs and explore the opportunities.

Explore our programs

Check the requirements

Look out for any prerequisite or assumed knowledge courses. Some degrees may have additional entry requirements.

Consider your preferences

To prepare for your future and to maximise your success consider adding additional preferences.

How to apply

Applications are open for Australian students to study at Adelaide University in 2026.

Not sure if you'll meet the entry requirements? Adelaide University offers a range of pathway options to help you start your study journey.

Explore Pathways

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: