Bachelor of Sustainability and Climate Change majoring in International Security

Undergraduate | 2026

Mode

On Campus

Start date

February, July

Campus

Adelaide City, Magill

Duration

3 year(s) full-time

Program code

BSUSC

Study as

Full-time

Indicative annual fees

$52,300

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

115760D

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 in an undergraduate diploma (AQF level 5) or higher.

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 Sustainability and Climate Change?

Make the world a safer, greener place to live in.

With global conflicts, cyber threats and climate change impacting national stability, our global landscape has become increasingly unpredictable. This is where international security plays a crucial role.

In our Bachelor of Sustainability and Climate Change majoring in International Security, you’ll examine two of today’s most pressing issues – climate change and international security.

You'll tackle big questions. What conflicts could arise over scarce resources like water? How can we address the threat of religious extremism? What are the driving forces behind national security risks like cybercrime?

Immerse yourself in thought-provoking topics. Analyse global negotiations, crisis decision-making, terrorism, ethics, security and justice from a worldwide perspective. Become a green-collar worker. Join the movement towards creating a safer and more sustainable planet.

Overview

Our Bachelor of Sustainability and Climate Change builds your understanding of why climate change is happening – and what you can do to combat it.

Explore how people influence – and are influenced by – climate systems. Enrich your understanding of sustainability principles. Learn how to drive green transitions in key industries. Build the skills to influence strategies, transforming the way we respond to global warming.

How are global capitalism, poverty and ecological issues connected? What are the different theoretical perspectives and debates concerning sustainability? How is nature conceptualised in policy-making?

In the International Security major, you’ll study the strategies and policies of the future. Engage with international security experts through guest lectures, workshops and internships. Cultivate the advanced skills to assess and address complex regional and international security threats. Learn how professionals in the field make life-changing decisions that influence nations and individuals.

You'll gain a deeper understanding of the ongoing security risks facing Australia and the Indo-Pacific. Build analytical and strategic thinking skills. Unpack international negotiations, terrorism, ethics, security and justice in Australia – and beyond.

Key features

Analyse global environmental politics and the pathways to a sustainable world.
Grow into an informed leader and advocate for the global push towards net zero emissions.
Examine how global political conflicts evolve.
Get better at research and analysis so you can come up with new and improved solutions to global issues.
Benefit from a real-world work placement and professional development while studying.
Understand the relationship between security and justice in the globalised world.

What you'll learn

Our three-year Bachelor of Sustainability and Climate Change majoring in International Security is interdisciplinary – drawing on environmental science, global politics, and social sustainability to paint the bigger picture.

In first year, you’ll study the fundamentals of climate change. Discover how natural forces and human actions shape climate change. Unpack its broader consequences, locally and globally.

By the second year, you’ll be implementing innovative solutions to climate change challenges. You'll build the skills to respond to key issues in the field and develop advanced communication strategies.

Your final year brings it all together in the real world. Hone your skills during a practical internship in an industry environment. Grow your professional confidence and get clear on where your career is heading.

In our International Security major, you’ll build a toolbox of transferable skills – from critical thinking and problem solving to report writing. Learn from simulations, practical workshops, group projects and case studies.

Study future-focused courses in areas such as:

Humanity in a changing climate
Culture, society, and climate change
Global environmental politics
Globalisation, justice and a crowded planet
Security, justice and rights
Terrorism and global politics
International negotiations and crisis decision-making.

Immerse yourself in the issues of global environmental politics. Explore the concept of ‘security,’ and the relationship between security and justice in the globalised world. Unpack the complexity of terrorism and warfare. Tackle the issues of globalisation, religious extremism, nuclear weapons, cybercrime, food security and environmental degradation.

Majors

Adelaide University’s Bachelor of Sustainability and Climate Change is also available with majors in the following:

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 Electives

Complete 66 units comprising:

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

	Course code	Units
Course name Understanding Complexities Impacting Families and Communities	Course code EDUC1003	Units 6
Course name First Nations Peoples and Knowledges and Culturally Responsive Teaching	Course code INDG4000	Units 6
Course name The Brain and Learning	Course code PSYC2007	Units 6

	Course code	Units
Course name Humanity in a Changing Climate	Course code ENVI1000	Units 6
Course name Fundamentals of Climate Change	Course code ENVI1001	Units 6
Course name Culture, Society and Climate Change	Course code ENVI1002	Units 6
Course name Global Environmental Politics	Course code POLI1005	Units 6
Course name Responding to Climate Change	Course code ENVI2001	Units 6
Course name Communicating Climate Change	Course code ENVI2002	Units 6
Course name Climate Change Policy	Course code ENVI3000	Units 6
Course name Climate Change and Sustainable Development	Course code ENVI3001	Units 6

Complete 48 units for ALL of the following:

	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 comprising:

18 units for all Free electives

Career outcomes

With climate change and global warming increasing over the past 20 years, the world needs leaders who can drive positive change. And with the ongoing threats of cybersecurity and terrorism, leaders need to understand the wide-reaching instability affecting organisations today.

Our Bachelor of Sustainability and Climate Change majoring in International Security empowers graduates to build satisfying careers in the sustainability and security sectors.

You could work in career roles such as:

Environmental analyst
Community development officer
Climate policy adviser
Policy officer
Environmental protection and compliance officer
International relations specialist
Foreign affairs analyst.

Take the lead as a ‘green-collar’ professional – informing government policy, implementing organisational compliance measures, analysing national security risks or supporting global climate strategies. Or, follow a different path and work for a research institution. Analyse global security and climate change issues – and the risks of inaction.

Industry trends

Forge a career with the Australian Government in international relations and diplomacy. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s graduate program in foreign policy and international security reflects a growing need for skilled diplomats and policy advisors in Australia (DFAT, 2024).

With Australia racing towards a 2050 net zero greenhouse gas emissions target as part of the Paris Agreement, the future of work looks promising for green-collar professionals (DCCEEW, 2024).

It’s predicted over 76,000 new roles will be needed in the renewable energy, ecosystem restoration and climate reduction sectors (Climate Council of Australia, 2024)(APS Jobs, 2023).

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: