Politics & International Relations

If you want to pursue a career in politics, become a diplomat or be a part of Government policymaking, The University of Notre Dame Australia’s Bachelor of Arts with a Major in Politics and International Relations is your degree. As the world becomes more interconnected and traditional alliances shift and fragment, Australia’s political institutions are under more significant pressure. Our degree will teach you about Australia’s political history, its decision-making procedures and how we operate on the international stage.

Why study this major?

• Studying Australian politics and international relations is valuable training for anyone who wishes to pursue a career in politics, diplomacy, journalism, and Governmental policymaking. You will cover a wide range of issues you might encounter in your career. This includes exploring terrorism, climate change, the global economy, media and politics and Australia’s foreign policy.
• This three-year degree is divided into three main streams: Australian Politics, International Relations, and Political Theory. While all students acquire a thorough knowledge of Australia’s political institutions in the first year, you will have the opportunity to pursue more specialist topics in Years Two and Three, with options including US Foreign Policy, The Middle East, Terrorism and Intelligence and Australian Foreign Policy.
• Upon graduation, you will have a sophisticated understanding of Australian politics and the world of international diplomacy. Furthermore, the superior research, analytical, and communication skills you accrued during the program will put you in good stead in the workplace.
• Politics & International Relations is available as a Major and Minor in the following programs, including double-degree variations:
• Bachelor of Arts
• Bachelor of Behavioural Science
• Bachelor of Communications and Media (second Major and Minor)
• Bachelor of Science (Minor only)

Learning outcomes

• Upon successful completion of the Bachelor of Arts graduates should be able to;
• Demonstrate broad theoretical and practical knowledge, with depth in the underlying principles and concepts of one or more disciplines or practice areas
• Identify appropriate sources and evaluate information
• Demonstrate an awareness of different conceptual approaches and/or research methods
• Demonstrate the technical skills, professional skills and ethical practice required by one or more disciplines
• Synthesise knowledge and apply skills in order to solve complex problems
• Communicate arguments and/or ideas in a range of forms
• Work independently and, where appropriate, in collaboration with others
• Reflect upon personal knowledge, skills and experiences