James Cook University

Bachelor of Arts (Politics and International Relations)

Nationally Recognised Higher Education

Politics, sometimes also referred to as political science, involves the study of a state’s governance. This may include the study of policies, the political system and politicians themselves. Politics is particularly concerned with the function of power, and how it is used in particular ways to achieve outcomes. Studying politics will assist you in developing a broad knowledge base, as you will consider how economics, law, history and public relations intertwine to impact the functions of modern governments.

The study of international relations revolves around two interrelated concepts of cooperation and conflict. International relations specialists consider issues such as foreign policy making and diplomacy, states and ethnic groups, military force build-up and humanitarian intervention, peace building and preventive diplomacy, international aspects of human rights, international development, environmental degradation, and international migration and refugees. They may also examine how these issues in one country may have implications regionally or globally.

Delivery mode

James Cook University offers this course through the following delivery modes:

On campus

Work with instructors and classmates in a supportive and collaborative environment.


Locations
  • City Arcade, 383 Flinders Street, Townsville
  • 36 Shields Street, Cairns

Entry requirements

Domestic Students

  • There are no mandated entry requirements.

English language requirements

  • Band 1
  • English (Units 3/4,C)
  • IB Diploma: A total score stated on IB Diploma certificate. 24
  • IELTS 6.0 (no component lower than 6.0)
  • TOEFL (internet-based) 74 (no component less than 18)
  • Pearson (PTE Academic) 52 (no component less than 52)

You must have successfully completed 6 months of full-time study at a recognised higher education institution and received a minimum cumulative GPA of 4.9 out of 7.0, or minimum average results of approximately 65-70%.

You may be eligible to apply directly after high school and must provide your High School Certificate (or equivalent). These applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Additional requirements may apply.

Course fees

Estimated Fee* $0 - $42,000 $92,880 Fees are based on full-time study.
* Fees are indicative only and vary based on your circumstances and eligibility for government funding.
Standard Tuition:
$42,000
Standard Tuition:
$92,880
Full Fee Tuition:
$42,000
Full Fee Tuition:
$92,880
Enquire with James Cook University to find out more.
Study mode On Campus
Duration 3 Years
Estimated fee* $0 - $42,000 $92,880 Support may be available

Career opportunities

The Bachelor of Arts (Politics and International Relations) will prepare you for the following roles.

About James Cook University

As Australia’s only university established to focus on the issues of Northern Australia and the Tropics worldwide, JCU is dedicated to helping the world’s tropical regions to prosper.

Ranked in the top 2% of universities worldwide we are focused on addressing the critical challenges facing the tropics, in areas as diverse as Medicine, Dentistry, Marine Science, Nursing, Arts and Society.

Inspired by a research-rich environment, the significance of our endeavours is recognised globally by the most credible world university rankings providers. Our strong performance is assessed on quality, relevance and impact.

JCU was awarded 5 Stars for teaching and employability in the QS Stars Rankings for 2021 and 5 Stars for full-time employment, graduate starting salary and student teacher ratio by the Good Universities Guide for 2023.

Career-focused courses provide an exceptional student experience, led by industry professionals who are passionate about sharing their expertise, because experience has no substitute.