The University of Melbourne

Bachelor of Arts (Politics and International Studies)

Nationally Recognised Higher Education

Learn about political issues, institutions, ideas, policies that dominate local, national and international agendas. This major includes the study of themes and debates from a variety of perspectives that include: democracy, identity, gender, the media, terrorism, policy-making, international conflict and cooperation, and the many faces of power including how it is exercised and contested. In today’s political environment, having with an in-depth understanding of global events is imperative.

Studying a major in politics and international studies can launch your career in the political arena, where you can work in policy and development, and government and diplomacy or in international organisations such as the United Nations. Your knowledge of global affairs could also make you an attractive candidate for roles in multinational business, where you’ll tactfully negotiate agreements.

Delivery mode

The University of Melbourne offers this course through the following delivery modes:

On campus

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


Locations
  • Grattan Street, Parkville

Entry requirements

Domestic Students

  • There are no mandated entry requirements.

All applicants to the University of Melbourne must satisfy the English language requirements, you can satisfy the English language requirements in a number of ways. If you have an English-speaking background or education, you need to check that you meet our requirements here. If you are not from an English-speaking background or education, you need to meet the English Language requirements through IELTS, TOEFL, Pearson Test of English (academic) or Cambridge English (CAE)

English Language Proficiency:

  • Units 3 & 4: A study score of at least 25 in English/English Language/ Literature or at least 30 in EAL.
  • TOEFL Internet-based test: total score of at least 79.
  • IELTS: total score of at least 6.5.
  • Pearson Test of English Academic: overall score of at least 58.
  • Cambridge English, Advanced/Certificate in Advanced English (CAE): Cambridge English Score of at least 176 with no skill below 169.
  • C2 Proficiency of at least 180 with no skill below 180.

Admission Criteria:

  • Completed secondary education recently (within the past two years).
  • Completed some or all of a higher education qualification.
  • Completed some or all of a VET qualification, Diploma or Advanced Diploma level
  • Applicants with work and/or life experience.
Additional requirements may apply.

Course fees

Estimated Fee* Unavailable
* Fees are indicative only and vary based on your circumstances and eligibility for government funding.
Enquire with The University of Melbourne to find out more.
Study mode On Campus
Duration 3 Years
Estimated fee* Unavailable

Career opportunities

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

Policy Adviser

A Policy Adviser helps to develop and improve policies impacting on government departments, commercial businesses and not-for-profit organisations....

Avg yearly income $113,620
Entry barriers Low

International Relations Specialist

An International Relations Specialist analyses global political trends and advises organisations on foreign policy and international affairs. You m...

Avg yearly income $93,600
Entry barriers Low

Diplomat

Diplomats, also known as Public Diplomacy Officers, work for the Australian government and are responsible for advancing Australian interests overs...

Avg yearly income $166,400
Entry barriers Low

Foreign Affairs Adviser

A Foreign Affairs Adviser shapes and implements national foreign policy through strategic planning and research on international issues. You’ll ana...

Avg yearly income $116,688
Entry barriers Low

About The University of Melbourne

Welcome to the University of Melbourne. We are Australia’s leading research university, with a 165-year-long tradition of higher education in the arts, sciences and numerous professional disciplines.

At Melbourne, we take delight through our on-campus teaching and graduate online programs in helping undergraduate and postgraduate students from Australia and many other countries to achieve globally recognised qualifications. The educational experience here prepares well-rounded graduates who are academically outstanding and practically grounded.

We also support and encourage internationally-connected research collaborations around basic and applied problems, in the hope of changing the world for the better.