Graduate Certificate in International Relations

Government agency  

International relations graduates are commonly recruited for Project and Program related roles within Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), Department of Defence, Australian Bureau of Statistics, Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission, Australian Secret Intelligence Service, Australian Public Service, and Tourism Australia, to name a few. 

 Charity organisations 

Graduates with an understanding of international affairs, globalisation, politics and societal issues are sort after in most global offices with international outreach, such as the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). 

 Embassy and consulates  

Government embassies, high commissions, consulates, multilateral missions and representative offices exist globally and offer a range of careers, from diplomacy and policy to communication.     

Higher education

No prior experience required - This program is non-cognate, meaning you are encouraged to apply no matter what your previous tertiary qualifications are. Available to those with a non-related professional background or undergraduate program - no previous experience is required. 

English Proficiency Requirements

As tuition is delivered in English, all students will be required to provide documented evidence of the required level of proficiency in the English language. Read more detailed information on English language proficiency requirements for university study.

Credit for prior study

Subject credits may be awarded for previous studies. To apply for credits, you will need to submit academic transcripts including detailed subject outlines/course descriptions for each relevant subject and/or certified copies of testamurs to the Office of Future Students. Please refer to how to apply for credit for more information.

The Graduate Certificate in International Relations (Online) is an innovative, forward-looking program, attuned to the dynamics of the globalising world and its multiple 

diplomatic channels.  Graduates will develop the expertise necessary for professionals working in diverse contexts in the international relations landscape.  

The program also provides an opportunity for professional development and extension of qualifications.  You will have access to flexible learning options to address dynamic interests and needs of international relations students and professionals, allowing students to complete the entire degree in a welcoming, interactive and engaging virtual environment.  

Recommended Study Pattern

The Graduate Certificate in International Relations (Online) can be completed in just 1 semester with a 4 subject (full-time) load. You can commence in January, May or September semesters.

Study overview 

The Graduate Certificate in International Relations can be completed in just four months, that’s one Bond semester, with a four subject (full-time) load with intakes available to commence in January, May or September semesters.  

Semester 1 (one and only) 

Depending on which semester you commence, you will undertake subjects covering international relations, public policy, transnational clime, climate change, human security or diplomacy, with a foundation subject in research.  

Award Requirements

The Graduate Certificate in International Relations (Online) comprises of four (4) subjects, as follows:

Core subjects (1)

Choice of one of the following subjects depending on program sequence. Students that do not have a cognate background are encouraged to choose either INTR71-100 or INTR71-101.

• HUMR71-100 Research Methods and Data Visualisation - Jan, May, Sept

Alternate choice – either:

• INTR71-100 Introduction to International Relations - Jan, Sept
• INTR71-101 Geopolitics - May

Foundation subjects (3)

Choice of three (3) of the following subjects depending on program sequence. 

• INTR71-350 Human Security and Global Development - Jan
• INTR71-103 Public Policy - Jan
• INTR71-104 Innovating Global Governance - Jan
• CRIM71-103 Transnational Crime - May 
• INTR71-102 Security and Strategy - May 
• SSUD71-318 Climate Change: Adaptation & Resilience - May 
• LING71-113 Language Policy in a Global Context - May
• INTR71-208 Diplomacy - Sep 
• INTR71-315 Politically Motivated Violence - Sep 
• LING71-105 Language in Society - Sep