Master of Laws (International Law and International Relations) (Basic level entry)

At the completion of the course, students will be able to:

• investigate and analyse critically situations arising in a global and regional context where international law can play a role in resolving problems, particularly at the policy level
• demonstrate an advanced knowledge of the major fields of international law and international relations in global and regional contexts
• articulate at theoretical and practical levels in terms understandable to specialist and non-specialist audiences, as appropriate, the ways in which relevant rules of international law mutually interact with and influence the content of international relations in the twenty-first century
• apply the advanced knowledge and skills acquired to identify and evaluate complex problems at the intersection of international law and international relations and devise solutions relevant to the achievement of domestic and international objectives that arise within a global context
• demonstrate knowledge of research principles and methods applicable to the intersection of the fields of international law and international relations
• under limited but appropriate supervision, plan and execute a substantial research-based project in the field of international law and its relationship to international relations and communicate its approaches and findings to relevant audiences.

This coursework and research program aims to meet the educational needs of graduates with an interest in law and international relations and is delivered fully online. It is designed to provide you with the opportunity to engage with the person leading the learning while also interacting with fellow students. You will have access to interactive activities and online group discussions. In this highly engaging environment you will expand your international law and international relations skills into areas such as international environmental law, international relations in the Asia/Pacific, human rights, law of the sea, WTO, and international criminal justice.

The course is not restricted to applicants with an international law or international relations background but may be suitable to anyone (with an appropriate bachelor degree) who is employed, or is contemplating employment, in an international field.

It is 2 years in length on a full-time basis and can also be undertaken part-time.

Recommended study pattern

Students complete three core (compulsory) topics including a research paper and eleven option topics chosen from a range of option topics available. These topics aim to provide students with advanced knowledge and skills acquired to identify and evaluate complex problems at the intersection of international law and international relations and devise solutions relevant to the achievement of domestic and international objectives that arise within a global context and with the knowledge of research principles and methods applicable to the intersection of the fields of International Law and International Relations.

As a guide, full-time students generally undertake four subjects per semester and part-time students undertake two subjects per semester. 

Award requirements

To complete the Master of Laws (International Law and International Relations) (Basic level entry), students must successfully complete three core (compulsory) subjects including a research paper and 11 subjects chosen from a range of elective subjects available.

Open Universities Australia is a not-for-profit organisation. You will not pay any fees for using our services.

Indicative total fee $37,660

The amount shown here is indicative for an Australian citizen studying full-time, which is typically 8 subjects per year.

Fees may vary depending on:

• the subjects you choose
• credit from previous work experience
• your eligibility for government funding loans or subsidies such as HECS-HELP or a Commonwealth supported place.

To learn more, go to Fees or contact a student advisor.

Flinders University is a globally-focused, locally-engaged institution with a reputation for excellence in teaching, learning and research. They offer world‐class education that develops the critical and creative thinking skills to support a student’s success. Their courses offered through Open Universities Australia span business, education and law. They are designed with flexibility in mind, while delivering the advanced qualifications to take careers to the next step.

Learn more about Flinders University.

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QS World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:

21

Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:

20

Applicants must normally hold a bachelor degree or equivalent qualification.

Flinders University conducts an English Language proficiency check on applications submitted for consideration to its courses. 
This will be met in a number of ways, including if the applicants: 

• first language is English (i.e. citizenship is held for a country where English is the official language)
• completed secondary schooling in Australia
• completed prior study in English (e.g. a Certificate IV or higher from a recognised Australian training institution)
• completed one semester of full-time equivalent tertiary study at a higher education institution 
• completed a recognised Foundation Studies or bridging program 
• performance in the Special Tertiary Admissions Test  (STAT) meets the University's admissions requirements 
• registered with an Australian professional registration body relevant to the applicant's proposed course (e.g. applicant holds current registration as a Registered Nurse, General Practitioner, Teacher, Physiotherapist, Occupational Therapist, Social Worker and such in Australia)
• achieved a score within an international English language proficiency test such as IELTS, PTE, TOEFL or Cambridge CAE that meets the minimum proficiency for the university
• completed an approved English language course from a registered English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students (ELICOS) Provider

In some instances, applicants may be asked to provide evidence they meet the requirements if the information required is not available in their application. 

Credit transfer may be granted, on application, for prior study completed in a relevant honours, graduate certificate, graduate diploma or master degree; accredited professional development; or relevant work experience.

Applications for credit transfer are assessed on a case by case basis according to Flinders University policies. Students must be made an offer for entry into a degree before lodging their completed credit transfer application, along with all necessary documentation for formal assessment. More information is available at www.flinders.edu.au/credit