
International relations courses
Become an expert on pressing issues that affect the world we live in
Help me choose a courseIntroduction to International relations
Global challenges don’t stop at borders, and neither should your understanding of them. From diplomatic negotiations to global security and human rights, international relations shape the way nations cooperate—or collide.
If you’re drawn to the complexities of world affairs, an international relations degree might be your perfect fit. A degree in this field can equip you with the skills to influence global policy and navigate international conflicts. Your eventual expertise could drive meaningful change.
With an online international relations course, you can explore international law, trade, security, and more. Whether you're looking at a full online international relations degree, or taking a single subject to sharpen your global perspective, your journey into international affairs starts here.
Explore international relations courses
Discover international relations courses
Online international relations subjects and short courses
International Organisations, Peace and Conflict
Undergraduate
GRF-GIR219- Study method
- 100% online
- Entry requirements
- No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
- Start dates
- Starts 14 Jul 2025
Next enrolment closes 6 Jul
Introduction to International Relations
Undergraduate
TAS-HIR101- Study method
- 100% online
- Entry requirements
- No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
- Start dates
- Starts 21 Jul 2025
Next enrolment closes 13 Jul
States, Security and International Relations
Undergraduate
LTU-POL1SNS- Study method
- 100% online
- Entry requirements
- No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
- Start dates
- Starts 28 Jul 2025
Next enrolment closes 20 Jul
Undergraduate
CUR-ASIA100- Study method
- 100% online
- Entry requirements
- No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
- Start dates
- Starts 1 Sep 2025
Online international relations degrees
Undergraduate
MAQ-ART-DEGAn arts degree that no one else has
- Study method
- 100% online
- Duration
- 3 years full time or part time equivalent
- Entry requirements
- No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
Available majors
- Ancient History,
- Creative Writing,
- English,
- Critical Indigenous Studies,
- International Relations,
- Modern History,
- Philosophy,
- Politics,
- Sociology
Bachelor of Political Science and International Relations/Master of International Law
Undergraduate
GRF-PIL-DEGA transformative course in global politics and law
- Study method
- 100% online
- Duration
- 4 years full time or part time equivalent
Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Laws
Undergraduate
SCU-BAL-DEGA double degree in arts and law
- Study method
- Online & on-campus
- Duration
- 4 years full time or part time equivalent
Undergraduate
LAT-ART-DIPStart with the subjects you’re passionate about
- Study method
- 100% online
- Duration
- 1 year full time or part time equivalent
- Entry requirements
- No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
Available majors
- Arts stream,
- Criminology stream,
- Global studies stream,
- Politics, philosophy and economics stream,
- Visual arts stream
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International relations study FAQs
What is international relations, and why is it important?
International relations is the study of global politics, diplomacy, and how countries interact. It helps us understand how nations cooperate and resolve conflicts. The field also focuses on global issues like security, trade, and human rights. As the world becomes more connected, international relations is key to shaping policies that impact economic stability and environmental sustainability.
What will I learn in an international relations course?
International relations courses dive deep into the complexities of global affairs. They provide a solid foundation in key areas that shape our world. With an international relations degree, you’ll explore topics like:
Global governance
Diplomacy
International law
Trade
Human rights
Security
You'll also build skills in analysis, research, and problem-solving. These skills will help you understand and impact international affairs.
Interested but still not sure if international relations is the right fit for you? Consider exploring related topics such as politics, law, economics, security and counter terrorism, or human rights. These fields share similar themes and skills.
What is the difference between international relations and political science?
International relations focuses on global politics, diplomacy, and how countries interact. Political science is broader. It covers government systems, political ideologies, and policy making at all levels. If you're interested in global diplomacy, an international relations degree is a logical choice. Political science is a good option if you want to study governance and policy in a domestic context.
Can I gain real-world experience or go on internships while studying in this field?
Yes, some universities offering online international relations degrees provide work-integrated learning opportunities. For example, Griffith's political science and international relations degrees offer hands-on experiences through work placements, field study trips, and parliamentary internships. Degrees like that empower you to apply your learning in real-world settings during your studies.
What career paths can I explore as an international relations graduate?
If you're passionate about global issues, an international relations degree can lead to exciting careers. It offers opportunities in areas like diplomacy, policy, security, and trade.
Graduates often take on roles such as:
Diplomat
Foreign affairs officer
Policy advisor
International development officer
Intelligence analyst
Security consultant
Trade specialist
Human rights advocate
NGO program manager
International business analyst
How will studying international relations help me in a government or diplomatic career?
An international relations degree helps you understand global governance, diplomacy, and policy making. These are all essential skills for roles in government, foreign affairs, and geopolitics. You'll also develop expertise in negotiation, critical thinking, and global strategy. These are all valuable in diplomatic or policy-focused roles.
How do I know if I’m eligible to apply for a course?
Before starting an enrolment, it’s important to read the entry requirements for your chosen course to ensure that you’re eligible to apply. If you don’t quite meet the requirements, we may be able to help you find a pathway into your course through open-entry subjects, which anyone can study.
Chat with us to find out more.
How do I enrol?
Here at Open Universities Australia, we make enrolling online as straightforward as possible. To get started, find the course for you by browsing the options on this page. You can also compare different qualifications using our handy comparison tool, or request help from one of our student advisors.
When you’ve made your choice, click ‘Apply now’ on the relevant course page and follow the prompts to begin your enrolment. We’ll ask you to supply some supporting documentation, including proof of your identity, your tax file number, and a unique student identifier (USI) during this process.
Your university will get in touch with you via email to confirm whether or not your application has been successful.
Please note that enquiries and applications for some courses are handled directly by the university. If this is the case, it will be indicated on the course listing page.
For more information about enrolment, read our online self-service enrolling instructions. If you get stuck at any time, contact us and we’ll talk you through it.
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