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International Relations


Why International Relations?

The forces of globalisation are generating profound effects on many spheres of economic, social and political activity, and a deeper knowledge of international relations is becoming necessary in many areas of public life.

Who should study International Relations?

Deakin University’s international relations program is for those seeking to develop systematic understandings of the international forces shaping their environment, and enhance their skills in analysis and interpretation.

The International Relations suite of postgraduate courses will equip a range of professionals who work within:

  • All levels of government
  • Private sector corporations and small business
  • Non-government organisations
  • Consultancies
  • Defence forces
  • Education
  • Health
  • Politics
  • Research

The postgraduate program in International Relations contains a suite of fully articulated courses to meet a variety of student needs in terms of entry qualifications and graduate options.

Course overview

The program contains a mixture of theoretical and empirical analysis, with opportunities to examine historical as well as contemporary issues and developments in world politics. Students develop skills in policy analysis and systematic understanding of the old and new threats to peace and security, and global forces shaping political, social and economic life.

The courses take an interdisciplinary approach and at Diploma and Master levels offer the opportunity to pursue a specialisation in:

  • Asia-Pacific Regional Politics
  • Conflict and Security
  • Human Rights and International Law
  • International History

The units that make up the Deakin courses have been developed so that they cover key issues, concepts and knowledge. Units are under constant review so that they include as much up to the minute material as possible and are genuinely relevant to the professional lives of participants.

Course benefits

Choice of specialisation
The four major streams of study allow students to become specialists in their chosen area.

Comprehensive program
Deakin's courses offer a comprehensive appraisal and appreciation of International Relations.

Internship experience
At Masters level, students have the opportunity to gain internship experience with industry. Taken in the final semester of study, students may work or volunteer placement within a host organisation in Australia or overseas for credit towards their Masters.

Flexibility to study while you work
The International Relations postgraduate courses are offered both on at our Melbourne campus and though off-campus delivery. Off campus study can be undertaken on a part-time basis, a mode of study which allows you to pursue postgraduate study and enhance you professional standing without leaving the work environment.

Advanced Standing
You may be given advanced standing or credit towards your degree for the qualifications and experience you already possess. Our flexible policy also recognises prior learning and experience and allows for special entry into the Graduate Certificate program.

Leading internet teaching and learning methodologies and technologies
The program is designed for delivery by distance education, so can be accessed by any student who has access to a computer anywhere in the world. Learn more about Deakin's distance education facilities.

Relevant courses

Staff members:

Dr Lynne Alice

Dr Ken Boutin

Dr Scott Burchill

Dr Juliet Clark

Dr Helen Gardner

A/Professor Linda Hancock

Professor Baogang He

A/Professor Damien Kingsbury

Dr David Hundt

Professor David Lowe

Ms Pam Maclean

Dr Chengxin Pan

Dr Steven Slaughter

Professor Gary Smith

Dr Chris Snedden

Dr Craig Snyder

Dr Sally Totman

Dr Nina Weerakkody

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Student testimonies

International Relations brochure (275 kB)

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International Relations news

Master of Arts (International Relations) student, Jasenka Imsirovic, has secured an internship at The Hague, the de facto capital of Netherlands and the seat of the country's legislature and Supreme Court, and of the International Court of Justice.

News article (21 kB)