Course overview
Dive into international cultures and build a global career by studying Deakin’s Bachelor of International Studies. If you are interested in different perspectives and cultures beyond your own, this experience-rich course gives you a deep understanding of the global forces shaping the world.
Gain an understanding of globalisation and development, power and capitalism and build intercultural communication skills through core units. Choose from five majors, from Middle East studies to Anthropology, and take advantage of international experiences built into your degree. Pursue overseas study options, intern internationally or complete a study tour.
Graduate confident in analysing and interpreting the international forces shaping government, business and community life in contemporary Australia, and impress employers with strong intercultural skills and experience.
Key dates
Direct applications to Deakin for Trimester 1 2027 close 7 February 2027
Current Deakin students
To access your official course details for the year you started your degree, please visit the handbook
- Award granted
- Bachelor of International Studies
- Year
2027 course information
- VTAC code
International Studies: 1400411201 - Regional Access Scheme - Waterfront (Geelong), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
International Studies: 1400414031 - Waterfront (Geelong), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
International Studies: 1400514031 - Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
International Studies: 1400614031 - Online, Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)International Studies (Anthropology major): 1400412191 - Waterfront (Geelong), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
International Studies (Anthropology major): 1400512191 - Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
International Studies (Anthropology major): 1400612191 - Online, Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
International Studies (International Relations major): 1400412231 - Waterfront (Geelong), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
International Studies (International Relations major): 1400512231 - Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
International Studies (International Relations major): 1400612231 - Online, Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
International Studies (Middle East Studies major): 1400412241 - Waterfront (Geelong), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
International Studies (Middle East Studies major): 1400512241 - Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
International Studies (Middle East Studies major): 1400612241 - Online, Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
International Studies (Politics and Policy Studies major): 1400412251 - Waterfront (Geelong), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
International Studies (Politics and Policy Studies major): 1400512251 - Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
International Studies (Politics and Policy Studies major): 1400612251 - Online, Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)- Deakin code
- A326
- CRICOS code?Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students
- 075375D Burwood (Melbourne), Waterfront (Geelong)
- Level
- Undergraduate
- Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition
The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 7
GAIN VITAL INDUSTRY EXPERIENCE AT THE #1 VICTORIAN UNI FOR GRADUATE EMPLOYMENT
Course structure
To complete the Bachelor of International Studies you must pass 24 credit points. This includes:,
- DAI001 Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin (0-credit-point compulsory unit) in your first study period
- 6 credit points of core units
- 1 major (8 credit points)
- a minimum 2 credit points of approved international experience
- remaining credit points which may comprise of:
- 1 additional major
- 1 or 2 additional minors (including the available language minors)
- additional open electives
- a maximum of 8 credit points taken outside the Faculty of Arts and Education
- a maximum of 10 credit points at level 1
- a minimum of 6 credit points at level 3.
Most units are equal to one credit point. As a full-time student you will study four credit points per trimester and usually undertake two trimesters per year.
Students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements.
Note: It is envisaged that students would complete the international experience in the third or fourth year of their course.
Compulsory 0-credit point module
To be completed in the first trimester of study:
Units
All students must complete at least 2 credit points of international experience, selected from one or more of the following:
- trimester of study at an overseas university exchange partner
- international internship (AIS330)
- approved study abroad program or approved study tour (AIS203 or other)
- approved onshore internship with an international organisation (available for AIS330 only).
- 2 credit points of consecutive language units other than in-country language program can be taken to achieve one credit point of the international experience requirement
AIS330 - Internship units are normally undertaken in third year (or equivalent) and are subject to completion of specified prerequisite units and special application requirements, including Unit Chair approval of their planned placement.
For further information on the international student experience and on previous students' overseas internships, explore Arts and Education WIL opportunities.
Refer to the details of each major sequence for availability.
Intakes by location
The availability of a course varies across locations and intakes. This means that a course offered in Trimester 1 may not be offered in the same location for Trimester 2 or 3. Check each intake for up-to-date information on when and where you can commence your studies.
- Start date: March
- Available at:
- Burwood (Melbourne)
- Waterfront (Geelong)
- Online
- Start date: July
- Available at:
- Burwood (Melbourne)
- Waterfront (Geelong)
- Online
Deakin splits the academic year into three terms, known as trimesters. Most students usually undertake two trimesters each year (March-June, July-November).
Course duration
You may be able to study available units in the optional third trimester to fast-track your degree, however your course duration may be extended if there are delays in meeting course requirements, such as completing a placement.
Mandatory student checks
Any unit which contains work integrated learning, a community placement or interaction with the community may require a police check, Working with Children Check or other check.
Participation requirements
Elective units may be selected that include work-based training or community-based learning. Placement can occur at any time, including during standard holiday breaks. Learn about key dates at Deakin.
Reasonable adjustments to participation and other course requirements will be made for students with a disability. More information available at Disability support services.
Work experience
Open elective units may provide additional opportunities for Work Integrated Learning experiences.
Entry requirements
Selection is based on a holistic consideration of your academic merit, work experience, likelihood of success, availability of places, participation requirements, regulatory requirements, and individual circumstances. You will need to meet the minimum academic and English language proficiency requirements to be considered for selection, but this does not guarantee admission.
A combination of qualifications and experience may be deemed equivalent to minimum academic requirements.
If you don't meet the academic entry requirements as outlined in the tabs below, or haven't completed Year 12, or don't hold any relevant qualifications, the STAT (Skills for Tertiary Admissions Test) Multiple Choice (MC) may be an option for you to meet course entry requirements.
Academic requirements
If you’re currently studying Year 12, or completed Year 12 in the last two years, you will need to meet all the following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:
Year 12 prerequisite subjects
- Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English EAL (English as an Additional Language) or at least 20 in English other than EAL
ATAR
- Senior Secondary Certificate of Education with an unadjusted ATAR of at least 50 or equivalent
If you have undertaken higher education studies after secondary schooling, you will need to meet all the following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:
- successful completion of at least two bachelor level or above units (AQF Level 7 or equivalent)
If you have undertaken any Vocational Education and Training (VET) study after secondary school, you will need to meet at least one of following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:
- completion of a certificate IV or higher in a related discipline
- completion of a diploma or higher in any discipline
- at least 50% completion of a diploma or higher in a related discipline
If you finished Year 12 more than three years ago, or did not finish Year 12, and have not undertaken any further study, you may be considered for admission to this degree based on your work, volunteer and/or life experience.
Submit a personal statement outlining your motivation to study, previous education and employment history, and how this course can assist your career aspirations or progression. Think of it as a job application cover letter – it should be relevant and demonstrate your commitment and interest in this course or study area.
To meet the English language proficiency requirements of this course, you will need to demonstrate at least one of the following:
- Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) English Units 3 and 4: Study score of 25 in English as an Additional Language (EAL) or 20 in any other English
- IELTS overall score of 6.0 (with no band score less than 6.0) or equivalent
- other evidence of English language proficiency (learn more about other ways to satisfy the requirements)
Subject adjustment
A study score of 30 in any English, any History, any LOTE, Australian Politics or Global Politics equals 2 aggregate points per study. Overall maximum of 12 points.
Access and equity
Equity schemes and scholarships, formerly known as Special Entry Access Schemes (SEAS), enable Deakin to consider any disadvantaged circumstances you may have experienced and how these have impacted your studies. Equity schemes help us identify whether you are from an under-represented group when making selection decisions for certain courses. It's important to note that participation in an equity scheme does not exempt you from meeting the standard course entry requirements. Learn more about Deakin's equity schemes and scholarships.
Learn more about Deakin courses and how we compare to other universities when it comes to the quality of our teaching and learning. We're also committed to admissions transparency. Read about our first intake of 2026 students (PDF, 879KB) – their average ATARs, whether they had any previous higher education experience and more.
Not sure if you can get into Deakin? Discover the different entry pathways we offer and study options available to you, no matter your ATAR or education history.
Recognition of prior learning
The University aims to provide students with as much credit as possible for approved prior study or informal learning which exceeds the normal entrance requirements for the course and is within the constraints of the course regulations. Students are required to complete a minimum of one-third of the course at Deakin University, or four credit points, whichever is the greater. In the case of certificates, including graduate certificates, a minimum of two credit points within the course must be completed at Deakin.
You can also refer to the recognition of prior learning (RPL) system which outlines the credit that may be granted towards a Deakin University degree and how to apply for credit.
Fees and scholarships
Fee information
Estimated tuition fee - (CSP) ?Enrolling in a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) means the Australian Government pays part of your course fees directly to Deakin, and you pay a 'student contribution'.
$16,771 for 1 yr full-time - Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
Learn more about fees.
The estimated tuition (student contribution) fee above is based on a typical first-year full-time enrolment of 8 credit points and is provided as a guide only. Your student contribution is determined by the units you enrol in and will vary depending on the units you choose, your study load, the course duration, and any approved recognition of prior learning. You may also be eligible for a HECS-HELP loan to defer payment of all or part of your student contribution.
Scholarship options
We want to help you excel at Deakin. Our scholarships recognise your dedication and achievements, providing financial support that can ease the cost of living and studying. With less pressure, you’ll have more freedom to focus on what matters most – your education and future success.
Apply now
Apply through VTAC
Applications for Trimester 1, 2027 will open on 3 August. Each year, thousands of students prepare for uni with the help of Deakin support services. We offer a huge range of support, including one-on-one consultations, webinars, online resources and events throughout the year.
Apply directly to Deakin
To apply, create an account in the Deakin Application Portal, enter your personal details and education experience, upload supporting documents and submit. Need help? Play this video, or contact one of our friendly future student advisers on 1800 693 888 or submit an online enquiry.
Indigenous Access Scheme
You can apply for this course through the Indigenous Access Scheme, which recognises the achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and considers the skills, experience and community work that prepares you for study. We look beyond your ATAR and academic results so we can reward your hard work with a place at university.
Pathways
View pathways into the Bachelor of International Studies with our pathways finder.
Alternate exits
- Diploma of Arts (A215)
Articulated courses:
Career outcomes
Deakin is the #1 Victorian university for course satisfaction.* With us you can step-into your future with confidence. The professional, social and personal experiences on offer throughout this course prepare you for employment in a range of areas in the private and public sector including:
- businesses with an international orientation
- communications
- defence
- diplomacy
- education
- finance
- immigration
- NGOs with regional and global links
- trade and aid.
If you’re considering further study, Deakin’s honours program and postgraduate pathways can open up a world of research and employment opportunities in Australia and abroad.
For more information go to DeakinTALENT.
*Graduate Outcomes Survey 2025. Quality Indicators for Learning and Teaching (QILT) based on overall employment for domestic undergraduates
Deakin's graduate learning outcomes describe the knowledge and capabilities graduates can demonstrate at the completion of their course. These outcomes mean that regardless of the Deakin course you undertake, you can rest assured your degree will teach you the skills and professional attributes that employers value. They'll set you up to learn and work effectively in the future.
| Course Learning Outcomes |
|---|
| Review, analyse and apply key concepts in International Studies relating to international politics and society, globalisation and development, intercultural competency, global citizenship and professional development with reference to one or more Social Science disciplinary perspectives and appropriate theories and technical knowledge. |
| Apply learnings from personal and professional development in diverse organizational contexts to effectively communicate cross-cultural ideas, arguments and analyses to diverse audiences using a range of different mediums. |
| Employ a range of digital technologies and platforms to conduct research, engage in discussion and debate, document personal and professional skills and attributes, communicate effectively with and deliver reports and presentations to a diverse range of audiences within and outside the field of International Studies. |
| Analyse and critically evaluate conceptual and theoretical approaches to issues of international politics and society, intercultural competency, global citizenship, and professional development in the context of an increasingly complex globalised world that requires appreciation of local, national, regional and international dynamics and their interactions. |
| Employ initiative and creativity in conjunction with appropriate Social Science methods of research and analysis to systematically investigate and generate context-sensitive and pragmatic solutions to complex real-world problems. |
| Exercise autonomy, responsibility, accountability and a sustained and ongoing commitment to learning and skill development in International Studies contexts including but not limited to communities of practice and scholarship. |
| Work and learn collaboratively and productively with others in the field of International Studies and with stakeholders from other disciplines and backgrounds to achieve shared goals. |
| Analyse and respond appropriately to issues of cultural, social and political inequity; the transferability of knowledge and skills in different geographic, knowledge and organisational contexts as a reflective scholar and practitioner, taking into consideration cultural and socio-economic diversity, social and environmental responsibility and adherence to professional and academic ethical standards. |
Approved by Faculty Board November 2020
Note – From 2026, Deakin commenced introducing Graduate Attributes (GAs), which define the distinctive characteristics of a Deakin graduate. You may notice some courses still refer to Graduate Learning Outcomes (GLOs) during this transition period.
*Deakin references data from a range of government, higher education and reputable media sources. Learn more about our achievements on our University rankings page, or explore our sources page for supporting references.
