80+ hours work-integrated learning
AACSB and EQUIS accredited business school
Study overseas for a trimester or more
Why choose international studies / commerce at Deakin
Gain a competitive commerce foundation with global application at a top 3 business school in Victoria. By studying Deakin's Bachelor of International Studies/Bachelor of Commerce double degree, you will develop an understanding of the international forces shaping government, business and communities, along with the skills to analyse and interpret them.
Understand how data, markets and money drive real decisions and apply this knowledge in global contexts. Choose commerce majors from accounting to marketing, and international studies majors including Middle East studies and Anthropology.
International experience is built into your degree, with opportunities to take part in an exciting international internship, study overseas or join an in-country language program. You will gain first-hand insight into foreign governments, businesses and communities, and immerse yourself in new cultures, building the global perspective and experience employers value.
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Global career outcomes
Prepare for careers in communications, diplomacy, NGOs, trade and aid, with graduates working for organisations such as the United Nations and World Vision.
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International experience built in
Complete a built-in international experience through exchange, internship, study tour or language study.
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Degrees shaped by employers
Learn from experts with industry networks and build experience through approved internships with international organisations.
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Global business credibility
Study commerce at a top 3 business school in Victoria holding global AACSB and EQUIS dual accreditation.
Connected to industry
Deakin’s strong industry connections help shape your learning. Build practical experience in real workplace contexts through work-integrated learning, mentoring and networking opportunities. Industry advisory boards also help shape our degrees, which means what you study is current, relevant and aligned to what your future employers need.
Deakin puts employability first
Career outcomes
Combine global awareness with commercial expertise to pursue careers across government, international organisations, trade, policy and consulting, supported by cross-cultural capability and practical international experience.
Policy officer
Research and analyse complex issues, consult with stakeholders and prepare policy advice, briefings and reports that support decisions across government, NGOs and other organisations.
- $113k
Typical annual salary in Australia
- 14.8%
Projected job growth in 5 years
Management consultant
Analyse organisations, markets and data to identify challenges, develop practical strategies and advise clients on improving performance, including in international and cross-cultural contexts.
- $105k
Typical salary in Australia
- 4.2/5
Job satisfaction
Other jobs
- Diplomat
- Foreign affairs officer
- NGO policy officer
- Politician
- Trade delegate
- Foreign exchange analyst
Key dates
Direct applications
Trimester 1 2027 applications close 7 February 2027
VTAC
FAQs
Yes – every Deakin student can access work-integrated learning (WIL) in their degree. Each year, more than 30,000+ students complete a placement or internship with partners including Microsoft, KPMG, EY and the National Australia Bank. You can access WIL through placements, industry projects, field-based experiences, simulations and global programs, helping you apply your skills and graduate with the experience and confidence employers value.
DeakinTALENT is Deakin's award-winning career service, and you can access it for life – not just while you're studying. From personalised career coaching sessions and AI-enhanced resume support to a jobs and internships board with employment opportunities, it’s designed to give you the career management skills and connections you need to stand out. Every Deakin degree is built with input from employers, so your course is designed around real workplace needs, now and into the future.
Entry requirements and the minimum ATAR vary by degree and are detailed on the degree page, but if your ATAR is below the cut-off, you still have options. Use the pathway finder tool to find the opportunities available to you, including associate degrees and Deakin Guaranteed ATAR, which offers eligible students a guaranteed entry score that's on average 10 points below the lowest selection rank. If you don't have an ATAR, Deakin Uni Ready is a free, supported program designed to build your skills and confidence and open doors to degrees in arts, health, science and business. Access programs and equity schemes are also available.
At Deakin, employability isn't an add-on – it's built in. Our degrees are designed with industry input, so your skills are aligned to what employers actually need. Every Deakin student can access work-integrated learning through opportunities such as placements, internships and industry projects, helping you build your professional network and practical experience before you even graduate. It's an approach that works: nine out of 10 Deakin graduates get a job within four to six months of finishing their degree.
Yes. Most eligible undergraduate students are offered a Commonwealth Supported Place meaning the government subsidises part of your tuition fees. If eligible, you can pay your student contribution using a HECS-HELP loan that you only start repaying once your income is above the repayment threshold. Deakin has scholarships that cater to our diverse student community, ranging from $5,000 per year for high ATAR achievers to $10,000 per year for students facing financial or personal hardship. The University also offers support services including financial counselling, budgeting help and access to short-term, interest-free loans to help you stay on track.
Deakin is the #1 Victorian university for student support and that starts the moment you accept your offer. Orientation is designed to help you feel welcome and get to know your community of classmates and teachers from day one. Across all campuses, there's a vibrant student community with clubs, events and opportunities to build real friendships. Deakin offers a range of services to help students stay healthy and safe, including sport and fitness facilities, free counselling, on-campus medical services and around-the-clock security.
Yes, and it's straightforward. You can transfer to Deakin in a few steps and apply for credit through recognition of prior learning (RPL), so you won't necessarily repeat subjects you've already completed. If you're coming from a TAFE partner, you may get guaranteed entry into second year with guaranteed RPL. Deakin's three-trimester system also means you may be able to start mid-year rather than waiting until March.
Most Deakin courses run across three trimesters per year instead of the traditional two semesters. Trimester 1 begins around March, Trimester 2 around July and Trimester 3 around November, each with roughly 12 weeks of teaching followed by an exam period. This means you can usually start your degree at three different points in the year and have more flexibility to manage your study load. Check the intakes by location section on the course page for details.
*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.
What will I study in the Bachelor of International Studies/Bachelor of Commerce?
Build global perspective alongside business capability. Begin with core learning in both disciplines, then shape the double degree through one major in each area and an international experience.
Build your base
Start with business essentials
Build knowledge in key commercial areas as a foundation for your major study.
Build your global perspective
Begin exploring intercultural communication and international contexts, helping you see how people, institutions and markets connect.
Ease into future choices
Early sequence study starts to reveal your strengths and interests.
Deepen both disciplines
Develop more complex perspectives
Examine global systems and social issues in greater depth while strengthening analytical and business thinking.
Shape your two majors
Tailor your studies as you continue your international studies pathway and build on your commerce major.
Strengthen professional habits
Applied tasks help you build confidence in research, communication and evidence-based decision-making.
Apply and specialise
Advance both major pathways
Develop deeper subject knowledge and a clearer sense of where your combined expertise can take you.
Gain work‑integrated experience
Complete at least 80 hours of work‑integrated learning through consulting programs or internships.
Connect ideas across contexts
Bring your learnings together and analyse issues with commercial awareness, cultural insight and a broader view of change.
Finish with perspective
Complete capstone-style learning
Reflect on your development and think ahead to future professional directions.
Turn theory to practice
Draw on your international experience to deepen your understanding of organisations, communities and global environments.
Finish career ready
Graduate with discipline depth, cross-cultural capability and practical experience – some commerce pathways may also support professional recognition.
Course structure
All students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements
Units
Compulsory 0-credit point units
To be completed in the first trimester of study:
Units
Bachelor of International Studies
Refer to the details of each major sequence for availability.
Arabic, Chinese, Indonesian, Spanish majors only available to students who commenced prior to 2027
~ The Indigenous Studies major sequence is offered in the online mode only. International on-campus students must first seek approval from Student Central with a course map plan to ensure they do not exceed one-third (or equivalent) of their course completed online and meet all other course and enrolment rules.
Bachelor of Commerce Majors
Refer to the details of each major sequence for availability.
All students in the Bachelor of Commerce are required to complete at least one major sequence chosen from the following:
^ These majors are the recommended pathway to qualify for membership of professional organisations.
Professional recognition
Deakin Business School holds the prestigious and globally recognised AACSB and EQUIS accreditations, which attest to quality, academic and professional excellence, ongoing improvement, innovation and graduate employability.
- Deakin's accounting major enables students to apply for the:
- Students who complete the finance major are recognised through the CFA Institute University Affiliation Program.
- The financial planning major satisfies the Financial Adviser Standards (FAS) education standards, meaning students can provide financial advice in Australia and are eligible for financial planning certification programs including:
- the Financial Adviser Association of Australia (FAAA) CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®.
Students should consult with a course adviser to identify any additional requirements for membership for each professional body, and also consult with the professional body.
What to expect while studying
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.
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.
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
AIS203 Immersion Program: Japanese Politics, Society and Culture [No longer available for enrolment, AWL203 replaces this unit]
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.
At Deakin, we're committed to ensuring an inclusive environment that supports all students to belong, thrive and succeed. We work closely with students, where needed, to identify potential barriers to participation and where possible, provide tailored support so students can engage with learning and assessment activities.
If you are neurodivergent, have a disability, health condition or mental health condition that may impact your study or participation in university life, and want to know how Deakin could support you, contact our Domestic students (opens in a new window) or International students (opens in a new window) or Disability Resource Centre (opens email client) teams for a collaborative and confidential discussion. This discussion is to support you to make plans for your studies and future career and will not have any bearing on your application to the course.
When can I start?
When you study depends on your course, location and available intakes. Check the table to see when you can start and how study is offered throughout the year.
This course structure applies to students who commenced in 2027.
Students who commenced prior to 2027 should refer to the Handbook Archive for their course structure and consult with their enrolment officer.
Your course learning outcomes describe the knowledge, skills and capabilities you’ll develop and be able to demonstrate by the time you graduate. Built into your course through your units and assessments, they provide a clear picture of what you’ll be equipped to know, understand and do – preparing you to apply your learning with confidence beyond university.
| Course Learning Outcomes Bachelor of International Studies A326 | Course Learning Outcomes Bachelor of Commerce M380 |
|---|---|
| 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. | Integrate specialist disciplinary knowledge in commerce to analyse financial, economic and market systems and generate data driven insights that inform organisational and investment decisions in interconnected local, regional and global markets. |
| 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. | Apply analytical frameworks, quantitative methods and tools for commerce to interpret financial, economic and organisational data, exercising ethical professional judgement to develop evidence based analyses and advice in commercial contexts. |
| 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. | Communicate commercial ideas, analyses and recommendations clearly and professionally to diverse stakeholders, and collaborate effectively with others,using feedback and reflection to improve professional practice. |
| 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. | Critically evaluate economic and business models, strategies and practices to assess how commercial activity can balance financial performance with environmental and social sustainability. |
| 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. | Select and apply technologies to analyse complex commercial problems, evaluate alternative courses of action and generate evidence based insights that inform decision making in commerce contexts. |
| 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. | Apply commercial knowledge and cultural intelligence to identify and address opportunities for shared prosperity across Indigenous, regional, and international contexts. |
| 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
- Award granted
- Bachelor of International Studies / Bachelor of Commerce
- Year
2027 course information
- VTAC code
- 1400414471 - Waterfront (Geelong), Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
1400514471 - Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
1400614471 - Online, Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) - Deakin code
- D377
- Level
- Undergraduate
- Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition
The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 7
Fees
Estimated tuition fee
$17,653
for 1 yr full-time - Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
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.
Check your eligibility or learn more about CSP or HECS-HELP.
Scholarships
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.
Applications for 2027 are open
Ready to take the next step? Apply now to start your journey at Deakin and get ready for what’s next.
Key dates
Direct applications
Trimester 1 2027 applications close 7 February 2027
VTAC
Apply now
Apply direct
Simply create an account in the Deakin Application Portal, enter your personal and educational details, upload your supporting documents and submit your application.
Apply through VTAC
Applications are open. Apply through VTAC if you're:
- currently in Year 12 and applying for Trimester 1 or Semester 1
- applying for multiple undergraduate courses
Need help? Follow our step-by-step undergraduate guide to prepare and submit your application.
Recognition of prior learning
We value your previous study and experience. Recognition of prior learning enables you to get credit for what you've already achieved. When you apply, we'll consider your previous study and experience for recognition of prior learning.
Not sure if you'll meet entry requirements?
Deakin offers a range of pathways into the Bachelor of International Studies/Bachelor of Commerce to suit your background and goals. Explore the pathways finder to see how previous study, diplomas or alternative qualifications can lead you into the course.
Alternate exits
- Bachelor of Commerce (M380)
- Bachelor of International Studies (A326)
- Diploma of Business Studies (M201)