Do you see yourself shaping Australia's foreign policy decisions? Or working with elite international organisations like the United Nations or our top spy agencies? The Bachelor of International Security Studies can help you make your dream career a reality.
When you study the Bachelor of International Security Studies you will delve deeply into the contemporary security threats facing nations, international organisations and businesses around the world – including the threat of military power, civil war, terrorism, cybercrime, environmental degradation and food security to name just a few. Read more about this degree on our website.
Can you see yourself jet-setting the globe with a career in trade, foreign affairs, journalism, international business or research? You have found the right degree.
ANU is a leader in the field of International Relations.
Our program will introduce you to International Relations, initially via the broad historical and intellectual framework which has framed the modern world of states since the 17th century. It will then concentrate on the 20th century, the age of World Wars and the Cold War, before addressing contemporary issues, the age of global political economy, global culture and communication, global environmental concerns and post-Cold war political conflict, including the 'War on Terror'.
With our flexible program you can extend your chosen language subject into a major, and have the opportunity to go on exchange or an international/national internship.
Career Options
ANU provides you with more choice for your entrance score by offering the new Flexible Double Degree program.
The ANU Flexible Double Degree lets you build skills for your chosen career without forfeiting your passion. It's your choice to build a double degree partnership that suits your head and your heart.http://students.anu.edu.au/applications/
Employment Opportunities
From instability in the Middle East, to the rising occurrences of
computer hacking or global warming and its impact on human populations,
there’s a whole range of global security challenges which face business,
government and international organisations today. As a result,
employers across industry have begun to seek out graduates who have the
confidence to provide advice on these issues and how to minimise their
impacts.
The Bachelor of International Security Studies gives you
the practical skills and knowledge that will set you apart as a leader
in this field and graduates from this degree can expect to find
themselves working in a range of fields including business analysts,
defence policy, foreign affairs, intelligence agencies, journalism and
media. Recent graduates of security studies are currently working with
organisations like the Attorney Generals Department, United Nations,
Telstra, Boeing, the Australian Federal Police and the Department of
Foreign Affairs and Trade. More information can be found here.
From instability in the Middle East, to the rising occurrences of
computer hacking or global warming and its impact on human populations,
there’s a whole range of global security challenges which face business,
government and international organisations today. As a result,
employers across industry have begun to seek out graduates who have the
confidence to provide advice on these issues and how to minimise their
impacts.
The Bachelor of International Security Studies gives you
the practical skills and knowledge that will set you apart as a leader
in this field and graduates from this degree can expect to find
themselves working in a range of fields including business analysts,
defence policy, foreign affairs, intelligence agencies, journalism and
media. Recent graduates of security studies are currently working with
organisations like the Attorney Generals Department, United Nations,
Telstra, Boeing, the Australian Federal Police and the Department of
Foreign Affairs and Trade. More information can be found here.
Learning Outcomes
Graduates will have the skills and knowledge to:
• Identify and explain the key concepts, ideas and principal actors in international security.
• Evaluate the major theoretical frameworks for understanding the complexities of contemporary international security challenges.
• Demonstrate a thorough knowledge of the historical and contemporary dimensions of international, internal and transnational security, especially in the Asia-Pacific region.
• Analyse the key challenges facing Australian security and defence policy in the ‘Asian Century’.
• Reflect critically on the principal factors that determine the security policies of Australia and the major Asia-Pacific powers.
• Employ communication and presentation skills (oral, written and electronic).
• Demonstrate teamwork and interpersonal skills.
• Exhibit the ability to write for both academic and professional audience
At the completion of the degree graduates are expected to:
- Identify the principal theoretical approaches to the study of international relations, and the relationships between them;
- Have a thorough understanding of the historical development of the global system;
- Demonstrate an understanding of the principal actors in contemporary global politics and the challenges they face;
- Understand the principal factors that determine the foreign policies of major powers and of Australia;
- Reflect critically on the knowledge and skills developed in their study of International Relations.
Admission Requirements
Admission to all programs is on a competitive basis. Admission to undergraduate degrees is based on meeting the ATAR requirement or an equivalent rank derived from the following qualifications:
• An Australian year 12 qualification or international equivalent; OR
• A completed Associate Diploma, Associate Degree, AQF Diploma, Diploma, AQF Advanced Diploma, Graduate Certificate or international equivalent; OR
• At least one standard full-time year (1.0 FTE) in a single program of degree level study at an Australian higher education institution or international equivalent; OR
• An approved tertiary preparation course unless subsequent study is undertaken.
Click HERE for further information about domestic admission.
The table below is a guide to the entry level required for domestic applicants. Exact entry level will be set at time of offer.
- ATAR:
- 90
- QLD Band:
- 6
- International Baccalaureate:
- 34
Domestic applicant entry requirements
From 2010, the UAI/ENTER/TER will be referred to as ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admission Rank) for admission. See http://www.uac.edu.au/undergraduate/atar/ for further information.
Queensland Band equivalents are a guide only - selection is made on a UAI equivalent that is not available to students.
International applicant entry requirements
International applicants may view further information on admissions requirements at Entry Requirements for International Undergraduate Applicants
The University reserves the right to alter or discontinue its programs as required.
Adjustment Factors
The National Access Scheme 2014
ANU offers bonus points for nationally strategic senior secondary subjects, and in recognition of difficult circumstances that students face in their studies.
Bonus points are applied to all applicants with an ATAR at or above 70. Points are awarded in accordance with the approved schedule, and no more than 10 points (maximum 5 academic points and maximum 5 equity points) will be awarded.
Bonus points do not apply to programs with an ATAR cutoff of 98 or higher.
Bonus Points are only awarded to domestic applicants applying for admission through UAC who have not previously attempted tertiary study.
How to apply
Academic Bonus Points: senior secondary students do not need to apply for ANU academic bonus points. They are automatically added in accordance with the schedule.
Educational Access Scheme: senior secondary students do not need to apply if their school is part of the Priority School Funding Program or Country Areas Program. All other applicants should refer to www.uac.edu.au/undergraduate/eas for more information.
Indicative fees
Bachelor of International Security Studies - Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
Bachelor of International Relations - Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
For more information see: http://www.anu.edu.au/students/program-administration/costs-fees
- Annual indicative fee for international students
- $28,608.00
Scholarships
ANU offers a wide range of scholarships to students to assist with the cost of their studies.
Eligibility to apply for ANU scholarships varies depending on the specifics of the scholarship and can be categorised by the type of student you are. Specific scholarship application process information is included in the relevant scholarship listing.
For further information see the Scholarships website.
Program Requirements
The Bachelor of International Security Studies flexible double degree component requires completion of 96 units, of which:
A maximum of 36 units may come from completion of 1000-level courses
The 96 units must consist of:
48 units from completion of the International Security major
24 units from completion of one of the following minors:
Arabic
Asia-Pacific Politics
Asia-Pacific Security
Classical Chinese
French Language and Culture
German Language and Culture
Hindi Language
Indonesian Language
International Relations
Italian Language and Culture
Japanese Language
Korean Language
Latin American Studies
Middle Eastern and Central Asian Studies
Pacific Studies
Peace, Conflict & War Studies
Persian
Russian
Sanskrit Language
Spanish
Thai Language
Urdu Language
Vietnamese Language
24 units from completion of elective courses offered by ANU
The Bachelor of International Relations flexible double degree component requires completion of 96 units, of which:
A maximum of 36 units may come from completion of 1000-level courses
The 96 units must include:
48 units from completion of the International Relations major
24 units from completion of one of the following international relations specialisations:
Globalisation in International Relations
International Relations Theory
Either:
24 units from completion of one of the following minors:
Middle Eastern and Central Asian Studies
Or:
24 units from completion of an exchange or internship program
Majors
Bachelor of International Relations Majors
Minors
Bachelor of International Relations Minors
Bachelor of International Security Studies Minors
Specialisations
Bachelor of International Relations Specialisations
Honours
For information about honours, please see the School of Politics and International Relations Honours website.
Back to the Bachelor of International Security Studies page
When you study the Bachelor
of International Security Studies you will delve deeply into the
contemporary security threats facing nations, international organisations and
businesses around the world - including the threat of military power, civil
war, terrorism, cybercrime, environmental degradation and food security to name
just a few. Read more about this degree on our website.
Single degree
· This degree requires the completion of 144 units
· A maximum of 60 units of 1000 level courses is allowed
· 48 units must come from completion of the International Security major
· 24 units from completion of a minor approved by the ANU College of Asia and the Pacific
· 72 units
from completion of elective courses offered by ANU
Double degree
· This degree requires the completion of 96 units
· A maximum of 36 units of 1000 level courses is allowed
· 48 units must come from completion of the International Security major
· 24 units from completion of a minor approved by the ANU College of Asia and the Pacific
· 24 units from completion of elective courses offered by ANU
About this degree
Single degree
In a Bachelor of International Security Studies single degree program you will
study a total of 144 units. Typically you will take 4 courses per
semester (total of 24 units) as a full time student giving you a total of 24
(6-unit) courses across your whole degree. Once you have fulfilled the
requirements of the Security Studies major and minor, you can try a range of
courses or take a major or minor in a subject of your choice.
Double degree
You will need to complete a minimum of 96 units towards the Bachelor of
International Security Studies degree but will also get to choose 4 courses (24
units) from other ANU Colleges.
Enrolment Status
It is possible to enrol in fewer courses per semester but it
will take you longer to finish your program and get your degree. If you are an
international student you must always be enrolled full-time in 24 units each
semester.
Remember you will need to enrol in courses for both First Semester and Second
Semester. You will be able to change your enrolment in courses up until
the end of week 2 of each semester without penalty.
Important things to keep in mind when choosing your 1000-level courses
When you enrol for the first time you will study
‘1000-level’ courses. These courses have ‘1’ as the first number in their course
code, such as ASIA1234.
Majors and Minors
See available majors and minors for this program
See available majors and minors for this program
Students in this degree must complete a International Security Major, and a
minor from the following list:
Arabic
Asia-Pacific Politics
Asia-Pacific Security
Classical Chinese
French Language and Culture
German Language and Culture
Hindi Language
Indonesian Language
International Relations
Italian Language and Culture
Japanese Language
Korean Language
Latin American Studies
Middle Eastern and Central Asian Studies
Pacific Studies
Peace, Conflict & War Studies
Persian
Russian
Sanskrit Language
Spanish
Thai Language
Turkish
Urdu Language
Vietnamese Language
You can choose to turn you minor into a major. Once you've selected courses for
a major, and/or a minor or second major, you should choose electives to make up
the balance of your courses.
Electives
You can use your electives to enrol in any courses that you
like, provided you meet prerequisite requirements. Students who choose to do a
second major will need to take the additional 24 units for their major from
their electives.
To find 1000-level courses, use the catalogue finder. Remember you can choose
up to 8 courses from another ANU College at the University if you are
undertaking the single Bachelor of International Security Studies program.
Study Options
Study Options
| Year 1 48 units | STST1001 Introduction to International Security Studies 6 units | 1000 level Language Course 6 units | Elective 6 units | Elective 6 units |
| STST1003 Coping with Crisis: The Practice of International Security 6 units | 1000 level Language Course 6 units | Elective 6 units | Elective 6 units |
Study Options
| Year 1 48 units | STST1001 Introduction to International Security Studies 6 units | 1000 level Language course 6 units | 1000 level course from other degree 6 units | 1000 level course from other degree 6 units |
| STST1003 Coping with Crisis: The Practice of International Security 6 units | 1000 level Language course 6 units | 1000 level course from other degree 6 units | 1000 level course from other degree 6 units |
Single degree
Three years full time (144 units) - four courses per semester (24 units)
An International Relations major (48 units)
One of the following specialisations (24 units):
• Globalisation in International Relations
• International Relations Theory
• International Security
Either: a language minor (24 units)
Or: one of the following minors (24 units):
• Analytical Philosophy
• Contemporary Europe
• Continental Philosophy
• Corporate Sustainability
• Environmental Policy
• European History
• History
• International Communication
• Latin American Studies
• Middle Eastern and Central Asian Studies
• Moral and Political Philosophy
• Philosophy and Science
Or: an approved exchange or internship program (24 units)
Eight Electives from across the ANU (48 units)
Double degree
This degree requires 96 units
A maximum of 36 units of 1000 level courses
Three years full time - four courses per semester (24 units)
An International Relations major (48 units)
One of the following specialisations (24 units):
• Globalisation in International Relations
• International Relations Theory
• International Security
Either: a language minor (24 units)
Or: one of the following minors (24 units):
• Analytical Philosophy
• Contemporary Europe
• Continental Philosophy
• Corporate Sustainability
• Environmental Policy
• European History
• History
• International Communication
• Latin American Studies
• Middle Eastern and Central Asian Studies
• Moral and Political Philosophy
• Philosophy and Science
Or: an approved exchange or internship program (24 units)
About this degree
Single degree
In a Bachelor of International Relations degree program you will study a total of 144 units. Typically you will take 4 courses per semester (total of 24 units) as a full time student giving you a total of 24 (6-unit) courses across your whole degree.
You'll need to take the International Relations major (8 courses), one specialisation (from the designated list) (4 courses) and one minor (from the designated list) (4 courses) or an approved exchange (4 courses). You'll also get to choose eight electives from courses right across ANU. You can use these electives to try a range of courses or to take a major or minor in a non-Arts subject.
Double degree
In a Bachelor of International Relations degree program you will study a total of 96 units. Typically you will take 4 courses per semester (total of 24 units) as a full time student giving you a total of 16 courses across your whole degree. However, for each semester you are likely to take 2 courses from your Bachelor of International Relations degree and then 2 courses from the other half of your double degree – still a total of 4 courses a semester.
You'll need to take the International Relations major (8 courses), one specialisation (from the designated list) (4 courses) and one minor (from the designated list) (4 courses) or an approved exchange (4 courses).
Enrolment Status
While it's possible to enrol in fewer courses per semester, which is called studying part-time, it will take you longer to finish your program and get your degree. If you are an international student you must always be full-time.
• A course (usually 6 units) can only be counted towards one major, minor or specialisation.
• You need to enrol in courses for both First Semester and Second Semester.
• You can’t study more than four courses (24 units) per semester, eight for the year.
• You need to enrol in courses for the International Relations major
• You need to enrol in courses for at least one potential minor from the designated list
You may take 1000-level courses later in your program. But remember you can’t count more than ten 1000-level courses (60 units) towards your single degree or six 1000-level courses (36 units) towards your Bachelor of International Relations half of the double degree
Important things to keep in mind when choosing your 1000-level courses
When
you enrol for the first time you will study ‘1000-level’ courses. These courses
have ‘1’ as the first number in their course code, such as POLS1234.
Majors and Minors
See available majors and minors for this program
You need to enrol in two 1000-level courses for your International Relations major:
• POLS1005 - Introduction to International Relations: Foundations and Concepts
• POLS1006 - Introduction to International Relations: Contemporary Global Issues
You need to enrol in two 1000-level courses (if available) from one of the following minors:
• Advanced French Studies
• Advanced German Studies
• Advanced Italian Studies
• Advanced Spanish Studies
• Arabic
• Chinese Language
• Classical Chinese
• French Language and Culture
• German Language and Culture
• Hindi Language
• Indonesian Language
• Italian Language and Culture
• Japanese Language
• Korean Language
• Persian
• Russian
• Sanskrit Language
• Spanish Language and Culture
• Thai Language
• Turkish
• Urdu Language
• Vietnamese Language
• Analytical Philosophy
• Contemporary Europe
• Continental Philosophy
• Corporate Sustainability
• Environmental Policy
• European History
• History
• International Communication
• Latin American Studies
• Middle Eastern and Central Asian Studies
• Moral and Political Philosophy
• Philosophy and Science
• Political Science
Electives
Single Degree
While you only need to enrol in courses for one major, one minor and one specialisation, you can use your electives to enrol in 1000-level courses for other Arts majors or minors. That way you keep your options open. Once you've selected courses for the major you should choose electives to make up the balance of your courses.
Study Options
Bachelor of International Relations - Single Degree
This is a typical study pattern for the first year of a student undertaking a Bachelor of International Relations.Study Options
| Year 1 48 units | POLS1005 Introduction to International Relations: Foundations and Concepts 6 units | Minor 1000 level Course 6 units | Elective 1000 level Course 6 units | Elective 1000 level Course 6 units |
| POLS1006 Introduction to International Relations: Contemporary Global Issues 6 units | Minor 1000 level Course 6 units | Elective 1000 level Course 6 units | Elective 1000 level Course 6 units |
Bachelor of International Relations - Double Degree
Study Options
| Year 1 48 units | POLS1005 Introduction to International Relations: Foundations and Concepts 6 units | Minor 1000 level Course 6 units | Degree B 6 units | Degree B 6 units |
| POLS1006 Introduction to International Relations: Contemporary Global Issues 6 units | Minor 1000 level Course 6 units | Degree B 6 units | Degree B 6 units |
Do you want to talk to someone before enrolling?
Contact students.CASS@anu.edu.au