International Relations
Overview
International Relations is the study of the international political and economic system. It explores the historical development of that system and provides students with a comprehensive understanding of actors, institutions, and processes of international politics. The major in International Relations focuses on territorial states that acknowledge no superior authority over issues vital to national interest. You will analyse the nature of this system – the rules and forces governing the behaviour of states, the factors that lead to military conflict or peaceful cooperation, and the current trends towards a more globalised and integrated, yet more fragmented world.
In your first year, you will be introduced to the core theories, concepts, and institutions in international relations, and the history of the international system. The second- and third-year units of study progressively build upon these foundations, further developing your understanding of central issues, including international security, international organisations, international political economy, and international law. Students will also explore the role that international institutions play in shaping policy decisions at the global level.
Key research and teaching areas include:
- politics at the global level: the study of the politics of countries around the world, and the way these nations interact in the international arena (foreign affairs, strategic behaviour and diplomacy);
- the policy-making process at the international level; and
- war and peace, security, terrorism, the international political economy, global cultures, international environmental politics, and human rights.
Graduates of this major have the skills desired by public, private and non-profit organisations, domestically and internationally.
Requirements for completion
The requirements of the major and minor in International Relations are listed in the International Relations unit of study table.
Advanced coursework
Students enrolled in the final (fourth) year of a Bachelor of Advanced Studies combined degree are required to complete a minimum of 24 credit points of advanced coursework, including a minimum of 12 credit points of project units.
Honours
Honours in International Relations is an additional year of full-time undergraduate study following completion of a bachelor’s degree with a major in the discipline. It provides high-achieving students an opportunity to develop research skills by undertaking advanced-level coursework and conducting a supervised but independent research project. The honours year adds greater depth to an undergraduate degree and provides a pathway to higher degree by research (e.g., PhD) studies. Honours graduates are sought after by employers who value their superior research, analytical, and communication skills.
Students complete:
- two ‘seminar’ units of study relevant to their research project; and
- a substantial independent research project on a topic of their choice, culminating in the submission of a thesis of approximately 20,000 words. Students work on their thesis throughout the course, under the supervision of an academic staff member with expertise in the chosen area. The research should identify an area for investigation which makes an original contribution to knowledge.
Requirements and units of study for honours are listed in the International Relations honours unit of study table.
Admission criteria
Honours in International Relations may be undertaken in certain appended honours degrees such as the Bachelor of Arts (Honours).
Applicants must have completed:
- the requirements of a bachelor's degree from the University of Sydney, including a major in International Relations with a minimum weighted average mark of 70, or an equivalent qualification;
- at least six 2000- and/or 3000-level units of study in Government and International Relations with a minimum result of 70; and
- For pre-July 2024 students undertaking a Bachelor of Advanced Studies: a second major.
Admission is subject to the availability of appropriate supervision.
Students interested in undertaking Honours should contact the Discipline Honours Coordinator during the final semester of their bachelor’s degree. Information on the application process is available on the Honours page.
