Key information
Broaden your career options with research skills as well as the skills to drive political, social and policy change.
Graduates with Honours in International Relations & Political Science are in demand across government, NGOs, think tanks, and the private sector. You’ll be prepared for roles like policy analyst, diplomat, political advisor, or development specialist roles that need clear thinking, global awareness, and strong communication. With rapidly growing opportunities in foreign affairs, trade, international cooperation and risk management, this degree gives you wide career options and the ability to influence real outcomes.
Policy Analyst
Investigate social, economic, environmental, or international issues, develop proposals, assess impacts, and advise government or private organisations. You might work in departments of foreign affairs, ministries of trade or environment, or NGOs shaping legislation or implementing programs.
Diplomat / Foreign Affairs Officer
Represent your country’s interests abroad, negotiate treaties, promote trade and cultural ties, and work on issues such as human rights, global security, and international cooperation.
Diplomats often work for foreign affairs ministries, embassies, or international organisations.
Sources: Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025 | Seek Australia, 2025
What will you learn to prepare for a career in International Relations and Political Science?
Across four years, you’ll build a strong foundation in politics and international relations before advancing into specialist study, professional placements, and research.
- Year 1
- Year 2
- Year 3
- Year 4 (Honours)
In your final year, you’ll undertake advanced research training and complete an independent thesis.
- Core Topics
- Research Areas
Choose a specialisation and work with experienced researchers at the forefront of international relations and political science.
Investigate how digital technology, surveillance, and cyber threats are reshaping democracy, security policy, and global power relations.
Examine how nations and global actors respond to environmental crises, climate change negotiations, and the politics of sustainability.
Analyse the rise of extremist movements, political violence, and digital radicalisation alongside efforts to defend democratic institutions.
Focus on Australia’s foreign policy, regional security in the Asia-Pacific, and how states navigate conflict, alliances, and emerging threats.
Research how governments, global institutions, and civil society address inequality, human rights, and social justice in a rapidly changing world.
History (International Relations)
Gender Studies
French (available as Beginners or Continuers)
Indonesian (available as Beginners or Continuers)
Italian (available as Beginners or Continuers)
Spanish (available as Beginners or Continuers)
Frequently asked questions.
Over the years, many questions have been asked by students before. For the quickest answers view our frequently asked questions or browse the full list @ Ask Flinders.
The Honours year adds an extra layer of advanced study. You undertake specialised topics, research design and methods training, and complete an independent thesis project. It’s designed for deeper research skills and is often required for careers or further study that value strong analytical and project management ability.
Yes. There are opportunities for internships or placements, simulated real-world projects, and field research in some cases. These experiences help you build professional competencies and engage with real global, political, or policy challenges.
Yes. Honours provides solid training in research methods and a thesis, which strengthens your application for higher degrees by research (e.g. PhD). It shows you can manage large independent projects.
- Applications are completed via SATAC
- Visit: satac.edu.au
The table below shows ATAR and Selection Rank data for students offered a place wholly or partly on the basis of ATAR commencing in Semester 1, 2025. It is limited to applicants that have recently completed secondary education (within the last two years). Data may reflect multiple courses available within a suite of courses.
Notes:
<5 – less than 5 ATAR based offers made
N/A – This course uses additional selection criteria and therefore Selection Rank is not published
| ATAR-based offers only across all offer rounds | ATAR - Excluding adjustment factors | Selection Rank - ATAR plus any adjustment factors |
|---|---|---|
| Highest rank to receive an offer | 95.20 | 99.95 |
| Median rank to receive an offer | 76.17 | 80.42 |
| Lowest rank to receive an offer | 57.75 | 61.00 |
| Applicant background (Semester 1, 2025) | Number of students | Percentage of all students |
|---|---|---|
| Higher education study (includes a bridging or enabling course) | 44 | 37% |
| Vocational education and training (VET) study | 5 | 4% |
| Work and life experience | <5 | <5 |
| Recent secondary education - Admitted solely on the basis of ATAR (regardless of whether this includes the consideration of adjustment factors such as equity or subject bonus points) | 28 | 24% |
| Recent secondary education - Admitted where both ATAR and additional criteria were considered (e.g. portfolio, audition, extra test) | <5 | <5 |
| Recent secondary education - Admitted on the basis of other criteria only and ATAR was not a factor (e.g. special consideration pathways) | 17 | 14% |
| International Students | 18 | 15% |
| All students | 118 | 100% |
Sturt Rd, Bedford Park
South Australia 5042
South Australia | Northern Territory
Global | Online
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