Master of International Relations

About this course

The Master of International Relations offered through Open Universities Australia will give you a thorough understanding of foreign policies, international markets and politics.

You will gain knowledge of the global economy, terrorism and international security, and study issues involving the environment, power and regulation.

Eligibility

Applicants must meet the criteria to be eligible to enter this program:

• Hold a bachelor’s degree from a recognised university or tertiary education institution with a minimum Grade Point Average of 4.0.
• Hold a graduate certificate in a related discipline with a minimum Grade Point Average of 4.0.

Study periods

Open Universities courses are offered in specific study intakes every year, known as Study Periods or Sessions. This means more flexibility as you can choose when to start studying.

If you are studying undergraduate units you can start at the beginning of any of the four Study Periods each year, each lasting 13 weeks. Most postgraduate courses are offered in three Sessions per year, with each Session lasting 14 weeks.

Exams are usually held in the week following the end of each Study Period or Session.

Areas of study

During this master’s degree program, the subjects you will study include:

• America's world
• Australian foreign policy
• China's rise: Challenges and opportunities
• Foreign policy analysis
• Government, regulation and markets
• Intelligence analysis: theory and practice
• International environmental issues and international organisations
• International relations theory for the 21st century
• International security
• Politics of the global economy
• Power and politics in the Asia Pacific
• Terrorism issues

Shorter programs

If you choose not to study the entire Master of International Relations degree you may be able to complete an alternative program. This is beneficial for students who need to develop a specialisation or prefer not to commit to the whole study period.
Depending on the units studied, you can exit with a Graduate Certificate in International Relations.

Finance Options

FEE-HELP is available.

Student Support

Open Universities Australia offers a range of administrative and student support options. As a student of OUA you will have access to four hours of free expert tutoring support for each unit undertaken through the tutoring service call SMARTHINKING. This on-demand service allows you to get fast, detailed feedback on your assignment drafts and have access to your tutor in real time.

How will this course advance my career?

Upon completion of this master’s degree program, you will have the skills and knowledge to qualify for employment in national and state government. You will have expertise in the areas of diplomacy, strategic analysis, development of trade relations and international cultural contacts.

How else will I benefit from this master’s degree?

• Upon successful completion of this course you will receive a Master of International Relations from Griffith University, as if you had studied on campus.
• Flexible study: studying by correspondence means you study on your terms – at a time and place that suits you.
• Government financial support available through FEE-HELP.
• You may apply for credit for previous studies in this field.
• You may be eligible for admission into the Asian Studies Association of Australia and the International Political Science Association.

Hear from an OUA student

Get more information

Want more information about the career benefits of this course? Fill out the enquiry form to the right and a study consultant will contact you with the details you need.