Program Overview
Through a combination of core courses and electives, students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills, preparing them for careers in diplomacy, policy advising, humanitarian aid, and other international affairs fields. The program emphasizes intercultural competence and global citizenship, fostering a commitment to social responsibility in a globalized world.
Program Outline
You'll explore the social, economic, and political factors shaping the world, investigating the systems and laws behind global affairs in regions like Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas. You'll also learn to address critical challenges such as climate change, war, terrorism, poverty, and inequality.
Program Objectives:
- Develop a deep understanding of international relations, politics, economics, and culture.
- Analyze and interpret complex global issues and events.
- Enhance your critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills.
- Gain valuable intercultural communication and negotiation skills.
Program Highlights:
- Learn from globally renowned academics with expertise in diverse areas.
- Study abroad opportunities through international exchange programs and study tours.
- Gain hands-on experience through internship programs.
- Develop global citizenship and a commitment to social responsibility.
Outline:
Structure:
The program consists of three years of full-time study or an equivalent workload in part-time mode.
Course Schedule:
Students take four courses per semester, typically two core courses in international studies and two electives in other disciplines. The program offers flexibility to tailor your studies through various electives and major/minor combinations.
Modules:
Year 1:
- Introduction to International Relations
- Global Politics
- Global Economy
- World History
Year 2:
- International Security
- Global Development
- International Law
- Regional Studies (Asia, Africa, Europe, or the Americas)
Year 3:
- Capstone Project (Thesis or research paper)
- Advanced International Relations Theory
- Global Governance
- Electives (depending on chosen major and minor)
Electives:
Students can choose electives from various disciplines like history, politics, sociology, anthropology, languages, economics, and law.
Assessment:
- Continuous assessment throughout the semester, including individual and group assignments, essays, research papers, presentations, and quizzes.
- Final examinations to test knowledge and understanding of key concepts and theories.
Teaching:
- Interactive and engaging learning environment with a mix of lectures, tutorials, seminars, and guest speaker presentations.
- Small class sizes fostering close interaction with faculty and fellow students.
- Access to online learning resources and platforms.
- Employ a diverse range of teaching methods, including case studies, simulations, and role-playing activities.
- Experienced and passionate faculty with extensive research and professional experience in international affairs.
Careers:
Potential Career Paths:
- Diplomat
- Policy advisor
- Humanitarian aid worker
- Intelligence analyst
- Political analyst
- Human rights advocate
- Journalist
- Public relations specialist
- International business professional
- Academic researcher
Career Opportunities:
- Government departments and agencies
- Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
- International organizations (UN, World Bank, etc.)
- Think tanks and research institutes
- Media organizations
- Private sector companies with global operations
- Educational institutions
Career Outcomes:
Graduates are equipped with knowledge, skills, and experience to succeed in various careers within the international affairs field and beyond. The program's strong emphasis on developing critical thinking, communication, and intercultural competence prepares students to thrive in a globalized and interconnected world.
Other:
- La Trobe University holds several prestigious accreditations and rankings, including a top-1% global ranking according to Times Higher Education (THE) and being ranked among the top 50 universities across East Asia, South-East Asia, and Oceania.
- The program's flexible structure allows students to pursue double major options, combining their studies in International Studies with other areas like Law, Commerce, or Global Studies.
- La Trobe offers various scholarship opportunities for domestic and international students.
