The Bachelor of International Security Studies (with Year in Asia) is a four-year undergraduate degree that combines deep academic study of international security with an immersive full year of study at a partner university in Asia. The program examines the enduring and emerging challenges of security and conflict through a broad analytical lens — covering military strategy, terrorism, cybersecurity, environmental security, nuclear politics, civil war, food security, and the geopolitics of the Asia-Pacific region. Students graduate with both rigorous academic grounding in security theory and a rare, first-hand understanding of the cultures, languages and political systems of Australia's most strategically important neighbouring region.

The degree is designed for students who want to work at the intersection of international affairs, defence, intelligence and policy. It suits those who are curious about global power dynamics, motivated by questions of national security, and eager to understand how political ends and military means interact in our rapidly changing world. The Year in Asia component — typically spent at a leading university in a city such as Beijing, Tokyo, Seoul or Bangkok — develops advanced language proficiency and an exceptional capacity to understand Asian societies and cultures from the inside, a skill set that is increasingly in demand across government and industry.

Graduates are well positioned to enter the Australian Public Service, intelligence agencies, defence organisations, international institutions, and the private sector. Key employers include the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Department of Defence, the Department of Home Affairs, the Attorney-General's Department, the Australian Federal Police, the Australian Signals Directorate, the Office of National Intelligence, the United Nations, and multinational corporations with significant Asia-Pacific operations. This degree sits within the Society and Culture field (ASCED Category 09) and is a specialist qualification uniquely suited to Australia's strategic environment.

For domestic applicants, entry to this degree typically requires completion of the Australian Senior Secondary Certificate of Education (or equivalent) with a competitive Selection Rank (ATAR). Programs of this nature are offered on a competitive basis, meaning that meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee entry — applicants are ranked against each other. Most Australian universities offering specialist security and international studies degrees set ATARs in the range of 75–90, though highly regarded institutions in this field often require higher ranks. Applicants may also be assessed on performance in relevant subjects such as Modern History, Geography, English, a second language, or Studies of Society and Environment.

For the Year in Asia variant, additional requirements apply beyond the standard entry criteria. Students are typically required to demonstrate language ability in their chosen destination country's language, either through prior coursework or an interview process. Places in each destination country are limited, and applicants are ranked on demonstrated language ability, academic achievement, and in some cases a personal statement or interview. A minimum undergraduate GPA (typically around 5.0 out of 7.0) may be required for internal transfer into the Year in Asia stream. English language requirements for international students are generally an IELTS overall score of 6.5 (with no band below 6.0) or equivalent. Some providers also recognise relevant work experience in defence, government, or international affairs as a supporting factor for selection.