Bachelor of Advanced Political Science and International Relations (Honours)

Online and timetabled Study online from anywhere, with live interactive classes that follow a set schedule—most sessions are recorded so you can watch them later. The Brisbane South (Nathan) offering of this program is scheduled to be delivered at the Treasury Building at our Brisbane City campus in 2027. If scheduled opening is delayed, courses may be delivered all or in part at our other Brisbane locations. Queensland's #1 university for political science. (ShanghaiRanking's Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2025) This degree is designed for future leaders, thinkers and changemakers who want to understand and influence the political and social systems that shape our world. Explore critical global questions like: how do political systems work and why do some fail? what role does diplomacy and international relations play in global conflicts? how do laws get made and who really holds the power? why do some leaders turn authoritarian and how can democracy survive in the face of such challenges? Highlights of studying the Bachelor of Advanced Political Science and International Relations (Honours) Deepen your understanding of politics, global systems, and diplomacy, examining the forces that shape nations and influence international cooperation. Gain practical experience through internships, parliamentary placements, field trips and employability courses, building essential professional connections while you study. Learn from leading political scientists, diplomats, and international policy experts, whose work informs national and global political debates. Develop the analytical and leadership skills to engage with complex political, economic and humanitarian issues. Graduate prepared to drive meaningful change in government, diplomacy, policy or international organisations. Majors International Relations: Explore how power, conflict, cooperation and ideology shape global affairs. You'll examine the forces influencing diplomacy, security, migration, foreign policy and global governance. Courses cover theoretical frameworks and great power politics, as well as emerging issues like terrorism, climate change and religious resurgence. Political Science and Public Policy: Examine how power is exercised, how decisions are made and how political systems shape society. Explore key domestic and international issues like elections, governance, Indigenous politics, media influence and environmental policy. You'll gain a deep understanding of policy development, democratic systems and authoritarian regimes, with a strong focus on political dynamics. If you're passionate about influencing change, understanding political behaviour or shaping public debate, this major offers the tools to become a thoughtful analyst, policymaker or advocate in the public sphere. Security, Conflict and Human Rights: Explore how global power struggles, political violence and human rights intersect. You'll examine key issues such as terrorism, authoritarianism, human rights in global politics and the role of international organisations in peacekeeping and conflict resolution. You'll analyse the security strategies of major powers like China, investigate the rise of populism and study how governments and movements respond to threats and crises. Enhance your studies by adding a second major: Chinese language Economics French language* German language* Indonesian language* International Business International Relations Islam-West Relations Italian language Japanese language Korean language* Political Science and Public Policy Security, Conflict and Human Rights Spanish language *Available via cross-institutional study at the University of Queensland. These languages are offered only to students enrolled at Brisbane South (Nathan). Honours From your first year, you'll be part of an advanced academic stream, culminating in a dedicated honors year focused on high-level research, analysis and critical thinking. Explore advanced concepts and develop expertise in a specific area of interest. This provides a direct pathway into higher degree research and is a valuable advantage in both professional and academic careers. Related degrees Bachelor of Political Science and International Relations – 1664 Note: Progression is dependent upon satisfying admission requirements. Attendance information The Brisbane South (Nathan) offering of this program is scheduled to be delivered at the Treasury Building at our Brisbane City campus in 2027. If scheduled opening is delayed, courses may be delivered all or in part at our other Brisbane locations. This program is offered full-time and part-time on-campuses and online. You may choose to study courses at other campuses where the program structure allows. Online students will be able to access course materials, participate in learning activities, lodge assessment items and access support services via Learning@Griffith. There is no requirement for on-campus attendance and access to a reliable computer with an internet connection is essential. As a full-time student you will generally attend 12-16 hours of scheduled classes per week throughout the trimester. As a part-time student, you will generally attend 6-8 hours of scheduled classes per week. Classes may be scheduled during the day and evening throughout the week. If you are an International student on a student visa, you must ensure that you enrol in a way that will allow you to complete your enrolment within the expected program duration as stated on your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). The recommended study load for international student in each compulsory trimester is 40CP. Managing Study Interruptions Leave of Absence Taking a leave of absence from this program is permitted, subject to conditions outlined in the Enrolment Procedure . Student story Daniel Millis Bachelor of Government and International Relations Daniel works with Rugby Australia in the field of sports diplomacy. "This is a fantastic degree because it gives you the opportunity to engage with so many different subject areas. The skills that you'll pick up when studying international relations can be applied to such a broad range of careers." Watch video Work-integrated learning All students will have the opportunity to undertake a work placement, parliamentary internship or field study course. As a Griffith Business School student, you can participate in BusinessPLUS; a program which provides you with access to a wide range of professional development opportunities such as career skills workshops, industry mentoring, work experience and community projects. You'll be provided with a structured plan of activities to complete over the course of your degree, supporting you to explore your career options, develop skills sought by employers, connect with mentors and graduate with an edge in today's competitive job market.