Bachelor of Political Science and International Relations

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) A Bachelor of Political Science and International Relations will provide you with a deep understanding of policy, politics and power in the domestic and international spheres. You'll learn about political movements and institutions, processes of law making, diplomacy and global politics. Highlights of studying the Bachelor of Political Science and International Relations Start your journey to becoming a global leader in politics and international relations. Learn about political systems, institutions and global diplomacy, gaining a deep understanding of the forces shaping local and global politics. Explore how democracy thrives, or struggles to survive, and the strategies authoritarian leaders increasingly use to maintain their grip on power. Take your studies overseas with international internships, study abroad programs and global partnerships. You'll build cultural awareness, grow your professional network and gain a competitive edge for your future career. Learn from globally recognised experts This degree is taught by academics who are leaders in their fields, including specialists in diplomacy, global governance and international security. Our world class teachers have links to Australian and international governments, as well as key organisations like the UN, World Bank, WTO and IMF. You'll benefit from their deep knowledge, active research and real-world policy experience, ensuring your studies are informed by the latest developments and global perspectives. 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, to 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 Brisane South (Nathan). Honours The Bachelor of Advanced Political Science and International Relations (Honours) (1665) is available through an additional year of study. Related degrees Bachelor of Advanced Political Science and International Relations (Honours) – 1665 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, on campus. 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 Asher Piari Bachelor of International Relations and Political Science "I chose Griffith as it has an outstanding business department and connections with the Asia-Pacific region. It stood out due to its focus on sustainable businesses and strategic ties to neighboring countries. As I am passionate about fostering economic growth and enhancing business relationships between Australia and the Asia-Pacific, Griffith provided the ideal environment to pursue my goals." 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.