International relations
Why study International relations?
If you are an undergraduate student with a strong academic record, Honours in International Relations gives you the opportunity to pursue a year long program of study (two years part-time) which combines coursework and research in a specialised area of knowledge. You can also elect to undertake a combined Honours year and gain expertise in two areas of study for a broad-ranging qualification. Complete the Honours program with a high overall grade to qualify for entry into the Masters by Research program, or, in cases of high achievement, direct entry into the PhD program.
Career opportunities
Public service, political parties, international organisations, government and non-government agencies, journalism, media, public relations, education, welfare, health policy, business administration, corporate-government relations, academia, think tanks, and research institutes.
Course information
Local students
Structure
Coursework
Two fourth year subjects with at least one International Relations related subject.
A thesis (12 000 – 15 000 words)
The writing of a thesis, carried out under the guidance of a supervisor. The thesis is designed to test your potential to conduct individual academic research, and conceive and carry out a research plan, to analyse and interpret data, to construct arguments, and produce a substantial piece of work.
Entry requirements
To apply for entry to honours following completion of the degree, you are expected to have completed at least 130 credit points of International Relations subjects with a 75% average or better. Plus completion of POL3HON Politics in the Twentieth Century or POL23TWP Theories of world politics.
How to apply
If you are interested in undertaking an honours year in International Relations you should:
- Discuss ideas for a thesis topic with your lecturers and tutors
- Secure the agreement of a supervisor
- Apply in writing for admission by the first Monday in November in the year prior to starting Honours. Your letter should include:
-
- Write a 200-300 word abstract of your thesis research topic (this is not binding)
- Statement of results
- Subjects you intend to study at Honours level
- If you wish to complete the course part-time or full-time
Contact the Faculty Office for an application form or further information.
International students
Structure
Coursework
Two fourth year subjects with at least one International Relations related subject.
A thesis (12 000 – 15 000 words)
The writing of a thesis, carried out under the guidance of a supervisor. The thesis is designed to test your potential to conduct individual academic research, and conceive and carry out a research plan, to analyse and interpret data, to construct arguments, and produce a substantial piece of work.
Entry requirements
To apply for entry to honours following completion of the degree, you are expected to have completed at least 130 credit points of International Relations subjects with a 75% average or better. Plus completion of POL3HON Politics in the Twentieth Century or POL23TWP Theories of world politics.
How to apply
If you are interested in undertaking an honours year in International Relations you should:
- Discuss ideas for a thesis topic with your lecturers and tutors
- Secure the agreement of a supervisor
- Apply in writing for admission by the first Monday in November in the year prior to starting Honours. Your letter should include:
-
- Write a 200-300 word abstract of your thesis research topic (this is not binding)
- Statement of results
- Subjects you intend to study at Honours level
- If you wish to complete the course part-time or full-time
Contact the Faculty Office for an application form or further information.
Related study options
Didn't find a suitable course? You could also try these study options:
Your study experience
Student Association
LIRA, the La Trobe International Relations Association, is a student run organisation.
For more information, Join our Facebook Group or visit our website at www.lira.org.au and join the mailing list.
Student and graduate profiles
Students of the Faculty talk about their experience at La Trobe.
About the academic staff
You'll get to meet a large number of academics during your course, from tutors through to lecturers. You can view all the staff from the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences or focus on staff in International relations.


