Bachelor of Arts (International studies)

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

La Trobe University

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Arts (International Studies) at La Trobe University is designed for students who want to understand how global politics, economics, culture, and history shape the modern world. It suits students interested in international relations, diplomacy, global issues, and how countries and societies interact across borders. The program builds strong analytical and communication skills while helping students develop a clear global perspective.

Curriculum structure:

Year 1:
Students begin with foundational subjects such as Introduction to International Studies, Global Politics, and Understanding Society. These units help build core skills in critical thinking, research, and understanding how global systems and international institutions operate.

Year 2:
Students move into more specialised study through subjects like International Relations Theory, Global Development, and Security and Conflict. This year focuses on real-world global issues such as migration, trade, human rights, and international cooperation.

Year 3:
In the final year, students complete advanced subjects such as Foreign Policy Analysis, Global Challenges, and a Capstone Research Project in International Studies. This stage develops independent research ability and helps students apply theory to real global problems.

Focus areas:
International Relations, Global Politics, Development Studies, Security Studies, Foreign Policy, Human Rights, Global Economics, Cultural Studies

Learning outcomes:
Critical thinking, global awareness, policy analysis, research skills, cross-cultural communication, problem-solving, and understanding of international systems

Professional alignment (accreditation):
This program prepares graduates for careers in government, international organisations, NGOs, diplomacy, policy analysis, and global development sectors

Reputation (employability rankings):
La Trobe University is recognised globally and is well regarded for strong graduate employability outcomes in social sciences and international relations fields.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students in the Bachelor of Arts (International Studies) at La Trobe University gain practical experience by applying international relations theory to real-world global issues such as diplomacy, migration, security, and development. Learning is designed to connect classroom knowledge with real policy environments, helping students build strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills relevant to international careers. Students also engage with academics and industry practitioners who bring real global experience into teaching and discussion.

This experiential learning includes:
• Work-integrated learning opportunities with partner organisations and industry-linked programs
• Overseas study tours and exchange experiences to gain global exposure and cultural understanding
• Internship pathways supported through university industry and community networks
• Real-world policy and research projects focused on global issues such as conflict, trade, and human rights
• Guest lectures and seminars from diplomats, international relations experts, and policy professionals
• Use of digital research tools, academic databases, and global policy resources for analysis
• Group projects simulating international negotiations and global decision-making scenarios
• Access to university learning facilities and academic support services for research and collaboration

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts (International Studies) at La Trobe University are prepared for careers in global policy, diplomacy, international development, and public service. The degree builds strong skills in understanding international systems, analysing global issues, and working effectively across cultures, which are highly valued in international and public sector environments.

This leads to strong future progression opportunities across government, NGOs, and international organisations:

• Students are supported through La Trobe’s career and employability services, including career development programs, internship pathways, industry networking events, and work-integrated learning opportunities that help build job readiness.
• Employment outcomes reflect demand in public policy, international relations, and development-related fields, with salaries varying depending on role type, organisation, and level of experience across government and NGO sectors.
• The program connects students with government departments, international organisations, and community agencies through applied learning and engagement-focused teaching.
• The qualification holds strong long-term value as a Bachelor-level degree within the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF Level 7), providing a recognised foundation for global careers and further study.
• Graduates develop strong outcomes in policy analysis, research, communication, and cross-cultural understanding, enabling them to work effectively in international environments.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this degree, students can progress into honours study in arts or international studies, or pursue postgraduate qualifications in areas such as international relations, public policy, law, development studies, global security, or political science. It also provides a pathway into research degrees for students interested in academic or policy-focused careers.