Bachelor of/Master of Political Science and International Relations / International Law

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Griffith University Gold Coast Campus

Program Overview

If you’re curious about how the world works—why countries interact the way they do, how laws shape global affairs, and how policies affect people—this combined Bachelor/Master at Griffith University is for you. It’s perfect for students who want to make a difference, whether that’s through diplomacy, human rights advocacy, or shaping international policy.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1:
You’ll start by getting to grips with the basics of politics, law, and global systems. Units like Introduction to Political Science, Foundations of International Law, and Global Politics give you the tools to think critically about governments, societies, and the rules that shape international relations. You’ll also develop essential skills in research, analysis, and communication that will serve you throughout the degree.

Year 2:
This year dives deeper into international law and global governance. With units like Public International Law, Comparative Politics, and International Organisations, you’ll learn how countries work together—or sometimes clash—and how legal frameworks guide these interactions. It’s all about understanding the bigger picture and preparing to contribute thoughtfully to international debates.

Year 3:
Now you get to specialise. Units like Human Rights Law, Conflict and Security Studies, and International Trade Law give you the chance to tackle real-world issues, from human rights challenges to global trade disputes. Through case studies and research projects, you’ll start applying your knowledge in practical ways, building skills that employers really value.

Year 4 (Master component):
The master’s phase is where you refine your expertise and focus on professional skills. Units such as International Law Practice, Global Policy Analysis, and Negotiation and Diplomacy will help you become a confident, strategic thinker ready to step into roles in law, government, NGOs, or international organisations. A major research project or thesis gives you the chance to explore an area you’re passionate about and showcase your mastery.

Focus Areas

Global politics, international law, human rights, diplomacy, conflict and security, policy analysis, and international trade.

Learning Outcomes

You’ll graduate able to analyse complex political and legal challenges, develop practical solutions, communicate effectively across cultures, and apply international law in meaningful ways.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

This degree sets you up for careers in government, international organisations, NGOs, or legal practice, giving you the practical and theoretical grounding employers look for.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Griffith University is known for preparing graduates who are career-ready, with strong rankings in law and political science and excellent outcomes for students entering the workforce.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Griffith University, your learning goes far beyond lectures and textbooks. In this combined Political Science, International Relations, and International Law program, you’ll get hands-on experience that builds real-world skills — from internships and study abroad trips to research projects and workshops with professionals. You’ll have access to the Gold Coast campus’s excellent libraries, digital research tools, and connections with government, NGOs, and international organisations, so you can practise what you learn and start building your career even before you graduate.

Here’s how you’ll get practical experience throughout your degree:

Work placements and internships — gain real-world experience in professional settings, locally or globally, applying what you learn in lectures to meaningful projects.
Political and parliamentary internships — step into the world of policy-making, legislative work, or diplomacy, and see how political systems operate in practice.
Study abroad and global exchanges — participate in short-term tours, trimester exchanges, or international fieldwork to get a firsthand understanding of global politics and law.
Industry workshops and networking events — meet professionals, diplomats, and NGO leaders through hands-on sessions, panels, and seminars.
Specialised libraries and digital research tools — access databases and guides focused on political science and law to help you research and analyse effectively.
Career support services — get help with resumes, interviews, and professional development through Griffith’s tailored career programs.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Bachelor/Master of Political Science and International Relations / International Law leave Griffith with the skills and confidence to make an impact on the global stage. You could find yourself working as a policy analyst, diplomat, human rights advocate, or international legal advisor, using your knowledge to shape policy, support justice, and tackle complex international issues. The university provides strong support to help you step smoothly from study into your career:

Here’s how Griffith helps you turn your degree into real opportunities:

Career Services & Mentoring – personalised guidance, mentoring, and employability workshops help you build your resume, prepare for interviews, and connect with professionals in government, NGOs, and international organisations.
Strong Employment Outcomes – Griffith graduates enjoy high rates of full-time employment, with many securing roles in their field shortly after graduating.
Industry Connections – through the School of Government and International Relations, you’ll work on real-world projects and attend networking events with leaders in policy, law, and diplomacy.
Practical Experience – internships and placements built into the program let you gain hands-on experience, making your resume stand out.
Accreditation & Global Recognition – earning both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree gives you an internationally respected qualification, opening doors to careers worldwide.

Further Academic Progression:
If you want to dive even deeper, you could continue with a PhD in International Relations, Political Science, or International Law, or pursue specialised master’s programs in diplomacy, human rights, or public policy. Some graduates also take professional certifications or short courses that align with careers in foreign service, international organisations, or legal practice, keeping their options wide and flexible.