Bachelor of Arts(Politics and International Relations)

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of New England Armidale

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Arts (Politics and International Relations) at UNE is a flexible and engaging degree that helps you understand how politics, public policy, and international relations shape the world we live in. If you’re curious about global affairs, diplomacy, or the way governments operate, this degree gives you the knowledge and skills to think critically, communicate effectively, and make sense of complex political issues.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1 — Laying the Foundations
Your first year focuses on building a strong foundation in politics and society. You’ll study units such as Introduction to Politics (PAIS101) and Introduction to Sociology, learning how political systems function, how societies are organised, and developing essential skills in communication, critical thinking, and cultural understanding that will support the rest of your studies.

Year 2 — Diving into Global Politics
In the second year, you’ll explore international relations and political theory in greater depth. Units like International Relations: An Australian Perspective (PAIS103) and International Relations of the Asia Pacific (PAIS113) help you understand Australia’s role in the wider world, while electives let you tailor your studies to your interests — whether that’s global security, political economy, or regional studies.

Year 3 — Advanced Analysis and Contemporary Issues
Your final year prepares you to tackle real-world political challenges. Advanced units such as 21st Century International Relations (PAIS314) and Contemporary Political Issues (PAIS370) let you examine current debates in governance, diplomacy, and public policy, while honing your ability to analyse, research, and communicate complex ideas. By the end of the degree, you’ll be equipped to apply your knowledge thoughtfully in professional, academic, or community settings.

Focus areas

political systems, international relations, global affairs, public policy, regional politics, contemporary political issues

Learning outcomes

develop critical thinking and research skills, analyse domestic and global political challenges, communicate ideas effectively, interpret relationships between governments and international institutions, and apply knowledge to real-world situations

Professional alignment

This degree equips you with skills that are highly valued by employers in government, policy, research, community organisations, and international relations. Your understanding of politics and global affairs, combined with analytical and communication skills, prepares you for a wide range of professional pathways.

Reputation

UNE is known for its supportive learning environment and strong focus on student outcomes. Graduates from the Bachelor of Arts are recognised for their adaptability, critical thinking, and ability to work across government, research, policy, and community sectors.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Studying Politics and International Relations at UNE isn’t just about learning theory — it’s about putting that knowledge into practice. The program gives you opportunities to gain hands-on experience, develop professional skills, and connect with real-world political and social issues, whether you’re studying on campus in Armidale or online. You’ll leave your degree not only with knowledge but also with practical experience and confidence that will set you apart in the workplace.

Here’s how UNE helps you turn learning into action:

Internship opportunities: While the degree doesn’t require a compulsory internship, you can choose electives that let you take part in professional placements or projects with policy, public affairs, or community organisations. This helps you apply what you’ve learned in a real-world context and build your resume.
Work placements and work-integrated learning: UNE offers programs that allow you to work with organisations and community groups, gaining first-hand experience in problem-solving, policy analysis, and professional collaboration.
Collaborative projects: Many units include group work, research projects, and discussions that mirror professional teamwork, helping you build communication, negotiation, and leadership skills.
Digital tools and academic support: UNE’s online learning platform provides 24/7 access to resources, research databases, and academic support, helping you sharpen research and writing skills that are essential in politics, policy, and international relations.
Research and analysis in action: Advanced units, such as International Relations of the Asia Pacific (PAIS113) and Contemporary Political Issues (PAIS370), allow you to explore current global debates and public policy challenges, giving you practical experience in analysing real-world issues.

Through these experiences, UNE helps you connect theory to practice, preparing you to step confidently into roles in government, policy, diplomacy, or community organisations.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating from UNE with a Bachelor of Arts in Politics and International Relations opens doors to a wide range of careers where your skills in critical thinking, research, and communication are in high demand. Many graduates find themselves working as policy analysts, public servants, community advisors, or international relations officers — roles that let you apply your understanding of politics and global affairs to real-world challenges:

Career support services: UNE’s Career Hub provides personalised guidance to help you explore career paths, polish resumes, prepare for interviews, and connect with potential employers. You’ll also have access to workshops, networking events, and mentoring opportunities to give you a head start in your professional journey.
Employment outcomes and prospects: UNE Arts graduates are highly regarded for their versatility, with many securing full-time positions soon after graduation. Your degree equips you with practical skills that employers value across government, research, community, and advocacy sectors.
Practical and professional experience: Work-integrated learning options, including elective placements and project-based subjects, let you gain real-world experience and build professional networks before you graduate.
Long-term value of the qualification: Even without formal accreditation, your degree gives you transferable skills — analytical thinking, research expertise, and communication — that are relevant in a variety of roles in politics, public policy, international organisations, and community-focused careers.
Graduate outcomes: By the end of your studies, you’ll be well-prepared for roles in government, NGOs, research organisations, advocacy groups, and international agencies, thanks to the combination of theoretical knowledge and practical skills developed throughout the program.

Further Academic Progression:
If you’re interested in taking your studies further, UNE offers excellent pathways for postgraduate study. Many students continue with a Master of Arts, Master of International Relations, or other specialised programs in public policy, diplomacy, or governance. You could also pursue honours or research degrees, such as a Master of Philosophy or PhD, which open doors to academic careers or advanced research positions.