Bachelor of International Studies(politics)

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Sydney

Program Overview

The Bachelor of International Studies (Politics) at the University of Sydney is a three-year degree that combines international politics with history, culture, languages, and global affairs. It’s ideal for students who are curious about the world, want to understand global systems, and are passionate about tackling issues like diplomacy, conflict, justice, and international cooperation.

Curriculum structure

Year 1 – Foundations in global systems and perspectives
In your first year, you’ll explore the basics of international studies with units like What is International Studies? and The Rise of the Global Order. Alongside these, you can study a language or a second major or minor, helping you start connecting political understanding with cultural and linguistic skills.

Year 2 – Exploring global challenges
Your second year delves deeper into key issues in global affairs through units such as Global Peace and Justice, Decolonisation: The End of Empire?, and War and its Legacy. These courses develop your ability to analyse conflict, human rights, and the role of states and international organisations, while your language or second major/minor continues to broaden your skills.

Year 3 – Advanced study and application
In the final year, you’ll take advanced units like Global Responses to Climate Change and Foundations of International Society, equipping you to analyse complex global problems. You’ll also complete interdisciplinary or project-based units such as Interdisciplinary Impact, which bring together your learning and prepare you for professional or postgraduate pathways.

Focus areas

International politics, global history, language and cultural studies, global governance, peace and justice, international institutions

Learning outcomes

Develop global awareness and intercultural communication, analyse political and social systems internationally, conduct interdisciplinary research, apply language skills, and think critically about global issues

Professional alignment (accreditation)

This degree equips you with skills recognised by employers in government, international organisations, diplomacy, advocacy, consulting, and multicultural sectors, giving you a flexible qualification for a global career.

Reputation (employability rankings)

The University of Sydney is consistently ranked among the top universities globally for humanities and social sciences, with graduates highly regarded for their analytical, research, and communication skills.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The Bachelor of International Studies (Politics) at the University of Sydney gives you plenty of opportunities to gain hands-on experience and develop practical skills while you study. You’ll have access to internships, research projects, international exchanges, and field experiences that allow you to apply what you learn in real-world contexts. The University also provides excellent libraries, digital research tools, and professional support to make sure you’re fully prepared for a global career:

Internships and placements: You can take credit-bearing internships with government agencies, NGOs, or private organisations, giving you the chance to apply your skills in research, communication, and policy analysis in real professional environments.
Student projects: Placement programs and project units let you work on real-world issues, honing skills like writing, digital engagement, teamwork, and analytical thinking, all highly relevant to international studies.
International opportunities: Through Sydney’s Global Mobility Program, you can participate in short-term study tours, exchanges, or fieldwork abroad, gaining firsthand insight into different cultures, global issues, and political systems.
Libraries and research tools: You’ll have access to extensive library collections, online databases, and digital research platforms to support your studies in politics, history, and international affairs.
Professional support: Placement officers and career advisors are on hand to help you prepare for internships, connect with opportunities, and link your academic learning to your future career goals.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating with a Bachelor of International Studies (Politics) from the University of Sydney equips you with the skills and confidence to pursue a wide range of global careers. Many graduates step into roles such as policy adviser, diplomat, embassy officer, or international consultant, applying their understanding of politics, culture, and international systems to real-world challenges. The degree combines in-depth academic study with practical experiences, ensuring you’re ready to make an impact in professional settings around the world.

Career support services: The University’s Careers Centre provides personalised guidance, workshops, mentoring, and access to job portals, helping you secure internships and graduate roles while planning your career path.
Employment outcomes: Sydney graduates enjoy strong employment prospects, with most securing full-time work after graduation and employers consistently praising their skills in analysis, communication, and problem-solving. Graduates could expect to earn between AUD 55,000 and 75,000 per annum.
Industry connections: Through careers fairs, networking events, and placement advisory services, you can connect with potential employers and build professional relationships even before finishing your degree.
Long-term value: The program’s emphasis on global politics, languages, and cross-cultural understanding gives you versatile skills that are valued in government, international organisations, NGOs, consulting, and multinational corporations.
Graduate outcomes: Employers look for the critical thinking, research, and communication skills that this degree develops, preparing you for careers in public policy, international affairs, human rights advocacy, trade, and more.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing your degree, you could pursue postgraduate studies such as a Master of International Relations, a Master of Public Policy, or an honours year to specialise further. These pathways open doors to advanced roles in diplomacy, research, and international organisations, helping you move into leadership positions in global careers.