Subject focus: Studying International Relations in Australia and New Zealand

The Master of International Relations degree at the University of Melbourne incorporates the study of international relations theory, international governance and law, international security, international political economy and international history. You can choose to focus your studies on Asia-Pacific, Europe, or the Middle East with expert tuition from regional specialists who are the best in their field.

During this two-year programme, you will study and debate contemporary issues including international politics of climate change, nuclear weapons, genocide, human rights, globalisation, corruption, international trade, and women in global politics. Through which, you will gain a deep understanding of key developments within international relations, as well as the roles of the United States, China, the European Union, and the United Nations.

Opportunities include:

• Gain relevant work experience by applying skills and knowledge through an optional internship.
• Become an active global citizen with keen cross-cultural awareness and understanding.
• Participate in international student exchanges and study another language.

Work Experience

The degree programme includes an optional internship that allows you to apply your skills and gain career-oriented work experience in international organisations, government, business, media and non-government organisations. This degree goes beyond learning theoretical perspectives by putting what you study into practice in a working environment.

Degree Outcomes

The Master of International Relations degree will open doors for a career in government, the private sector, the NGO sector or academia.

There is a minor thesis option, for students interested in pursuing a research higher degree in the subject. 

Programme Details

Duration: 2 years

Annual fees: AU$30,078

Entry Requirements: Undergraduate degree with strong academic result.

(180 Otago Points/90 ECTS; 12 months of study).

The Master of International Studies is a one-year postgraduate programme that will equip students to operate with confidence in the global environment.  This is achieved through seminar discussions, debates, simulation exercises, and independent research, led by senior academics who are all specialists in their fields.

The Master of Peace and Conflict Studies is an inter-disciplinary programme providing students with an advanced qualification in peace and conflict studies, development and peacebuilding. Drawing upon national and international expertise in the field, this programme will position graduates for a wide range of career options in the public and private sectors as academic researchers and as practitioners and policy makers in fields such as conflict analysis and resolution, peace-building, and post-conflict transformation.

The Master of International Studies and the Master of Peace and Conflict Studies each consist of two semesters of coursework beginning in February and ending in November, this is followed by a Research Project, or a placement plus report for the Master of Peace and Conflict Studies.

These one year master degrees are a quick and affordable way to direct your career in another way with a highly international dimension.

In the Master of International Studies you will study:

• International Politics
• The Global Economy
• International Legal Issues
• Global Peace and Conflict
• Research Dissertation

In the Master of Peace and Conflict Studies you will study:

• Theories of Peace and Conflict
• Conflict Analysis and Conflict Resolution Theory
• Research Dissertation or Practicum and Research Report
• and two further advanced level papers

Degree Outcomes

Upon graduating students may be eligible to complete a PhD or obtain employment in leadership roles in professions that require international expertise: diplomacy, the public service, teaching, journalism or business.

Programme Details

Duration: 1 year

Annual fees: NZ$25,600

Entry Requirements: Graduates of any undergraduate degree with a strong academic result.