Masters in Political Science in Australia

Understand and address the world’s most pressing challenges, including war and peace, social and economic justice, poverty, development and environmental sustainability. Investigate relations among states and non-state actors, including the evolution of the international system. Develop sophisticated critical thinking through this intellectually rigorous, research-intensive program.

The Master of International Relations allows you to specialise in Economics, Political Economy, Peace and Conflict Studies, Sociology, Social Policy and Development, or International Law. You will gain a deep understanding of complex problem solving in a globalised world.

The Department of Government and International Relations is one of the largest of its kind in Australia, with links to some of the major policy think tanks in Australia, such as the Australian Institute of International Affairs, and the Lowy Institute. We also house the Centre for International Security Studies and the Electoral Integrity project.

Our academics are recognised experts in international relations theory, public policy, international political economy and security, Australian and comparative politics, migration, and North and Southeast Asian politics.

Do you want to further target your interests and career aspirations? A double degree Masters of International Relations and Journalism provides a comprehensive introduction to the nature of the international political system and some of the key issues in contemporary international relations; an entry-level qualification for a professional journalism career; and a mid-career course for working journalists seeking to extend their expertise and refresh the intellectual basis of their practice. The national and international orientation of the course optimises the contribution graduates make to their profession using a full range of media technologies and insights into approaches to international relations.

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Our world is shaped by big questions about global justice, war, peace, social movements, and inter-state relations. The Master of InternationalRelations enables you to deal critically and analytically with such questions, providing a window into the dynamic world of 21st century politics.

This component of the double degree course explores the security, ethical, legal and economic dimensions of international relations.You will examine key issues in foreign policy, world order, European studies, management and terrorism, as well as the gender, development, migration and governance aspects of global politics.

The Master ofJournalism component provides you with the opportunity to work with award-winning journalists and academics with strong industry links, as you cultivate high-level skills in research and reporting across all media – print, online, radio and video – and explore the role of the media in contemporary society.This double degree course is well suited to people interested in working in journalism in the international field. It also enables those with an interest in international relations to combine that with communication skills. For instance, if you would like to work in communications in NGOs or United Nations agencies or the UnitedNations itself, this course is a good choice.

We live in a time of unprecedented global change. As power structures shift, we need to anticipate, understand and take advantage of new trends, while skilfully navigating the risks. As international borders continue to blur, organisations are searching for new leaders who are prepared for what’s coming next – and who are determined to build a better future.

If you're passionate about global politics and want to learn how shape the future, La Trobe's Graduate Diploma in International Relations will give you the foundations to advance your career. Learn how to navigate the complex power dynamics between governments, multilateral organisations, international businesses and INGOs, and prepare to take on roles in these arenas. You'll graduate with the skills to navigate current global issues and create positive change across cultures and societies.

Delve into the history of international relations and explore contemporary approaches. Examine key frameworks and understand the complex relationships that drive global trade, security and governance.

You'll explore public policy that promotes social justice and explore key themes of poverty, gender, inequality and the threat of war. Understand how foreign policy is made and build your knowledge of international law. Then explore the sprawling networks of global economic interdependence, while investigating both the harms and benefits of globalisation. You'll understand the issues from a meta perspective, so you can help shape policies for governments and intergovernmental organisations such as the World Bank, ASEAN and the United Nations.

Learn from high-profile academic staff with extensive research and teaching experience. Outstanding educators who are passionate and deeply knowledgeable about their subject matter, our academics are renowned commentators who are frequently quoted in local and international media, and whose expertise is regularly sought by government committees.

After successfully completing the Graduate Diploma in International Relations, you could receive up to one year of advanced standing. This provides a pathway to transfer directly into the second year of La Trobe's Master of International Relations, should you decide to further your studies.

Gain the skills you need to build a successful career with an international focus. Broaden your understanding of the world around you and graduate ready to influence change on a global scale.