University of Adelaide

What you'll study

This program combines core international relations theory and global politics with specialised topics in international security. You will study foundational subjects such as international relations theory, global governance, international law and diplomatic practice, together with security-themed units including strategic studies, conflict and peacebuilding, terrorism and counter‑terrorism, intelligence and security policy, and contemporary issues in cyber and hybrid threats.

Typical components include:

• Core international relations units: theory, history of the international system, and global political economy.
• Security specialisation units: strategic studies, defence and security policy, terrorism and insurgency, peacebuilding and post‑conflict reconstruction.
• Research and methodology: qualitative and quantitative methods for social science research, research design and a capstone or honours‑level project.
• Practical and professional skills: policy analysis, intelligence briefing, negotiation and diplomacy exercises, and scenario planning.
• Electives and cross-disciplinary options: law, economics, languages, cybersecurity, and regional studies (e.g. Asia, the Middle East, Europe).

Entry requirements

Admission requires a recognised secondary school qualification or an equivalent pathway (such as completed tertiary study or approved foundation programs). Applicants must meet the University of Adelaide's general admission standards and satisfy English language requirements. Relevant prior study in humanities, social sciences or languages is advantageous but not always mandatory. Domestic applicants are assessed through the South Australian Tertiary Admission process or equivalent; international applicants apply with their secondary credentials and certified English proficiency test results.

Career prospects

Graduates are equipped for careers where analysis of global politics and security is central. Typical roles include positions in foreign ministries and embassies, defence and intelligence agencies, multilateral organisations (such as the UN or regional bodies), policy and research institutes, think tanks, and non‑governmental organisations focused on peace, human rights and development.

Other career pathways include:

• Security and risk analysis for government, private sector and consultancy firms.
• Policy officer or adviser roles in national and subnational government departments.
• Intelligence analysis, strategic planning and defence policy roles.
• Journalism, international advocacy, and communications roles with an international focus.
• Further study at honours and postgraduate levels leading to academic, research or specialist professional careers.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide combines a long academic tradition with active research in politics, international relations and security studies. Students benefit from access to experienced academic staff with policy and research experience, opportunities for supervised honours projects, and links to government, industry and regional partners for internships and placements.

Located in a city with a manageable size and strong government and defence presence, the university also offers study abroad and exchange programs that let students gain comparative regional perspectives. The curriculum emphasises practical skills—research methods, policy writing and briefing—alongside theoretical knowledge, preparing graduates to work effectively in diverse professional settings.