University of Adelaide

What you'll study

The program combines core security and international relations subjects with broader arts study, allowing you to tailor your degree through majors, minors and elective choices. Typical subjects cover:

• Foundations of international relations and security: concepts of state and human security, theories of conflict and cooperation, history of strategic thought.
• Security practice and policy: defence policy, counter‑terrorism and policing, intelligence studies, border security and migration policy.
• Contemporary challenges: cyber security and information operations, transnational crime, climate security and humanitarian responses.
• Regional and thematic studies: Asia‑Pacific security, Middle East politics, comparative foreign policy and diplomatic practice.
• Research skills and methods: qualitative and quantitative methods, policy analysis, risk assessment and a capstone research project or practicum.
• Language and contextual study: opportunity to combine international security with language study, history, law, or development studies to deepen regional expertise.

Most students complete the degree over the standard bachelor duration, selecting a major in international security or combining relevant units across arts disciplines. Options typically include an independent research project or industry placement to develop practical experience.

Entry requirements

Entry is based on successful completion of secondary schooling or an equivalent qualification recognised by the University of Adelaide. Applicants are expected to demonstrate competent English language proficiency through recognised tests, previous study in English, or equivalent evidence. The University also considers alternative entry pathways, including mature‑age applicants with relevant work experience or vocational qualifications.

Selection may take into account your academic background in humanities, social sciences or languages, but there are no strict subject prerequisites for most applicants. International applicants should consult the University’s English language and qualification equivalency guidance to confirm eligibility.

Career prospects

Graduates work across the public, private and non‑profit sectors. Common career pathways include:

• Policy analyst or adviser in federal, state and local government departments (defence, foreign affairs, immigration, homeland security)
• Roles in intelligence and security agencies or defence organisations
• Diplomatic service, foreign missions and international organisations
• Security consultancy, risk assessment and corporate security roles
• International development, humanitarian organisations and NGOs focused on conflict, migration or human security
• Journalism, research, advocacy, and further academic study at honours or postgraduate level

The degree emphasises analytical, research and communication skills valued by employers in contexts where understanding political and strategic dynamics is essential.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide offers a humanities environment that integrates theoretical and applied approaches to international security, with opportunities to combine study with languages and regional specialisations. You will benefit from access to experienced academic staff, research‑informed teaching and connections with policy and professional communities through guest lectures, internships and collaborative projects.

Studying in Adelaide also provides proximity to a range of government, defence and technology organisations in a mid‑sized city with a supportive student community. The University’s study abroad and exchange arrangements enable international experience to complement classroom learning, and honours and postgraduate pathways are available for students wishing to pursue advanced research or specialised professional qualifications.