Master of International Relations (079184A)

Humans live in one vast, interconnected world. While nation states and local economies still dominate the overall playing field, there’s an ever-increasing flow between countries – of trade, capital, information and people. And it’s irreversibly transforming everyone's lives. In this time of unprecedented change, there are more global challenges and they need urgent solutions.

For applicants who are keen to address the biggest global challenges of the time, La Trobe University's Master of International Relations will give them the interdisciplinary skillset to make a real difference. Students will develop a solid grounding in international political theory and learn how to navigate the complex power dynamics between governments, multilateral organizations, international businesses and international NGOs. They will graduate with the skills to work on current global issues and create positive change across cultures and societies.

In this comprehensive degree, students will focus on public policy that promotes social justice and explore key themes of poverty, gender, inequality and the threat of war. They will understand how foreign policy is made and build their knowledge of international law. Students will examine the role of international institutions in humanitarian law, international environmental law, refugee law and the laws of war. Then they will explore the sprawling networks of global economic interdependence, while investigating both the harms and benefits of globalization. Students will understand the issues from a meta perspective, so they can create policies for governments and intergovernmental organizations such as the World Bank, ASEAN and the United Nations.

Students will learn from high-profile academic staff with extensive research and teaching experience. Outstanding educators who are passionate and deeply knowledgeable about their subject matter, with vast professional networks which students can access via placements and research. They will learn from renowned commentators who are frequently quoted in local and international media, and whose expertise is sought by government committees.

Students can pursue their area of interest and gain high-level skills when they choose a specialization. Students will graduate with their specialization on their academic transcript, so future employers can recognize expertise.

In this highly practical degree, students will gain the skills needed to build a successful career with an international focus. Students can expand their networks and build their experience while they study, with the opportunity to undertake a work placement both in Australia and overseas. They can further their career with a placement that's tailored to their ambition, interest and experience.