Discover a world of global connections
A mix of sociology, history, sustainability and law, this program is designed to help you navigate the contemporary world order, covering studies in international justice, human rights, global environmental politics, media, and international security.
- Only a full-time option is available to international students on a Student visa. Online programs are not available to Student visa holders.
- * Estimated tuition fees are based on 2025 rates. Refer to international fees for more information.
- Not all majors/minors and elective options are available at every campus. You should refer to the What Can I Study tab, and the proposed study sequence for your chosen campus and intake for further information.
A mix of sociology, history, sustainability and law, this program is designed to help you navigate the contemporary world order, covering studies in international justice, human rights, global environmental politics, media, and international security.
You’ll develop an in-depth understanding of the political, cultural, and economic systems of other countries, with a focus on the United States and the Asia-Pacific region. You’ll become familiar with international institutions and the structures of global governance, and examine the relationship between the media and politics. You can also choose to complete an internship in a political setting (such as with state and federal politicians, Amnesty International, local councils or community organisations), giving you practical experience and industry connections.
In this program you will:
- Learn the fundamentals of public international law and international human rights law
- Intern with politicians or social welfare organisations
- Use your elective courses to specialise in a chosen area of interest
- Develop strong communication skills as you research and present arguments on international politics
- Have the opportunity to study overseas
Program structure
Introductory courses (4) 48 units
COR109 Communication and Thought
INT101 Introduction to International Relations: An Australian Perspective
INT102 Global Environmental Politics
PLUS select 1 course (12 units) from:
HIS140 Global Citizens: A History of Humanity
SCS110 Australian Society: How does(n't) it work? - An Introduction to Sociology
Developing and Graduate courses (12) 144 units
JST202 International Justice and Human Rights
INT245 Politics of the USA
INT250 Forces of Change in International Politics
INT257 International Security
INT274 Politics and Security in East Asia
INT335 International Relations Theory and Practice
INT370 Politics and the Media
INT300 Internship in Politics and Industry
PLUS select 4 courses (48 units)from:
ENS204 Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation
HIS240 Nationalism and Identity in the 20th Century: Themes and Tensions
LAW410 Public International Law
LAW412 International Human Rights Law
SCS201 International Community Development and Global Justice
SCS230 Understanding Society: An Introduction to Social Theory
Elective courses (8) 96 units
Select 8 elective courses from the undergraduate elective course options.
Note: Program structures are subject to change. Not all USC courses are available on every USC campus.
Total units: 288
Recommended study sequences
Program requirements and notes
Program requirements
In order to graduate you must:
- Successfully complete 288 units as outlined in the Program Structure
Program notes
- Completing this program within the specified (full-time) duration is based on studying 48 unit points per semester (normally 4 courses)
- The unit value of all courses is 12 units unless otherwise specified
- It is each students responsibility to enrol correctly according to your course requisites, program rules and requirements and be aware of the academic calendar dates
- Courses within this program are assessed using a variety of assessment methods which may include essays, seminar presentations, reports, in-class tests and examinations
- As part of your USC program, you may apply to Study Overseas to undertake courses with an overseas higher education provider
- Only a full-time study option is available to international students on a Student Visa
- Refer to the Managing your progression page for help in understanding your program structure, reviewing your progress and planning remaining courses.