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If you’re hoping to make a lasting difference to international politics and create impactful solutions to security problems, this course is for you.
Undergraduate
Qualification
3 years full-time
Duration
Mar, Jul, Nov
Start Date
24
Units
100% Online
Learning Mode
$16,992*
Fees
‘The benefit of studying online with Swinburne Online has allowed me to schedule my time efficiently and effectively around [my life]. I have been provided with a world-class education led by industry leaders and professionals.’
Kate, Swinburne Online graduate
There's a world of opportunities for Community Development Officers, with jobs set to increase by 13.5% over the next five years.
Our Social Sciences courses have ranked in the Top 250 by the QS Top Universities Rankings for 2025.
Our Social Sciences courses have ranked in the Top 250 by the QS Top Universities Rankings for 2025.
You will be immersed in the complex issues that surround security, international trade and global diplomacy. Topics include Australia’s foreign policy and partnerships, the role of the United Nations, and the evolution of global politics and human rights. You’ll learn about the international framework for human rights and unpack issues such as international law versus the state, refugee rights, drones, torture in security and humanitarian intervention.
Taught by experts with professional backgrounds in politics and intelligence, you’ll learn real-world strategies to set you up for a fulfilling career in a sector you’re passionate about, such as government, not-for-profit, trade, policy, risk analysis and more. With a focus on industry-standard practices, you’ll examine real government documents and case studies to boost your job readiness.
As a graduate of this flexible course, you’ll have a thorough understanding of domestic and international political issues. You’ll also be able to pick from a wide range of electives, where you can enhance your skill set by studying related topics such as counter terrorism or behavioural studies. With this knowledge, you’ll be set up for a rewarding career and the lifelong opportunity to contribute to changes in international politics.
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Career and industry pathways
Course information
How online study works
Information about course fees and how to apply
Studying at Swinburne Online gives you the freedom to study how it suits you. Learn when and where it fits in with your life and tailor your study journey to your own needs without giving up what’s important.
Flexible study at Swinburne Online
Set a study pace that work with what’s going on in your life. If you’re unsure about how much you can commit to, we can offer part-time options and the option of increasing your unit load as your progress. Interested in fast-tracking your studies? You also have the opportunity to complete up to 12 units per year.
You don’t have to put your life on hold to study. Prioritise what matters to you and fit study around family, work and personal commitments through a course that is flexibly designed for online learners.
Start when it suits. Swinburne Online offers multiple intake dates and flexible unit availability, so you can choose when you begin your studies or if you need to take a break.
Flexible study requires flexible support. As a Swinburne Online student, you’ll have support for extended hours, 7 days a week. Student Advisors available to help with anything from tech support to research advice, and dedicated online tutors in each of your units.
The Bachelor of Social Science – Security and International Relations consists of 24 units, including four core units, eight major units and 12 electives.
Why study a degree in International Relations with Swinburne Online? Our courses are at the forefront of industry and provide you with the practical skills to success come graduation. Get a taste through the course highlight below, or view all units in this bachelor’s degree.
View All UnitsYour study journey with Swinburne Online is tailored to the digital space. You’ll study in a dynamic virtual classroom environment and interact with your peers in the custom-built social platform. You will also receive support at the times you need it from advisors who understand studying online.
You’ll complete each of your units in Canvas, your online classroom, and guided through coursework by an online tutor with real-world experience in your field of study. Canvas is where you’ll access classes, assignments and discussion boards with your peers.
The Student Hub is your online campus, where you’ll access the support and resources to assist you throughout your study journey. From managing your course to technical support and library resources, you’ll find it all in one easy location.
Swinburne Online will be there for you each step of the way. From enrolment through to graduation, we offer extended, flexible support in each of your units. Our OLAs are waiting to assist with anything from technical support to referencing and assignment tips.
Completion or partial completion of an approved tertiary qualification (including diplomas, advanced diplomas, associate degrees and degrees). Additional performance criteria and prerequisite requirements may also apply.
Applicants without a formal qualification but with significant and relevant work experience and appropriate English language skills, or a suitable Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT) result, will be considered if they can demonstrate that they can undertake the course with a reasonable prospect of success.
Read our Applying and Enrolling FAQs.
The University may determine selection criteria and restrictions in respect of courses to apply in addition to these entry requirements.
VCE Units 3 and 4: a minimum study score of 25 in any English (except EAL) or 30 in English as Alternate Language (EAL) or equivalent. Minimum ATAR requirements may apply.
Meeting the minimum entry requirements for the course does not guarantee offer of a place. See Admissions at Swinburne, for general information about admission process
Credit transfer
Credit is granted in recognition of previous study and/or experience and allows students to gain advanced standing towards their course. Applicants are assessed on a case-by-case basis. Speak to a Course Consultant about applying for credit.
Applicants who have completed a Diploma in a related discipline may be eligible for credit of up to 8 units; the equivalent of a third of the course. Students admitted to the course with prior tertiary studies that satisfy part of the academic requirements of this course may be eligible for academic credit of up to 16 units.
Recognition of Prior Learning
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) allows students to gain credit (advanced standing) towards their course in recognition of skills and knowledge gained through work experience, life experience and/or formal training. Applicants are assessed on a case-by-case basis. Speak to a Course Consultant about applying for RPL.
Pathways allow students to progress from one qualification to another where the first course is recognised as an entry requirement and provides advanced standing to the second.
Credit available may vary depending on the major selected within any given degree but in most instances you may receive up to 8 unit credits.
Our Course Consultants will step you through the process of entry and credit using previous study.
The estimated annual fee for this course is $16,992*. This is based on completing eight 12.5 credit point units in one calendar year.
*Unit fees are subject to change annually.
Commonwealth provided loans are available to assist eligible students to pay their course fees and there are a range of university, government and privately funded scholarships and prizes.
Discover more information about HELP loans.
Course fees will be affected by a student’s unit selection and any credit awarded in recognition of previous academic experience.
This course is offered to domestic and offshore international students. Depending on your citizenship, you may be eligible for a Commonwealth Supported Place.
Domestic students also contribute to student services and amenities via an annual fee.
Scholarships are available for both commencing and current students. You may be eligible for Swinburne Scholarships.
The Bachelor of Social Science – Security and International Relations prioritises your readiness to succeed come graduation through industry connections embedded in your degree:
Plan and coordinate programs for not-for-profit organisations and improve relationships with international clients.
Advise government departments on issues relating to security and foreign affairs.
Help to monitor developments in social, cultural, political or military matters to assist with Australian national security.
Use your knowledge of social science to help address issues facing communities and work to find solutions to problems facing various groups.
This degree can help people already working in Defence to advance their career, by equipping them with specialised knowledge relating to security.
Testimonial
‘At Swinburne Online you learn from real people. It’s all fully online, I’d do my remote learning in the car before work, which makes it so easy to have your own life. I love the fact that they cater to all learning styles. Swinburne Online has had a profound impact on my journey and I would recommend it to anyone else.’
Justin
Swinburne Online graduate
