Curtin University

Master of International Relations

  • Delivery: Face to Face
  • Study Level: Postgraduate
  • Duration: 24 months
  • Course Type: Master's

Strengthen your understanding of international politics, security and statecraft while developing the analytical and practical capabilities to respond to complex global challenges.

Course overview

Contemporary international relations professionals must navigate challenges ranging from geopolitical conflict and cyber threats to climate change, terrorism and mass displacement. Curtin University’s Master of International Relations develops the theoretical understanding and practical capabilities required to analyse these issues and support informed international decision-making.

You will examine international relations and security theory, diplomacy, foreign policymaking, national strategy and engagement across culturally diverse environments. Elective choices allow you to explore areas such as intelligence analysis, regional geopolitics, cyber conflict, terrorism, political violence and environmental and energy security.

In the second year, you will choose between a research pathway and a professional project pathway. The research pathway comprises an extended independent research project, while the professional pathway combines a major project with professional experience in a relevant organisation. Completing the research pathway to a high standard may support eligibility for entry into a doctoral degree. Subject to completing the required units, earlier exit awards may also be available through the Graduate Certificate or Graduate Diploma in International Security.

Available on campus at Curtin Perth and online, the course can be completed in two years of full-time study or through equivalent part-time study. Graduates can strengthen their strategic thinking, research, communication and leadership capabilities for roles across government, foreign affairs, defence, international organisations, media and research.

Key facts

Delivery
Face to Face
Course Type
Master's
Duration
More Information
Can be studied part time
24 months (Full time)
Price Per Unit
$3,164.5
More Information
The estimated fee is determined by individual units of study and the year the course was commenced.
Campus
Perth
Intake
8th February, 2027
12th July, 2027
Units
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You may be required to complete 0 credit point units throughout your course. The university will confirm this as part of your enrolment.

The unit total reflects the number of units required for course completion, not the total credit point weight. Some units may be double- or triple-weighted, so the number of units you complete may be lower.
16
Fees
More Information
FEE-HELP loans are available to assist eligible full-fee paying domestic students with the cost of a university course.
FEE-HELP

What you will study

To earn the Master of International Relations, you must successfully complete units totalling 400 credit points, as detailed below. Unless otherwise noted, each course is worth 25 credit points.

Core Units
  • Engaging Cultural Diversity
  • Global Futures and Just Transformations
  • International Security in Theory and Practice
  • National Strategy and Security
  • Engaging Africa
  • Engaging Asia
Alternate Core
Electives

Entry requirements

Academic requirements

To be eligible for this course, you must meet one of the following:

  • Hold a recognised three- or four-year bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
  • Have successfully completed a Graduate Certificate or Graduate Diploma in International Relations or a related field.

English-language requirements

Applicants must demonstrate English proficiency equivalent to:

  • IELTS Academic overall band score of 6.5, with a minimum score of 6.0 in reading, writing, listening and speaking.
  • An alternative English-language test or eligible qualification accepted by Curtin, provided you meet the required equivalent scores and conditions.

Contact the university or visit its website for more information.

Recognition of Prior Learning

You may be eligible for recognition of prior learning if you have previously studied or have relevant work experience. This will help reduce the number of units you need to study to finish your course. Contact the university for more information.

Outcomes

Learning outcomes

  • Apply knowledge of the principles and concepts of international relations in work-related settings; foster gained knowledge and develop strong independent research skills through minor and major research projects.
  • Critically analyse and interpret major political, security, socio-economic and policy issues using an international relations framework.
  • Communicate, both verbally and in writing, comprehensive analyses of complex international relations data or theories
  • Develop skills to think strategically and in a global context
  • Develop a strong appreciation of working in multi-cultural national and international environments
  • Develop and practice effective independent multi-tasking and team management skills; develop leadership skills and strong professional ethics

Career outcomes

Potential roles:

  • Diplomat
  • Strategic/foreign policy officer
  • Intelligence analyst
  • Humanitarian aid worker
  • International development officer
  • Researcher and consultancy
  • UN political affairs advisor
  • International correspondent

Industries:

  • Foreign affairs
  • Defence Intelligence
  • State and federal government
  • Media and journalism
  • International trade
  • Global NGOs

Fees and FEE-HELP

Indicative annual fee in 2026: $25,316 (Full-fee paying place)

Indicative annual fees are based on your first year of study.

A student’s annual fee may vary by:

  • The number of units studied.
  • Choice of units.
  • Credit from previous study or work experience.
  • Eligibility for government-funded loans.

Student fees shown are subject to change. Contact the university directly to confirm.

FEE-HELP loans are available to assist eligible full-fee paying domestic students with the cost of a university course.