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Graduate Certificate in International Relations

What is the course about?

The Graduate Certificate in International Relations introduces students to the academic field of international relations, including some key concepts, theoretical perspectives and debates in the field. Students also acquire knowledge about some major real world developments in international relations, especially in the Asia-Pacific region.

Who is the course designed for?

The Graduate Certificate is intended for those who already hold a degree but who wish to undertake further study so that they can proceed to a Graduate Diploma and possibly also a Master’s degree, or who wish to obtain advanced qualifications in the field of international relations. The course is designed both for those purely interested in acquiring a better understanding of global governance and politics and for those seeking a qualification to enhance their career prospects.

This course is available to both domestic and international students.

How will completing this course help my career prospects?

Completing further study beyond a Bachelor degree will enhance your ability to compete for employment and advancement. The course develops students’ capacities to collect and interpret information; to analyze arguments, policies and developments; and to construct cogent verbal and written arguments on international relations subjects. These are skills of value in a range of occupations in business, governmental and non-governmental organizations. The course also enhances students’ understanding of the ways in which knowledge of international relations is utilized, including in professional employment.

What is the course structure?

This is a one semester full time or two year (maximum) part time course in which a student must complete 24 points of study with a passing grade in each of two units from the following list:

  • Identities in Global Politics: Nationalism, Ethnicity and Religion (12 pts)
  • The International Political System: Evolution and Contemporary Issues (12 pts)
  • International Relations in the Asia-Pacific Region (12 pts)
  • Problems of International Security (12 pts)
  • States and International Political Economy (12 pts)
  • Theory and Method in International Relations (12 pts)

Please note that only two units are offered each semester. See Postgraduate Units in International Relations for unit availability.

Graduates can apply to have work for this course credited towards the Graduate Diploma in International Relations or, depending on performance, the Master of International Relations.

What are the requirements for admission?

Applicants for the Graduate Certificate require a three year Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification in any discipline from an approved tertiary institution, with a distinction (70% or better) average or equivalent, in any major. Applicants with an average of 65% or better in the major may be admitted if they have at least one year of relevant work experience (i.e. employment with a significant international relations dimension or a significant research component.)

Examples of relevant experience are employment by the Department of Defence; preparation of reports or briefing papers for an MP, a minister or a public sector agency.

How do I apply?

Please contact the Discipline of Political Science and International Relations to discuss your interest in the course and to receive any advice you may require.  To assist us to determine your eligibility, please provide an electronic copy of your academic transcript.  If you think you may not meet the academic eligibility requirement above, but have relevant work or other experience, please provide examples of reports or papers which demonstrate your research writing skills.

Telephone: +61 8 6488 2086
Email: Political.Science@uwa.edu.au

Please complete the application form below. In addition to this form you must also complete the PG course pathway form below in consultation with the Discipline.

Domestic students application form

International students application form

PG Course Pathway form

Application Deadline

15 December 2009

Late applications may be accepted; contact the Faculty Student Office:

Telephone: +61 8 6488 2091
Email: arts.faculty@uwa.edu.au

What fees apply?

Domestic students - $5,136 (2010) (FEE-HELP may be available)

International Students - $11,500 (2010)

For Assistance or Further Information

Faculty Student Office Telephone: +61 8 6488 2091
Email: arts.faculty@uwa.edu.au

Discipline of Political Science and International Relations
Tel: + 61 8 6488 2086
Email: Political.Science@uwa.edu.au

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