Bachelor of International Relations (Honours) (CRICOS course code 082703A) is a Bachelor Honours Degree delivered by Australian National University over 1 year. This AQF Level 8 course is designed for graduates who have completed a bachelor degree in political science, international relations, or a related field, and wish to advance their research and analytical skills in the study of global politics. ANU, Australia's top-ranked university, offers this honours program at its main campus in Canberra City West, Australian Capital Territory. With Canberra being the nation's capital, students benefit from proximity to government institutions, diplomatic missions, and international organisations. The course provides rigorous training in political theory, foreign policy analysis, and research methods, preparing graduates for careers in diplomacy, public policy, or further academic study. At HeadStart Academy, we help international students navigate CRICOS-registered courses like this one to find their perfect study path in Australia.
Bachelor of International Relations (Honours) (CRICOS course code 082703A) is a Bachelor Honours Degree delivered by Australian National University over 1 year. This course is registered under field of education 09 - Society and Culture, specialising in Political Science (090101). It is offered at AQF Level 8, meaning it is designed for students who have completed a bachelor degree and wish to undertake a focused research project or advanced coursework. ANU is a CRICOS-registered provider (00120C) and a leading public university in Australia. This course appears on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring it meets Australian standards for international education. As with all CRICOS courses, international students are protected under the ESOS Act.
This honours program delves into advanced political science and policy studies, building on undergraduate knowledge. Students typically engage with theories of international relations, comparative politics, and research methodologies. The curriculum emphasises critical analysis of global issues, such as security, diplomacy, and international governance. Graduates develop skills in independent research, policy evaluation, and evidence-based argumentation. While specific units are set by the university, the field of education (Political Science) ensures a strong foundation in understanding political systems, international conflict and cooperation, and the role of institutions like the United Nations. This course prepares students for roles in government, non-profits, academia, or international organisations.
The course duration is 1 year, which equates to 52 weeks on the CRICOS register. It is delivered in English, the sole language of instruction. This is a single qualification (not a dual degree), and it does not include a foundation studies component. Students are expected to study full-time to meet visa requirements. ANU offers this honours program on-campus at its Canberra City West campus.
Tuition fees for this course are indicative and set by Australian National University. According to the CRICOS register, the tuition fee is A$53,110. Non-tuition fees, such as student services and amenities, amount to A$373. The estimated total course fee is A$53,483. Please note: this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. Living costs in Canberra are estimated at around A$500 per week for rent, A$80 for groceries, and A$30 for public transport. For the most current fees, always check the ANU website. HeadStart Academy presents this data for guidance only; fees are subject to change.
International students typically need to demonstrate English language proficiency. The general requirement for honours programs is an IELTS overall score of 6.0 to 6.5, with no band below 5.5 to 6.0. Applicants must also hold a bachelor degree (or equivalent) in a related discipline, usually with a strong academic record (e.g., credit average or higher). Some universities may require a research proposal or interview. ANU may have additional entry requirements; refer to the provider's website. Foundation or pathway options are not part of this course, but students can enquire with ANU about alternative entry paths.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component such as an internship or placement. However, students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This allows students to gain part-time experience while studying.
This course is delivered at Australian National University — Canberra City West, ACT. Canberra is the capital of Australia and home to over 40,000 university students across institutions like ANU, University of Canberra, and UC. The city has excellent public transport, with buses and light rail connecting the city centre to suburbs. Living in Canberra offers a high quality of life, with a vibrant student community and proximity to national institutions like Parliament House and the National Library. HeadStart Academy notes that Canberra has a lower cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne, with indicative weekly rent around A$500 and transport costs around A$30 per week.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course in Australia. This visa requires enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, which Bachelor of International Relations (Honours) is. Visa holders can work 48 hours per fortnight while studying and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion applies, meaning you must demonstrate a genuine intention to stay temporarily for study. Financial capacity must be shown to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. For detailed advice, consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy provides guidance only and does not offer migration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Bachelor of International Relations (Honours) at Australian National University: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Ensure the course and provider are CRICOS-registered (verify on cricos.teqsa.gov.au). 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Submit your application through ANU’s online portal. Prepare required documents: academic transcripts, English test results, and any other documents specified. Check application deadlines, as honours programs may have earlier closing dates. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – Once accepted, ANU will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge a visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you meet GTE, financial, and health cover requirements.
Choosing to study in Canberra means living in Australia’s political and diplomatic hub. As a student at ANU, you’ll have access to world-class libraries, research centres, and networking events with government agencies. Canberra has a large international student community, with many support services. The city is safe, clean, and has a moderate climate. However, it is smaller than Sydney or Melbourne, so if you prefer a bustling metropolis, consider those cities. For this honours program, being in Canberra offers unique opportunities to engage with policy-makers and attend events at embassies. HeadStart Academy recommends weighing these factors against your personal preferences and career goals.
Ready to start your journey? Explore more details on the Australian National University website, or use our course finder to compare similar programs.
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Bachelor of International Relations (Honours) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian National University. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.