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International Studies

International Studies is an interdisciplinary field of inquiry that crosses history, politics, international relations, sociology and economics. It begins by examining the history of the 20th century before moving on to study the issues facing the world as it moves into the 21st century. International studies brings to life the issues and events that have shaped, and continue to shape our world. As the world globalises and nations and economies become more integrated, it is important to understand our world and the ideas and beliefs of our neighbours and trading partners. In order to compete in the international marketplace of products, ideas and knowledge, students need to understand and respect the cultures and beliefs of others.

How do I complete a major in International Studies?
After completing the two first-year units, students must complete a minimum of two units at the second year level and a minimum of four units in the third-year level.

Note that some of the units listed can be taken at either second or third year level.

First Year

  • Contemporary Worlds 1
  • Contemporary Worlds 2

Second/third-year level

  • Nationality, Ethnicity and Conflict
  • Mobile Worlds: migrants, refugees and the politics of belonging
  • Africa in the Modern World
  • South Africa: Democracy and Development
  • Diplomacy in Contemporary International Relations
  • Democratisation and Human Rights in Africa
  • Globalisation and its Discontents
  • Global Cultures, Local Traditions: Creating and consuming (popular) culture
  • Governing the Global Economy: Stability, Efficiency, Justice
  • Arms Control and International Security

BA (Global)
Students who complete the major in International Studies have the option to include in their degree the first-year sequence in Global Studies and then complete a BA (Global). The unit requirements for the BA (Global) are the same as for other BA degrees. A special feature of this degree is that students must study overseas for at least one semester, and may do so for up to three semesters. Students can study at Monash Malaysia and/or at one or more of the Monash Australia campuses. Overseas studies can only be commenced in the second year. Students who in second year find they are unable to study abroad as originally intended, will be able to continue their studies under the normal Bachelor of Arts degree structure.

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