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The University of Queensland

Brisbane , Queensland ,Australia

Graduate Certificate in International Relations

Develop a deeper understanding of how states and other political entities shape the international system, and how you can play a part in it.

The Graduate Certificate in International Relations (GCIR) is a coursework program aimed at developing conceptual and empirical understanding and skill-sets in research and knowledge development in the International Relations (IR) field.

You'll work with world-class teachers and researchers who are in touch with industry partners and participate in regular public commentary and debate in their fields, and you'll study alongside students from many different countries and backgrounds.

Your GCIR will cover the four key areas of international relations: international theory, the development of the international system, international security, and international political economy. The half year full-time (or part-time equivalent) program includes over 20 courses and projects covering specific fields such as Writing Politics, Principles of International Law, Ethics and Human Rights, Global Governance and Foreign Policy and Diplomacy.

You may also participate in the Graduate Centre Mentorship Program.

UQ’s Graduate Certificate in International Relations will equip you with the analytical and practical skills for a career in diplomacy, government, think-tanks, non-governmental organisations, the UN, international journalism, or development. 

Program highlights

  • Select from a diverse spectrum of courses.
  • Study with undergraduates from a range of countries and backgrounds.
  • Choose to participate in the Graduate Centre Mentorship Program.
  • Develop the necessary skills for a rewarding career in government or non-government sectors.

Campus Information

St Lucia

Situated on 114 hectares of Brisbane River-bound land, UQ’s main campus is a vibrant mix of majestic sandstone buildings and contemporary architecture, landscaped gardens and lakes. Fanning out from the heritage-listed Great Court, you’ll find modern teaching and research facilities, including laboratories, lecture theatres, and Queensland’s largest research library. The expansive grounds are also home to a variety of sporting facilities, museums, cafes, and those famous Jacaranda trees. The St Lucia campus is only seven kilometres from Brisbane’s city centre, making it an appealing place to study, work or visit.

Intakes

  • Feb
  • July

Application Processing Time in Days: 28

Application Process

Days

Minimum English Language Requirements

English Level Description IELTS (1.0 -9.0) TOEFL IBT (0-120) TOEFL CBT (0-300) PTE (10-90)
Expert 9 120 297-300 86-90
Very Good 8.5 115-119 280-293 83-86
Very Good 8 110-114 270-280 79-83
Good 7.5 102-109 253-267 73-79
Good 7 94-101 240-253 65-73
Competent 6.5 79-93 213-233 58-65
Competent 6 60-78 170-210 50-58
Modest 5.5 46-59 133-210 43-50
Modest 5 35-45 107-133 36-43
Limited 4 32-34 97-103 30-36
Extremely Limited < 4 < 31 < 93 < 30

Job Opportunity Potential

Career possibilities
Postgraduate study can take you anywhere. Here are some of the careers you could be on your way to:

  • International aid coordinator
  • Asia-Pacific international relations adviser
  • Policy and advocacy adviser
  • Policy officer
  • Ministerial officer
  • External affairs officer
  • Senior compliance officer
  • International aid coordinator
  • Overseas development manager
  • Human rights advocate

Admission Requirement / Eligibility Criteria

Prerequisites

  • a bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in any discipline, or
  • to have completed post-secondary studies and have 2 years full-time equivalent relevant work experience with documented evidence (such as references). Applications on the basis of post-secondary study and/or work experience will be individually assessed.

You must have a grade point average (GPA) of at least 4.5 on a 7-point scale in your previous qualification.

GPA equivalent

Select where you studied and your qualification to see the GPA equivalent you need to be considered for this program.

Use the GPA equivalent as a guide. When you apply, we’ll calculate your GPA using the UQ grading scale. Any failing grades will be included. Entry requirements are subject to change.