Graduate Diploma in International Relations and National Security

This course is designed for people who want the expertise to understand, analyse and critically assess the increasingly complex problems of international relations and national security.

This course builds on the curriculum of the graduate certificate to provide you with the opportunity to complete further specialist topics.

You will gain the knowledge and skills to understand contemporary international relations, global trends, diplomacy, security challenges and strategic affairs from an interdisciplinary perspective.

As you progress through the graduate program, you'll further explore the key characteristics of the international system, nation-states, balance of power, security and the domestic influences on foreign policy.

You'll also study optional units that support your career goals, analysing topics such as the geopolitics of the Indo-Pacific region, through to intelligence, terrorism, strategic geography and energy security.

Graduates of this course have gone on to work for government ministers, Commonwealth and State government agencies, Australian Intelligence Community, Australian Defence Force, international non-government organisations, media outlets and research centres.

Completing this course makes you eligible for the Master of International Relations and National Security.

Please refer to the handbook for additional course overview information.

• apply knowledge of the principles and concepts of international relations and national security 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 and security studies framework; think creatively to develop effective policy solutions to national and international challenges
• identify, systemise, process, and critically evaluate and synthesise relevant data from a range of appropriate sources; create an effects-based policy product
• communicate, both verbally and in writing, comprehensive analyses of complex international relations and national security data or theories
• use relevant technologies to effectively collect and interrogate data, and communicate findings
• develop strong independent learning and analytical skills
• develop skills to think strategically and in the global context
• develop 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