Why study the Graduate Certificate in International Relations with UTS Online?
Top 100 University Globally1
Australia's Top Performing Young University2
Top 10 in Australia for graduate employability3
5 star rated for excellence across 8 categories4
1QS World University Rankings, 2025 2Times Higher Education Young University Rankings, 2025 3QS Graduate Employability Rankings, 2024 4QS Stars Rating 2021–2024
Acquire the foundations to navigate the complex and rapidly changing global landscape
Embark on a future-focused journey with UTS Online's Graduate Certificate in International Relations. Gain foundational knowledge and skills for a global impact in various sectors such as business, public service, government, research, and the humanitarian sector.
Understand global challenges, explore solutions, communicate ideas among international partners, gain geopolitics experience, and embrace multilateralism. Develop intercultural competencies for seamless integration into the global workforce, improving cross-cultural communication, global strategies, and international policy proficiency.
Experience the convenience of 100% online delivery with regular intakes every two months, empowering you to balance personal and professional commitments while unlocking new opportunities.
Who is this course for?
The Graduate Certificate in International Relations is suitable for:
- Public sector professionals seeking to expand their expertise in international affairs, diplomacy and global governance.
- NGO and humanitarian workers looking to strengthen their ability to navigate international development, policy advocacy and global crisis response.
- Business and trade professionals aiming to develop a strategic understanding of international markets, global supply chains and cross-border relations.
- Journalists and media professionals who need deeper insights into global events, geopolitical trends and international conflicts.
- Academics and researchers interested in international relations theory, policy analysis and the dynamics of global power structures.
See entry requirements under course information for more eligibility information.
What you will study
The UTS Online Graduate Certificate in International Relations comprises four online subjects (24 credit points (CP) in total).
Complete all of the following subjects:
- Intercultural and International Communication
- The Future of the International Order
- Sustainability and Global Governance
- Reframing International Political Economy
Note: Most UTS Online subjects are valued at 6 credit points each. For detailed subject descriptions and further information, please download a course guide.
Flexible course options
The Graduate Certificate in International Relations comprises 4 online subjects (24 credit points (CP) in total).
Students who complete the Graduate Certificate in International Relations may qualify to advance to the Master of International Relations, requiring only 8 additional subjects to complete the Master's degree.
Applicants who do not meet the entry requirements for the Master of International Relations may use the successful completion of the Graduate Certificate in International Relations as a pathway, provided they meet the specific entry requirements.
Graduate Certificate
4 Subjects | 8 months
Or continue studying
Master's
+5 Subjects | 3 Electives | 24 months
Graduate with a Master's degree
One of our Student Enrolment Advisors can assist you with more information, including alternative pathways.
Learning Outcomes
Analyse global challenges with a critical lens
Develop a strong foundation in international relations theory and apply critical thinking to assess complex global issues. Gain the skills to evaluate geopolitical trends, policy decisions and international frameworks that shape global affairs.
Engage with diverse cultural and political perspectives
Navigate the complexities of international and intercultural dynamics with confidence. Strengthen your ability to interact with diverse stakeholders and apply culturally informed insights to international policy and diplomacy.
Communicate with impact in global contexts
Refine your ability to articulate evidence-based arguments and influence decision-making. Learn to present complex global issues clearly and persuasively to policymakers, organisations and international audiences.
Lead with ethical and responsible global practices
Apply principles of ethics, sustainability and Indigenous perspectives to international relations. Develop the skills to advocate for responsible global governance, social justice and equitable policymaking.
Course information
Entry requirements
- Applicants must have completed a UTS-recognised academic qualification, or equivalent (according to NOOSR or UK NARIC), as follows:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Graduate Certificate
- Graduate Diploma
- Master’s degree OR
- Doctoral degree or equivalent
- Applicants without an appropriate academic qualification may apply on the basis of a minimum of four (4) years of full-time, or equivalent, relevant work experience and a general capacity to undertake tertiary education*.
Eligibility for admission does not guarantee an offer of a place.
Want to check your eligibility?
Not only do we have the right tools and support teams to help you – we have people who care about your success.
Career outcomes
The UTS Online Graduate Certificate in International Relations provides foundational knowledge for professionals looking to enhance their understanding of global affairs and international policy. Ideal for those seeking to enter or advance in the field of international relations, this course equips you with the skills to navigate complex global challenges.
Upon completion, graduates can pursue roles such as:
- Policy Officer
- International Affairs Assistant
- Program Coordinator (NGOs or Government)
- Trade Analyst
- Global Development Officer
Strong job growth for graduates
Graduates with a Graduate Certificate in International Relations can expect strong career prospects, with roles such as Policy and Planning Managers projected to grow by 5.7% and Intelligence and Policy Analysts seeing an 8.7% job growth by 2026.
(Industry Insights)
57.7%
Full-time employment rate for graduates
In 2022, 57.7% of international graduates in Australia secured full-time employment, reflecting a positive 14.7% increase from the previous year.
(Australian Government Department of Education)
Diverse career paths
Graduates with a Graduate Certificate in International Relations can secure roles across diplomacy, policy analysis, international development and corporate consultancy. Career pathways span government agencies, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), global institutions and multinational corporations, reflecting the high demand for professionals with expertise in global affairs.
(Indeed)
Upcoming intakes
UTS Online courses have 6 intakes per year. The diagram below shows all upcoming intakes. Our next intake is highlighted below.
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Jan
2025 -
Mar
2025 -
May
2025 -
Jul
2025 -
Aug
2025 -
Oct
2025
Meet our Course Director
"The Graduate Certificate in International Relations enables you to engage with big picture challenges like sustainability and the international economy, while developing concrete skills in cross-cultural communication and analysis.”
Jess Gifkins
Course Director, Master of International Relations
Download a course guide
Download a course guide to explore detailed subject descriptions, entry requirements, pathway options and fee information.
“Knowing that I've got the research behind me through the Master's course is going to give me a lot more confidence when I step into a room where decisions need to be made.”
Joel G, UTS Online Student
“Participating in the course has given me more opportunities at my workplace and has led to me being offered a new role. I absolutely love the flexibility of learning online. Being able to join evening classes; really adaptable to my lifestyle”
Kim M, UTS Online Student
“The flexibility to be able to do it any time, anywhere, just made completing the Masters so much easier.”
Bianca N, UTS Online Student
“I'm really impressed by how the course was structured and the way that I could connect with my peers. I also really enjoyed the opportunity to connect what I was learning, all of the theory to my professional world.”
Sonia D, UTS Online Student
“To be able to connect with these industry experts and also so many different students from so many different industries really allowed you to get stuck in and just explore what else is out there.”
Lauren S, UTS Online Student
Frequently asked questions
The Graduate Certificate in International Relations provides foundational knowledge and skills applicable across various sectors, including business, public service, government, research and the humanitarian sector. By understanding global challenges and developing intercultural competencies, you'll be prepared to make a meaningful impact in the international arena.
Yes, upon successful completion of the Graduate Certificate in International Relations, you may have the opportunity to articulate into the Master of International Relations, allowing you to further deepen your expertise and expand your career prospects.
No, this program is designed for individuals from various professional backgrounds who are interested in gaining foundational knowledge in international relations. Whether you're looking to transition into this field or enhance your current role with a global perspective, this course provides the necessary foundation
At UTS Online, your success is our priority, and that doesn't change when you study remotely. We're committed to providing you with a comprehensive range of student support services, guiding you from enrolment right through to graduation.
Assignments in our subjects are authentic, relevant and often grounded in your personal clinical context. They vary according to the subject and include, but are not limited to clinical reports, posters, online quizzes and vivas (oral assessment), podcasts, recorded presentations, education tools, proposals, protocols and professional portfolios. You will not be required to complete exams or group assignments to graduate the Graduate Certificate in International Relations.
When studying the Graduate Certificate in International Relations, your online study experience includes:
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Flexible, interactive modules focused on global issues and diplomacy
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Access to real-world case studies and international resources
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Collaborative tools for engaging with peers and lecturers
Here’s a video example showcasing key features of our online learning platform, including tools designed to enhance your study experience.
For practical tips on balancing your studies with work and life, click here to learn how to achieve your goals. Remember, our team is just an email or call away to support you every step of the way.
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