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GSIA Degree Overview

The GSIA offers three degree programs:

Master of Arts (International Relations) [MAIR]
Master of International Affairs [MIA]
Graduate Diploma in International Affairs [GDIA]

A specialisation in Peace and Conflict Studies can be pursued in conjunction with any of these degrees.

In addition, there are two joint degree programs offered in conjunction with the Asia Pacific College of Diplomacy:

Master of Diplomacy/Master of Arts (International Relations) [MDipl/MAIR]
Master of Diplomacy/Master of International Affairs [MDipl/MIA]

There is also a non-award bridging program offered to select students who are otherwise qualified for admission to the master's but require some additional preparation in order to perform at Distinction level in an English-language degree program.

Degree Programs

MA (International Relations) (MAIR)
This is a coursework and thesis program recommended for students interested in pursuing advanced work in international relations and as preparation for PhD study. It is completed in three semesters full-time or at least six semesters part-time. Recently celebrating its 32nd anniversary, the MAIR is among the oldest master degrees in international relations in the world. With its high admission standards, it has gained a reputation as a challenging advanced-level degree. [ details ]

Master of International Affairs (MIA)
This is a 48-unit coursework program (without thesis) completed over two semesters full-time study or at least four semesters part-time. This option draws on the coursework of the MAIR and on the experience of the faculty and administrative staff of the MAIR. It is also an advanced graduate degree with high admission and exit standards but is of shorter duration. [ details ]

Graduate Diploma in International Affairs (GDIA)
The GDIA is a two-semester coursework program that provides a strong foundation in international affairs. It also provides a stepping-stone to the MIA or . Like the MIA it is highly integrated with the MAIR and benefits from the academic and administrative experience and standing of the MAIR. [ details ]

Peace and Conflict Studies Specialisation
Students in a GSIA degree program also have the opportunity to develop a specialisation in peace and conflict studies through participation in the Peace and Conflict Studies program. This is a program established by The Australian National University (ANU) in Canberra, the International Peace Research Institute, Oslo (PRIO), and Bjørknes College in Oslo. The program is designed to provide advanced academic training in conflict resolution and peace-building within a broader understanding of international relations. This provides students with the knowledge to understand the international context in which conflict, conflict management and peace-building take place.

Students spend one semester in Oslo, pursuing courses specially developed and taught by the staff of PRIO. All other courses are taken at ANU in Canberra and are principally taught by the academic staff of the Department of International Relations in the Research School of Pacific and Asian Studies. [ details ]

Master of Diplomacy/Master of Arts (International Relations) (MDIPL/MAIR)
This is a combined degree in international relations and diplomacy, which combines coursework with a 15, 000-word thesis. Taken over 24 months full time, it allows one more semester than the MDIPL/MIA during which students undertake the thesis. It is recommended for those seeking a more academic path in the study of diplomacy and international relations, particularly if this is likely to involve doctoral research. [ details ]

Master of Diplomacy/Master of International Affairs (MDIPL/MIA)
This is a combined coursework degree in international relations and diplomacy taken over four semesters, in an 18-month period. In the first two semesters students complete the coursework of the Master of International Affairs within the GSIA. This constitutes the Master of International Affairs segment of the combined degree.
In the second stage candidates enter the Master of Diplomacy and the third and fourth semesters of their combined degree program. [ details ]

Bridging Program
A two-semester (48-unit) or one-semester (24-unit) Bridging program for international students who have qualified to enter the MAIR or MIA but who need time and further preparation to achieve distinction at a graduate level. [ details ]

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GSIA Courses

A complete list of GSIA courses, with descriptions, as well as selected courses from other departments approved as GSIA electives, is available here.

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Assessment

Guidelines on the assessment schemes used in GSIA courses is available here.

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