The Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in International Relations is designed to prepare students for careers in diplomacy, international organisations, government, policy analysis, international business, and global development. The programme provides a strong foundation in international politics, diplomacy, international law, security, economics, and sustainable development while developing analytical, communication, negotiation, and research skills.

Key Benefits

• Comprehensive understanding of international politics, diplomacy, and global governance.
• Study international security, international law, foreign policy, conflict resolution, and global economics.
• Develop analytical, research, negotiation, leadership, and intercultural communication skills.
• Learn through case studies, policy analysis, simulations, debates, and research projects.
• Complete a 16-week Industrial Internship with government agencies, NGOs, multinational organisations, or international institutions.
• Opportunity to graduate through the APU–De Montfort University (DMU) Dual Degree Scheme, receiving degree certificates from APU (Malaysia) and De Montfort University (United Kingdom).
• Multicultural learning environment with students from over 130 countries, providing valuable international perspectives.

Programme Structure

Degree Level 1 – Foundations of International Relations

Students build a strong understanding of politics, economics, communication, and international affairs.

Typical modules include:

• Introduction to International Relations
• Political Science
• Digital Thinking and Innovation
• Global Political Economy
• International Communication
• Principles of Management
• International History
• Research Skills
• Quantitative Methods

Degree Level 2 – Global Politics & Diplomacy

Students deepen their understanding of international systems and institutions.

Typical modules include:

• International Law
• Comparative Politics
• Foreign Policy Analysis
• International Organisations
• Global Security Studies
• Diplomacy and Negotiation
• International Political Economy
• Human Rights
• Research Methods

Degree Level 3 – Strategic International Relations

Students focus on advanced global policy and contemporary international issues.

Typical modules include:

• Strategic Studies
• International Conflict Resolution
• Global Governance
• Sustainable Development
• International Trade and Economics
• International Security
• Leadership and Global Affairs
• Contemporary International Issues
• Final Year Research Project

Disciplines / Areas of Study

The programme covers a broad range of international relations disciplines, including:

• International Relations Theory
• Diplomacy
• International Law
• Global Politics
• Foreign Policy
• International Security
• Conflict Resolution
• International Political Economy
• Human Rights
• Global Governance
• Sustainable Development
• International Organisations

Programme Highlights

• Ranked among the Top 2% Universities Worldwide
• Malaysia's Premier Digital Tech University
• Students from 130+ countries
• APU–DMU Dual Degree Scheme
• 16-week Industrial Internship
• Strong emphasis on diplomacy, international law, global governance, and policy analysis
• Practical learning through simulations, debates, and policy research
• International learning environment with multicultural exposure
• Excellent graduate employability
• Scholarships available for eligible international students. 

Career Outcomes

Graduates are prepared for careers such as:

• Diplomatic Officer
• Foreign Affairs Officer
• International Relations Executive
• Policy Analyst
• Political Risk Analyst
• International Trade Executive
• NGO Programme Officer
• International Development Officer
• Government Relations Executive
• Public Affairs Consultant
• Intelligence Analyst
• Research Officer
• Corporate Affairs Executive
• International Business Consultant
• United Nations or International Organisation Programme Officer (subject to recruitment requirements)

Student Visa Requirements

International students must obtain a Malaysia Student Pass (Student Visa) before commencing studies.

Typical requirements include:

• Valid passport
• Official APU Offer Letter
• Academic transcripts and certificates
• Proof of English language proficiency (if applicable)
• Passport-sized photographs
• Medical examination
• Student Pass application through Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS)
• Proof of sufficient financial resources
• Mandatory medical and health insurance

Latest Updates (2026)

• The Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in International Relations continues to be offered as a 3-year full-time programme with 28 September 2026 and 24 November 2026 intakes for international students.
• Students may opt for the APU–DMU Dual Degree Scheme, enabling eligible graduates to receive degree certificates from both Asia Pacific University (Malaysia) and De Montfort University (United Kingdom).
• The programme continues to strengthen its focus on international diplomacy, global governance, foreign policy, sustainability, international security, and multicultural engagement, preparing graduates for careers in government, diplomacy, international organisations, NGOs, and multinational corporations.
• A compulsory 16-week industrial internship provides valuable professional experience and enhances graduate employability in international affairs and related sectors.