Master of Global Studies

The Master of Global Studies at RMIT University looks into the interplay between globalisation and social, political, and cultural forces shaping the modern world. You’ll spend two years examining topics such as transnational movements, global development, migration, environmental change, and human rights from both academic and practical viewpoints. The coursework focuses on research methods, international case studies, and policy analysis, allowing you to engage with contemporary global issues relevant to Australia and beyond.

Students progress through a series of units of study, each carrying specified credit points that count towards the master’s qualification. You can expect seminars, research projects, and collaborative activities, along with a capstone project in the final stages. Where possible, RMIT connects coursework to Australian industry or NGO networks, providing opportunities to see how global studies inform policy and practice in areas like international aid, multicultural affairs, or community development.

Graduates gain skills in critical thinking, cross-cultural communication, policy evaluation, and project management. You’ll learn to analyse social trends across regions, prepare research reports, and interpret current events from a well-informed global perspective. This suits those with backgrounds in social science, the humanities, education, or policy, and anyone looking to work in roles that require an understanding of global issues.

Melbourne’s diverse population and RMIT’s links with local organisations enable access to guest speakers, networks, and sometimes real-world project experience. Australian institutions use a credit points system and structure studies over semesters. International students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during teaching periods, and after completing the master’s, may be eligible to apply for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) for post-study work experience in Australia. Always confirm unit details and the most up-to-date information on the official RMIT page.

• Policy officer in government or international agencies
• Researcher or analyst for NGOs and think tanks
• Project officer/project manager in community development
• Roles in multicultural affairs and migration services
• International aid and development organisations across Australia
• Advocacy and program coordination for human rights groups