Politics and International relations address some of the most important and contentious issues facing humanity. Students will examine the ideas, structures and processes that drive politics at both the national and international level. Emphasis is placed on assisting students understand the nature of contemporary political challenges and the role of political leadership, the media, corporate interests, public opinion and grassroots political movements in framing and addressing these challenges.  While the focus is global, thematic and interdisciplinary, specialist units are offered in Australian, American and Chinese politics. The course offers students the opportunity to build links between politics and history through units on the rise to power of Hitler and Stalin, and America during the Cold War. A Major in politics is useful for a wide range of careers including the public service, journalism, teaching, policy/research positions with political parties, and with national and international non-government agencies.