Introduction to International Relations unit (HIR101)

Hobart, Launceston, Online

Introduction

HIR101 provides students with an overview of the theory and practice of international relations. The unit is divided into two modules. In module one, you will learn about theoretical approaches to the study of IR including introductions to realist, liberal, critical, feminist and green approaches. Each theory provides an important perspective on the international system, foregrounding some actors and issues while backgrounding others. In module two, the unit examines important topics in international relations related to international security, war and peace, great power rivalry, the United Nations system including the United Nations Security Council, global poverty and international development, global climate politics, international terrorism, and human rights. The unit provide you with an introduction to the process, substance, and fast changing nature of international relations and world politics, including a basic knowledge of some key theoretical debates in the field. Following completion of the unit, you will have a broad understanding of international relations, which not only enables the better understanding of global events generally but also provides an essential platform to those wishing to complete a major in the field.

Summary

Unit name	Introduction to International Relations
Unit code	HIR101
Credit points	12.5
College/School	Arts and Society Humanities and Social Sciences
Discipline	Politics and International Relations
Coordinator	Doctor Catherine Goetze
Available as an elective?	Yes
Delivered By	University of Tasmania
Level	Introductory

Availability

Location	Study period	Attendance options		Available to
Hobart	Semester 2
Launceston	Semester 2
Online	Semester 2

Note

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Key Dates

Study Period	Start date	Census date	WW date	End date
Semester 2	5/7/2026	27/7/2026	30/8/2026	24/10/2026

* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (refer to How do I withdraw from a unit? for more information).

Unit census dates currently displaying for 2026 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2026 will be available from the 1st October 2025. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).

About Census Dates

Learning Outcomes

• Identify and evaluate different perspectives in the field of international relations.
• Apply theoretical knowledge and research to analyse cases in international relations.
• Communicate coherently in written and/or oral formats drawing upon evidence to support your argument.

Fee Information

Field of Education	Commencing Student Contribution 1,3	Grandfathered Student Contribution 1,3	Approved Pathway Course Student Contribution 2,3	Domestic Full Fee 4
090103	$2,174.00	$1,020.00	not applicable	$2,562.00

• Available as a Commonwealth Supported Place
• HECS-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility³
• FEE-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility⁴

¹ Please refer to more information on student contribution amounts.
² Please refer to more information on eligibility and Approved Pathway courses.
³ Please refer to more information on eligibility for HECS-HELP.
⁴ Please refer to more information on eligibility for FEE-HELP.

If you have any questions in relation to the fees, please contact UniConnect or more information is available on StudyAssist.

Please note: international students should refer to What is an indicative Fee? to get an indicative course cost.

Requisites

Mutual Exclusions

You cannot enrol in this unit as well as the following:

HSD101 AND HSG102 AND HSD102 AND HSA101 AND HSA102 AND HSG106

Teaching

Teaching Pattern	On campus: Weekly (pre-recorded) lectures (2 hours) and weekly face-to-face tutorial (2 hours)   Online: Weekly (pre-recorded) lectures (2 hours) and weekly online discussions (2 hours)
Assessment	Short essay (10%)|Major essay (25%)|Tutorial participation (25%)|Take-home exam (40%)
Timetable	View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable

Textbooks

Required	See MyLO site for details
Recommended	See MyLO site for details

The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.