Bachelor of Arts (Pathway to Teaching Early Childhood/Primary) - International Relations

Western Sydney University

In any dialogue between speakers of different languages, interpreters and translators are the essential link for effective communication. They are the highly prized frontline of international business and tourism, international diplomacy, and crosscultural community, health and legal work. The languages offered at Western Sydney University are Arabic, Chinese (Mandarin), Japanese and Spanish. You can also complete minor studies in advanced language, cultural studies and linguistics. This major has been designed to meet the needs of Australian government, business and society to engage the states and peoples of Asia at all levels in pursuit of national interests and as part of the globalisation process. It provides students with the opportunity to study contemporary Asia, as well as the rich and diverse histories, politics, cultures and languages of Asian countries and the international issues affecting Australia’s interests and role in the region and in the world at large. The major area also includes a range of units concerned with the United States and Europe as well as with Asia itself, and units in international relations covering other parts of the world. It seeks to produce graduates with a broad, liberal education with the skills to mediate between Australia and the world in general and Asia in particular through political, economic, commercial, cultural, diplomatic and strategic links. Students are encouraged to undertake a sub-major in an Asian language in conjunction with the major. Employment opportunities may be found in the State and Commonwealth public service, overseas organisations, the media, business and industry, education and research.

School of Education

110879G