The Bachelor of International Studies is a three year degree. The degree comprises units with a global perspective from several disciplines. Topical issues include global security, earth in crisis, Islamic studies, cross-cultural communication, trade, the European Union, and Australia's relations with the US, Asia and the Pacific Islands.

Students choose two from three majors to specialise in areas of their choice such as Global Politics and Peace; Societies (featuring sociology, development and religion); and Languages.

Language can be undertaken in the first year. If students elect to major in Languages they can do one language and its culture to an advanced level (Chinese, Classical Languages, French, German, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese or Spanish). Students who undertake the Languages major have the opportunity of transferring, after completion of 96 credit points, to the four-year Bachelor of International and Language Studies and studying abroad for a year. In-country experience and language skills are valued by prospective employers and students have found it immensely rewarding.

For both language and non-language students there is scope to do an overseas exchange trimester with one of UNE's partners in North America, Europe or Asia.

To prepare students for further studies and/or employment in fields relating to international policy and advocacy which can include professions within government, inter-governmental and non-government organisations and the business sector such as: defence forces; environmental advocacy; human rights advocacy; immigration; intelligence agencies; international diplomacy; international commerce; journalism; overseas development assistance; postgraduate studies and academia; public policy making and advice; and public relations.