BACHELOR OF SOCIAL SCIENCE (HONOURS) IN INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

Southeast Asia's pioneering International Relations degree programme seamlessly combines the best of university learning with invaluable industry experience. With rising demand for globally minded graduates, this unique programme blends two years of on-campus education with a final year of immersive work-based learning.

During the initial two years on campus, you will be guided by distinguished International Relations scholars and national leaders. Through a rich curriculum, you'll delve into the theories and practices of international relations, equipping you with leadership skills and a fresh understanding of global issues.

To complement your knowledge, you also gain a competitive edge through the programme’s final-year industry experience. Supported by industry coaches and university lecturers, apply your skills directly to international relations projects and contemporary challenges within your area of specialisation, gaining practical insights that set you apart as a competent and confident professional.

Duration

3-year

Study options

Full Time Only

Prepare to embark on a transformative journey in the field of social sciences, where you will learn from a team of highly qualified academicians and industry leaders who are dedicated to shaping the next generation of industry-ready professionals. Our programme is designed to equip you with the knowledge, skills, and practical insights necessary to excel in your chosen field.

This programme is compatible with the new Taylor's Curriculum Framework that allows you to mix & match study modules.

Primary Core

This component consists of core subjects, which are primary modules across a discipline that provides the fundamental knowledge of the discipline.

Year 1

• Introduction to Sociology
• Introduction to Political Philosophy
• Introduction to International Relations
• Writing in Social Science
• International Relations Theories
• Politics and Public Issues in Malaysia 
• Social Psychology 
• Introduction to Social Statistics
• Social Theor

Year 2

• Specialisation 1: Advanced Modules in International Relations
• Specialisation 2: Complementary Studies

Year 3 (Work-Based Learning)

• Industry Project I
• Contemporary Issues in Asia Pacific
• Industry Project II
• Managing and Leading International Relations Project

Note: All information is subject to change. Readers are responsible for verifying information that pertains to them by contacting the university.

Specialisation

This component consists of specialisation subjects, which are primary modules based on the chosen specialisation that provides the fundamental knowledge of the discipline.

Specialisation: Advanced Modules in International Relations

• Social Studies and Transformative Research
• Foreign policies and Diplomacy in Asia Pacific
• International Conflict Negotiation, Mediation and Resolution
• International Law and Organization
• International Political Economy
• National and International Security
• Regional Organisation, Cooperation and Integration

Specialisation: Complementary Studies

• 20 credits of free elective / minor modules / global mobility

University Core

This component consists of compulsory and nationally-mandated study modules required by the Malaysian Ministry of Higher Education which aims to develop critical thinking and build social intelligence to cultivate civic responsibility and broaden cultural knowledge.

• Penghayatan Etika dan Peradaban / Bahasa Melayu Komunikasi 2
• Falsafah dan Isu Semasa
• Emotional Intelligence in Action
• Kursus Integriti Dan Antirasuah
• Social Innovation Project

Note:

1. Applicants without a Credit for Bahasa Malaysia in SPM are required to take Bahasa Kebangsaan.
2. All information is subject to change. Readers are responsible to verify information by contacting the university.

Complementary Study

The Complementary Studies component offers students the flexibility to explore modules in a related or unrelated field, enhancing and complementing their primary major. This component allows students to broaden their knowledge and skills by selecting modules from the same or different schools within the university.

Complementary Studies can take various forms, including free electives, extensions, minors, or even a second major. These options provide students with the opportunity to delve deeper into a specific area of interest or broaden their understanding by exploring a different field of study.

Free Elective Module

You will need to select any one (1) of the Free Electives offered by Taylor's University. You can refer to the Flexible Education Guide for the complete list.

The free electives offered are subject to availability and you will need to meet the minimum module pre and co-requisite.

Our programme offers an exciting opportunity for individuals passionate about the field of Bachelor of Social Science programme. To ensure a smooth admission process, please take note of our entry requirements listed below.

Prerequisites

SPM / O-Level with Pre-U / Foundation

Pass SPM / O-Level or equivalent with 5 credits for entry with Pre-University / Foundation qualification (Except for UEC).

SPM / O-Level with Diploma

Pass SPM / O-Level or equivalent with 3 credits for entry with Diploma qualification.

Note: 

1. Candidates need to pass BM and History at SPM level.

2. All information is subject to change. Readers are responsible for verifying information that pertains to them by contacting the university.

Entry Pathway

Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM)

CGPA 2.00 for 3 subjects with min. Grade C for each subject

Unified Examination Certificate (UEC)

Pass with min. 5Bs including English

A Level

Min. DDD

AUSMAT (SACEi)

Min. ATAR 55

Canadian Pre-University (CPU)

Min. average of 55% in 6 subjects

International Baccalaureate (IB)

Min. 24 points in 6 subjects

Monash University Foundation Year (MUFY)

Overall 50%

Taylor’s Foundation and Diploma programmes

Pass any Taylor's Foundation / Diploma programme with CGPA 2.00

MOHE Matriculation

Pass with min. CGPA 2.00

Other Equivalent Qualification

Pass Foundation/Diploma/ Higher Diploma/ Advanced Diploma from any other institution recognised by Malaysian Government with min.CGPA 2.00

Application via APEL A is allowed

Any other equivalent qualification recognised by the Malaysian Government

Note: 

1. All information is subject to change. The above entry requirements serve as a guideline. Readers are responsible to verify the information by contacting the Admissions Department.

English Requirements

LOCAL STUDENTS

MUET/IELTS/TOEFL/UEC

Pass English

Taylor's EET

Overall Score 5.0

Taylor's IEN

Level 2 - Grade C

Pre-U/Diploma

Completed Pre-U/Diploma that was conducted in English

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

IELTS

5.0

Pre-U/Diploma

Completed Pre-U/Diploma that was conducted in English

Note: All information is subject to change. Readers are responsible for verifying information that pertains to them by contacting the university.

STUDENT PASS / VISA REQUIREMENTS (INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS)

All international students who plan to study full-time in Malaysia are required to obtain a Student Pass (Student Visa) before starting their studies.

• You must receive an official Offer Letter from the university before applying for a student pass

• The university will submit your Student Pass application through Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS) on your behalf

• A Visa Approval Letter (VAL / eVAL) is required before travelling to Malaysia

• Studying on a tourist or social visit visa is not permitted

• Your passport must be valid for at least 18 months from your intended intake date

• Visa processing time depends on EMGS and Malaysian Immigration approval

• After arriving in Malaysia, all students must complete a medical check-up at an EMGS-registered clinic

• Your Student Pass will be issued only after medical clearance and document verification

• Continuing students must renew their Student Pass before it expires

DOCUMENTS REQUIRED FOR STUDENT PASS APPLICATION

The following documents are commonly required for all international students:

• Valid passport (clear scanned copy of all pages, including blank pages)

• Passport-size photograph with a white background

• Official Offer Letter from the university

• Academic certificates and transcripts related to your programme

• English language proficiency certificate (IELTS / TOEFL or equivalent), if required

• Proof of acceptance or tuition fee payment (if requested by the university)

• Student Pass / Visa processing fee as determined by EMGS

• Completed EMGS Health Declaration Form (if applicable)

Please note: All documents not originally in English must be submitted together with certified English translations.

ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTS (IF APPLICABLE)

Some students may be asked to provide extra documents depending on their situation:

• Release Letter and Visa Cancellation Letter (for students transferring from another institution in Malaysia)

• School Leaving Certificate (for foundation or diploma applicants)

• Sponsorship or Scholarship Letter (if your studies are funded)

• Proof of financial support to cover tuition fees and living expenses

• Statutory Declaration (if there are name differences across documents)

• Resume or Character Reference Letter (commonly required for applicants above 23 years old)

• Police Clearance Certificate (if requested by EMGS or embassy authorities)

• Copy of previous Malaysian visa or Resident Pass (if applicable)

AFTER ARRIVING IN MALAYSIA

Once you arrive in Malaysia, you will need to:

• Complete a medical examination at an EMGS-approved clinic

• Submit your passport for Student Pass endorsement

• Receive a temporary Special Pass (if applicable) while your Student Pass is being processed

• Collect your Student Pass and complete university registration

IMPORTANT REMINDERS

• Student Pass requirements are set by Malaysian Immigration and EMGS and may vary by nationality
• The university’s International Office will guide you through each step of the process
• Students are strongly advised to prepare documents at least 2–3 months before intake
• Requirements may change, so always follow the latest instructions provided by the university