Official guides / Enrolment & course planning

Global studies (Monash Malaysia)

Official source

Monash University Malaysia

Last checked: 25 Oct 2026 UTC

Page text

Text and tables taken from the official page, with collapsed sections opened, so it can be read and searched here. Images and forms are not copied, so open the original page when you need to apply or submit something.

In Global studies, you will learn about the complex overlap of local, regional and international forces that shape the world as we know it. This major exposes you to a wide range of international issues and challenges, covering everything from policymaking to identity politics, economic governance, migration conflict, and civil society activism. You will learn to confront the issues of the 20th and 21st centuries from a diverse range of perspectives, gaining a deep understanding of the ideas, events, and processes that underpin global change.

The major begins with introductory units that provide you a firm foundation in world history and the dynamics of globalization. In second year, units open up to explore international migration, social transformation movements, and the workings of the global economy. You will go on to pursue the in-depth study of international relations and foreign policy, and have the opportunity to apply this knowledge towards resolving a simulated global crisis. Graduates will be well equipped to analyze and consult on a range of complex international affairs, monitor and contextualize global news coverage, and grasp the interests, structures, and consequences that shape key international events.

Unit highlights:

A world in crisis: Multilevel responses to global emergencies

Unique to the Malaysian campus, this innovative unit offers you the opportunity to develop the skills required to handle a realistic, evolving international crisis. You will stand in the shoes of key stakeholders, approaching crucial global issues in a strategic, goal-oriented manner. The unit is highly collaborative, with a hands-on approach to teaching problem-solving and management skills, and brings together other areas of study like communications and writing. As the course progresses, you will learn to craft press releases, sit at the negotiating table, and stay abreast of current affairs. In doing so, you develop highly sought-after PR and media literacy skills, learn to thrive in tight-knit team environments, and form nuanced perspectives on intricate global issues.

Saima Islam Bachelor of Arts (Global) (2018) The prospect of Global studies students is not limited to any particular field but rather expands to a range of non-governmental organisations, diplomacy, foreign affairs, politics, education or even research-based work.

Global studies prepares you for a potential career in:

Dynamic organizations ranging from governments to international bodies and NGOs; roles in diplomacy and foreign affairs to journalism, education, and other research-based work.

What is GPA at Monash?

All campuses

GPA is calculated on a 4.0 scale from your grades rather than your marks: High Distinction 4.0, Distinction 3.0, Credit 2.0, Pass 1.0, Near pass 0.7, Fail and Hurdle fail 0.3, Withdrawn fail 0.0. Some results, such as SFR and NE, are not counted. Your GPA is shown in WES and on your transcript. Malaysia also uses a Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) with different values: High Distinction 4.0, Distinction 3.67, Credit 2.85, Pass 2.15, Near pass 1.7, Fail and Hurdle fail 1.15, Withdrawn fail 0.0. It is not on your academic record, so you request a CGPA letter.

How do I withdraw from a unit?

Australia: withdraw through WES while enrolment changes are open. Before the census date there is no fee and no record; after it, you keep the fee liability and the unit shows as a withdrawal. If you are on a student visa you have study load requirements to maintain: Monash's study load page says you can reduce your load only in compassionate or compelling circumstances, unless you are in your final year and will finish within the time on your CoE. Malaysia: after the census date a withdrawn unit shows as WD-LATE or WD-FAIL, and the date you withdraw can affect fee refunds and your academic record. The last day to withdraw without academic penalty is before the WD-LATE date ends; the dates are in Monash Malaysia's Principal Dates. With a Student Pass, going below 24 credit points a semester is an underload: it needs approval, it can never go below 18 credit points, and below 18 you have to apply for intermission.

How many hours can I work on a student visa?

The rules are each country's, not Monash's, and they are different. Australia: work rights for student visa holders are set by the Australian Government, and the cap has changed several times in recent years. Monash's page links to the current Department of Home Affairs conditions - always confirm the number there before relying on it. Malaysia: with a Student Pass you may work only during semester breaks or public holidays of more than seven days, and for no more than 20 hours a week, at restaurants, petrol kiosks, mini markets or hotels; the page lists jobs that are not allowed. Every job has to be approved by the Immigration Department: you apply through the International Student Pass office and must be there in person when the application is submitted.