The degree offers training to graduates for employment in government, the diplomatic service, education, research and analysis, consultancies and international aid agencies. The program draws on the expertise of a great range of scholars specialising in various disciplines and countries of the region from all parts of the university. Completion of this degree, particularly 20 - 30, 000 word research component, provides successful candidates with a pathway to higher academic studies. This degree is assessed and graded as an award with Honours.

The information published on the Study at ANU 2012 website applies to the 2012 academic year only. All information provided on this website replaces the information contained in the Study at ANU 2011 website.