University of Adelaide

What you'll study

This degree blends core international relations subjects with progressive Japanese language tuition and Japan-focused social, cultural and economic studies. Core international relations topics typically include international relations theory, global governance, diplomacy and negotiation, international security, foreign policy analysis and international law. Japan-centred units cover modern Japanese society and politics, Japan’s foreign policy, contemporary Japanese economics, and cultural studies. Language study progresses from elementary to advanced Japanese, including reading, writing, speaking and listening, with options in translation, business Japanese and media in Japan. Practical learning opportunities often include a research project or capstone, internships or professional placements, and short-term study tours or semester exchanges with partner universities in Japan.

The degree structure allows for a combination of compulsory core units, language progression requirements, elective units in Asian studies or related disciplines (for example economics, business, development studies or media), and a final-year research or honours component if pursuing an extended degree pathway.

Entry requirements

Admission to the Bachelor of International Relations (Japanese Studies) normally requires completion of an Australian Year 12 senior secondary qualification or equivalent international secondary qualification. Applicants are expected to meet the University of Adelaide’s general entrance requirements and demonstrate English language proficiency. International students will need to satisfy the University’s English language standards through accepted tests such as IELTS or TOEFL, or via approved alternative pathways. Prior study of Japanese is advantageous but many entry pathways are available for beginners; bridging language programs may be offered for those without prior language experience.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for roles that combine analytical and language capabilities. Common career directions include:

• Diplomacy, foreign affairs and government policy roles focused on Asia–Pacific relations
• International trade, export development and corporate roles with companies engaged in Japan–Australia business
• International organisations, NGOs and development agencies operating in the region
• Translation, interpreting, localisation and cross-cultural communications
• Journalism, public diplomacy, cultural liaison and education positions
• Graduate study and research in international relations, Asian studies or language pedagogy

Practical language skills and regional expertise enhance employability in sectors where Japanese language capability and cultural knowledge are directly valued.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide offers a research-led curriculum alongside opportunities for applied learning, including industry placements and established exchange partnerships with universities in Japan. Students benefit from dedicated language teaching resources, opportunities to participate in study abroad programs, and access to Asia-focused research centres and public events that connect students with practitioners and scholars. Adelaide’s compact campus and active international community make it easy to combine classroom study with extracurricular professional development and local industry engagement.

The program’s emphasis on both rigorous international relations training and sustained language development equips graduates to work effectively across cultural and policy contexts in the Asia–Pacific region.