University of Adelaide

What you'll study

This combined programme integrates core international relations theory and practice with progressive French language tuition and Francophone area studies. You will study how states, international organisations, non‑state actors and transnational forces interact, while developing reading, writing, speaking and listening skills in French. The degree typically includes a mix of compulsory core units, language progression (from beginners to advanced or customised streams for heritage speakers), and electives drawn from politics, history, economics, law and cultural studies.

• Core international relations topics: introduction to international relations, global governance, international security, foreign policy analysis, international political economy and research methods in social science.
• French language and communication: sequential French language units progressing through grammar, conversation, composition and translation; specialised language for diplomacy, international business or public policy.
• Francophone studies and electives: contemporary France, Francophone Africa, cultural studies, literature, cinema and colonial/post‑colonial studies; regionally focused courses in Europe, Africa and the Indian Ocean where relevant.
• Skills and capstone options: policy analysis, negotiation and mediation, internships or work‑integrated learning, and a final research project or capstone unit that combines IR inquiry with French language application.
• Study abroad and exchanges: opportunities to study at partner universities in Francophone countries to consolidate language skills and gain international experience (subject to availability and program rules).

Entry requirements

Applicants normally require completion of secondary education (or an equivalent qualification) and must meet the University of Adelaide's general admission criteria. Selection is based on academic results from the final year of secondary study or recognised tertiary study for mature applicants. International applicants must satisfy English language requirements through recognised tests or qualifications.

• Domestic applicants: successful completion of a Year 12 or equivalent qualification and meeting the university's minimum admission standards; alternative entry pathways are available for mature‑age students or those with prior tertiary study.
• International applicants: academic qualifications equivalent to Australian secondary completion and demonstrated proficiency in English via recognised tests or approved qualifications.
• Language background: there are streams for beginners and for applicants with prior French study; placement testing may be used to determine the appropriate level.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with a combination of analytical, research and language skills valued across public, private and third sectors. The French language component enhances employability in roles that require bilingual communication or engagement with Francophone regions.

• Diplomacy and foreign affairs: positions in government foreign services, consulates and international delegations.
• International organisations and NGOs: program officers, policy advisors or project managers working on development, human rights or humanitarian response.
• International business and trade: roles in export/import, market analysis, client relations and corporate international affairs.
• Policy, research and advocacy: policy analyst, think tank researcher or political consultant focused on international issues.
• Media and communications: international journalism, communications officer or multilingual public relations roles.
• Language professions: translator, interpreter, secondary language teacher or language advisor in multinational organisations.
• Further study: pathways to honours and postgraduate study in international relations, political science, international law or area studies.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide offers research‑led teaching with opportunities to combine rigorous social science training and immersive language learning. The university's international links and exchange partnerships provide pathways for study abroad in Francophone countries, while local internship and engagement opportunities connect students with government, consular offices and NGOs.

• Dedicated language support, including language labs and conversation programs with native speakers.
• Interdisciplinary curriculum that allows tailoring of study to career interests in diplomacy, development, business or academia.
• Access to academic staff with expertise in international relations and Francophone studies, and to student support services for careers and employability.