University of Adelaide

What you'll study

This double-focused degree blends foundational international relations topics — such as global governance, diplomacy, international security, international political economy and research methods — with progressive Italian language study and Italian cultural, historical and literary modules. Early years focus on language acquisition (listening, speaking, reading and writing) and introductions to international relations; later years allow specialisation in areas such as European politics, migration and diaspora studies, Mediterranean security, comparative foreign policy and international development. Typical topics and units include:

• Core International Relations: introductions to IR theory, global institutions and international law, diplomacy and negotiation, conflict and security studies, and quantitative and qualitative research methods.
• Italian language and communication: beginner to advanced Italian, Italian for specific purposes (business, diplomacy, tourism), conversation and translation practice.
• Italian culture and society: Italian history and politics, contemporary Italian media and film, literature and cultural studies, and regional studies of the Mediterranean.
• Electives and capstone: electives in European Union politics, migration policy, international trade and development; independent research projects or a honours thesis option for eligible students.

Students can usually undertake professional placements, internships or a study-abroad/exchange period at partner institutions in Italy to consolidate language skills and gain real-world experience.

Entry requirements

Admission is based on satisfactory completion of recognised secondary or tertiary qualifications. Applicants are expected to demonstrate strong academic performance in their final secondary certificate or equivalent, and selection is competitive. International applicants must meet the University's English language requirements through recognised tests or evidence of prior tertiary study in English. Additional selection criteria may include a personal statement or documentation of previous language study.

Applicants with prior Italian language study at school may be eligible for credit or placement into higher-level language units; alternatively, beginners can commence at introductory levels. Prospective students with non‑standard backgrounds should contact the University’s admissions advisers for pathway options.

Career prospects

Graduates combine analytical and language skills attractive to employers across the public, private and not-for-profit sectors. Typical career pathways include:

• Diplomatic service, consular work and international organisations
• Policy analysis, public service and government relations focused on Europe or Mediterranean affairs
• International business, trade and market development roles requiring Italian language capability
• International development and humanitarian NGOs
• Translation, interpretation, cultural and communications roles
• Journalism, research and higher-degree study in international relations, political science or area studies

The degree’s language emphasis and opportunities for overseas exchange or internships enhance employability for roles involving Italy, the EU or Italian-speaking communities globally.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide offers a research-led curriculum in international relations together with structured language training in Italian, taught by experienced academics and language educators. Students benefit from opportunities for overseas exchange with partner universities in Italy, embedded internship and professional development options, and a campus environment that supports smaller-group language practice and international networking.

The University provides student services such as language labs, career advisory support and industry engagement activities that help translate classroom learning into practical experience. For students seeking a combination of rigorous international relations training and strong Italian-language competence, this program provides a pathway to careers and further study with a clear regional and linguistic focus.