Bachelor of International Relations majoring in French Studies

Undergraduate | 2026

Mode

On Campus

Start date

February

Campus

Adelaide City, Magill

Duration

3 year(s) full-time

Program code

BINTR

Study as

Full-time

Indicative annual fees

$41,300

Non-tuition fees

Prerequisite

None

Assumed knowledge

None

English language requirements

IELTS Overall 6.5 IELTS Reading 6.0 IELTS Listening 6.0 IELTS Speaking 6.0 IELTS Writing 6.0 Equivalent English qualifications

CRICOS code

115722K

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum entry requirements and demonstrate they fulfil any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission. In cases where there are more eligible applicants than available places, admission will be competitive with ranks based on the entry criteria.

Secondary education (Year 12)

Completion of a secondary education qualification equivalent to the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE).

Vocational Education and Training (VET)

Completion of an award from a registered training organisation (RTO) at Certificate IV (AQF level 4) or higher.

Higher education study

Successful completion of at least 6 months full-time study (or equivalent part-time) in a higher education award program.

English language entry requirements

In addition, international students who speak English as an additional language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at Adelaide University. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.

IELTS Overall 6.5
IELTS Reading 6.0
IELTS Listening 6.0
IELTS Speaking 6.0
IELTS Writing 6.0

Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by Adelaide University and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements:

Equivalent English qualifications

International admissions by country

Country	Requirement	Score
Australia	ATAR	75
Bangladesh	Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC)	4.85
China	Gaokao	65%
China	Maple Leaf Education Systems World School Program	67%
Global	International Baccalaureate	26
Hong Kong	Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE)	17
India	CBSE and CISCE	75
India	State Board Examinations	85
Indonesia	SMA III	78%
Kenya	Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE)	B+
Malaysia	Matrikulasi	2.78
Malaysia	Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM)	2.78
Malaysia	United Entrance Certificate (UEC)	20
Nepal	National Examinations Board (NEB)	3.01
Phillippines	High School Diploma (Grade 12) (Academic Track) K12	87%
Singapore	Singapore GCE Advanced Levels	8
Sri Lanka	GCE A Levels	9
Taiwan	GSAT %	65%
Thailand	Matayom 6	3.40
UK / Global	GCE Advanced Levels	8
UK / Global	NCUK	8
USA / Global	Advanced Placement (AP)	8
USA / Global	America College Test (ACT)	22
USA / Global	Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT)	1130
Vietnam	Bằng Tốt Nghiệp Trung Học Phổ Thôxwng (Vietnamese Year 12)	8

Why Bachelor of International Relations?

With around 300 million speakers, French is a dynamic language spoken on every continent on Earth.

As an official language of major organisations, including the United Nations, World Health Organization and NATO, it’s especially valuable for those seeking a career in global diplomacy or international organisations.

With Adelaide University’s Bachelor of International Relations majoring in French Studies, you’ll immerse yourself in global politics, history, development and security – all while building your proficiency in French.

You could negotiate diplomatic treaties in the heart of Paris. Or find yourself collaborating on humanitarian projects in Africa. Say bonjour to a career shaping global politics and influencing international policies.

Overview

Gain a fresh perspective on global affairs with our Bachelor of International Relations majoring in French Studies.

Explore pivotal historical events, influential leaders and the institutions that shaped the world. Understand how globalisation affects trade and migration. Examine Australia’s foreign policies and aid strategies, and how they position us in global and regional contexts. See how different nations are addressing the urgent humanitarian and environmental issues of our time. Study international security, global governance and development.

Immerse yourself in French literature, film and contemporary culture with your French Studies major. Master the art of communicating in French, learning to read, write and speak French in formal and casual settings.

A hands-on internship experience will connect you to industry mentors and build your professional networks.

Your global career in international business or diplomacy starts here, at Adelaide University.

Key features

Enhance your worldview by exploring the dynamics of global politics.
Gain the skills to read, write and speak French.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant French culture and discover its impact on global society.
Network with top researchers and guest scholars to broaden your international connections.
Cultivate the cultural awareness and sensitivity required to succeed in diplomacy or international relations.
Undertake an industry internship tailored to your passions and career aspirations.

What you'll learn

Across three years of full-time study, the Bachelor of International Relations provides you with an in-depth understanding of global affairs. It equips you with the skills and confidence to excel in our interconnected world.

You’ll study key topics such as international relations, international security, global governance, geopolitics and development. You’ll sharpen your critical thinking, enhance your research abilities, and refine your writing skills – all while gaining a global perspective.

With a major in French Studies, you'll immerse yourself in French culture, literature, film and society. Tailor your studies to your experience level with two language streams:

Beginners: For those new to French or with some prior knowledge.
Continuers: For those with strong grades in previous French studies in high school (Years 11 and 12).

Start by learning the basics of conversation, discussing your personal life and aspirations. As you progress, you’ll tackle more complex topics like travel, history, politics and contemporary social issues in France. By the time you reach advanced levels, you’ll be fully immersed – able to discuss literature, philosophy, and even thrive in professional settings.

Depending on your starting level, you’ll take courses in:

Beginners French: language
Intermediate French: language and culture
Upper-intermediate French: language and culture
Advanced French: language and culture
France and the Francophone world in the 21st century
Contemporary French cinema
Introduction to French and Francophone literature.

Throughout your degree, you’ll research career paths and, in your final year, complete a hands-on internship that connects you with industry mentors and builds your professional network.

Majors

The Bachelor of International Relations is also available with majors in:

Or, with a major in another language, such as:

What courses you'll study

Complete 144 units comprising:

66 units for Core courses, and
48 units for one Major from Majors, and
12 units for all Work integrated learning, and
18 units for all Electives

Complete 66 units comprising:

18 units for all Common core, and
48 units for all Program Core

	Course code	Units
Course name UG Common Core 1	Course code AUXX1000	Units 6
Course name UG Common Core 2	Course code AUXX2000	Units 6
Course name UG Common Core 3	Course code AUXX3000	Units 6

	Course code	Units
Course name Introduction to Global Politics	Course code POLI1001	Units 6
Course name Introduction to Comparative Politics	Course code POLI1002	Units 6
Course name Australia’s Foreign Policy in the Indo-Pacific	Course code POLI1003	Units 6
Course name The State of the World: Post Covid-19	Course code POLI1004	Units 6
Course name Global Environmental Politics	Course code POLI1005	Units 6
Course name Approaches in International Relations	Course code POLI2002	Units 6
Course name Global Political Economy	Course code POLI3012	Units 6
Course name Ethics of War and Peace	Course code POLI3013	Units 6

Complete 12 units for ALL of the following:

Course name		Course code	Units
	Course name Professional Pathways and Destinations 2	Course code SOCI2019	Units 6
	Course name Society and Culture Internship	Course code SOCI3902	Units 6

Complete 18 units for ALL of the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Elective 1	Course code AUXX1011	Units 6
Course name Elective 2	Course code AUXX1012	Units 6
Course name Elective 3	Course code AUXX1013	Units 6

Complete exactly 48 units from the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Beginners French: Language I	Course code LANG1201	Units 6
Course name Beginners French: Language II	Course code LANG1202	Units 6
Course name Intermediate French: Language and Culture I	Course code LANG1203	Units 6
Course name Intermediate French: Language and Culture II	Course code LANG1204	Units 6
Course name European Stories	Course code LANG2000	Units 6
Course name Europe on Screen: Nation, History, and Ideology	Course code LANG2001	Units 6
Course name Upper-Intermediate French: Language and Culture I	Course code LANG2201	Units 6
Course name Upper-Intermediate French: Language and Culture II	Course code LANG2202	Units 6
Course name Contemporary France	Course code LANG2203	Units 6
Course name Reading Women: Power and Politics in Europe and Beyond	Course code LANG3001	Units 6
Course name Three Empires: Spain, Germany, France	Course code LANG3002	Units 6
Course name Introduction to French and Francophone Literature	Course code LANG3203	Units 6

Complete exactly 48 units from the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Intermediate French: Language and Culture I	Course code LANG1203	Units 6
Course name Intermediate French: Language and Culture II	Course code LANG1204	Units 6
Course name European Stories	Course code LANG2000	Units 6
Course name Europe on Screen: Nation, History, and Ideology	Course code LANG2001	Units 6
Course name Upper-Intermediate French: Language and Culture I	Course code LANG2201	Units 6
Course name Upper-Intermediate French: Language and Culture II	Course code LANG2202	Units 6
Course name Reading Women: Power and Politics in Europe and Beyond	Course code LANG3001	Units 6
Course name Three Empires: Spain, Germany, France	Course code LANG3002	Units 6
Course name Advanced French: Language and Culture I	Course code LANG3201	Units 6
Course name Advanced French: Language and Culture II	Course code LANG3202	Units 6
Course name Introduction to French and Francophone Literature	Course code LANG3203	Units 6

Career outcomes

This degree prepares you for exciting careers facilitating cross-cultural cooperation. You could engage with French territories in the Pacific, discussing environmental policies to support sustainability and climate resilience. You might become a cultural attaché at Australia’s embassy in Paris, showcasing Australian culture through public exhibitions. Perhaps you’ll work as a humanitarian aid coordinator, managing projects with NGOs in French-speaking regions to address issues of poverty, education or health.

You could also be a:

Diplomat
Interpreter
Market research analyst
Policy officer
Community development officer
Community outreach worker
Policy developer
Cultural heritage officer
United Nations human rights officer
Journalist
Ministerial adviser
Foreign correspondent.

Industry trends

Rising geopolitical tensions and competition are reshaping international relations worldwide. Conflicts, natural disasters and economic challenges are fuelling humanitarian crises, while countries are increasingly relying on international partnerships to bolster their economic and military strength. With a degree in International Relations, you'll gain the skills to confront these challenges – and work toward lasting solutions.

France is a vital economic partner for many countries, including Australia. Your proficiency in French will connect you not only to France, but also to its Pacific territories, such as New Caledonia, Wallis and Futuna, and French Polynesia. These regions are key hubs for trade, environmental collaboration, educational exchanges and strategic alliances.

Your fluency in French will also open doors to careers in government, education, healthcare, finance, hospitality, gastronomy, marketing and law.

How to apply

Check your eligibility

Before you begin, find the degree you wish to study and check you meet the academic entry requirements and English language requirements.

Entry requirements

Gather your relevant documents

Ensure you have all supporting documentation needed at the time of application to avoid delays.

How to apply

Complete and send your application

Apply through one of the University’s official agency partners, or via our online application system.

Apply now

How to apply

Applications for international students are open now, to begin your studies in 2026.

Apply through one of the University’s official Education Agents, or via our International Application System.

Find an Education Agent

Depending on your country of citizenship, you may be required to apply through one of our Education Agents.

Find an education agent in your country

FAQs

Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.

Applications for Australian students to study at Adelaide University will open in August 2025. Applications will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs.

Applications to study a 100% online degree will open in July 2025 via a direct application process.

In the meantime, you could start your studies at UniSA or the University of Adelaide in 2025 and continue on to Adelaide University in 2026.

Adelaide University is South Australia’s largest university with seven campuses across the state. Adelaide City Campus is in the heart of the central business district (including eastern and western precincts), while our Magill, Mawson Lakes and Waite campuses are located within the inner suburbs of Adelaide. Our Mount Gambier, Roseworthy and Whyalla campuses are set in the regions of South Australia. Building on our digital and online learning successes, we aim to also deliver online education to more students than any other Australian university.

Each of our campuses is equipped with cutting-edge, discipline specific facilities, contemporary study spaces and well-resourced libraries. Our city and suburban campuses also feature on-site gyms and eateries, and health services on, or nearby, campus.

You will be well supported academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually with access to on-campus facilities and services such as counselling, learning support, childcare, prayer rooms and more.

You will be well supported through a range of services at Adelaide University to ensure you get the most out of your student experience. Support services include:

Academic learning support, spanning assistance with writing, referencing, mathematics and more.
Advice and advocacy regarding access, adjustments and inclusivity if you have a disability, impairment, chronic health condition or significant caring responsibilities.
Libraries providing flexible study spaces, access to books, computer suites and online resources – as well as referencing support, search tips and more.
Career development hub, including extensive self-help resources, online learning programs, on-campus events, workshops and networking, one-on-one advice, and job search support.
Qualified counsellors who can provide confidential support to manage your mental health and wellbeing.
On-campus medical clinics on-site where you can make an appointment with a General Practitioner to discuss acute and preventative health care matters.
Information and advice for international students regarding accommodation, student life, and academic policies and procedures.
An active and visible LGBTIQA+ Ally Network that ensures the University provides a supportive environment where all staff and students can safely work and study free of harassment or discrimination.
Prayer rooms on campus, including gender specific spaces for worship purposes.
Campus security available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to ensure all students feel safe on campus.
A range of scholarships offered to commencing and continuing students each year to make university life a little easier.
A number of social outlets including student lounges, gyms, student-led clubs, sports teams and free events throughout the year.

Your tuition fees will depend on your program of study and enrolment load. You can find the annual fees relevant to your program on the specific degree page under the ‘fees’ section. The annual fee payable for your chosen program will also be outlined in your Offer of Admission.

Adelaide University will open in January 2026. Your studies will start at different times depending on what study period you’ve applied for. Adelaide University is currently using a semester model, which means most degrees start in Semester 1. Some degrees are also available to start in mid-year, sometimes with a different degree structure. 

Studies at Adelaide University typically commence in:  

February for Semester 1  
July for Semester 2.

Some degrees, such as the Bachelor of Medical Studies and Master of Business Administration, will have different starting dates. View the relevant degree page for more detail. 

For other key dates, including census dates and exam periods, you can view the Academic calendar. 

View all FAQs

Your study experience and support

Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.

You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.

Student services

We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:

Career advice and mentoring services
Personal counselling
LGBTQIA+ support
Academic support
Fees and finance help
Security services
Accommodation services
Common rooms
Prayer rooms.

You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.

Your campus

You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.

This degree is offered at the following campus(es)

Study hours

Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.

Assessment

During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include: