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
- IELTS Listening 6
- IELTS Speaking 6
- IELTS Writing 6
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 qualificationsInternational admissions by country
Country | Requirement | Score |
---|---|---|
Australia | ATAR | 75 |
Bangladesh | Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) | 4.85 |
Canada | Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) | 70% |
China | Gaokao | 65% |
Denmark | Studentereksamen (stx: Upper Secondary School Diploma) | 4 (Fair) |
France | French Baccalaureate | 11.5 |
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 |
Norway | Upper Secondary School Certificate (Vitnemal fra den Videregaende Skole) / Vitnemal For Videregaende Opplaering | 3.6 |
Phillippines | High School Diploma (Grade 12) (Academic Track) K12 | 87% |
Singapore | Singapore GCE Advanced Levels | 8 |
South Korea | College Scholastic Ability Test (CSAT) | 320 |
Sri Lanka | GCE A Levels | 9 |
Sweden | Upper Secondary School Leaving Certificate | 14.0 |
Taiwan | GSAT % | 65% |
Thailand | Matayom 6 | 3.40 |
UK / Global | GCE Advanced Levels | 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 Thông (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:
- Environmental Management
- History
- International Development
- International Security
- Politics
- Population and Migration Studies
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 from Common core, and
- 48 units for all Program Core
Course name | Course code | Units | |
---|---|---|---|
Course name
An Ethically Rich Life
|
Course code
COREX001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Fact or Fiction: Data for Everyone
|
Course code
COREX002
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Igniting Change: Ideas to Action
|
Course code
COREX003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Proppa Ways, Future Practice
|
Course code
COREX004
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Responsible AI: Bridging Ethics, Education and Industry
|
Course code
COREX005
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Ways of Being, Ways of Seeing
|
Course code
COREX006
|
Units
6
|
Course name | 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
|
Course name | Course code | Units | |
---|---|---|---|
Year 1 | |||
Semester 1 | |||
![]() |
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
|
Semester 2 | |||
![]() |
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
![]() |
Course name
Introduction to Global Politics
|
Course code
POLI1001
|
Units
6
|
![]() |
Course name
The State of the World: Post Covid-19
|
Course code
POLI1004
|
Units
6
|
Year 2 | |||
Semester 1 | |||
![]() |
Course name
Professional Pathways and Destinations 2
|
Course code
SOCI2019
|
Units
6
|
![]() |
Course name
Approaches in International Relations
|
Course code
POLI2002
|
Units
6
|
![]() |
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
Semester 2 | |||
![]() |
Course name
Global Environmental Politics
|
Course code
POLI1005
|
Units
6
|
Year 3 | |||
Semester 1 | |||
![]() |
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
![]() |
Course name
Global Political Economy
|
Course code
POLI3012
|
Units
6
|
Semester 2 | |||
![]() |
Course name
Ethics of War and Peace
|
Course code
POLI3013
|
Units
6
|
![]() |
Course name
Internship: Society and Culture
|
Course code
SOCI3903
|
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
Internship: Society and Culture
|
Course code
SOCI3903
|
Units
6
|
Course name | Course code | Units | |
---|---|---|---|
Year 1 | |||
Semester 1 | |||
![]() |
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
|
Semester 2 | |||
![]() |
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
![]() |
Course name
Introduction to Global Politics
|
Course code
POLI1001
|
Units
6
|
![]() |
Course name
The State of the World: Post Covid-19
|
Course code
POLI1004
|
Units
6
|
Year 2 | |||
Semester 1 | |||
![]() |
Course name
Professional Pathways and Destinations 2
|
Course code
SOCI2019
|
Units
6
|
![]() |
Course name
Approaches in International Relations
|
Course code
POLI2002
|
Units
6
|
![]() |
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
Semester 2 | |||
![]() |
Course name
Global Environmental Politics
|
Course code
POLI1005
|
Units
6
|
Year 3 | |||
Semester 1 | |||
![]() |
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
![]() |
Course name
Global Political Economy
|
Course code
POLI3012
|
Units
6
|
Semester 2 | |||
![]() |
Course name
Ethics of War and Peace
|
Course code
POLI3013
|
Units
6
|
![]() |
Course name
Internship: Society and Culture
|
Course code
SOCI3903
|
Units
6
|
Complete 18 units for ALL of the following:
Course name | 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
|
Course name | Course code | Units | |
---|---|---|---|
Year 1 | |||
Semester 1 | |||
![]() |
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
|
Semester 2 | |||
![]() |
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
![]() |
Course name
Introduction to Global Politics
|
Course code
POLI1001
|
Units
6
|
![]() |
Course name
The State of the World: Post Covid-19
|
Course code
POLI1004
|
Units
6
|
Year 2 | |||
Semester 1 | |||
![]() |
Course name
Professional Pathways and Destinations 2
|
Course code
SOCI2019
|
Units
6
|
![]() |
Course name
Approaches in International Relations
|
Course code
POLI2002
|
Units
6
|
![]() |
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
Semester 2 | |||
![]() |
Course name
Global Environmental Politics
|
Course code
POLI1005
|
Units
6
|
Year 3 | |||
Semester 1 | |||
![]() |
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
![]() |
Course name
Global Political Economy
|
Course code
POLI3012
|
Units
6
|
Semester 2 | |||
![]() |
Course name
Ethics of War and Peace
|
Course code
POLI3013
|
Units
6
|
![]() |
Course name
Internship: Society and Culture
|
Course code
SOCI3903
|
Units
6
|
Complete 48 units for ALL of the following:
Course name | Course code | Units | |
---|---|---|---|
Course name
Contemporary France
|
Course code
LANG2203
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Introduction to French and Francophone Literature
|
Course code
LANG3203
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Beginners French A
|
Course code
LANG1205
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Beginners French B
|
Course code
LANG1206
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Intermediate French A
|
Course code
LANG2204
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Intermediate French B
|
Course code
LANG2205
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Upper-Intermediate French A
|
Course code
LANG3204
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Upper-Intermediate French B
|
Course code
LANG3205
|
Units
6
|
Course name | Course code | Units | |
---|---|---|---|
Year 1 | |||
Semester 1 | |||
![]() |
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
|
Semester 2 | |||
![]() |
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
![]() |
Course name
Introduction to Global Politics
|
Course code
POLI1001
|
Units
6
|
![]() |
Course name
The State of the World: Post Covid-19
|
Course code
POLI1004
|
Units
6
|
Year 2 | |||
Semester 1 | |||
![]() |
Course name
Professional Pathways and Destinations 2
|
Course code
SOCI2019
|
Units
6
|
![]() |
Course name
Approaches in International Relations
|
Course code
POLI2002
|
Units
6
|
![]() |
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
Semester 2 | |||
![]() |
Course name
Global Environmental Politics
|
Course code
POLI1005
|
Units
6
|
Year 3 | |||
Semester 1 | |||
![]() |
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
![]() |
Course name
Global Political Economy
|
Course code
POLI3012
|
Units
6
|
Semester 2 | |||
![]() |
Course name
Ethics of War and Peace
|
Course code
POLI3013
|
Units
6
|
![]() |
Course name
Internship: Society and Culture
|
Course code
SOCI3903
|
Units
6
|
Complete 48 units for ALL of the following:
Course name | Course code | Units | |
---|---|---|---|
Course name
Introduction to French and Francophone Literature
|
Course code
LANG3203
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Intermediate French A
|
Course code
LANG2204
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Intermediate French B
|
Course code
LANG2205
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Contemporary France
|
Course code
LANG2203
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Upper-Intermediate French A
|
Course code
LANG3204
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Upper-Intermediate French B
|
Course code
LANG3205
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Advanced French A
|
Course code
LANG3206
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Advanced French B
|
Course code
LANG3207
|
Units
6
|
Course name | Course code | Units | |
---|---|---|---|
Year 1 | |||
Semester 1 | |||
![]() |
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
|
Semester 2 | |||
![]() |
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
![]() |
Course name
Introduction to Global Politics
|
Course code
POLI1001
|
Units
6
|
![]() |
Course name
The State of the World: Post Covid-19
|
Course code
POLI1004
|
Units
6
|
Year 2 | |||
Semester 1 | |||
![]() |
Course name
Professional Pathways and Destinations 2
|
Course code
SOCI2019
|
Units
6
|
![]() |
Course name
Approaches in International Relations
|
Course code
POLI2002
|
Units
6
|
![]() |
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
Semester 2 | |||
![]() |
Course name
Global Environmental Politics
|
Course code
POLI1005
|
Units
6
|
Year 3 | |||
Semester 1 | |||
![]() |
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
![]() |
Course name
Global Political Economy
|
Course code
POLI3012
|
Units
6
|
Semester 2 | |||
![]() |
Course name
Ethics of War and Peace
|
Course code
POLI3013
|
Units
6
|
![]() |
Course name
Internship: Society and Culture
|
Course code
SOCI3903
|
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.
Ready to apply?
Please note that a non-refundable application fee of AUD$150 applies for every application submitted to Adelaide University.
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.
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:
- Case studies
- Essays and assignments
- Examinations
- Group projects
- Internships and placements
- Practicals
- Presentations
- Reports and project documentations
- Research projects
- Workplace and classroom contributions.
