University of Melbourne

What you'll study

The Bachelor of Arts offers a wide range of majors and minors across disciplines such as history, politics and international studies, sociology, anthropology, philosophy, psychology, media and communications, languages, creative writing, and arts practice. You can design a program that emphasises disciplinary depth, interdisciplinary breadth or a combination of both. Typical study involves introductory core subjects in your chosen major, intermediate and advanced seminar-style units, research-methods training, and options for language sequences, practical studio or media projects, and capstone or honours-level research.

Students often combine a primary major with one or more minors or elective breadth subjects drawn from other faculties. There are also opportunities for work-integrated learning placements, community-engaged projects and industry-linked units, as well as exchange and study-abroad options with partner universities.

Entry requirements

Admission normally requires completion of an Australian Year 12 or an equivalent secondary qualification from another country. Entry is competitive and selection is based on academic results and the University’s published entry pathways. Some majors have specific prerequisite study (for example, language studies often prefer prior study of the language) or require demonstrated proficiency in particular areas.

Domestic applicants may have additional pathway options through recognised tertiary or vocational qualifications. International applicants must meet the University’s English language requirements and provide certified academic transcripts. Prospective students should consult the University of Melbourne admissions information for details on acceptable qualifications and any faculty-specific requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts develop transferable skills in research, critical analysis, writing and communication, making them attractive to employers across many sectors. Common career paths include roles in the public service and government policy, media and communications, journalism, publishing, cultural institutions and museums, advocacy and non-government organisations, international development, and corporate communications.

Many graduates also pursue postgraduate study—such as honours, master's degrees in arts, social sciences, law, education or professional programs—to specialise further or to qualify for careers in academia, teaching, law, or specialised policy and research roles. The degree also supports entrepreneurial and creative careers through industry relationships and practical project units.

Why study at University of Melbourne

The University of Melbourne provides a large and diverse academic community with access to extensive research expertise and cultural partnerships across the city. Students benefit from a flexible curriculum that allows bespoke study plans, connections with professional networks, and opportunities to collaborate with institutes such as performing-arts and cultural organisations.

On-campus resources include libraries with strong humanities and social-science collections, language centres, career and internship services, and a wide range of student clubs and residential college experiences. The University’s emphasis on research-led teaching and cross-disciplinary learning helps Arts students build both intellectual depth and practical skills valued by employers and postgraduate programmes.