University of Adelaide

What you'll study

The Bachelor of Arts provides a multidisciplinary curriculum with a mix of core skills subjects and discipline-specific study. You typically complete a combination of major(s) and minor(s) drawn from areas including:

• History, Art History and Archaeology
• Politics, International Relations and Public Policy
• Languages and Linguistics (Asian, European and Indigenous languages offered)
• Media and Communication, Journalism and Creative Writing
• Philosophy, Ethics and Religious Studies
• Sociology, Anthropology and Cultural Studies
• Economics, Development Studies and Social Research methods

Core study emphasises critical analysis, academic writing and research methods. Many majors include a sequence of introductory, intermediate and advanced units; advanced units often involve a capstone project, thesis or supervised research component. The degree structure is flexible, allowing students to combine majors across faculties (for example minors in business, languages or scientific disciplines) and to take elective units including work-integrated learning placements, internships and study-abroad exchanges.

Entry requirements

Entry is typically based on a completed secondary school qualification (such as an Australian Year 12 qualification) or an equivalent overseas credential. Domestic applicants are considered on ATAR or equivalent tertiary entrance scores; alternatives such as recognised diplomas, bridging programs or portfolio submission may be available for some pathways. International applicants must meet the University's demonstrated academic requirements and English language proficiency standards (for example IELTS, TOEFL or equivalent); specific language majors may have additional prerequisites. Some specialisations (for example advanced language streams or creative disciplines) may require prior study or an interview/portfolio as part of selection.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts enter a wide range of occupations where analytical thinking, communication and cultural literacy are valued. Common career paths include:

• Public service and policy work at local, state or federal government
• Media, journalism, public relations and communications roles
• Education and cultural sector employment in museums, galleries and heritage organisations
• International development, diplomacy and non-government organisations
• Market research, human resources, marketing and corporate communications
• Further study: honours programs, postgraduate coursework or research degrees (for careers in academia, law, social research and specialised professional fields)

Practical components such as internships, placements and capstone projects help develop workplace-ready skills and professional networks.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide offers a research-led teaching environment within a compact, collegiate campus in a city known for cultural and public-sector opportunities. The Bachelor of Arts benefits from interdisciplinary teaching across humanities and social sciences, access to language laboratories, archives and research centres, and opportunities for overseas study through established exchange partnerships. Small-group tutorials and research supervision give hands-on support, while industry links and placement programs help students gain practical experience. The degree’s flexibility lets you tailor study to career goals or prepare for specialised honours and postgraduate pathways.