University of Adelaide

What you'll study

This degree integrates core sustainability and climate change concepts with specialised study of population processes and migration. Core subjects typically cover climate systems and impacts, mitigation and adaptation strategies, environmental policy and sustainable development. Population and Migration Studies subjects explore demographic methods, migration theory, drivers of mobility, refugee and asylum policy, urbanisation and the social impacts of population change.

• Foundational modules: principles of sustainability, climate science, introduction to environmental policy, ecological limits and global change.
• Population and migration modules: demography and population dynamics, migration theory and practice, forced migration and displacement, international migration policy and governance.
• Research and methods: quantitative and qualitative research methods, statistics for social and environmental data, geographic information systems (GIS) and spatial analysis.
• Applied and capstone work: interdisciplinary projects, professional practice placements or a research project that brings together sustainability and migration perspectives.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options: courses drawn from public policy, urban planning, health, Indigenous studies, international development and environmental science to tailor the degree to your career interests.

Entry requirements

Admission is based on completion of an approved senior secondary or equivalent qualification. Domestic applicants are typically assessed on their secondary school results (such as ATAR) or recognised tertiary pathways. International applicants need an equivalent secondary qualification and evidence of English language proficiency.

• Alternative entry pathways include recognised diplomas, bridging programs and mature-age admission routes.
• Academic prerequisites may vary by intake; prospective students should check specific subject prerequisites and confirm language requirements with the University of Adelaide admissions office.
• High-achieving students may be eligible for consideration for honours or advanced coursework options after completing the bachelor degree.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles that require an understanding of the intersections between climate change, sustainability and human mobility. The interdisciplinary skill set—combining environmental literacy, demographic analysis and policy understanding—translates to a range of public, private and not-for-profit careers.

• Policy advisor or analyst in government departments focused on climate, environment, population or immigration.
• Sustainability officer or environmental consultant for industry, local government or consultancy firms.
• Program or research officer with NGOs, international organisations and humanitarian agencies working on migration, displacement and climate resilience.
• Urban and regional planner roles addressing population change, housing and climate adaptation needs.
• Research assistant or pathway to postgraduate study (Honours, master's, PhD) in sustainability, population studies, migration, development or related fields.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide offers research-led teaching across environmental and social sciences, drawing on strengths in climate research, sustainability policy and population studies. Students benefit from interdisciplinary course design that encourages collaboration between faculties and access to research centres that focus on environmental change, public policy and social impacts.

• Interdisciplinary learning: courses are designed to bridge natural and social sciences, equipping students with both technical methods and policy analysis skills.
• Research opportunities: chances to work with active research groups and undertake supervised projects that inform real-world policy and practice.
• Professional connections: proximity to South Australian government agencies, NGOs and international organisations provides opportunities for internships, placements and applied work.
• Flexible pathways: clear routes to honours and postgraduate study, enabling further specialisation in climate science, demography, migration studies or policy.