University of Southern Queensland

What you'll study

This combined degree lets you study a major or majors from the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences alongside majors from the Faculty of Science, Engineering and the Built Environment. Typical arts pathways include disciplines such as English, history, languages, sociology, psychology, communication and Indigenous studies; typical science pathways include biology, environmental science, chemistry, physics, mathematics and information technology.

Structure is usually split between core degree requirements, major-specific units and elective units that you can use to pursue a special interest or to balance workload across faculties. Common core themes across the programme include research methods, critical thinking, data interpretation and academic communication. Sample units you might encounter are:

• Research Methods for Arts and Social Sciences — qualitative methodologies, ethics and literature review techniques.
• Foundations of Biology or Chemistry — introductory laboratory and theory units if choosing a life or physical science major.
• Statistics and Data Analysis — quantitative methods and use of software for analysing data relevant to science and social research.
• Environmental Science and Sustainability — basic ecology, human impacts and policy frameworks for students following environmental majors.
• Contemporary Issues in Society — political, cultural and media perspectives on contemporary public issues.
• Professional Communication — developing written and oral communication skills for diverse audiences.

Practical learning is emphasised in science majors through laboratory classes, fieldwork and project-based assessments; arts majors include research essays, oral presentations and collaborative projects. The degree can be tailored to prepare for further honours or postgraduate study in either discipline area.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to have completed senior secondary qualification or equivalent recognised by the university. Entry pathways include direct entry based on school results, recognised tertiary study, vocational education and training qualifications, or demonstrated work and life experience for non-traditional applicants. International applicants must meet English language requirements set by the university; evidence of prior study in English or a recognised language test score may be necessary.

Some science majors may have assumed knowledge expectations such as senior-level mathematics, chemistry or biology. Meeting these assumed knowledge areas is important to succeed in certain first-year units; bridging or foundation units are sometimes available for students who need to develop these skills before or during their studies.

Career prospects

Graduates of this combined degree have a wide range of career options because they combine analytical and scientific skills with communication, critical thinking and cultural awareness from the arts component. Typical career paths include:

• Environmental consultant or officer, working on sustainability, conservation or land management projects.
• Science or health communication roles, including public engagement, education and media roles that translate technical information for general audiences.
• Policy advisor or analyst in government and non-government organisations, particularly where scientific evidence and social context intersect.
• Research assistant or laboratory technician roles in biological, chemical or environmental laboratories.
• Community development, social services or Indigenous engagement roles that require cross-cultural communication and research skills.
• Information technology or data-analytics positions for graduates who combine computing or statistics majors with arts communication skills.

Graduates may also choose to undertake honours or postgraduate study (master’s, professional programs or PhD) to specialise further in a chosen field and enhance research or professional credentials.

Why study at University of Southern Queensland

The University of Southern Queensland offers this combined degree with flexible delivery modes including on-campus and online study, which suits students balancing work, regional living or other commitments. USQ has practical, industry-connected teaching across science labs, fieldwork opportunities and community-engaged projects in arts and social research. Small-class teaching and access to academic support services help students transition into university study and develop research and professional skills.

USQ’s regional campuses and online learning environment provide pathways for students from rural and regional backgrounds, and the university maintains partnerships with industry and research centres that can assist with work placements, internships and real-world project experience relevant to both arts and science careers.