Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

The BA (Honours) at ACU is typically taken as a full‑time, one‑year program that combines a substantial supervised research thesis with advanced coursework and methodological training. You will deepen expertise in your chosen major area from the undergraduate BA (for example, history, philosophy, sociology, psychology, English, languages, theology, or social sciences) while acquiring research design, qualitative and/or quantitative methods, academic writing and ethics skills.

• Research thesis: A major independent research project supervised by a senior academic in your discipline, allowing sustained enquiry into a topic relevant to your major.
• Research methods: Advanced units that teach methods appropriate to your field (e.g. archival methods, ethnography, survey design, statistical analysis, textual analysis, or theological exegesis).
• Disciplinary coursework: One or more advanced seminars on theoretical and contemporary debates in your discipline to situate your thesis work.
• Research training and professional skills: Training in research ethics, academic communication, publishing, and skills for translating research into policy or practice.

The exact composition of units will depend on your chosen major and the availability of supervisors at your ACU campus. Students work closely with a supervisory team and participate in small-group seminars, workshops and presentations.

Entry requirements

Admission to BA (Honours) normally requires completion of a three‑year Bachelor of Arts or equivalent undergraduate degree with a strong academic record in the major discipline you intend to pursue. Applicants are assessed on overall academic performance, demonstrated research potential, and the availability of suitable supervision.

• Academic transcript showing a credit or better level of performance in relevant subjects (equivalent to an upper‑second class honours threshold in the major).
• A research proposal or statement of intent outlining the proposed honours topic and research questions.
• Academic references from lecturers or supervisors who can speak to your suitability for honours-level research.
• Meeting ACU's English language requirements for study if you are an international applicant (standard test scores such as IELTS or equivalent may be required).

Some applicants may be required to attend an interview with potential supervisors. Domestic or non-standard applicants with relevant professional experience may be considered on a case‑by‑case basis.

Career prospects

Graduates of the BA (Honours) gain advanced research, analytical and communication skills that are valued across many sectors. Common pathways include:

• Progression to postgraduate research degrees (e.g. PhD) and academic careers.
• Research roles in government, public policy, think tanks and non‑government organisations.
• Professional roles in publishing, journalism, communications, cultural institutions, heritage and museums.
• Positions in community services, advocacy, and program development where policy analysis, evaluation and reporting are required.
• Enhanced prospects for roles that value advanced writing, critical thinking and project management.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

ACU offers a supportive honours environment with small cohorts and close supervision from research-active staff across the humanities and social sciences. The university emphasises ethical research practice and socially engaged scholarship, with access to multidisciplinary research centres, specialised collections and community partnerships that can inform and extend honours projects.

Students benefit from personalised academic mentoring, opportunities to present at seminars and conferences, and pathways into ACU's higher degree research programs. ACU’s campus network and focus on teaching quality mean honours students receive both rigorous academic training and practical support for career or further study transitions.