Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

The Bachelor of Arts is built around a combination of core skills subjects, elective units and one or more chosen majors or specialisations. Typical areas you can study include:

• History and heritage – historical methods, public history and cultural heritage studies.
• Politics and international relations – Australian politics, comparative politics, diplomacy and development studies.
• Literature and creative writing – literary analysis, creative practice and writing workshops.
• Philosophy and ethics – classical and contemporary philosophy, applied ethics and social justice theory.
• Media, communication and cultural studies – media production, journalism fundamentals and critical media analysis.
• Languages – study of modern languages together with cultural studies and translation fundamentals.
• Sociology and social inquiry – social research methods, community studies and social policy topics.

Most students complete a combination of majors and minors across three years of full-time study. Coursework emphasises critical thinking, writing, research skills and professional capabilities such as public communication and project work. Students may undertake a capstone or honours year if they wish to pursue research or progress to postgraduate study.

Entry requirements

Entry to the Bachelor of Arts is based on successful completion of secondary school (or recognised equivalent) and meeting the university's general admission standards, usually demonstrated by an ATAR or alternative entry pathways. Mature-age applicants and those with vocational qualifications or relevant life and work experience may apply through alternative admissions programs. International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements. Additional selection criteria, such as personal statements or supplementary information, can apply for some specialisations or campus options.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts develop transferable skills valued across many sectors. Common career destinations include:

• Communications, public relations, journalism and publishing.
• Public policy, government and non‑government organisations (policy officer, advocacy roles).
• Community services, cultural organisations and heritage management.
• Education and training (often requiring additional teacher education qualifications for secondary teaching).
• Marketing, content creation and digital media roles.
• Further study pathways into honours, research degrees or professional postgraduate programs such as law, social work or business.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

ACU emphasises small-group teaching, personalised support and a strong focus on social justice and ethical engagement across the curriculum. The university offers multi-campus delivery and flexible study modes including on-campus, blended and online subjects to suit different student circumstances. Arts students benefit from cross-disciplinary collaboration, opportunities for industry engagement, community placements and international exchange options, as well as dedicated student support services for academic skills and career preparation.