Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

The honours year builds on prior undergraduate study in subjects such as history, literature, philosophy, theology and classical studies. You will take advanced seminars that focus on intellectual traditions, primary texts and interpretive approaches across periods from antiquity to modernity. Core components typically include a substantial supervised research thesis, research methods and historiography, and advanced-topic units that may cover areas such as ancient Greek and Roman thought, medieval and renaissance intellectual history, the Enlightenment, modern political theory, religious and secular transformations, and the reception of classical ideas in art and literature.

• Independent honours research thesis under academic supervision
• Advanced seminars on primary sources and critical interpretation
• Research methods in history and humanities (archival practice, textual analysis, citation and ethics)
• Optional topical units in philosophy, theology, literature and cultural history
• Oral presentation of research and participation in honours colloquia

Entry requirements

Admission to the honours year normally requires completion of a relevant three-year bachelor degree or equivalent, with a strong academic record in units related to Western civilisation, history, philosophy or literature. Applicants are usually expected to have demonstrated high grades in advanced-level subjects or a recognised major, and to secure academic supervision for their proposed research project. Selection may take into account an academic transcript, a research proposal, and referee reports; applicants whose first language is not English may need to meet the university's English language requirements.

Career prospects

An honours year in Western Civilisation prepares graduates for a range of pathways. Many continue into higher research degrees (PhD) leading to academic careers. Others apply their advanced analytical, research and communication skills in secondary and tertiary teaching (with appropriate professional qualifications), cultural heritage and museum work, archival and curatorial roles, publishing and journalism, public policy and government advisory positions, and roles in NGOs and community organisations. The year also strengthens profiles for competitive postgraduate professional programmes.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

Studying this honours program at Australian Catholic University offers the advantages of a values-informed learning environment and a focus on ethics and the human person alongside rigorous scholarship. ACU emphasises small-group teaching and close supervision, enabling detailed feedback on your research. You will have access to the university's library collections, research networks and opportunities to present work in honours colloquia. The program is suited to students who value interdisciplinary engagement across history, literature, philosophy and theology and who seek a supportive setting for an intensive research year.