Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

This combined degree allows you to study a broad range of Arts subjects alongside core Commerce disciplines. In the Arts component you can choose majors from areas such as sociology, psychology, politics and international relations, history, languages, communication and media, or philosophy. These subjects develop skills in critical analysis, research, writing and intercultural awareness.

The Commerce component covers foundational business knowledge and discipline-specific study. Typical topics include principles of accounting, finance, marketing, management, organisational behaviour, micro- and macro-economics, business law, and quantitative methods for decision-making. Many majors culminate in advanced units such as strategy, taxation, auditing, consumer behaviour, or applied economics.

The program structure usually mixes core requirements, major-specific units and elective choices across the two degrees. Early years emphasise foundations and study skills, while later years focus on discipline depth and applied learning. Opportunities for work-integrated learning, industry projects, internships or a capstone unit are commonly available, and language study or international exchange options can be taken as part of the Arts major.

Typical modules and topics

• Academic research and writing; critical thinking in the humanities
• Introduction to microeconomics and macroeconomics
• Principles of accounting and financial reporting
• Marketing fundamentals and consumer behaviour
• Management and organisational behaviour
• Quantitative methods and business statistics
• Business law and ethics
• Specialist electives in chosen Arts and Commerce majors
• Work-integrated learning, internship or capstone projects

Entry requirements

Admission typically requires satisfactory completion of secondary school qualifications (such as an Australian senior secondary certificate or recognised equivalent). Applicants may be considered on the basis of an ATAR or equivalent tertiary entrance score, successful completion of a relevant diploma, or through recognised alternative pathways including mature-age entry and prior study.

International applicants must meet ACU's English language proficiency requirements through recognised tests or approved evidence of previous study in English. Some Commerce majors (for example accounting or finance) may have additional prerequisites or assumed knowledge in mathematics; check the specific major requirements when applying.

Career prospects

Graduates of the combined Arts/Commerce degree are well placed for a wide range of careers that require both analytical and interpersonal skills alongside commercial knowledge. Common career pathways include:

• Accounting, finance, and taxation roles (with further accreditation where required)
• Marketing, brand management and market research
• Human resources and organisational development
• Business analysis, consulting and project coordination
• Policy, public service and non-government sector roles
• Communications, media and public relations
• International relations, community development and advocacy
• Entrepreneurship and small business management

Graduates often pursue professional accreditation or postgraduate study (such as accounting accreditation, MBA, public policy or specialised postgraduate awards) to advance in particular career streams.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

ACU emphasises a values-based education with a focus on social justice, ethical practice and community engagement, which complements both Arts and Commerce study. The university is known for smaller class sizes and a supportive teaching environment, with access to academic advisors, career services and industry networks to help translate study into employment outcomes.

Practical learning opportunities such as internships, placements and industry projects are embedded in many courses, and ACU facilitates professional experience through local business and community partnerships. Campuses offer student support services, language resources and extra-curricular activities that enhance employability and personal development.

Overall, the Bachelor of Arts / Bachelor of Commerce at ACU is suited to students seeking a flexible, interdisciplinary qualification that combines cultural and civic knowledge with practical business skills.