Bachelor of Arts (Aboriginal Studies)
Degree Level Undergraduate
Year 2025
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- Australian or New Zealand Citizen
- Australian Permanent Resident (including Permanent Humanitarian Visa holders)
Entry Scores
2025 Guaranteed Entry
Year 12 (ATAR-based): 65.00
TAFE/RTO: DIP
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2024 Cut-Offs
Year 12 (ATAR-based):
- Internal: 65.00
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Entry requirements
Admission criteria
The admission criteria have been grouped to assist you to easily find the information most relevant to your circumstances. However, you may fit into more than one and the university will consider applicants against each of the relevant criteria.
Certain conditions apply. For more information refer to Appendix 4 of the University's Selection and Entry policy.
Applicants are required to meet one of the following criteria with a competitive result, and demonstrate that they fulfil any prerequisite requirements and essential requirements for admission:
Recent secondary education
Meet any prerequisite requirements with a minimum grade of C- or equivalent
AND
- Qualify for the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE), and achieved a competitive Selection Rank (ATAR), or
- Complete secondary qualifications equivalent to SACE, or
- Complete the International Baccalaureate Diploma with a minimum score of 24 points
- Applicants who have not achieved the Selection Rank required for automatic selection may be selected for any remaining places based on the grades of their year 12 subjects.
OR
Higher education study
- Complete or partly complete a recognised higher education program at a recognised higher education institution, or
- Complete at least four Open Universities Australia (OUA) courses at undergraduate level or above
OR
Vocational Education and Training (VET)
- Complete an award from a registered training organisation at Certificate IV or above
OR
Work and life experience
- Qualify for Special Entry, or
- Complete a 12-month UniSA Foundation Studies program or equivalent, or
- Hold completed secondary qualifications equivalent to SACE obtained more than 2 years in the past
Essential requirements for admission
Prerequisites
NoneAssumed Knowledge
None
Degree overview
- Gain an understanding of the past and contemporary experiences of Aboriginal Peoples in Australia and internationally
- Develop your cultural competence and be equipped with the skills and strategies to work effectively with Aboriginal clients and communities
- Combine courses from diverse disciplines to gain a broad understanding of Australian Aboriginal societies and cultures, both past and present
- Enhance your employment prospects by studying a double major - you'll graduate with an in-depth knowledge of two distinct but complementary areas
- Study a curriculum informed by world-class research in Cultural Studies and Linguistics1.
- Study at a university ranked No.1 in SA for graduate employability2.
- Engage with community and industry partners and explore employment pathways through placements and mentoring in the optional Professional Directions Program.
- Benefit from flexible learning options and choose to study this degree partially online.
- Use this degree as a pathway to further study, including the Master of Teaching (Secondary) and Master of Social Work.
12018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA). 2ComparED (QILT) Employer Satisfaction Survey 2021-23. SA public universities.
Snapshot
The Bachelor of Arts (Aboriginal Studies) will prepare you to engage thoughtfully with Aboriginal Australians, and will provide you with a broad understanding of issues pertinent to Aboriginal people and communities. You will develop an understanding of the complex interface between Aboriginal knowledges and Western knowledge, perspectives, and practices, and engage in critical dialogues with the many voices and priorities of Aboriginal Peoples and communities.
- Key areas of study include:
- Aboriginal knowledges and cultures
- Aboriginal history and colonialism
- Aboriginal governance structures and nation building
- globalisation, national and international trends in relation to Aboriginal peoples
- caring for Country and its role in Aboriginal heritage issues.
This degree will give you the knowledge and skills to think critically about the various issues impacting Indigenous communities locally, nationally, and globally, and will enable you to engage thoughtfully with Aboriginal communities and contribute to ethical and professional practice.
What you'll learn
You will engage in analysis, discussion and debate around key issues that are of significance to Aboriginal peoples and international Indigenous Peoples, such as language revitalisation, Aboriginal nation building and the broader pursuit of self-determination, social and economic development, and social justice.
You will build interdisciplinary knowledge, community leadership skills and cultural awareness, graduating with the skills necessary to succeed in the rapidly changing global workplace.
You will be given the opportunity to study two majors, ensuring you graduate with advanced skills and knowledge that will set you apart from your competitors in the workplace.You can choose a second major from the following:
- Applied Linguistics
- Creative Writing and Literature
- Criminology and Criminal Justice (new in 2024)
- Cultural Studies
- History and Global Politics
- Languages (French, Italian or Japanese)
- Law, Policy and Politics
- Psychology
- Sociology
In addition to your two majors, you will also be required to complete two core courses, four courses from a selected list of minors (also from the above list), and Professional Directions Program 1 & 2 or two electives.
You can gain an extra qualification and broaden your career prospects by completing a Diploma in Languages.
Study hours
For each course you study, you will need to allocate time for various classes such as lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Plus you will need additional hours to study in your own time to complete assignments, readings and projects, as well as to contribute to online discussion forums (independent study). So as a general rule, if you are studying full-time you would need to allocate 12–26 hours of study when at university and 14–28 hours of independent study per week.
Assessment
Your studies at UniSA will incorporate practical, professionally focused and research-based learning, so assessment types will vary. You can expect them to include:
- case studies
- critical analysis
- essays
- individual and group presentations
- online quizzes
- reports
- research assignments
- portfolios.
Global opportunities
Enrich your studies and your life – make overseas study part of your qualification. You may have the option to undertake an exchange, short-term program or study tour overseas while you study. We have links with universities worldwide, as well as a range of travel grants available to make going overseas much more accessible.
You can choose short-term or semester-long study from a range of universities and countries depending on your area of study and cultural interests.
Take a look at the global opportunities available.
Why Bachelor of Arts (Aboriginal Studies)
This exciting degree offers a future-focused perspective around Aboriginal knowledges, issues and governance, as well as discussing international perspectives. You’ll explore different aspects of Aboriginal cultures and their historical and contemporary contexts. If you’re interested in Aboriginal history, as well as contemporary Aboriginal issues, this arts degree is a great choice.
You will learn from industry experts and study a curriculum informed by world-class research1. You will also benefit from our relationships and ties with local Aboriginal communities, and have the opportunity to learn from highly respected Aboriginal professionals. This flexible degree can be studied on-campus or online – perfect for those trying to fit study in among work and other life commitments.
If you finish your degree with a credit or higher grade point average (GPA), you could be eligible for the one-year Bachelor of Arts (Honours) degree. You may also choose to continue your studies with a Master of Teaching and teach Humanities and Social Sciences in Australia or overseas. If this interests you, please visit the How Do I Become a Teacher web page before selecting your courses.
You may choose to further your studies through a Master of Social Work. Students must ensure they are across the entry requirements of this postgraduate program before selecting courses in the Bachelor of Arts undergraduate degree.
12018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA)
This could be you
UniSA’s Bachelor of Arts is taught by world-class educators and researchers and enables you to pursue two areas of academic interest at once. Hear from UniSA student Luke Heathorn and Program Support Coordinator Louis Everuss on what it's like studying our Bachelor of Arts degrees.
Your career
Studying an Aboriginal Studies major as part of your Arts degree will prepare you for a career in a wide range of industries and business areas, and equip you with transferable cross-cultural communication skills, the ability to think critically and formulate solutions, and the technical skills and understanding to work and collaborate with Aboriginal communities. Graduates may be employed by:
- government sectors, for example within Aboriginal-focused departments and agencies
- non-government and private sector organisations
- human and community service businesses and organisations that support Aboriginal communities and clients, where specific skills in cross-cultural awareness are sought.
This program helps you develop many transferable skills which are highly regarded by employers including:
- critical analysis
- real-world, contemporary research strategies
- cultural awareness
- sophisticated communication.
You could also pursue a teaching role in humanities and social sciences when you continue your studies with a Master of Teaching (Secondary).
You may also choose to further your studies through a Master of Social Work. Students must ensure they are across the entry requirements of this postgraduate program before selecting courses in the Bachelor of Arts undergraduate degree.
Applying to study with us:
- Scroll to the top of this page and make note of the relevant SATAC code*, then click Apply
- You will be redirected through to the SATAC website to continue your application
*There are two SATAC codes – one for this degree, and one for this degree packaged with the Master of Teaching. You can apply to study this degree on its own. However if you already know you would like to combine it with a Master of Teaching, you can apply for both together.
Alternative Pathways
Australian
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including:
- UniSA College Diploma in Social Sciences
- UniSA College Undergraduate Certificate in University Studies (Social Sciences)
- SAIBT Diploma of Arts
International
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including:
Deferment
This degree is available for deferment. This option is made available by responding to your offer during the application process via the SATAC website. Applicants who receive an offer into a midyear degree are eligible to defer for six months.
Scholarships
Every year, over 2,500 UniSA students are supported in their studies through scholarships and grants worth millions of dollars. Check out the scholarships below. One of them may be perfect for you. Visit our scholarships page for more.
UniSA Excellence Scholarships
$5,000 scholarship for South Australian students with an ATAR of 99 who enrol to study a UniSA undergraduate degree.
UniSA Outstanding Achievement Scholarship
Up to $10,000 per annum (full time) for South Australian students who obtain an ATAR of 99.95 or IB equivalent and enrol to study at UniSA.
Your study experience and support
Our campuses are home to fantastic facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, workshops and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments. But you’ll also discover that your journey at UniSA is about social experiences, healthy living and getting involved. You’ll find student sports and fitness facilities, community clinics, tech zones and chill-out spaces. There are campus sport activities to keep you active, and if you are keen to explore the social side of university life, there are movies, cooking demonstrations, parties and loads more.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit different requirements and budgets. Options include dedicated student accommodation and private rentals. See our long-term accommodation pages, or explore our student accommodation by Scape on Bank Street in Adelaide’s lively cultural precinct, an ideal location for students. It is within easy reach of UniSA’s city and metropolitan campuses, Rundle Mall shopping, the Central Market, Chinatown, and the West End’s vibrant nightlife. It is also across the road from the Adelaide train station, and on bus and tram routes.
Student services
Our student services provide you with all the support you need at university. We want you to succeed, and if you need help, we're here to assist. You can access a full range of support services, including:
- academic counselling
- personal counselling
- social support services, including family support and nearby childcare
- common rooms
- prayer rooms
- security officers
- career services and mentoring
- Wirringka Student Services, offering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students a supportive place to study
- as well as services offered through our student association, USASA.
When you become a UniSA student, you can also contact Campus Central for help with anything related to your degree. They will help you with your enrolment, ID cards, fees, timetables and more.
24/7 digital environment
Our learnonline facilities include a personal learning environment with virtual classrooms, lecture recordings, emails, learning support, administration, library access and results. The environment is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so you can tailor your learning to your life. We are continually investing in innovative digital technologies for a high-quality student learning experience.
Your program director
I am Director of the Bachelor of Arts Programs, Lecturer in Applied Linguistics, and Fellow of the Advanced Higher Education Academy, UK. My academic background is in Languages and Applied Linguistics (BA Hons, PhD), following extensive experience in clinical practice across a range of health and medical domains in Australia. My work places a strong focus on developing reciprocal, trusting relationships in my teaching, mentoring and engagement with students, and in my research in partnership with colleagues, community and industry. My teaching and research inform each other. I coordinate and teach core courses in the Bachelor of Arts, and my research focuses on language and communication in professions and organisations in various contexts. These include state and nationally funded projects in health care, aged care, education, counselling, and policing. The upshot is that our Bachelor of Arts program develops each student’s interests, strengths and aspirations, enabling each student to explore and prepare for a wide range of career and life goals. The unique double major structure combines theory and practice with real-world experience to develop strong interdisciplinary skills that are highly valued by industry, government and community.
Ask UniSA
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How do I apply?
The way you apply for UniSA will depend on the undergraduate or postgraduate coursework degree you're interested in studying.
The majority of applications are made via the South Australian Tertiary Admissions Centre (SATAC). Check out more information on the SATAC website and follow the appropriate process for your degree of interest.
There are a small number of degrees that you need to apply for through direct application processes. The process you need to follow will be listed on the 'How to Apply' section of the degree homepage, but you'll also be taken to where you need to go if you hit the 'apply' button.
If you are interested in studying one of our 100% online degrees you'll need to apply directly to UniSA Online.
You can find more information about the application processes for UniSA on our How to Apply webpage.
If you're more interested in applying for a postgraduate degree by research, check out and follow the information in our step by step guide to applying. -
Is there a closing date for applications?
Applications for all degrees will close ahead of study commencing, but the timelines may vary for undergraduate and postgraduate degrees.
Undergraduate
The deadline to apply to study a degree at UniSA for semester one (commencing late February) and be guaranteed equal consideration is generally in very late November or early December. While you may be able to apply after this date, you are not guaranteed to be considered equally with other applicants and your application may not be assessed in time for the main round of offers. More competitive degrees may not make any offers after the main offer round. Find more information on the Key Dates section of the SATAC website, but you can also call the Future Student Enquiries team for more information on 08 8302 376.
Postgraduate
Many postgraduate by coursework degrees do not have set closing dates. The exceptions are highly competitive degrees, so it is best to check – either on the degree homepage on the SATAC website or by checking with our Future Student Enquiries team.
As most postgraduate applications are assessed as they are submitted and offers are continuous, there are no set closing dates for applications. Degrees can be filled and closed with little notice so it is best to apply as soon as possible to avoid missing out on a place. For more information, please contact our Future Student Enquires team on (08) 8302 2376 or submit an enquiry.
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What credit can I receive for previous studies?
You may be eligible for credit or advanced standing for your chosen UniSA degree based on your previous studies, if they are in a related area and completed within a certain timeframe. Receiving credit or RPL will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree. You can read more about our pre-existing credit agreements through our online Credit Assessor. If you have related industry experience, you may also be eligible to receive recognised prior learning (RPL) for this experience. Credit and RPL is assessed by the Program Director once you've received an offer, and you apply through UniSA's current student experts, Campus Central.
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Can I speak to someone regarding my study options?
Future Student Enquiries welcomes the opportunity to meet with you to discuss your study options at UniSA. We can discuss degree information, entry requirements and pathways, applications, general career outcomes and student life, so you have the information to make the best study decision for your future. Head to our Book an Appointment webpage to find a date and time to speak with us, and take your next steps on journey to university study.
What others are saying
I wrote my thesis on finding a way of identifying upon discovery of Aboriginal ancestry later in my life. A highlight of my studies was participating in a cultural exchange for four weeks at Pukyong National University in Busan, South Korea. The comradery, especially amongst other mature age students, was wonderful and I made a lot of friends throughout my time at university. The support and learning throughout my journey with UniSA has been outstanding, and I would highly recommend UniSA to anyone undertaking tertiary education.
Jill Waller
Bachelor of Arts (Aboriginal Studies) (Honours), Bachelor of Education (Middle and Secondary)
Student Support and Aboriginal Education Officer | Department for Education
Since undertaking my Aboriginal Studies degree, I have been able to use those skills to teach both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal students in a culturally responsive way. Supported by Sam Osbourne, Associate Director: Regional Engagement (APY Lands), my thesis was a great way for me to really delve deep into culturally responsive pedagogies and how it relates to education for Aboriginal students across the state. My studies at UniSA were foundational for all that I have achieved. I was able to share the confidence and knowledge I gained from my degree with others once I embarked on my role as Aboriginal Education Teacher at Balaklava High School, and I’m proud that this is positively impacting students across South Australia.
Joshuah Jenner
Aboriginal Education Teacher | Balaklava High School
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