Bachelor of Arts (Applied Linguistics)
Degree Level Undergraduate
Year 2025
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You're considered an Australian student if you are any of the following:
- Australian or New Zealand Citizen
- Australian Permanent Resident (including Permanent Humanitarian Visa holders)
Entry Scores
2025 Guaranteed Entry
Year 12 (ATAR-based): 65.00
Year 12 (Grades-based): B,B,C
TAFE/RTO: DIP
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2024 Cut-Offs
Year 12 (ATAR-based):
- Internal: 65.00
TAFE/RTO: Cert IV
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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
- Enhance your employment prospects by studying Applied Linguistics with a second major. Studying a second major will develop your capabilities to explore and understand diverse ways of thinking, which is highly regarded by prospective employers.
- Learn from world-class educators and researchers in Linguistics1.
- Ranked No.1 in South Australia for graduate careers in the Humanities2.
- Study at a university ranked No.1 in SA for graduate full-time employment3.
- Use this degree as a pathway to further study, including the Master of Teaching (Secondary) and Master of Social Work.
- Gain international experience as part of the Global Experience study tours.
- Engage with community and industry partners and explore employment pathways through placements and mentoring in the optional Professional Directions Program.
12018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA). 2Ranked equal #6 ComparED (QILT) Graduate Outcomes Survey 2021-23, Humanities, Culture and Social Sciences – Full-time Employment Indicator (Domestic Postgraduate). SA public universities 32024 Good Universities Guide – Undergraduate.
Snapshot
As a student studying the Applied Linguistics major you will gain an in-depth understanding of human language and learn how language shapes human experience, through the integration of theoretical and applied perspectives, with a strong practical, community and industry focus.
You will:
- Explore the ways in which language is fundamental to human understanding, communication and cultures.
- Gain expertise in the applications of linguistics to contemporary issues and professional concerns.
- Use your high-level linguistic, analytical, research and problem-solving skills as global professionals in a world of linguistic and cultural diversity.
You will also graduate with writing, presentation, digital, communication, research and problem-solving skills that can be transferable across a range of roles and are highly regarded by prospective employers.
Learn more about how to tailor your Arts degree to suit your interests in the Humanities and Social Sciences.
If you finish your degree with a credit or higher-Grade Point Average (GPA), you could also be eligible for the one-year Bachelor of Arts (Honours) degree.
What you'll learn
Under the guidance of world-class researchers1 you will embark on an in-depth study of the nature of human language. You will develop in-depth knowledge in your chosen specialisations, enhancing your critical thinking, research capabilities and problem-solving skills. You will also graduate with writing, presentation, digital, and communication skills that can be transferred across a range of roles and are highly regarded by prospective employers. You will focus on:
- Developing an in-depth understanding of human language, and how languages and cultures shape communication, identities and learning in the contemporary world.
- Exploring what is fundamental to human understanding, communication and culture in societies, institutions, organisations, workplaces and communities..
- Using your high-level linguistic, analytical, research and problem solving skills as global professionals in a world of linguistic and cultural diversity.
This degree allows you to select two majors ensuring you graduate with a broad knowledge of two areas of interest. You can choose your second major from the following:
- Aboriginal Studies
- Criminology and Criminal Justice (new in 2024)
- Cultural Studies
- Creative Writing and Literature
- History and Global Politics
- Languages (French/Italian/Japanese)
- Law, Policy and Politics
- Psychology
- Sociology.
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.
12018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA)
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 will incorporate practical, professionally focused and research-based learning, so assessment types will vary. You can expect them to include:
- individual and group presentations
- critical analysis
- essays
- reflective journals
- research assignments
- portfolios
- case studies
- online quizzes
- reports
- assignments.
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 (Applied Linguistics)
This degree increases your employment prospects by enabling you to gain expertise in two different areas of interest. Applied Linguistics is increasingly recognised as important for emergent areas of employment and technology. You will learn from world-class educators and researchers in linguistics1 and benefit from our state-of-the-art learning facilities.
You will have opportunities to engage with community and industry partners through placements and mentoring conversations as part of your studies through the Professional Directions Program.
There are also opportunities to study a portion of your degree overseas, as part of the Global Experience study tours.
You could continue your studies with a Master of Teaching with one major and one minor learning area. If this interests you, please read How Do I Become a Teacher before selecting your courses.
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
Your knowledge of language structure and use, combined with strong analytical and research skills, can lead to further study or a career in such diverse fields as:
- government, diplomacy and trade
- defence, intelligence and security
- migrant, refugee, and multicultural services
- community and social services
- health, wellbeing and aged care
- policy and research
- education
- entrepreneurship
- speech pathology
- translating and interpreting
- healthcare communication.
Applying to study with us:
- go to the top of this page and make note of the SATAC code, then click Apply
- you will be redirected through to the SATAC website to continue your application
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 study spaces
As an Arts student you will have access to:
- The on-campus Multimedia Languages Lab, where you can connect in real-time with native speakers from around the world
- A diverse range of community and industry partner organisations who host student placements and offer mentoring conversations off campus so you can engage and explore real-world connections.
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
"Lectures and tutorials are always engaging because the lecturers are passionate about the topics they teach. Not only did they teach me how to be successful academically, but they also shared an understanding of the importance and impact language has in professional settings."
Christopher Denton
Bachelor of Arts (Linguistics)
Audiology Joint Venture Partner | Specsavers Australia
I chose to study Arts at UniSA for two reasons. The first is that it has the most interesting and comprehensive linguistics major, and the second is the double major offering. This allowed me to specialise in both sociology and applied linguistics, instead of having to choose one. What I have enjoyed the most is the academic environment. The academic staff are friendly and approachable, and it has been an amazing experience to learn from people who want to see me succeed.
Clover Glasgow
Bachelor of Arts (Applied Linguistics)
The knowledge I have gained studying linguistics has improved both my communication and interpersonal skills. I have also enjoyed the opportunity to be able to learn and grow in an environment where diverse languages and cultures are celebrated.
Peter Leach
Bachelor of Arts (Applied Linguistics)
This program is ideal for those looking for a well-rounded understanding of human issues and interaction. What I’ve studied so far in the Bachelor of Arts program has helped me prepare for not just one career. I have the option to explore a range of avenues when it comes to career opportunities and further study. Advocacy is one option I would like to pursue, but the ability to continue with further research has always intrigued me too.
Luke Heathorn
Bachelor of Arts (Applied Linguistics, History & Global Politics)
