Bachelor of Arts (History and Global Politics)
Degree Level Undergraduate
Year 2025
You're viewing degree information for International students
You're considered an International student if you are:
- NOT an Australian or New Zealand citizen
- NOT an Australian Permanent Resident (including Permanent Humanitarian Visa holders)
Program Code
MBAA
Prerequisites
None
Assumed Knowledge
None
Fees
AUD$ 32,800 per annum (per 1.0 EFTSL) for students enrolled in 2025
Admissions
Student Profile
English Language Requirements
- IELTS total [6.0]
- IELTS reading [6.0]
- IELTS writing [6.0]
International Admission by Country
See full entry requirements
CRICOS Code
097504G
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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
NoneEnglish language entry requirements
In addition to meeting academic entry requirements, international students who speak English as a second or additional language must also meet the University's English language entry requirements. The minimum language requirements for this program are:English language testPlease access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by UniSA and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements: English Language Equivalence Table (PDF)- IELTS total [6.0]
- IELTS reading [6.0]
- IELTS writing [6.0]
Admission Requirements by Country
Bangladesh HSC 3.5 Canada High School (OSSD) 60 Eynesbury FSP 310 German Abitur 3.8 Kenya KCSE (average) B Malaysia STPM (best 3) 6 Malaysia UEC 32 Norway GPA 2.8 Pakistan HSSC 75 Sri Lanka A Levels (best 3) 6 Sweden GPA 12.5 UK Board GCE A Levels/HK Board 6 Vietnam 7 Australia 65 IB (best 6) 26 USA SAT (1600) 1050 India (best 4) State Board 70 India (best 4) Central Board 60 HKDSE 15 Nepal NEB 2.41
Degree overview
- Enhance your employment prospects by studying History and Global Politics along with a second major of your choice from disciplines in the Humanities and Social Sciences. Taking two majors will develop your capabilities to explore and understand diverse ways of thinking, which is highly regarded by prospective employers.
- Study with the Top 5 university in Australia for student satisfaction in the Humanities1.
- Learn from above world-class research2.
- 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.
1Ranked #3, ComparED (QILT) Course Experience Questionnaire 2021-22, Humanities, Culture and Social Sciences – Overall Satisfaction Indicator (Domestic Undergraduate). Public universities. 22018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA), 4-digit Fields of Research.
Snapshot
As a student studying the History and Global Politics major you will develop an in-depth understanding of the patterns and processes that have shaped our societies over time and help you analyse and predict events in our contemporary world.
Key areas of study include:
- the politics of environmental change in Australia and Asia
- framing global politics through film and documentaries
- global politics and development
- world history trends
- global power in the Indo-Pacific region
- marginalisation in world affairs.
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.
You could also continue your studies with a Master of Teaching with Humanities and Social Sciences as your learning area. If this interests you, please read How Do I Become a Teacher before selecting your courses.
If you would like to apply directly into the Bachelor of Arts/Master of Teaching (Secondary) package option, please apply via SATAC using code 444521.
If you apply to the Master of Teaching packaged degree option, you will apply into the Bachelor of Arts and in your first year select your specialisation as History and Global Politics.
What you'll learn
The History and Global Politics major will highlight the patterns and processes that have shaped our societies over time and help you to analyse and predict events in our contemporary world.
Key areas of study include:
- politics of environmental change in Australia and Asia
- framing global politics through film and documentaries
- global politics and development
- world history trends
- global power in the Indo-Pacific region
- marginalisation in world affairs.
This degree allows you to select two majors ensuring you graduate with a broad knowledge of two areas of interest. You can choose a second major from the following:
- Aboriginal Studies
- Applied Linguistics
- Criminology and Criminal Justice (new in 2024)
- Cultural Studies
- Creative Writing and Literature
- Languages (French/Italian/Japanese)
- 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.
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 (History and Global Politics)
This degree increases your employment prospects by enabling you to gain expertise in the global contexts of both politics and history, including understanding Australia’s role domestically and within the broader currents of regional and global politics. Alongside your history and global politics major, you will further develop your expertise through the study of a second full major chosen from any of those offered within the Bachelor of Arts program.
You will have opportunities to engage with industry partners and organisations as part of your studies through the optional Professional Directions Program
There is also an opportunity to study a portion of your degree overseas, as part of the Global Experience study tours or Hawke Professional Experience Program (full semester). As part of this program you will volunteer with an international non-government organisation (NGO), usually in an overseas destination.
You could continue your studies with a Master of Teaching with Humanities and Social Sciences as a 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 history and global politics, combined with strong analytical and research skills, can lead to further study or a career in such diverse fields as:
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government and diplomacy
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media
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education
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policy and research in governments, companies, NGOs or think tanks
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community and social services
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defence, intelligence, and securities.
Further career pathways are available depending on your combination of majors.
How to apply for international students will give you helpful information about the application process at the University of South Australia. When you are ready, apply through our International Application System. If you would like to talk to someone near you about studying at the University of South Australia, we have agents all over the world who can assist you. Find an Education Agent in your country.
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:
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.
Vice Chancellor's International Excellence Scholarship
Recipients can get a 50% reduction on tuition fees for up to four years of full-time study for selected degrees.
International Merit Scholarship
Recipients can get a 15% reduction on tuition fees for the duration of their chosen degree.
Your study experience and support
As a UniSA student, you will have unique access to work placement opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events, internships, guest speakers and more.
Our campuses are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, workshops and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform. We have health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and great student lounges. You will also gain access to a range of community clinics, which provide professional and cost effective services in areas of health, business, law and psychology. 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 lots 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 international 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:
- career advice and mentoring
- help with student visas and health cover
- personal counselling
- academic counselling
- fees and finance help
- common rooms
- prayer rooms
- security officers
- accommodation services
- as well as services offered through our student association, USASA.
We also offer study support from our Learning Advisers face-to-face or online. They are here to help you develop academically and professionally during your studies, and can offer help with the English language too. 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:
- An on-campus Multimedia Languages Lab, where you can connect in real-time with native speakers from around the world
- The Hartley Playhouse Theatre – a 200-seat auditorium ideal for live performances
- An on-campus TV Studio featuring one of the largest green screens in SA and home to national television shows aired on Channel 44
- A broadcast-standard digital radio studio that produces UniCast, a 24 hour online radio station
- A purpose built, multi-room ProTools recording studio for live band, multitrack, ADR and foley recordings
- A purpose-built high-end Media Suite with Dolby Atmos for screening for industry meetings and client screenings.
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?
There are a number of ways to apply to study UniSA's undergraduate and postgraduate coursework degrees.
You can access our online International Application System through our How to Apply page. The International Application System is an easy and secure online application and acceptance process. You will have visibility of your application through the secure online portal with the ability to download offer documents, submit your acceptance and make a payment.
Alternatively you can submit an application through one of the University's registered Education Agents.
If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC http://www.satac.edu.au/.
If you are applying for the UniSA Study Abroad or Study Abroad Plus program, you can submit your application online here.
Postgraduate study by research
For information on applying to do postgraduate study by research, including Masters by Research, PhDs or Doctorates, please visit http://unisa.edu.au/resdegrees. -
Is there a closing date for applications?
There is no closing date for submitting your application however the admissions process takes between one and three weeks from the date that we receive your application and all required supporting documentation.
If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC. Key dates for applications can be found here.
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What credit can I receive for previous studies?
You may be eligible to receive credit or advanced standing for your chosen UniSA degree based on your previous studies, if they are in a related area at an equivalent or higher level. Receiving credit will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree.
The amount of credit you may be eligible to receive is assessed on a case-by-case basis by the Admissions team.
The best way to determine your eligibility to receive credit or advanced standing is to apply using our International Application System which can be found on our How to Apply page. You will need to supply detailed syllabus documents with your application.
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Can I speak to someone regarding my study options?
UniSA welcomes the opportunity to speak with you regarding your study options. Our staff are able to talk to you about degree information, career outcomes and pathways, entry requirements, applications, and student life, so that you are able to make the best study decision for your future.
Click here to book a 1:1 appointment with one of our enquiries team.
We also have many events throughout the year in Australia and overseas where you can speak with UniSA representatives about your area of interest. View our calendar of events in your home country by selecting the 'International' filter.
What others are saying
My studies have helped me create the foundation needed to have a successful career. I have developed hard skills such as writing, editing and analytical skills, as well as soft skills which make me a good employee and coworker, and include effective communication, listening, etiquette and decision making. These skills are required daily in my role as Email Marketing Strategist for POD Marketing Inc., based in Calgary, Canada. Studying history, cultural studies, and international relations also gave me the opportunity to gain further understanding of the world around me. It provided me with invaluable insight into current social issues and taught me new methods of how to approach conversations and conflicts.
Maddy Hosking
Email Marketing Strategist | POD Marketing
The Bachelor of Arts program is creatively designed to be suitable for diverse needs. The degree has enabled me to gain deeper knowledge about global and national politics, as well as classical and contemporary social theories. My writing, analytical and critical skills have significantly improved since commencing my studies. I believe this program encourages students to think deeper about political and social issues in today’s climate.
Muzafar Ali
Bachelor of Arts Double Major in Sociology & Law, Policy and Politics
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)
