Bachelor of Arts (Aboriginal Studies)
Degree Level Undergraduate
Year 2025
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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
108402G
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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
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 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
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.
- Gain work experience in the Professional Experience 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).
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.
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:
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 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
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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