Start date
February
July

Campus
Magill

Duration
3 year(s) full-time

Mode
On-campus

Program Code
MBAA

Prerequisites
None

Assumed Knowledge
None

Fees
AUD$ 32,800 per annum (per 1.0 EFTSL) for students enrolled in 2025

English Language Requirements
  • IELTS total [6.0]
  • IELTS reading [6.0]
  • IELTS writing [6.0]
Equivalent English qualifications (PDF)

International Admission by Country
See full entry requirements

CRICOS Code
097502J

Degree overview

  • Enhance your employment prospects by studying Cultural Studies with a second major. Taking a second major will develop your capabilities to explore and understand diverse ways of thinking, which is highly regarded by prospective employers.
  • Use this degree as a pathway to further study, including teaching.
  • Have the opportunity to study part of your degree overseas, as part of our international exchange study programs.
  • Gain real-world connections and experience with the Hawke Professional Experience Program.
  • Engage with industry partners and organisations as part of your studies through the optional Professional Directions Program.
  • Study at a university ranked No. 1 in SA for learning resources in Creative Arts1 and quality education in Arts and the Humanities2.
    UniSA is an unstoppable university for unstoppable people. As one of the World’s Top Young Universities3, we’ll ensure you get the experience your future profession demands so it’ll feel like you’re studying one minute and in a career the next.
  • Use this degree as a pathway to further study, including the Master of Social Work.

1ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2021-22, Learning Resources Indicator (Undergraduate). SA public universities.
2ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2021-22, Humanities, Culture and Social Sciences – Overall Quality of Educational Experience Indicator (Undergraduate). Public universities.
3UNSTOPPABLE® is a Kellogg Company trade mark used under licence. Ranked #52, 2023 THE Young University Rankings

Snapshot

Snapshot

As a student studying the Cultural Studies major you will explore the complex and diverse economic, cultural, social, historical and political legacies that influence modern-day society.

You will:

  • develop a sophisticated body of knowledge regarding cultures and their contexts
  • undertake cultural analysis including weighing evidence, explaining varying perspectives and communicating effectively
  • research and analyse real world problems
  • explore contemporary cultural contexts including computer games, music and popular culture.

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. 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

What you Learn

The Cultural Studies major will explore the complex and diverse cultural, social, economic, historical and political legacies and relations of power that influence our everyday lives and the ways we make meaning through our engagement with various texts, objects, routines and practices.

You will:

  • develop a sophisticated body of knowledge regarding cultures and their contexts
  • develop an in-depth understanding of how we represent ourselves through various forms of popular culture (film, TV, literature, social media) and what the effects of such representation are
  • research and analyse real world problems
  • explore contemporary cultural contexts including computer games, music and popular culture
  • research and analyse real-world problems.

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:

* Please note that this major is only available to students whose second language is English.

In addition to your two majors, you will also be required to complete four courses from a selected list of minors (also from the above list), and two elective courses in an area of your interest.

Degree structure

Course name Area and cat no. Units Reference  
FIRST YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Truth, Lies and Being Human HUMS 1060 4.5 Note(s): 1
Introduction to Cultural Studies HUMS 1054 4.5
Major 2 4.5 Rule(s): 1
Minor 4.5 Note(s): 3,4,5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Intercultural Communication LANG 1054 4.5 Note(s): 1
Cultural Policy, Activism and Advocacy HUMS 1061 4.5
Major 2 4.5 Rule(s): 1
Minor 4.5 Note(s): 3,4,5
SECOND YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3) 4.5
Everyday Cultures Now and Then HUMS 2037 4.5
Major 2 4.5 Rule(s): 1
Minor 4.5 Note(s): 3,4,5
Elective 4.5 Note(s): 2
OR
Professional Directions Program 1 COMM 2098 4.5 Note(s): 2
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Understanding Popular Culture HUMS 2045 4.5
Major 2 4.5 Rule(s): 1
Minor 4.5 Note(s): 3,4,5
Elective 4.5 Note(s): 2
OR
Professional Directions Program 2 COMM 2099 4.5 Note(s): 2
THIRD YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Gender, Sexuality, and the Queer Image VSAR 2031 4.5
Researching Culture HUMS 3050 4.5
Major 2 4.5 Rule(s): 1
Major 2 4.5 Rule(s): 1
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Space, Place and Culture HUMS 3048 4.5
Contemporary Ideas in Creative Arts and Humanities HUMS 3047 4.5
Major 2 4.5 Rule(s): 1
Major 2 4.5 Rule(s): 1

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

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.

Global opportunities

Why Bachelor of Arts (Cultural Studies)

Why this Degree

This degree increases your employment prospects by enabling you to gain expertise in two different areas of interest. This degree explores the complex and diverse economic, cultural, social, historical and political legacies that influence modern-day society. This is a top ranked degree for student satisfaction – in fact we’re ranked in the top ten in Australia for student satisfaction for Humanities, Culture, and Social Sciences1.

There is also an opportunity to study a portion of your degree overseas, as part of the University’s Hawke Ambassador International Volunteer Experience Program (full semester) or Hawke Professional Experience Program (part 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 one major and one minor Learning Area. If this interests you, please read How Do I Become a Teacher before selecting your courses.

ComparED (QILT) Course Experience Questionnaire 2018-19 – Overall Satisfaction Indicator (Postgraduate). Public universities only.

Real-world connections

As part of this degree you may have the opportunity to complete a placement, either overseas or locally as part of the as part of the University’s Hawke Ambassador International Volunteer Experience Program or Hawke Professional Experience Program. These are great opportunities for you to build professional relationships and networks.

You can also make industry connections and gain valuable work experience by taking part in any of the following:

  • micro placements in over 100 organisations though the Professional Directions Program in second year.
  • a wide range of international NGOs through the Hawke Ambassador Program.
  • attending regular University-wide employee master classes, employment expos, and alumni events in Australia and overseas.

Career outcomes

Your career

This program helps you develop many transferable skills which are highly regarded by employers including:

  • critical analysis
  • real-world, contemporary research strategies
  • cultural awareness
  • effective communication


The nature of this degree means the employment prospects are broad and diverse. You may choose a career in project management or research working in either the public service sector, all tiers of government or private organisations.

Graduates go on to enjoy rewarding careers in a range of industries, including: 

  • media and creative industries
  • arts and project management
  • public service and government
  • research.

Further career pathways are available depending on your combination of majors.

How to apply

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:

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.

More scholarships

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

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.

Student services

Your campus

We have six campuses in metropolitan and regional areas, each with modern facilities including lecture theatres, libraries and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments.

Location This degree is delivered at the following campus.

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 study spaces

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. 

Dr Fiona O'Neill

Program Director

Enquire
Portrait image for Dr Fiona O'Neill
Portrait image for Dr Fiona O'Neill

Dr Fiona O'Neill

Program Director

Enquire

Ask UniSA

  • How do I apply? minus-thick plus-thick

    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? minus-thick plus-thick

    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.

  • What credit can I receive for previous studies? minus-thick plus-thick

    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.

  • Can I speak to someone regarding my study options? minus-thick plus-thick

    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.

More FAQs

What others are saying

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

Students-13 copy.jpg

Muzafar Ali

Bachelor of Arts Double Major in Sociology & Law, Policy and Politics