Undergraduate | 2026

Bachelor of Arts majoring in Aboriginal Studies

Start date

February, July

Campus

Adelaide City, Magill

Duration

3 year(s) full-time

Mode

Hybrid

Program code

BARTS

Study as

Full-time

Indicative annual fees

$41,300

Prerequisite

None

Assumed knowledge

None

English language requirements

IELTS Overall 6.5 IELTS Reading 6.0 IELTS Listening 6.0 IELTS Speaking 6.0 IELTS Writing 6.0 Equivalent English qualifications

CRICOS code

115677K

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible for admission, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum entry requirements and demonstrate that they fulfill any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission. In cases where there are more eligible applicants than available places, admission will be competitive with ranks based on the entry criteria.

Recent secondary education (Year 12)

Completion of a secondary education qualification equivalent to the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE).

Vocational Education and Training (VET)

Completion of an award from a registered training organisation (RTO) at Certificate IV (AQF level 4) or higher.

Higher education study

Successful completion of at least 6 months full-time study (or equivalent part-time) of an undergraduate certificate (AQF level 5) or higher qualification from a recognised higher education institution.

English language entry requirements

In addition, international students who speak English as an additional language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at Adelaide University. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.

IELTS Overall 6.5
IELTS Reading 6.0
IELTS Listening 6.0
IELTS Speaking 6.0
IELTS Writing 6.0

Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by Adelaide University and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements:

Equivalent English qualifications

International admissions by country

Country	Score
Australia – ATAR	70
Bangladesh – Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC)	4.80
China – Gaokao	60%
Hong Kong – Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE)	16
India – CBSE and CISCE	70
India – State Board Examinations	80
Kenya – Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE)	B+
Malaysia – Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM)	2.67
Malaysia – United Entrance Certificate (UEC)	23
Malaysia – Matrikulasi	2.67
Singapore - Singapore GCE Advanced Levels	7
Sri Lanka – GCE A Levels	8
Vietnam – Year 12 - Bằng Tốt Nghiệp Trung Học Phổ Thông	7.80

Why Bachelor of Arts?

Are you interested in understanding the lived experience of Aboriginal Peoples, and creating positive change through genuine and respectful engagement? Study a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Aboriginal Studies and develop your understanding of the past to change the future.

Analyse, discuss and debate key issues affecting Australian and international Indigenous Peoples such as cultural revitalisation, governance, health and social justice. Explore connections to space and place as you engage in immersive land-based learning and graduate equipped to meet demand across a range of industries.

Overview

Develop the skills to navigate Aboriginal knowledges, colonial disruptions and Indigenous re-assertion in the current era through a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Aboriginal Studies.

Learn to understand issues from the perspective of Aboriginal Peoples and engage in land-based learning to better understand connections to space and place.

You’ll develop critical thinking, communication and research skills and graduate with multidisciplinary knowledge applicable to a range of industries.

Engage with community and industry partners as you participate in a range of hands-on learning opportunities, from internships to mentoring. Discover the professional pathways available to you as you form meaningful connections with Aboriginal communities and future employers.

Key features

Engage with a curriculum designed in consultation with Aboriginal Elders and communities.
Be taught by active researchers and academics that are internationally recognised for their work.
Explore past and contemporary perspectives of Aboriginal Peoples in Australia and internationally.
Choose from a wide range of electives to tailor your degree to your interests.
Undertake work placements and mentoring to connect with community and industry.
Graduate with the skills and knowledge you’ll need to work effectively with Aboriginal communities.

What you'll learn

Aboriginal studies help you to look at the world around you from a different perspective, and to recognise the importance of Indigenous knowledge ownership. Engage in analysis, discussion and debate of key issues that are of significance to Australian and international Indigenous Peoples such as cultural and language revitalisation, governance, Aboriginal nation building, and health outcomes. You’ll also broaden your understanding of important topics like self-determination, social and economic development, and social justice.

Explore Aboriginal lore, law and land through historical and contemporary contexts, and focus on issues of concern within a globalised world.

Common Core courses are embedded in your degree, so you’ll develop the skills employers look for and graduate ready to think creatively, collaborate, and solve problems. You can also add a second major to your Bachelor of Arts, and pursue two areas of interest to boost your employment prospects.

As part of your studies, you’ll take part in experiential learning, where you’ll research potential career pathways in sectors aligning with your interests and participate in mentoring and networking opportunities. An internship in your final year will enable you to apply your knowledge in a work-based setting.

What courses you'll study

Complete 144 units comprising:

24 units for all Core courses, and
6 units for all Work integrated learning, and
18 units for all Electives, and
96 units for 2 Majors from Majors

Complete 24 units for ALL of the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name UG Common Core 1	Course code AUXX1000	Units 6
Course name UG Common Core 2	Course code AUXX2000	Units 6
Course name UG Common Core 3	Course code AUXX3000	Units 6
Course name Professional Pathways and Destinations	Course code LAWS1015	Units 6

Complete 48 units for ALL of the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Aboriginal Cultures	Course code INDG1000	Units 6
Course name Indigenous Philosophies	Course code INDG1001	Units 6
Course name Space, Place and Belonging	Course code INDG2000	Units 6
Course name Lore and Law	Course code INDG2001	Units 6
Course name Relatedness and Indigenous Peoples	Course code INDG2002	Units 6
Course name Aboriginal Nation Building and Governance	Course code INDG3001	Units 6
Course name Sovereign Stories and Subjectivity in Media	Course code INDG3002	Units 6
Course name Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing	Course code INDG5005	Units 6

Complete 6 units for ALL of the following:

Course name		Course code	Units
	Course name Internship or Project	Course code CREA3026	Units 6

Complete 18 units for ALL of the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Elective 1	Course code AUXX1011	Units 6
Course name Elective 2	Course code AUXX1012	Units 6
Course name Elective 3	Course code AUXX1013	Units 6

Complete one Major from the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Art History and Visual Culture	Course code ARTHBARTS	Units 48
Course name Cultural Studies	Course code CULTBARTS	Units 48
Course name English Literature	Course code ENGLBARTS	Units 48
Course name Environmental Management	Course code ENVMBARTS	Units 48
Course name International Security	Course code INTSBARTS	Units 48
Course name French Studies	Course code FRENBARTS	Units 48
Course name Politics	Course code POLIBARTS	Units 48
Course name Population and Migration Studies	Course code POPUBARTS	Units 48
Course name Screen Studies	Course code SCRNBARTS	Units 48
Course name Sociology	Course code SOCIBARTS	Units 48
Course name Spanish Studies	Course code SPANBARTS	Units 48
Course name German Studies	Course code GERMBARTS	Units 48
Course name Archaeology and Classical Studies	Course code ARCYBARTS	Units 48
Course name Creative Writing	Course code CREWBARTS	Units 48
Course name Anthropology	Course code ANTHBARTS	Units 48
Course name Chinese Studies	Course code CHINBARTS	Units 48
Course name Gender and Sexuality Studies	Course code GENDBARTS	Units 48
Course name Geography	Course code GEOGBARTS	Units 48
Course name History	Course code HISTBARTS	Units 48
Course name International Development	Course code INTDBARTS	Units 48
Course name Italian Studies	Course code ITALBARTS	Units 48
Course name Japanese Studies	Course code JAPNBARTS	Units 48
Course name Linguistics and Applied Linguistics	Course code LINGBARTS	Units 48
Course name Philosophy	Course code PHILBARTS	Units 48

Career outcomes

Your Bachelor of Arts degree majoring in Aboriginal Studies can lead you to some interesting career pathways. You may find employment in government sectors within Aboriginal-focused departments or agencies, with non-government or private sector organisations, or even within community service organisations supporting Aboriginal communities and clients.

Your double major will provide you with versatility and the ability to shape your career. Depending on your chosen specialisation, areas of employment may also include:

Human services
Corporate communication
Policy development
Environmental management and planning
Foreign affairs and diplomacy
Humanitarian work
Management
Marketing and public relations.

This degree also provides a pathway for further postgraduate study or research.

Industry trends

Australia’s National Agreement on Closing the Gap aims to overcome the inequality experienced by Aboriginal Peoples. This whole of government response requires specialised knowledge, and employees with an understanding of Aboriginal culture and perspectives will be in high demand. Over the next 10 years it is predicted that 92% of new jobs created will require post-secondary education (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2024 ). With the rapid rise of artificial intelligence (AI), now, more than ever, employers are seeking a workforce with high level communication and problem-solving skills, creativity, adaptability and leadership capabilities.

How to apply

Check your eligibility

Before you begin, find the degree you wish to study and check you meet the academic entry requirements and English language requirements.

Entry requirements

Gather your relevant documents

Ensure you have all supporting documentation needed at the time of application to avoid delays.

How to apply

Complete and send your application

Apply through one of the University’s official agency partners, or via our online application system.

Apply now

How to apply

Applications for international students are open now, to begin your studies in 2026.

Apply through one of the University’s official Education Agents, or via our International Application System.

Find an Education Agent

Depending on your country of citizenship, you may be required to apply through one of our Education Agents.

Find an education agent in your country

FAQs

Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.

From August 2025 you can apply as a domestic student for entry to Adelaide University in 2026.
Applications for 2026 will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs. A direct application process will be available for 100% online degrees at a later date. In the meantime, you could start your degree at UniSA or the University of Adelaide and continue at Adelaide University.

Adelaide University is South Australia’s largest university with seven campuses across the state. Adelaide City Campus is in the heart of the central business district (including eastern and western precincts), while our Magill, Mawson Lakes and Waite campuses are located within the inner suburbs of Adelaide. Our Mount Gambier, Roseworthy and Whyalla campuses are set in the regions of South Australia. Building on our digital and online learning successes, we aim to also deliver online education to more students than any other Australian university.

Each of our campuses is equipped with cutting-edge, discipline specific facilities, contemporary study spaces and well-resourced libraries. Our city and suburban campuses also feature on-site gyms and eateries, and health services on, or nearby, campus.

You will be well supported academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually with access to on-campus facilities and services such as counselling, learning support, childcare, prayer rooms and more.

You will be well supported through a range of services at Adelaide University to ensure you get the most out of your student experience. Support services include:

Academic learning support, including after-hours support provided via Studiosity through live online chat assistance with writing, referencing, mathematics and more.
Advice and advocacy regarding access, adjustments and inclusivity if you have a disability, impairment, chronic health condition or significant caring responsibilities.
Libraries providing flexible study spaces, access to books, computer suites and online resources – as well as referencing support, search tips and more.
Career development hub, including extensive self-help resources, online learning programs, on-campus events, workshops and networking, one-on-one advice, and job search support.
Qualified counsellors who can provide confidential support to manage your mental health and wellbeing.
On-campus medical clinics on-site where you can make an appointment with a General Practitioner (GP) to discuss acute and preventative health care matters.
Information and advice for international students regarding accommodation, student life, visa and work rights and academic policies and procedures.
An active and visible LGBTIQA+ Ally Network that ensures the University provides a supportive environment where all staff and students can safely work and study free of harassment or discrimination.
Prayer rooms on campus, including gender specific spaces for worship purposes.
Campus security available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to ensure all students feel safe on campus.
A range of scholarships offered to commencing and continuing students each year to make university life a little easier.
A number of social outlets including student lounges, gyms, student-led clubs, sports teams and free events throughout the year.

Your tuition fees will depend on your program of study and enrolment load. You can find the annual fees relevant to your program on the specific degree page under the ‘fees’ section. The annual fee payable for your chosen program will also be outlined in your Offer of Admission.

Adelaide University will open in January 2026. Your studies will start at different times depending on what study period you’ve applied for. Adelaide University is currently using a semester model, which means most degrees start in Semester 1. Some degrees are also available to start in mid-year, sometimes with a different degree structure. 

Studies at Adelaide University typically commence in:  

February for Semester 1  
July for Semester 2.

Some degrees, such as the Bachelor of Medical Studies and Master of Business Administration, will have different starting dates. View the relevant degree page for more detail. 

For other key dates, including census dates and exam periods, you can view our Academic calendar. 

View all FAQs

Your study experience and support

Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.

You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.

Student services

We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:

Career advice and mentoring services
Personal counselling
LGBTQIA+ support
Academic support
Fees and finance help
Security services
Accommodation services
Common rooms
Prayer rooms.

You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.

Your campus

You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.

This degree is offered at the following campus(es)

Study hours

Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.

Assessment

During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include: