Undergraduate | 2026

Bachelor of Arts majoring in Archaeology and Classical 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 the birth of European civilisation? Fascinated by Greek mythology, like Poseidon and Aphrodite? Intrigued by Egyptian tombs and hieroglyphics?

Archaeology and Classical Studies keeps the past alive for future generations. You’ll explore ruins, decipher old texts and really get a feel for how people lived thousands of years ago. You'll learn how to spot clues in the artefacts left behind and piece together stories that have been silent for centuries.

Whether you want to supervise archaeological digs, curate museum exhibits or make a documentary on Tutankhamun, this degree will encourage your curiosity and set you up for success.

Overview

Our Bachelor of Arts is flexible and future-focused, preparing you for career success. In the Archaeology and Classical Studies major, you’ll encounter millennia of human resilience, struggle and triumph.

Study the Classical world – from Homer to the fall of the Roman Empire, exploring pivotal discoveries and questions in archaeology. Trace the rise and fall of leaders like Alexander the Great and Cleopatra. Investigate the central myths connecting ancient Greeks and Egyptians and their influence in the modern world. Discover the treasures of our Classics Museum collections.

Our curriculum is designed in line with the Australian Archaeology Skills Passport, so everything you learn will be industry-informed and relevant to the field. Build practical skills in archaeological fieldwork, from surveying to sophisticated remote sensing and GIS. Conduct materials analyses in the lab and get familiar with the digital tools of the trade. Graduate with practical, in-demand skills, ready for employment in heritage industries, mining, archaeology, government, museums and more.

Key features

Study the art, society, politics and philosophies of ancient Greece and Rome up to early medieval Europe.
Take on the exciting challenge of interpreting ancient texts and artefacts.
Get job-ready with learning aligned directly to the Australian Archaeology Skills Passport.
Grow your professional networks, learning alongside experts and active researchers in the field.
Clarify your future career through research and self-reflection.
Get familiar with archaeology techniques and technology through an industry internship.

What you'll learn

Our Bachelor of Arts fosters creative thinking, problem-solving and adaptability. Build core skills in writing, communication, analytical thinking and debate. Cultivate cultural awareness as you explore human rights, values and future challenges for our planet. Get real-world experience and access supportive mentors, including in an industry-aligned internship. Through research and self-reflection, you’ll identify your career goals – and develop a proactive strategy for achieving them.

In the Archaeology and Classical Studies major, you’ll learn best practices in modern Australian archaeology – including how to collaborate respectfully with Aboriginal communities. You’ll take exciting courses, including:

Time travellers: an introduction to archaeology
World of the Ancient Greeks and Romans
Alexander the Great and his globalised world
Myths of Ancient Egypt and Greece
From bones to holograms: laboratory techniques for archaeology
Democracy and its enemies: politics in Greece and Rome
Contemporary issues in archaeology
Archaeological field methods.

Our archaeology and classical studies staff are actively conducting research across Australia, the Middle East and Europe. Emerging insights from these studies are integrated into every course, enriching your learning experience. By joining the vibrant Classical and Ancient History Society at Adelaide University, you’ll build valuable networks and access extra professional development opportunities.

Our Bachelor of Arts also allows you to explore other interests by taking another major in a different area. Pursue interdisciplinary studies – from history to philosophy – to compliment your learning.

Majors

The Bachelor of Arts is also available with majors in the following:

Aboriginal Studies
Art History and Visual Culture
Anthropology
Chinese Studies
Cultural Studies
Creative Writing
English Literature
Environmental Management
French Studies
Gender and Sexuality Studies
Geography
German Studies
History
International Development
International Security
Italian Studies
Japanese Studies
Philosophy
Politics
Population and Migration Studies
Screen Studies
Sociology
Spanish Studies.

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 Time Travellers: An Introduction to Archaeology	Course code ARCY1000	Units 6
Course name World of the Ancient Greeks and Romans	Course code ARCY1001	Units 6
Course name Alexander the Great and his Globalised World	Course code ARCY2001	Units 6
Course name Heroes, Gods and Monsters: Greek and Egyptian mythology	Course code ARCY2002	Units 6
Course name From Bones to Holograms: laboratory techniques for archaeology	Course code ARCY2003	Units 6
Course name Democracy and Its Enemies: politics in Greece and Rome	Course code ARCY3001	Units 6
Course name Contemporary Issues in Archaeology	Course code ARCY3002	Units 6
Course name Archaeological Field Methods	Course code ARCY3003	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 Aboriginal Studies	Course code ABORBARTS	Units 48
Course name Anthropology	Course code ANTHBARTS	Units 48
Course name Art History and Visual Culture	Course code ARTHBARTS	Units 48
Course name Creative Writing	Course code CREWBARTS	Units 48
Course name English Literature	Course code ENGLBARTS	Units 48
Course name Environmental Management	Course code ENVMBARTS	Units 48
Course name French Studies	Course code FRENBARTS	Units 48
Course name Geography	Course code GEOGBARTS	Units 48
Course name German Studies	Course code GERMBARTS	Units 48
Course name Chinese Studies	Course code CHINBARTS	Units 48
Course name Cultural Studies	Course code CULTBARTS	Units 48
Course name Gender and Sexuality Studies	Course code GENDBARTS	Units 48
Course name History	Course code HISTBARTS	Units 48
Course name International Development	Course code INTDBARTS	Units 48
Course name International Security	Course code INTSBARTS	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
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

Career outcomes

Archaeology in Australia has clear industry pathways and expectations. Archaeologists are required to complete four years of study to gain employment. Paired with a Graduate Diploma in either Heritage Management or Curatorial and Museum Studies, our Bachelor of Arts majoring in archaeology and classical studies fulfills this requirement. Our curriculum is closely aligned with the Australian Archaeology Skills Passport, so you graduate job ready.

You could manage archaeological digs, uncovering Egyptian tombs or Roman relics. You might write a great epic that draws on your knowledge of ancient Greece. Perhaps you’ll start your own podcast on cryptozoology, dissecting mythical creatures in folklore and legend.

You could also be a:

Heritage site manager
Cultural resources coordinator
Archivist
Museum curator
Tour guide
Land assessor
Environmental impact analyst
Heritage consultant
Historical publication editor
Construction firm consultant
Education programs coordinator
Documentarian.

Industry trends

There is a shortage of archaeologists in Australia, with high demand from the mining industry, archaeology, heritage consulting firms, government departments, Indigenous protected areas and museums. Archaeology graduates enjoy strong employment outcomes, particularly in Aboriginal archaeology. In 2020, the average salary was AUD$102,430 (Australian Archaeology in Profile: A Survey of Working Archaeologists).

The field is also being transformed by advanced technologies. Digital archaeology, for instance, leverages 3D scanning, virtual reality and augmented reality to create immersive and precise models of historical artefacts and sites. Remote sensing and Geographic Information System (GIS) technologies are identifying and mapping previously inaccessible discoveries. With the hands-on experience and digital literacy skills you build at Adelaide University, you’ll be well-equipped to thrive in this evolving field.

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: