Undergraduate | 2026

Bachelor of Arts majoring in History

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This degree is only available to Australian students

You're considered an Australian student if you are any of the following:

  • Australian or New Zealand Citizen
  • Australian Permanent Resident (including Permanent Humanitarian Visa holders)
Start date icon
Start date
Start date
The month you will commence your studies. Exact start date is outlined in the course timetable.
February, July
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Campus
Campus
This program is taught across multiple campuses and students may be required to study at more than one campus in order to complete the degree.
Adelaide City, Magill
Duration icon
Duration
Duration
Duration is approximate and based on a full-time study load.
3 year(s) full-time
Mode icon
Mode
Mode
Your study will be a mix of online and on-campus classes.
Hybrid
Program code
Program code
BARTS
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Study as
Full time or part time
Fees
Indicative fees
Indicative fees
Commonwealth Supported students are charged a portion of the cost of their higher education through a student contribution. Fee-Paying programs require the full tuition fees of your study, which can be deferred partly or in full to a FEE-HELP loan. This is based on the total number of units studied for this program on an annual full-time basis.
Commonwealth Supported
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Prerequisite
Prerequisite
A prerequisite is a required course or/subject that you must have successfully completed before you can enrol into this program.
None
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Assumed knowledge
Assumed knowledge
Assumed knowledge, while not essential, is where you have a minimum level of understanding in the relevant course area.
None
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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:

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 at an Australian higher education institution.

Overseas qualifications considered by Adelaide University as equivalent to the above Australian qualifications may be accepted.

Work and life experience

  • Completion of an Adelaide University approved enabling, pathway or bridging program; OR
  • Achieved a pass result in the Skills for Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT); OR
  • Passed an Adelaide University online literacy and numeracy test AND have relevant work experience; OR
  • Qualify for special entry
alt
Note:

Applications for Australian students to study at Adelaide University will open in August 2025, to commence study in 2026.  

Please note that entry requirements for this degree are provisional and subject to change.

Why Bachelor of Arts?

Discover the past and explore how it has helped shape the world we live in today.

Investigate different time periods and societies around the globe – from the stone age to early modern worlds. Analyse patterns of historical change and discuss how our understanding of the past can be used to create a better, more sustainable future for all.

Through our Bachelor of Arts majoring in History, you’ll develop core historical knowledge alongside skills in data analysis, written and oral communication, research skills and critical thinking. These skills are in demand by a range of industries – from education, government, libraries and archives, historic preservation and more.

program overview

Overview

A Bachelor of Arts degree is the gold standard, both nationally and internationally, for undergraduate study in the humanities and social sciences.

With a future-facing approach, the virtues of a traditional degree are orientated toward the increasingly complex challenges facing individuals, communities and societies.

Majoring in history, you’ll discover how the past shapes the present. Consider civilisations around the world, the impact of world wars, the relationship between humans and technology.

You’ll examine the social, political, and economic events that have shaped modern Australia and consider cross-cultural relations between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people from the pre-colonial era to the present.

Contemporary learning experiences across the program are underpinned by genuine community and industry engagement. In your final year, you’ll have the opportunity to undertake a professional placement in industry which gives you the freedom to explore professional pathways in sectors aligned with your interests.

Key features

  • altExplore the past from the stone age to the making of modern society.
  • altEngage with new and immersive methods of studying the past.
  • altCreate a unique degree and graduate with multi- and interdisciplinary expertise.
  • altEnjoy enhanced flexibility from your first year through a wide range of elective choices.
  • altUndertake professional internships and connect with community and industry.
  • altGraduate with in-demand skills and knowledge.

What you'll learn

Through our Bachelor of Arts majoring in History, you’ll explore the role of the past in shaping the world today.

You’ll delve into medieval worlds, early modern civilisations and consider the impact of world wars. You will examine the key social, economic and political events that have shaped Australia and how we interact with our global neighbours.

With a critical lens, you’ll discuss how societies around the world interpret history as heritage and develop an understanding of the great technological revolutions in human history.

You’ll also study core courses focused on developing the key skills employers look for – ensuring you graduate digitally literate, 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.

An internship in your final year will enable you to apply your understanding of potential career pathways and focus on mentoring and networking experiences.

Opportunities to research potential career pathways and destinations in industry sectors exist throughout your studies. You can align your work-based learning opportunities with your specific interests and expertise to maximise your career choices.

what you'll learn

What courses you'll study

You're required to complete 144 units to complete your degree, across a mix of core courses, elective and work integrated learning. A list of indicative courses is provided below.

Complete 24 units for ALL of the following:

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

Complete 6 units for ALL of the following:

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

Complete 18 units for ALL of the following:

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

Complete 48 units for ALL of the following:

Course name Course code Units
course icon Human History: From the Stone Age to Cyborgs HIST1000 6
course icon History Today: How the Past Shapes the Present HIST1001 6
course icon Medieval Worlds: 500-1500 HIST2001 6
course icon The Making of Modern Australia HIST2002 6
course icon Europe in Turmoil: 1900-1945 HIST2003 6
course icon Early Modern Worlds: 1500-1800 HIST3001 6
course icon Beyond the Frontier: Indigenous/Settler Australia HIST3002 6
course icon Memory Wars: History and Society HIST3003 6

Complete one Major from the following:

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

Career outcomes

The Bachelor of Arts majoring in History will empower you to uncover a wide range of career choices to align with your values and interests. You will graduate with the knowledge and skills to thrive in our rapidly changing world and make change for the better.

You will have a diverse range of employment paths available to you which may include:

  • Administration
  • Corporate communication
  • Defence
  • Foreign affairs
  • Humanitarian work
  • Management
  • Media
  • Policy development
  • Project management
  • Research.

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

Industry trends

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, now, more than ever, employers are seeking a workforce with high level communication and problem-solving skills, creativity, adaptability and leadership capabilities. As an arts graduate majoring in history you’ll be well placed to meet the demands of the future labour force.

How to apply

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How to apply

Applications for Australian students to study at Adelaide University will open in August 2025, to commence study in 2026.  

Please note that entry requirements for this degree are provisional and subject to change.  

If you want to start your studies earlier, consider applying to the University of Adelaide or UniSA now, and continue onto Adelaide University in 2026. Register your interest to stay informed. 

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. 

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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 study experience

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: 

  • Case studies  
  • Essays and assignments  
  • Examinations  
  • Group projects  
  • Internships and placements  
  • Practicals  
  • Presentations  
  • Reports and project documentations 
  • Research projects 
  • Workplace and classroom contributions. 
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