Undergraduate | 2026

Bachelor of Arts majoring in Philosophy

Start date

February, July

Campus

Adelaide City, Magill

Duration

3 year(s) full-time

Mode

Hybrid

Program code

BARTS

Study as

Full time or part time

Indicative fees

Commonwealth Supported

Prerequisite

None

Assumed knowledge

None

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

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?

The word 'philosophy' derives from the Greek 'philos' and 'sophia' and means 'love of wisdom'. Philosophers seek to understand the world, our place in it and the nature of the human mind.

Philosophy encourages critical thinking and introspection, leading to profound personal growth and a better understanding of others. It refines moral and ethical viewpoints, inspiring you to navigate the world with purpose and challenge injustice.

For philosophers, thinking is both an art and a science. Ethical issues like AI integration and sustainability loom large in our future. Philosophical skills are crucial for navigating these – and much needed in careers demanding nuanced thinking and decision-making.

Overview

Our Bachelor of Arts has a strong focus on flexibility, critical thinking and career readiness. The Philosophy major is tailored for curious minds eager to understand and influence the philosophical discussions that shape our world. You’ll explore big questions concerning reality, meaning and morality. What is consciousness? Do we have free will? Is it ever okay to interfere with another person’s autonomy? Investigate complex issues – from the nature of time and space to human knowledge, consciousness and justice. Learn logical tools to analyse and resolve paradoxes. Engage in ethical debates on issues like abortion, emerging technology and personal obligation.

Our curriculum goes beyond studying historical philosophers, focusing on contemporary debates, ideas and research. Our hands-on approach means you won’t just learn about philosophy; you’ll actively philosophise yourself, engaging deeply with the challenges of our time. You’ll build a formidable toolkit of analytical, problem-solving and creative thinking skills, all highly valuable across a range of careers.

What you'll learn

Our Bachelor of Arts degrees offer unmatched choice and flexibility, with exploratory and future-facing learning relevant to community and industry. Build vital writing, communication, analysis and debate skills. Deep-dive into human rights and values, enhancing your cultural sensitivity, big-picture thinking and creative problem-solving.

In our standout career courses, you’ll research and chase meaningful job opportunities. Build your professional network, shadow experienced pros and get the kind of tailored mentoring that makes a difference. Through self-reflection – and an industry-aligned internship – you’ll gain a clear view of where you're headed and the tools you need to get there.

In your Philosophy major, you’ll take thought-provoking courses:

Philosophy: big questions
Philosophy: key thinkers
Ethical theory and its practical applications
Logic, language and paradox 
Mind and Consciousness
Knowledge: its sources and limitations
Time, change and free will
Freedom, obligation and justice.

You’ll use critical reason and logic to unpack philosophical concepts, building a sharp analytical skillset. Understand the origins and nature of knowledge. Explore different approaches to the study of human consciousness. Investigate metaphysical issues like the nature of time and space.

Adelaide University’s philosophy teachers are active researchers with expertise in mind and cognition, epistemology, logic and ethics. This means you'll learn from bold thinkers at the forefront of philosophical research, who’ll ensure your education is current and relevant.

Majors

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

Aboriginal Studies
Art History and Visual Culture
Anthropology
Archaeology and Classical Studies
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
Politics
Population and Migration Studies
Screen Studies
Sociology
Spanish Studies.

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

Complete 6 units for ALL of the following:

Course name		Course code	Units
	Internship or Project	CREA3026	6

Complete 18 units for ALL of the following:

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

Complete exactly 48 units from the following:

	Course code	Units
Argument and Critical Thinking	PHIL1003	6
Mind and World	PHIL1004	6
Morality, Society and the Individual	PHIL1005	6
Introduction to Logic	PHIL1006	6
An Intensive Introduction to Logic	PHIL1007	6
Philosophy of Film	PHIL2004	6
Cognitive Science: Minds, Brains & Computers	PHIL2005	6
Crime and Punishment	PHIL2006	6
Foundations of Modern Philosophy	PHIL2007	6
Philosophy of Mind	PHIL2008	6
Metaphysics: Identity, Time and Freedom	PHIL2009	6
Moral Problems	PHIL2010	6
Philosophy of Science	PHIL2011	6
AI and Human Life: Ethics, Politics, Subjectivity	PHIL2012	6
Biomedical Ethics and the Politics of Health	PHIL2013	6
Key Texts in Philosophy	PHIL3004	12
Existentialism	PHIL3005	6
How Should I Live? Contemporary Ethical Theories	PHIL3006	6
Philosophy of Language	PHIL3007	6
God, Faith and Infinity: Philosophy of Religion	PHIL3008	6
Beauty: Pleasures and Principles	PHIL3009	6
Disinformation and Injustice: The Ethics of Belief	PHIL3010	6

Complete one Major from the following:

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

Career outcomes

The critical thinking skills you learn studying arts and philosophy will be helpful in both your personal life – and your future career. You could work in academia, become a journalist, or take the next step and study law. You might write thought-provoking novellas like Alain De Botton. Perhaps you’ll be an expert on Kwasi Wiredu, a teacher of Nietzsche, or an activist like Anna J. Cooper.

You could also be a:

Management consultant
Business analyst
AI ethicist
Research analyst
Human rights advocate
Bioethicist
Human resources specialist
Content strategist
Ethics and compliance officer
User experience researcher
Arts manager
Politician.

Industry trends

As a philosophy graduate, you'll find success in a range of sectors from politics to business strategy, thanks to your strong skills in critical reasoning and precise writing. Philosophy majors can be flexible, with many creative thinkers securing positions at prestigious firms like Microsoft, Google and Deloitte. They report above-median starting salaries (Australasian Association of Philosophers, 2021) and data shows they have the biggest increase of any major in earning power during the first ten years after graduation (World Economic Forum, 2018).

In a world where technology is advancing quickly, machines still fall short in mastering logical analysis and genuine analytic thinking. Whether it's breaking down complex problems, questioning assumptions or crunching numbers with mathematical logic, your philosophy toolkit is set to stay relevant and sought after.

How to apply

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Check the requirements

Look out for any prerequisite or assumed knowledge courses. Some degrees may have additional entry requirements.

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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. 

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:

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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Bachelor of Arts majoring in Philosophy