If you have an innate curiosity about the world around you and a desire to create meaningful change, then a Bachelor of Arts is the perfect place to begin your journey towards realising your purpose.
Feel empowered to explore a diverse range of majors and minors in a way that suits you – from Indigenous studies to web design, and animation to criminology – you can personalise your degree to topics that you care about. Choose to fulfill your potential in a career that you love. Graduate with in-demand communication and leadership skills that you will need to propel your career.
Want to find your purpose and develop the critical skills to make an impact?
Deakin’s Bachelor of Arts allows you to explore meaningful ideas that matter to you, preparing you to make a positive impact on the world around you. Through exceptional learning experiences, you will develop nuanced perspectives about current social justice issues and learn the critical skills to imagine a better future for all people.
By studying humanities, social sciences and languages, you will better understand yourself, what you stand for and the world around you. Design your own learning and future career by combining specific majors and minors – from international relations and journalism to design thinking and performing arts, strategic advertising and history to sport journalism and web design.
As you nurture your passion, you will dive deep into your practice and be fully supported on your journey towards your future career. You will engage with the community and industry through individually tailored work placement and networking opportunities, allowing you to develop leadership skills and the entrepreneurial mindset to make your mark in a career you love.
From day one you will have the flexibility to study your way. Feel encouraged to fit your learning in with your busy life, whether you want to slow down or speed up your studies, combine courses or study on-campus or via our leading online learning platform.
Learn from leading academics and passionate practitioners who are engaged in industry and actively collaborating on key social issues. Our academics support your personal growth and will inspire you to push boundaries with your bold ideas. When you study at Deakin, you will join a vibrant community of curious and creative minds who are passionate about delving into ideas that matter.
You won’t just talk about ideas; you'll learn by doing and discover how to put them into action. Our hands-on experiential learning gives you the critical skills to make an impact and curate a future career you love.
Professional recognition
Depending on your specialisation, certain majors are accredited by relevant bodies.
If you choose public relations, you will study subjects accredited by the Public Relations Institute of Australia. Our design-related units are also recognised by the Design Institute of Australia.
Career opportunities
In an ever-changing complex world, society needs bright and agile minds to help us understand the human experience and impact our collective future for the better. Students who study humanities and social sciences are uniquely equipped to shed light on critical issues with nuance and sensitivity. The mastery of critical thinking, communication and problem-solving skills is needed for future leaders and is highly sought-after by employers across a vast spectrum of industries.
As a graduate of this course, you will have the skills, knowledge and professional networks to start your career anywhere in the world and thrive in a range of industries.
Affect change in fields that matter, spanning environmental, social, political or creative realms.
You will curate your future career from day one, personalising your degree so that it fully aligns with your unique interests and values. Graduate ready to hit the ground running with the unique and competitive skill sets required for specific careers across a variety of sectors, including in fields like:
criminology, sociology and policy
culture and creative arts
education
government and NGOs
language and international relations
media, writing and communication
At Deakin, you will feel supported as you shape your future career, whether you want to work in a specific sector or industry, an emerging job of the future or even create a dream career that might not yet exist – a world of opportunity awaits.
Reasonable adjustments to participation and other course requirements will be made for students with a disability. More information available at Disability support services.
Mandatory student checks
Any unit which contains work integrated learning, a community placement or interaction with the community may require a police check, Working with Children Check or other check.
Pathways
Don’t quite meet the entry requirements for this course? The Associate Degree of Arts (A250) can be used as a guaranteed entry pathway into the Bachelor of Arts and counts as credit towards your first year of study*. You’ll gain a solid foundation of relevant knowledge and be ready to transition seamlessly into your goal degree.
Upon completing your Bachelor of Arts, you are eligible for entry into a range of specialist masters degrees which will provide opportunities for you to become a highly-skilled professional, capable of rapid career development. Students with a Bachelor of Arts may be eligible for credit in these degrees, giving you a head start and allowing you to build on your undergraduate degree in areas such as:
*Specific units of study must be completed within A250 for full credit to be granted. We recommend speaking with one of our student advisers before selecting your units.
Early Exit Option
Students enrolled in the Bachelor of Arts are able to exit early through the Diploma of Arts (A215). The Diploma of Arts recognises the foundational knowledge and skills in a broad range of study areas in the humanities, social sciences, creative arts, communications and languages. It provides a basic for pursuing further pathways into future undergraduate university studies.
To be eligible to exit with a Diploma of Arts, students must have completed and passed 8 credit points, including a minimum of 6 credit points at level 1 from the Bachelor of Arts.
Course Learning Outcomes
Deakin Graduate Learning Outcomes
Course Learning Outcomes
Discipline-specific knowledge and capabilities
Demonstrate a broad and coherent body of knowledge in the Arts disciplines, with depth in the underlying principles and concepts in one or more disciplines or areas of practice.
Communication
Demonstrate highly developed skills in oral, written and electronic communication and the ability to communicate research outcomes, and produce scholarly papers.
Digital literacy
Research, analyse, synthesise and disseminate information using a range of appropriate technologies and resources in a rapidly-changing global environment.
Critical thinking
Use critical and analytical thinking and judgement in selecting and applying appropriate theories and methodologies to evaluate information and knowledge about society, culture and the arts.
Problem solving
Apply cognitive, technical and creative skills to generate solutions to unpredictable and sometimes complex problems in the Humanities, Social Sciences and the Creative Arts, including cross-disciplinary approaches.
Self-management
Demonstrate autonomy, responsibility and accountability for personal actions and a continued commitment to learning in personal, professional, and scholarly contexts.
Teamwork
Work and learn collaboratively with colleagues, other professionals and members of the wider community.
Global citizenship
Demonstrate an awareness of ethical issues, cultural diversity, and social responsibility when engaging in scholarship and professional roles in the local, national or international community.
Approved at Faculty Board February 2022
Course rules
To complete the Bachelor of Arts students must pass 24 credit points and meet the following course rules to be eligible to graduate:
DAI001 Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin (0-credit-point compulsory unit) in their first study period
Employability sequence (3 credit points)
one of:
2 arts majors (8 credit points each)
1 arts major (8 credit points), plus 1 arts minor (4 credit points)
remaining credit points which may comprise of::
1 additional arts major
1 additional arts minor
open electives
a combination of the above
a maximum of 10 credit points at level 1
a minimum of 6 credit points at level 3
a maximum of 8 credit points taken outside the Faculty of Arts and Education
New students are encouraged to enrol in this unit in their first year.
Designing your own Bachelor of Arts
Your selection of Major/s, Minor/s, and electives will enable you to design a unique Bachelor of Arts which best suits your needs.
Major: Your choice of major/s will develop your expertise in particular area/s of study. Each of our majors are carefully scaffolded to give you a comprehensive understanding of your chosen area of study. Within each major sequence, you will also have the opportunity to develop the knowledge and skills that will prepare you for your future careers.
Minor: If you choose to undertake a minor you will develop additional knowledge in another area of study. Students will often choose minors that complement their major/s, or use them to discover and pursue their interests.
Electives: These are units that you may select which interest you or support your career development. By giving you up to 9 electives to choose from, over the 3 levels, the Bachelor of Arts is all about you and your developing interests.
Majors
A major or minor sequence is a group of units in a particular area of study taken over the three levels of your course. Each unit is usually worth 1 credit point.
A major sequence is made up of 8 credit points, and a minor sequence is made of 4 credit points.
Please check the rules of each major and minor sequence to see which units you need to complete to achieve the required credit points.
Students enrolled in other courses and faculties may take an Arts major sequence (8 credit points), minor sequence (4 credit points) or individual electives from these discipline areas, subject to meeting the prerequisites.
Explore your creativity by delving into the principles and foundations of graphics and animation practice. Throughout this minor, you will gain experience with different animation techniques and technologies to help make your ideas come to life. Develop a range of creative and problem-solving skills and communicate by building 3D environments, designing characters and animating them to create your own short animation project.
Units
To complete a Minor sequence in Animation select any four (4) credit points from below:
Anthropology is the study of humanity in the broadest sense. Anthropology at Deakin focuses on the ways human society creates its communities in diverse cultural settings. Studies in anthropology prepare you to understand and work with people in diverse and international settings. Topics studied include poverty and development, crime and violence, belief systems, health and illness and human ecology.
Career outcomes
You may find employment in community relations, the education sector, government departments, the health industry, media corporations, research consultancies and welfare organisations.
Units
To complete a Major sequence in Anthropology select eight (8) credit points as outlined below;
To complete a Minor sequence in Anthropology select four (4) credit points from below, including no more than one (1) credit point at level one, and at least one (1) credit point at level 3
Australia’s trade with the Middle East has more than doubled in the past decade, making it an increasingly important region with broad strategic, economic, religious and cultural influence. Studies in Arabic help you develop communication skills in modern standard Arabic, with language fluency further enhanced through an understanding of Middle Eastern history, culture and society. With an established partnership with some Arabic countries, such as Kuwait, students of Arabic may be selected to undertake a paid scholarship in the Middle East to enhance their skills in Arabic.
Career outcomes
Graduates expect to gain employment in a wide range of organisations, including the education sector, federal defence agencies, government departments, immigration departments/ consultancies, intelligence agencies, major corporations, management consultancies, media organisations, multicultural associations, research and translation services.
Units
To complete a Major sequence in Arabic select eight (8) credit points as outlined below;
To complete a Minor sequence in Arabic select four (4) credit points as outlined below.
The Arabic major sequence is offered at two levels; beginners' level (little or no prior knowledge of the language) and post-level 12 Arabic.
Arabic major sequence for beginners
Complete 6 units (totalling 8 credit points) from:
Mandarin Chinese is one of the world’s most important languages. It is the official language of the People’s Republic of China, Taiwan and Singapore and is widely used in community groups throughout South-East Asia, Hong Kong, North America and Australia. It is one of the five official languages of the United Nations. Develop your communication skills in Chinese, with language fluency further enhanced through an understanding of Chinese culture, history and society. In-country language programs are available to students undertaking a major sequence in Chinese, giving you the opportunity to travel overseas and try out your language skills with native speakers.
Career outcomes
Careers in this field include work in the communications industry, community and government organisations, community health organisations, education sector, ethnic affairs associations, foreign affairs departments, multicultural organisations, tourism associations and translation services.
In-country study
The In-Country Language Program is available to students completing a major sequence in Chinese via study abroad. The program is a unique part of language study and an excellent way of accelerating completion of the major. Second, third and advanced level students have the opportunity to spend between 6 to 8 weeks studying language and culture in its own environment. This enables students to converse, read and write about more complex topics and to discuss ideas and information. Students also build upon their knowledge of grammar based on what they have learnt previously. The program contributes as two credit points (2cp) towards the Chinese language major. For more information about the In-Country Language program please refer to the Work Integrated Learning website or contact the WIL team: artsed-wil@deakin.edu.au.
Units
To complete a Major sequence in Chinese select eight (8) credit points as outlined below;
To complete a Minor sequence in Chinese select four (4) credit points as outlined below:
Chinese major sequence for beginners
Complete 6 units (totalling 8 credit points) from:
Chinese 3B: The Four Pillars in Finding Fluency and Your Voice in Chinese (2 credit points)
The Chinese major sequence for students who have completed Chinese at level 12 or equivalent (non-background speakers) begins at second level and consists of the following units:
Complete 6 units (totalling 8 credit points) from:
Criminology provides students with a theoretical and practical understanding of crime, including causes of crime and different techniques used to control crime, within the broader context of the criminal justice system. Criminology aims to develop specific knowledge in various crime types, including street crime, crimes in the home, serious and organised crime, transnational crime and terrorism, and key topic areas such as victims of crime, media representations of crime, surveillance and privacy, policing and security; and theoretical and practical skills in understanding and responding to crime problems.
Career outcomes
Promising career opportunities await in both the public and private sector, state and federal police, intelligence agencies and a range of law enforcement, anti-corruption and crime prevention agencies at federal, state and local government, correctional services, community services and private security industries.
Units
To complete a Major sequence in Criminology select eight (8) credit points as outlined below;
To complete a Minor sequence in Criminology select any four credit points from below, including (1) credit point only from level 1, at least (1) credit point at level 2, and at least (1) credit point from level 3.
The design thinking minor sequence investigates 'design thinking' as a strategic methodology and problem-solving process applicable to all industry sectors. Introducing a human-centred approach to innovation students learn to critically apply and integrate the needs of people, the possibilities of technology, and the requirements of business and society. Students work individually and in peer and industry collaboration combining best-practice global research for practice-based outcomes.
Units
To complete a Minor sequence in Design Thinking select four (4) credit points from below:
The Bachelor of Arts Education Major equips you with the foundational skills required to gain a strong understanding of education across a broad range of contexts. Learn about educating children, young people and adults and if you are looking to pathway into teaching, work towards pursuing further studies through one of Deakin’s accredited postgraduate teaching degrees.
Explore topics like the sociology, politics and policy of education, the history and philosophy of education, how psychology is applied to the work of educators to better understand how people learn and become motivated, and how we teach each other about inclusivity and diversity. Additionally learn how to make a social justice impact through developing engaging and inclusive resources for educational professional practice.
Units
To complete a Major sequence in Education Studies select eight (8) credit points as outlined below;
To complete a Minor sequence in Education Studies select any four (4) credit points from below, including no more than one (1) credit point at level one, and at least one (1) credit point at level 3.
Deakin is a world leader in children’s and young people’s literature and has developed a full major in the Bachelor of Arts in this growing field. Discover major trends in children’s texts across a range of media, and how stories for young people reflect and challenge the values of their time. This study area caters to students who are interested in children’s literature as a prominent domain of literary production and is of particular relevance to those who intend to work with children and young people as primary or secondary teachers and librarians, and those who wish to produce texts for young people.
Units
To complete a Major sequence in English - Children's Literature select eight (8) credit points as outlined below;
To complete a Minor sequence in English - Children's Literature students must complete 4 credit points including ALL153 or ALL154 plus ALL228, ALL230, ALL326
Gain expertise, practical experience and develop creative skills. In all units, the emphasis is on publication or the achievement of professional standards. Initially, you undertake various forms of constructive, descriptive and narrative writing, non-fiction and fiction writing, script writing and poetry writing.
Career outcomes
You may find employment in freelance writing, finance, health and manufacturing industries, government departments, media and entertainment industries, publishing companies, tourism, hospitality and service industries.
Units
To complete a Major sequence in English - Creative Writing select eight (8) credit points as outlined below;
To complete a Minor sequence in English - Creative Writing students must complete four (4) credit points from below, comprising of no more than one (1) credit point at level one, and at least one (1) credit point at level 3. Choice of units must include one (1) credit point from either ALW101 or ALW102.
At Deakin, literature is the door to new understandings of cultures and histories. Our literary studies scholars have international profiles in philosophy, poetry, ecology and Australian literature, and will guide you in critical and creative journeys through great literature from the medieval era to today. There are also many opportunities for your own creative writing and critical analysis.
Career outcomes
You may find employment opportunities in advertising agencies, the education sector, freelance writing, government departments, libraries, market research companies, public relations agencies and publishing companies.
Units
To complete a Major sequence in English - Literature select eight (8) credit points as outlined below;
To complete a Minor sequence in English - Literature students must complete four (4) credit points from below, comprising of no more than one (1) credit point at level one, and at least one (1) credit point at level 3. Choice of units must include one (1) credit point from either ALL101 or ALL102.
Develop your creative ideas, practical skills and screen culture knowledge in Film and Television Studies. Throughout these units, you will immerse yourself in various storytelling techniques, histories, developments, and contexts that enable the creation of screen productions in Australia and around the world. You will delve into the exhibition of screen works and explore the different ways audiences engage with film and television locally and globally.
Career outcomes
screenwriting and narrative design
cinema and film festival programming and curation
film criticism
film and television research
Graduates can also find work in screen agencies, screen education associations, film archives, corporate communication companies, media associations, and television corporations.
Units
To complete a Major sequence in Film and Television Studies select eight (8) credit points as outlined below;
To complete a Minor sequence in Film and Television Studies students must complete four (4) credit points: ACF104, ACF214, ACF206, ACF320
Through an integrated study of local experiences and transnational flows of knowledge and influences, Gender and Sexuality Studies at Deakin provides students with an understanding of key forces which shape our understandings and lived experiences of gender and sexuality, both as cultural phenomena and as embodied practices. In particular, the program emphasises the intersectional dimensions of gender and sexuality, addressing questions of class, citizenship, ethnicity, race, religion, ability, and geographical location. Throughout their studies, units in this Major help students to develop skills to analytically reflect on, and contribute to, a range of important debates. These include discussions about how sex, gender and sexuality inform understandings of the self, and how we recognise and respond to difference.
Career outcomes
Studying Gender and Sexuality Studies at Deakin is a pathway for a range of career opportunities related to culture and society. Graduates will develop research and writing skills suited to employment in areas such as education, policy advice, human rights advocacy, work in archives and museums, and for community-based projects around diversity, inclusion and equity.
Research
Policy Advice/Development
Community Development
Human Rights
Social Services and Support
Archives and Museums
Units
To complete a Major sequence in Gender and Sexuality Studies select eight (8) credit points as outlined below;
To complete a Minor sequence in Gender and Sexuality Studies students must complete 4 credit points including AGS101 or AGS102 plus AGS200, ALL256, AGS300.
The Global Challenges minor allows students to develop an understanding of some of the world’s most enduring and intractable problems in the twenty-first century, and the holistic, engaged critical research, analysis, and communicative skills to address these problems. It offers students an opportunity to hone these skills, to develop a personally tailored centred research agenda, and build interdisciplinary frameworks and practical strategies for personal agency, innovation, systems-thinking, and collaborating within or between communities. The minor will therefore develop the vital role that Arts graduates can play in the world’s future.
On the successful completion of the Global Challenges sequence, students should have the skills and capacities to:
Examine different dimensions of global challenges, and how these impact society and local communities
Research and explain how personal agency intersects with local communities to respond to global challenges in ethical ways
Identify key actions and interventions required to address complex global challenges
Develop a range of creative local and global solutions to real-world global challenges that reflect collaborative action with distinct stakeholders
Units
To complete a Minor sequence in Global Challenges, students must complete 4 credit points as outlined below;
You have the opportunity to explore the nature of the modern world – the forces that have shaped our past and present, and the ways historians interpret historical events. Themes covered include the world in the twentieth century, war and peace, modernisation and social change, colonialism, and gender. Specialised subjects include the Holocaust, the French Revolution, Modern Asia, Slavery in the United States, the British Empire, colonial Papua New Guinea, and Sport in History.
Career outcomes
You may find employment opportunities in the education sector, local government, media corporations, museums/heritage organisations, research consultancies and tourism organisations.
Units
To complete a Major sequence in History select eight (8) credit points as outlined below;
To complete a Minor sequence in History select any four (4) credit points from below, including no more than one (1) credit point at level one, and at least one (1) credit point at level 3
This Indigenous Studies sequence will build understanding, recognition and validity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander's ways of Valuing, Being, Knowing and Doing. Completing this sequence of study will facilitate a deeper understanding of ourselves and Australia's multiple histories to foster productive and meaningful relationships in culturally diverse communities, especially with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.
Career Outcomes
Completion of Indigenous Studies will enable graduates to respectfully collaborate and work alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and their communities. Culturally responsive graduates can apply these skills and practices to a wide range of services, including education, creative industries, and health and community services.
Units
To complete a Major sequence in Indigenous Studies select eight (8) credit points as outlined below;
To complete a Minor sequence in Indigenous Studies select any four (4) credit points from below, including no more than one (1) credit point at level one, and at least one (1) credit point at level 3.
~ The Indigenous Studies major sequence is offered in the online mode only. International on-campus students must first seek approval from Student Central with a course map plan to ensure they do not exceed one-third (or equivalent) of their course completed online and meet all other course and enrolment rules.
As the world’s fourth most populous nation and a close neighbouring country, Indonesia is vitally important to Australia. By studying Indonesian language, students gain a range of communication skills and an understanding of Indonesian history, culture and society. Exciting opportunities for international placements enrich this learning and enhance employability.
Career outcomes
Indonesian language skills and experience in diverse cultural settings are valued attributes. Deakin graduates work in a range of professional fields. Opportunities in Federal and State Government Departments include DFAT, AusAID, intelligence agencies and the education sector.
In-country study
The In-Country Language Program is available to students completing a major sequence in Indonesian via study abroad. The program is a unique part of language study and an excellent way of accelerating completion of the major. Second and third year students have the opportunity to spend between six and eight weeks studying language and culture in its own environment. This enables students to converse, read and write about more complex topics and to discuss ideas and information. Students also build upon their knowledge of grammar based on what they have learnt previously. The program contributes two credit points (2cp) towards the Indonesian language major. Upon successful completion of this program students will be awarded a preclusion for either AIF341 or AIF342. For more information about the In-Country Language program please refer to the Work Integrated Learning website or contact the WIL team: artsed-wil@deakin.edu.au.
Units
To complete a Major sequence in Indonesian select eight (8) credit points as outlined below;
To complete a Minor sequence in Indonesian select any four (4) credit points as outlined below.
Indonesian major sequence for those entering at beginners' level
Complete 6 units (totalling 8 credit points) from:
International Relations provides you with a better understanding of global political systems and relationships. Why do states cooperate with each other? Why do they make war? How can we define power and security? What role does globalisation play in state interactions and how does the international system deal with issues such as human rights, humanitarian and environmental challenges? Examinations of the politics of the Asia-Pacific region and Australia’s place in the world are also key to this major.
Career outcomes
Graduates can expect to gain employment in a wide range of sectors, including aid and development organisations, education, the defence forces, foreign affairs and trade, government departments (including immigration and border security), intelligence agencies, major corporations, management consultancies, media organisations, multicultural associations and research roles.
Students majoring in International Relations should also consider a complementary major sequence or electives in Politics and Policy Studies or major or minor in Middle East Studies.
Units
To complete a Major sequence in International Relations select eight (8) credit points as outlined below;
To complete a Minor sequence in International Relations select any four (4) credit points from below, including no more than one (1) credit point at level one, and at least one (1) credit point at level 3
Make a meaningful contribution to the local and global communication industries and wider community. Media and Communications gives you a solid footing in the key developments in the broad communications industries that are re-shaping our cultures. Sitting at the intersections of a range of communication disciplines, you will be able to develop the skills to ask – and answer – the big contemporary questions and debates around big data and surveillance, the state of the news media and the rise and rise of celebrity culture.
Career outcomes
Education
Social Media Analyst
Content Creator
Media Commentator
Units
To complete a Major sequence in Media and Communication select eight (8) credit points as outlined below;
To complete a Minor sequence in Media and Communication select any four (4) credit points from below, including no more than one (1) credit point at level one, and at least one (1) credit point at level 3
Hone your skills analysing the practices and processes that drive the creation and consumption of media around the globe. Media Studies at Deakin focuses on the role of literature, film, television and the full range of digital media in creating, shaping and re-shaping society and culture. You will explore the structures of the global film and television industries, debate issues of globalisation and representation and appreciate the role that different media texts play in understanding self and society.
Career outcomes
Graduates can expect to gain employment in a wide range of organisations, including the education sector, the entertainment industry, marketing consultancies, multimedia businesses.
Units
To complete a Major sequence in Media Studies select eight (8) credit points as outlined below;
To complete a Minor sequence in Media Studies select any four (4) credit points from below, including no more than one (1) credit point at level one, and at least one (1) credit point at level3.
A major in Middle East Studies will give students a comprehensive understanding of the events and issues shaping the region. There will be emphasis on both historical and contemporary issues relevant to the analysis of the Middle East as a regional system, as well as its place in the international system. A particular stress will be placed on the changing role of the United States in the Middle East since the end of the Cold War and its push to reshape the region’s political landscape according to American national interests. Several of the endemic conflict situations that exist in the Middle East will be examined throughout the sequence, including the War on Terror; the invasion and occupation of Iraq, the conflict in Syria, the Israel-Palestine conflict, and Iran’s regional profile.
Career outcomes
On successful completion of the Middle East Studies sequence, students should have the skills and capacities to:
Comprehend and critically analyse debates in relation to the Middle East
Understand the organisation of government in the Middle East and North Africa
Communicate clearly, in written and oral form, about the politics of the Middle East
Understand and explain the principles that inform political action at local, national and global levels in relation to the region
Analyse specific problems and issues in the Middle East
Units
To complete a Major sequence in Middle East Studies select eight (8) credit points as outlined below;
To complete a Minor sequence in Middle East Studies, students must complete 4 credit points including AIE157, AIE257, AIE258, AIE357
Immerse yourself in the exciting physical, social and conceptual possibilities of Performing Arts. In the Performing Arts major you will learn how performance and embodied creativity intersects with innovative thinking, community enrichment and technology. Study the diverse ways in which Performing Arts can engage and make a difference.
You will be challenged to develop physical, creative and intellectual capacities through practice-based learning, while also exploring history and theory, and working with digital technologies and other creative arts disciplines. In a studio setting, you will develop core skills in acting, dancing, improvisation, collaborative performance creation, dramaturgy, choreography, dramatic text analysis, rehearsal techniques, and site-specific and applied performance.
Real-time practical learning in state-of-the-art facilities is supported by online materials, lectures, guest speakers and access to leaders in the field. Opportunities extend from campus-based learning to include public performance, site-based practice and internship experiences.
Career outcomes
The course prepares you to launch a career as a practitioner in the professional performing arts sector. Performing Arts graduates are equipped to create and perform theatre works and to work in a variety of professional theatre contexts, including initiating their own work as independent performance makers and pursuing various roles throughout the arts and entertainment industries. When you graduate you will be equipped to work across disciplines in a variety of contexts, initiate independent arts projects, or use your skills and knowledge as a performing arts teacher.
Our graduates work in careers across the industry in fields such as:
community art practice
education
event, festival and production management
arts administration and curation
dance and drama therapies
stage management
youth dance and theatre
Units
To complete a Major sequence in Performing Arts select eight (8) credit points as outlined below;
To complete a Minor sequence in Performing Arts select any four (4) credit points from below, including no more than one (1) credit point at level one, and at least one (1) credit point at level 3
Doing Philosophy not only involves asking the big questions, it teaches important skills. Philosophy at Deakin asks questions about the nature of reality, truth and knowledge, meaning, the existence of God mind, personal identity, the good in ethical and political life, and the value and power of art. At the same time, it fosters the development of skills in critical and creative thinking, argumentation, communication, problem-solving and research. Deakin Philosophy prides itself on applying philosophical concepts to our contemporary world and maintaining a pluralistic and cross-cultural outlook that embraces Eastern philosophy, psychoanalysis, pragmatism, analytic philosophy and continental European philosophy.
Career outcomes
The kinds of skills taught in Philosophy lend themselves to careers in law, journalism, education, politics, policy analysis, intelligence, management, marketing, publishing and research. Clear thinking and the ability to analyse multiple perspectives is an indispensable skill in our global society, as is the ability to identify and succinctly articulate the core ideas in different cultural perspectives.
Units
To complete a Major sequence in Philosophy select eight (8) credit points as outlined below;
To complete a Minor sequence in Philosophy select any four (4) credit points from below, including no more than one (1) credit point at level one, and at least one (1) credit point at level 3.
A Politics and Policy Studies major will enhance your understanding of the big issues in the world today, and assist you to develop the skills to make a difference in your lifetime. We investigate the challenge posed to Australia and the world by climate change; asylum seekers and refugees; development; inequality; political parties and new social movements. We examine the ideas behind the policy and the rhetoric. We look globally for different solutions; investigate how policy lessons are learnt; and assess the impact on domestic and global politics. We examine how and why some people are able to exercise power better than others, and assess ideas and opportunities for addressing the pressing social, economic, and environmental issues of our time.
Career outcomes
Graduates can expect to gain employment in many fields including foreign affairs, Intelligence and security, Journalism, Government organisations, Civil society organisations, Business, Policy advocacy, Policy research, Policy design and analysis, Political and social research, Political advisers, Politics, Public communication, Public relations and lobbying, Public service, Speech-writing, Teaching.
Units
To complete a Major sequence in Politics and Policy Studies select eight (8) credit points as outlined below;
To complete a Minor sequence in Politics and Policy Studies select any four (4) credit points from below, including no more than one (1) credit point at level one, and at least one (1) credit point at level 3.
Public relations practitioners are 21st century communication specialists who manage and coordinate relationships among organisations, agencies and the public. With a focus on ethical and sustainable communication practices, the course builds key knowledge and skills in core public relations responsibilities such as: event management and campaigns; social media tactics and media relations; strategic planning, management and communication. Final-year students can develop their skills further by undertaking an industry internship, working with real clients to develop a public relations campaign. The degree’s structure also allows you to pursue study in areas such as journalism, media studies, visual communication design and marketing. This flexibility means our degree combines theory and real-life practice to prepare you for employment in a wide variety of public relations, media and communications roles.
Career outcomes
copywriters
customer relations officers
communication and stakeholder relations officers
community relations officers
digital content coordinators
digital communications specialist
event management officers
government relations officers
marketing and communications coordinator
media and communications advisers
media relations advisers
public relations officers
social media account managers.
Units
To complete a Major sequence in Public Relations Studies, select eight (8) credit points as outlined below;
To complete a Minor sequence in Public Relations Studies, select any four (4) credit points from below, including no more than one (1) credit point at level one, and at least one (1) credit point at level 3
Understanding religion has seldom been as important as it is today. There is increasing dialogue among the greater religions of the world, but there is also increasing misunderstandings of religious traditions. Religious ideas are regularly debated in the media and featured in popular culture and religious beliefs play a significant role in conflict, peace building, and international development. With countries and communities becoming more diverse and complex, the need for cross-cultural religious literacy and interdisciplinary expertise in religion is becoming more urgent. The Religious Studies Major is a multi-disciplinary major that looks at religion and religions from diverse viewpoints and methodologies. The major includes perspectives from the disciplines of anthropology, philosophy, sociology, and indigenous studies.
Career outcomes
Religious literacy and understandings of different cultural and religious perspectives is an indispensable skill in our global society as is the ability to analysis multiple perspectives. Career opportunities exist for Religious Studies students in the education sector, publishing, government agencies, cultural institutions, multicultural associations, media organisations, the public service and the marketing and tourism industries.
Units
To complete a Major sequence in Religious Studies select eight (8) credit points as outlined below;
To complete a Minor sequence in Religious Studies select any four (4) credit points from below, including no more than one (1) credit point at level one, and at least one (1) credit point at level 3.
Working across a range of social media platforms, you will specialise in digital content creation to engage audiences and build communities. You will combine production skills with various online storytelling forms, applying knowledge of the ethical guard rails and legal constraints that come with producing content for present day industries. Along the way, you will develop and refine your online presence and portfolio, while exploring the ways in which social media is woven into our daily lives, transforming our personal identities and how we relate to each other professionally, politically, economically, and culturally.
Career outcomes
Content writer
Social media manager
Social media content producer
Podcaster
Social media reporter
Video editor
Videographer
Units
To complete a Major sequence in Social Media, select eight (8) credit points as outlined below;
To complete a Minor sequence in Social Media, select any four (4) credit points from below, including no more than one (1) credit point at level one, and at least one (1) credit point at level 3
Sociology is the academic study of society. We explore social change and how social structures, social institutions and culture shape the lives of individuals and communities. Deakin Sociology engages with contemporary issues in the global and Australian landscape such as how society shapes (and is shaped by) illness and health policies, gender and sexuality, religion and new forms of spirituality, migration and inequality, violence and social control. Deakin sociologists are active social researchers with expertise in a variety of methodologies including digital and traditional ethnographies, visual methods, in-depth interviews, focus groups, survey research, experimental design in sociological research, and our graduates learn to apply these skills to the study of social life.
Career outcomes
You may find employment opportunities in community relations, the education sector, government departments, the health industry, local councils, market research companies, welfare organisations and youth work.
Units
To complete a Major sequence in Sociology select eight (8) credit points as outlined below;
To complete a Minor sequence in Sociology select any four (4) credit points from below, including no more than one (1) credit point at level one, and at least one (1) credit point at level 3
Spanish is a thriving international language and the official language in 21 countries. Close to 500 million people are Spanish native speakers, making the language second only to Mandarin Chinese in terms of its number of native speakers worldwide. Deakin’s Spanish studies will help you develop a wide range of communication skills in Spanish, regardless of whether you have any previous experience in the language. Our sequential proficiency levels will take you from scratch to fluency or near fluency. If you already know some Spanish you will be able to enter your major or minor from an intermediate level. Furthermore, you will acquire an understanding and cultural awareness of the varied societies and cultures that make up the Spanish-speaking world. In-country language programs will be made available to students undertaking a major sequence in Spanish.
Career outcomes
Graduates can expect to gain employment in a wide range of organisations, including the education sector at all levels, immigration departments, federal defence agencies, intelligence agencies, government departments, multinational corporations, management consultants, non-government agencies, multicultural associations, research, and translation and interpreting services.
In-country study
The In-Country Language Program is available to students completing a major sequence in Spanish via study abroad. The program offers students who have completed their first year of Spanish language study the opportunity to spend six weeks studying language and culture in its own environment. Students build upon their knowledge of grammar based on what they have learnt in ALS100 and ALS150, and develop further proficiency in Spanish at the high beginner/low intermediate level. This program is one credit point (1cp) experience which can contribute towards the Spanish language major. Upon successful completion of this program, students will be awarded a preclusion for ALS200.
Engaging the Contemporary Hispanic World with Fluency
The Spanish major sequence for students who have completed Spanish at Level 12 or equivalent (non-background speakers) begins at second level and consists of the following units:
Historically, sport’s prominent role in society can be traced back at least to the ancient Olympic Games in Greece (dating from 776BCE). Today, sport enjoys ever-increasing popularity and influence as its global reach can be gauged from local participation at the grassroots level through to professional competitions on the international stage. Sport and Society is a multi-disciplinary minor that provides students with an opportunity to examine sport’s profound impact on society from cultural, social, educational, political, and economic perspectives. Sport’s role in society can be studied through filters such as: gender imbalances in media representation, corporate sponsorship, and government funding; ethnicity and class divides within wider society exemplified by sporting codes; educational policies in public and private schooling; elite sport as big business; and sport’s role in health.
Career outcomes
Sports-related career opportunities can be pursued in the public and private sector, including roles in sporting organisations, education, government agencies, and media.
Units
To complete a Minor sequence in Sport and Society select the below four (4) credit points
Transform your passion into a career as a sport reporter. Deakin’s Sport Journalism major takes you beyond the game to the broader business, and legal and ethical issues associated with sports. You’ll combine practical journalistic and production skills across all news media platforms, from print to podcasts and video and the web, with studies in sport management to understand the sport system and the social and cultural impacts of sport, and issues relating to governance. You will learn from teachers who are leaders and practitioners in their fields, while developing your professional network and portfolio.
Career outcomes
Digital content producer
Media and communications manager
Producer
Podcaster
Sports journalist
Social media manager
Sports broadcaster
Videographer
Units
To complete a Major sequence in Sport Journalism select eight (8) credit points as outlined below;
To complete a Minor sequence in Sport Journalism select any four (4) credit points from below, including no more than one (1) credit point at level one, and at least one (1) credit point at level 3.
Advertising is a dynamic and creative field of practice which provides a complementary study option for students seeking a professional outcome in the Bachelor of Arts. Work on client-driven projects to plan campaigns and produce advertisements for brand promotion across traditional and digital media.
Career outcomes
account manager
advertising art director
brand specialist
copy writing
digital creative
digital marketer or media specialist
marketing communications
media researcher or planner
social media coordinator
transmedia content developers
Units
To complete a Major sequence in Strategic Advertising select eight (8) credit points as outlined below;
To complete a Minor sequence in Strategic Advertising select any four (4) credit points from below, including no more than one (1) credit point at level one, and at least one (1) credit point at level 3.
In this minor sequence students learn how to harness the design systems, services, and environments critical to the contemporary production of digital technologies. You’ll be hands on with developing the right content for the right people at the right time by using game engines, information technologies and design software. Be immersed in the techniques and strategies of designing for a range of users and scenarios by harnessing testing and usability, user engagement, experiences, user interfaces and prototyping. You’ll engage in individual and collaborative real-world projects guided by leading practitioners to construct best-practice industry-based results.
Units
To complete a Minor sequence in UX* Design select any four (4) credit points from below:
The Visual Art and Photography major combines in-depth disciplinary training in visual art and photography practices and digital technologies alongside a sequence of open-ended studio-based studies encouraging cross-disciplinary and interdisciplinary thinking. Gain both the practical studio skills and adaptable critical thinking skills necessary to participate successfully in the art world and creative industries. Theoretical elements of the course are highly integrated with studio practice and designed to develop transferable skills alongside the necessary specialist knowledge required to participate critically in your chosen fields.
There is emphasis on exhibition making as an integral aspect of professional studio practice and our various studio and gallery spaces are designed to support a dynamic culture of studio production and development, collaboration, experimentation, exhibition and critique.
Career outcomes
Visual Art and Photography graduates are equipped to pursue careers as professional practitioners throughout the arts and commercial sectors. You will be able to draw on the expertise of our staff, who are active practitioners and leading researchers in their fields and engage with the wider arts industry through visiting specialists and professionals. Our graduates have moved into career opportunities in roles and fields including:
independent fine arts practitioner
event and sports photographer
commercial portraiture
fashion or product photographer
community-based arts
gallery director or assistant
arts programmer or developer
commercial art director, designer or illustrator
gallery curator, technician, director or education officer
independent artist and creative practitioner.
Units
To complete a Major sequence in Visual Arts and Photography select eight (8) credit points as outlined below;
To complete a Minor sequence in Visual Arts and Photography select any four (4) credit points from below, including no more than one (1) credit point at level one, and at least one (1) credit point at level 3.
Enter the dynamic world of professional design with a major in Visual Communication Design. Learn the tools, strategies and techniques required to be an adaptive, creative practitioner. From day one you will be mentored by established designers and industry leaders, learning the fundamental building blocks of design to translate ideas into smart design solutions addressing pressing global issues. Using the latest technologies, you will work across industry sectors including digital and publishing, social media, mobile apps, the web, and immersive, and interactive experiences. With Deakin University’s Bachelor of Arts - Visual Communication Design major, you will look at the world differently by developing critical skills appropriate for tomorrow’s world of complex systems involving people, machines, and services. Through individual design projects, and peer and industry collaboration you will develop insight into design research and history and learn to select and apply design strategy and design thinking methods make positive contributions to the creative fields. You’ll be supported to work on real-world projects with real-world briefs developing a strong portfolio of work throughout your studies. This practical experience prepares you for the challenges of your future role, and ensures you graduate with the critical skills and knowledge ready to make a real impact in the rapidly changing field of design and creative production.
Career outcomes
visual communication designer
user Interface designer
information designer
brand designer
social media designer
digital content producer
motion graphics designer
art director/creative director
web designer
graphic designer
illustrator and digital artist
digital designer
Units
To complete a Major sequence in Visual Communication Design select eight (8) credit points as outlined below;
To complete a Minor sequence in Visual Communication Design select any four (4) credit points from below, including no more than one (1) credit point at level one, and at least one (1) credit point at level 3.
Explore design for the web in this minor sequence where the applications and implications of designing for interactivity and the internet are examined. Through practical individual design projects, and peer and industry collaboration you will develop insight into web design and its associated history, learning to critically select and apply design ideas, strategy and design thinking methods to make positive contribution to your chosen field. The relationships among design principles, interaction, user experience, user interfaces, responsive media, social media and narrative are examined in an interactive environment led by a team of industry experts and practicing designers. The web design minor is for students who may or may not possess prior experience with HTML and CSS editors or image and design creation/editing software. The outcomes positions students to talk to and about design, interactivity and web technology, to positively discuss their work and the work of others and negotiate with and consult their peers regarding opportunities for problem solving, critical reflection and professional work practices fundamental for business success.
This minor is constructed to introduce the industry standard web/interactive languages, strategic, interactive, energetic and visually imaginative possibilities of web design and interactivity to ensure optimal consumer and audience engagement for all facets of business and industry.
Units
To complete a Minor sequence in Web Design students must complete four (4) credit points:
Prepare for your future by getting real world experience and the employability skills to succeed, while completing your degree. The Employability Stream is tailored to support you to be future ready. Deakin’s suite of Work Integrated Learning programs can connect you with internships, social impact programs and opportunities to extend your skills in settings across the globe.
Independent research components are embedded across a number of units in this course.
Fees and charges
Fees and charges vary depending on the type of fee place you hold, your course, your commencement year, the units you choose to study, and their study discipline or your study load.
Tuition fees increase at the beginning of each calendar year and all fees quoted are in Australian dollars ($AUD). Tuition fees do not include textbooks, computer equipment or software, other equipment or costs such as mandatory checks, travel and stationery.
For further information regarding tuition fees, other fees and charges, invoice due dates, withdrawal dates, payment methods visit our Current students website.
