The Bachelor of Pacific Studies is a three-year undergraduate degree that provides students with an in-depth understanding of the cultural, social, geographic, linguistic, political, and environmental contexts of Oceania and the broader Pacific region. It is an interdisciplinary program drawing on the humanities, social sciences, environmental studies, and Indigenous epistemologies, giving graduates both a historical and contemporary framework to analyse the politics, environments, languages, and cultures of Oceania. Students examine some of the region's most pressing challenges — including climate change, governance, security, development, and diaspora — while also exploring the arts, archaeology, and religious traditions of Pacific peoples. The program strongly incorporates Indigenous perspectives and voices, encouraging students to think critically about how knowledge about the region has been constructed and represented.

Designed for students who are curious about one of Australia's most strategically significant neighbouring regions, the degree attracts those with interests spanning anthropology, political science, international relations, history, linguistics, literature, gender studies, and environmental studies. It is particularly well-suited to those who wish to work at the intersection of policy, development, culture, and diplomacy. Upon graduation, students are equipped for careers across a broad range of sectors including federal and state government, the Australian Public Service (particularly the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade), the aid and development sector, NGOs, intergovernmental organisations, academia, journalism, cultural institutions, and Pacific diaspora community organisations. Major employers include DFAT, the Australian Aid program (AUSAID-aligned programs), Pacific community organisations, think tanks, the ABC, and the United Nations system.

For domestic undergraduate applicants, the primary entry requirement is completion of an Australian Year 12 qualification (or equivalent), such as the Senior Secondary Certificate of Education, assessed via an ATAR or equivalent Selection Rank. Competitive entry applies, meaning that meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee a place. Applicants may also be assessed on the basis of previous higher education results, VET qualifications (AQF Level 5 or above), or completed tertiary preparation programs. A typical competitive ATAR for Pacific Studies programs sits in the mid-to-upper 70s range, though adjustment factors such as equity access schemes, rural and remote status, or high achievement in relevant subjects can boost a student's Selection Rank. Credit for prior tertiary study may be available, with up to one-third of the degree potentially granted as advanced standing for equivalent prior learning.

English language proficiency is required for all applicants. For international students or those who have not completed secondary study in English, standard tests are accepted including IELTS (typically a minimum overall band of 6.5 with no band below 6.0), TOEFL iBT, or PTE Academic, though specific requirements may vary by institution. Some programs may consider personal statements or evidence of cultural engagement with Pacific communities as part of a holistic admissions process. Students with a background in humanities subjects such as history, geography, languages, politics, or literature are well-prepared for this degree, although no specific prerequisite subjects are generally required.