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A Flexible Double Masters is a unique postgraduate qualification that allows students to combine two distinct master's degrees into a single, integrated two-year full-time program within the broad field of Society and Culture. Offered under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) at Level 9, this program is designed for high-achieving graduates who want to build expertise across two complementary disciplines simultaneously — rather than studying them sequentially. Students can typically choose from a wide selection of programs spanning history, anthropology, contemporary art, social research, science communication, Pacific and international development, public policy, management, and more, tailoring their study to their precise career ambitions and intellectual interests.
The degree is structured to produce graduates who can synthesise knowledge and theory across multiple domains, think critically and independently, conduct advanced research, and communicate complex ideas to diverse audiences. It is classified under the 'Society and Culture' field of education, meaning it sits at the intersection of the humanities, social sciences, and cultural studies — making it especially attractive for those pursuing careers in government, policy, international affairs, research, the arts, community development, and the public sector.
Employers of Flexible Double Masters graduates span a wide range of Australian industries and organisations, including federal and state government departments (particularly in policy, diplomacy, and social services), universities and research institutions, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), international development agencies, cultural institutions such as museums and galleries, media and communications companies, and the private sector in roles demanding analytical, research, and cross-cultural expertise.
Australia faces a growing demand for versatile, analytically skilled professionals who can navigate complex social, cultural, and policy landscapes — particularly as the country deepens its engagement with the Asia-Pacific region, expands its public service capabilities, and grapples with issues of social equity, cultural diversity, and global development. A Flexible Double Masters equips graduates with dual-discipline expertise that makes them significantly more competitive in the job market than single-degree holders. According to Australia's 2024 Graduate Outcomes Survey, postgraduate coursework graduates earned a median annual salary of $112,500 — a substantial premium over undergraduate completions — and full-time employment rates for postgraduate graduates rose to 93.9% within three years of completing their course.
The interdisciplinary nature of the Flexible Double Masters also addresses a well-documented skills gap in Australia: employers across government, the not-for-profit sector, and international organisations increasingly seek candidates who can blend policy analysis with cultural understanding, or combine research methods with communications expertise. By graduating with two recognised master's qualifications in two years, students gain a credential that is both time-efficient and career-accelerating — positioning them for leadership roles in some of Australia's most important and socially impactful industries.
To be considered for a Flexible Double Masters program in Australia, applicants must hold a recognised Bachelor's degree (or international equivalent) under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), typically with a minimum GPA of 5.0 on a 7-point scale. Admission is competitive, meaning that meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee an offer of a place. Applicants are generally ranked on the basis of their undergraduate academic record, and in many cases, the strength of the bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline — such as arts, humanities, social sciences, psychology, politics, economics, communications, public policy, law, or social work — will be a key determinant. For programs with a creative or arts-based component (such as a combined degree involving contemporary art), applicants may also be required to submit a portfolio of works and supporting materials for assessment.
English language proficiency is required for both domestic and international applicants whose prior education was not conducted in English. Minimum requirements typically include an IELTS overall score of 6.5, with no individual band below 6.0; or a TOEFL iBT overall score of 80, with a minimum of 18 in Listening and Speaking and 20 in Reading and Writing. Some programs may accept PTE Academic or Cambridge Advanced English scores as alternatives. In addition to academic qualifications, some program combinations may require applicants to meet specific entry prerequisites for each individual master's degree component they wish to combine. Prospective students are encouraged to confirm requirements for both chosen degrees and may benefit from seeking pathway options if they do not immediately qualify.
This course may be offered in different study modes depending on the university, campus location, course structure and student type. Students should check the available delivery mode before applying, as not every study option is available at every institution.
On-campus study is the traditional mode of delivery where students attend classes, lectures, tutorials, workshops or seminars at the university campus. This option may suit students who prefer face-to-face learning, access to campus facilities, networking with classmates, practical workshops, group projects and direct engagement with academic staff.
Some universities may offer programs fully online or with online subject options. Online study can be attractive for students who need flexibility due to work, family, location or other commitments. Online study may suit domestic students, working professionals or students who want to study from outside Australia.
Hybrid or blended study usually combines online learning with some on-campus classes, workshops, intensive sessions or practical components. This mode may suit students who want flexibility but still want some face-to-face interaction. The exact structure varies between institutions.
Programs in Australia may have different intake structures depending on the university. The most common intake systems are semester, trimester and block mode.
Many Australian universities follow a two-semester academic calendar. The main intakes are commonly Semester 1 (around February or March) and Semester 2 (around July). Semester-based study usually allows students to complete a set number of subjects over approximately 12 to 14 weeks.
Some universities use a trimester system, which generally provides three study periods a year — around February/March, June/July and October/November. Trimester study may provide more flexibility and may help some students complete their course faster.
Some institutions may offer selected subjects or programs in block mode, where students focus on one subject at a time over a shorter, more intensive teaching period. Block mode may suit students who prefer concentrated learning or working professionals managing study around employment.
Some online or professionally focused programs may offer more frequent start dates or flexible entry points throughout the year. Students should not assume that every course has monthly or multiple intakes — availability depends on the institution, course structure and student type.
Graduates of a Flexible Double Masters in the Society and Culture field are equipped for diverse, high-impact careers across Australia's public sector, academia, international organisations, NGOs, media, cultural institutions, and the private sector. The dual-discipline credential is particularly valued in roles that require strong analytical, research, and communication skills combined with deep contextual knowledge — such as policy development, diplomatic services, social research, community and international development, and cultural heritage management. Employers include federal and state government agencies (notably the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Department of Social Services, and the Australian Public Service), universities and research institutes, the ABC and other media organisations, museums and cultural institutions, peak bodies and advocacy organisations, and international development agencies such as the United Nations, World Bank, and Australian aid contractors.
Entry Level
Graduate / Assistant
Graduate Policy Officer, Research Assistant, Graduate Communications Officer, Museum Assistant, Program Support Officer, Graduate Analyst
Early Career
Officer / Coordinator
Policy Officer, Social Research Officer, Communications Coordinator, Community Development Coordinator, Program Coordinator, Research Project Officer
Mid-Level
Adviser / Specialist
Senior Policy Analyst, Social Research Specialist, International Development Adviser, Senior Communications Adviser, Heritage and Curatorial Specialist, Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist
Senior Level
Manager / Senior Adviser
Program Manager, Senior Policy Adviser, Research Manager, Senior Diplomat, Senior Curator, Department Manager (Government), Senior Research Fellow
Leadership
Director / Head / Principal
Director of Policy, Executive Director (NGO), Deputy Secretary (APS), Head of Research, Principal Adviser, Associate Professor / Professor, Director of Cultural Institutions
Salaries for Flexible Double Masters graduates in Australia vary by discipline combination, sector, and level of experience, but postgraduate qualifications in Society and Culture fields consistently deliver above-average earning outcomes.
Melbourne
Melbourne is Australia's cultural capital and a hub for arts, social research, community development, and policy — making it ideal for Flexible Double Masters students across virtually all discipline combinations. The city hosts a vast range of federal and state government agencies, leading NGOs, galleries, museums, and research institutions that actively recruit postgraduate humanities and social science talent.
Sydney
Sydney offers outstanding opportunities for graduates in international relations, communications, media, public affairs, and social research, thanks to its concentration of federal agency offices, major media organisations, and leading cultural institutions including the Australian Museum and Art Gallery of NSW. The city's diversity and position as Australia's global business gateway make it especially valuable for students combining policy or communications with international or cultural studies.
Brisbane
Brisbane is an increasingly important centre for Asia-Pacific engagement, international development, and social policy — all key career pathways for Flexible Double Masters graduates. As Queensland's government, research, and cultural hub, it offers growing opportunities in community development, public service, and the not-for-profit sector, with a dynamic and affordable student lifestyle.
Perth
Perth's strategic location as Australia's gateway to Southeast Asia and the Indian Ocean region makes it particularly relevant for students combining international studies, anthropology, or development with policy or social research disciplines. The city also has a vibrant arts scene and a growing public sector, with state government agencies and the resources sector providing diverse graduate employment.
Adelaide
Adelaide is known for its strong arts and cultural scene, a compact and well-connected professional community, and a cost of living that is among the lowest of Australia's major cities. Students combining humanities, social research, or public policy disciplines will find a welcoming academic environment and strong connections to South Australia's government, cultural institutions, and community organisations.
Canberra
Canberra is the natural home of the Flexible Double Masters in Society and Culture, as it hosts Australia's national university sector alongside the entirety of the federal public service, including the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Department of Social Services, national museums, galleries, archives, and leading research institutions. Students here have direct and unparalleled access to the policy, diplomacy, research, and cultural sectors that most closely align with this qualification.
Before choosing a course, students should compare:
International students who want to study in Australia should also consider additional requirements before applying.
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