Course Overview

About This Course

Have you enjoyed researching as part of your Bachelor of Arts degree? The Bachelor of Arts (Honours) at UNSW Canberra is a one-year, research-focused degree for high-achieving students who want to deepen their knowledge and expertise in their chosen field of study. The program allows you to conduct an independent research project under the guidance of expert academics, choosing one of five specialisations: Indonesian Studies, International and Political Studies, English and Media Studies, History, or Human Geography. Through a combination of advanced coursework and dedicated research, you'll develop strong analytical, writing and problem-solving skills that are highly valued across a range of careers. Completing an Honours degree can also serve as a pathway to postgraduate research, such as a Master's by Research or PhD. As part of a close-knit research community at UNSW Canberra, you'll have opportunities to engage in seminars and workshops, setting you up for success in academia, government and industry.

Eligibility

Entry Requirements

Requirements

Open to high-performing students who have recently completed a Bachelor of Arts degree
2026 Lowest Selection Rank: N/A
2026 A Levels: N/A
2026 IB Diploma: N/A
2026 Lowest ATAR: N/A
This degree is for domestic students only
Applicants must submit an academic transcript with their application (final results not available at time of application must be forwarded as soon as possible, together with a statement indicating completion of all degree requirements and eligibility to graduate)
Applicants must contact and confirm a supervisor from the relevant school at UNSW Canberra, and contact the School's Honours Coordinator to confirm any additional requirements for admission
English language proficiency: All applicants who do not have an assessable qualification undertaken and assessed in English must provide evidence that their English language ability meets the minimum requirements for admission
Adjustment factors available: HSC Plus (up to 5 points), Elite Athletes, Performers and Leaders (up to 5 points), Educational Access Scheme (1–10 points)
Admission pathways available: Gateway Admission Pathway, Indigenous Preparatory Programs, Indigenous Admission Scheme (IAS)
Application deadlines: Semester 1 — 30th November 2025; Semester 2 — 30th April 2026

Career & Study Pathways

Where this takes you

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts (Honours) will gain advanced research and analytical skills that can open doors to diverse roles in research, policy analysis, communications and education. This degree provides a strong foundation for research-focused careers, equipping graduates with the expertise to address complex issues across government, academia and industry. Many Honours graduates continue on to postgraduate research, such as a Master's by Research or a PhD, setting them on a pathway to specialised academic roles or senior research positions in their chosen field. Potential roles: Academic Researcher, Archivist, Communications Specialist, Cultural Heritage Manager, Diplomatic Officer, Editor, Government Policy Advisor, Historian, Humanitarian Program Officer, Intelligence Analyst, International Relations Specialist, Journalist, Public Policy Analyst, Social Researcher, University Lecturer.

Quality & Recognition

Accreditation & Migration

Accreditation Details

Academic Regulator

TEQSA

Accreditation Status

Accredited

Course Content

Units of Competency

All Units15 units

Arts Honours Special Topic 1

Core course for English and Media Studies, Indonesian Studies, and International and Political Studies specialisations (18 UOC core component)

English and Media Studies Honours Special Topic

Core course specific to the English and Media Studies specialisation

Arts Honours Research 1

Research project component for English and Media Studies, Indonesian Studies, and International and Political Studies specialisations (part of 30 UOC research component)

Arts Honours Research 2

Research project component for English and Media Studies, Indonesian Studies, and International and Political Studies specialisations (part of 30 UOC research component)

Arts Honours Research 3

Research project component for English and Media Studies, Indonesian Studies, and International and Political Studies specialisations (part of 30 UOC research component)

Historiography Honours

Core course for the History specialisation (part of 18 UOC core component)

History Honours Special Topic

Core course for the History specialisation (part of 18 UOC core component)

History Honours Research 1

Research project component for the History specialisation (part of 30 UOC research component)

History Honours Research 2

Research project component for the History specialisation (part of 30 UOC research component)

Human Geography Honours Special Topic

Core course for the Human Geography specialisation (part of 18 UOC core component)

Science Honours Research 1

Research project component for the Human Geography specialisation (part of 30 UOC research component)

Science Honours Research 2

Research project component for the Human Geography specialisation (part of 30 UOC research component)

Science Honours Research 3

Research project component for the Human Geography specialisation (part of 30 UOC research component)

Indonesian Studies Special Topic

Core course for the Indonesian Studies specialisation (part of 18 UOC core component)

International and Political Studies Honours Special Topic

Core course for the International and Political Studies specialisation (part of 18 UOC core component)

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What specialisations are available in the Bachelor of Arts (Honours) at UNSW Canberra?

The Bachelor of Arts (Honours) at UNSW Canberra offers five specialisations: Indonesian Studies, International and Political Studies, English and Media Studies, History, and Human Geography. Each specialisation includes core coursework (18 UOC) and a dedicated independent research project (30 UOC).

What are the fees for the Bachelor of Arts (Honours) at UNSW Canberra?

The 2026 indicative first year full fee and the indicative full fee to complete the degree are both $12,500. This is the student contribution amount for a Commonwealth Supported Place, which is an indication only based on a standard full-time load of 48 credit points. Actual fees depend on the courses selected and the calendar year of enrolment.

Can the Bachelor of Arts (Honours) lead to further postgraduate study?

Yes. The Honours program provides a direct pathway to a Master's by Research or PhD, making it ideal for those looking to pursue advanced studies and research careers. Many Honours graduates continue on to postgraduate research, setting them on a pathway to specialised academic roles or senior research positions in their chosen field.

How do I apply for the Bachelor of Arts (Honours) at UNSW Canberra and what are the deadlines?

This degree is for domestic students only. You must complete the application form and submit it along with an academic transcript and other required documents. Application deadlines are 30th November 2025 for Semester 1 and 30th April 2026 for Semester 2. You must also contact and confirm a supervisor from the relevant school at UNSW Canberra and confirm with the School's Honours Coordinator whether there are any additional requirements before your application can be assessed.

What is the program structure of the Bachelor of Arts (Honours)?

The Bachelor of Arts (Honours) is a one-year, full-time program consisting of 48 Units of Credit (UOC). It includes an 18 UOC core coursework component relevant to your chosen specialisation and a 30 UOC independent research project. The program is designed to connect undergraduate studies with supervised independent research, providing a foundation for further study or a research career.

Application

How to Apply

Three simple steps to get enrolled

Step 01

Enquire

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Step 02

Submit Documents

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Step 03

Get Enrolled

Receive your offer letter and confirm your enrolment. Welcome to the course!

Processing time: Offer letter issued within approximately 1 business days.

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Bachelor of Arts (Honours)

About This Course

Entry Requirements

Where this takes you

Accreditation & Migration

Units of Competency

Frequently Asked Questions

How to Apply

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