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UQ was ranked 51st in the world for arts and humanities in the 2017 QS World University Rankings by Faculty. We also have one of the largest programs in Australia – nearly 13,000 of our students are studying an arts major. That's about 35 per cent of all UQ students.
Student organisations like Underground Productions, Queensland University Musical Society, and the many cultural clubs provide plenty of opportunities for you to network, socialise and build relationships outside of the classroom.
Depending on your major, internships and short-term industry placements may be available. These opportunities foster the development of skills and competencies in a work situation.
We strongly encourage our students to spend time abroad with one of our international partner universities to diversify their knowledge and experience. Partner universities include the University of Wisconsin, University College London, and the National University of Singapore.
There are 47 majors available in the Diploma in Arts.
View all majors for this programGraduates of the Diploma in Arts have well-developed knowledge in their chosen major (or minors) and abilities for research, critical thinking and problem solving.
Graduates are employed in a diverse range of fields and professions. Depending on your specialisation, your studies may lead to career opportunities including but not limited to:
Alternatively, you may choose to progress to honours, which further enhances your career prospects. Many employers, such as those in the public and finance sectors, require you to hold an honours degree.
Bachelor's degree or equivalent in any field.
The courses offered in the Diploma in Arts are set out in the course list. Each course is allocated a certain number of units (#).
Courses Program RulesThe Program Rules explain what is required to complete the Diploma in Arts. These requirements include the total number of units you need to complete in order to graduate.
Program RulesTo have your degree conferred, you also need to comply with UQ’s policies and rules.
The table below shows the most recent student intake in the Diploma in Arts in Semester 1, 2018:
| Applicant background | Number of students | Percentage of all students |
|---|---|---|
| (A) Higher education study | 33 | 100% |
| (B) Vocational Education and Training (VET) study | N/A | N/A |
| (C) Work and life experience | N/A | N/A |
| (D) Recent secondary education: | ||
| N/A | N/A |
| N/A | N/A |
| N/A | N/A |
| International students | 0 | 0% |
| Total | 33 | 100% |
Student profiles show your likely peer group in a program. They are not the basis for admission to a program.
If you're a current student who has already commenced study at UQ, please see Programs and Courses for full information about your program structure, rules and requirements.
The following is a list of majors and minors available in the Diploma in Arts.
When you graduate, any majors, dual majors and extended majors you have completed will be listed on your degree certificate. Minors are only listed on academic transcripts.
This major will help you appreciate the unique way that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people see the world. You’ll gain a deep understanding of Indigenous perspectives on everyday life in Australia today and on major social, economic and political events in Australia's history. You'll also learn from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander teachers and non-ATSI teachers who work closely with Indigenous communities. Many students in the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies major combine their studies with other fields like archaeology, anthropology, education, medicine, health sciences and social work.
Graduates of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies major typically work in a broad range of roles with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, or in roles that require knowledge and appreciation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture. They usually work in areas like education, community development, public health, government and advocacy.
Ancient cultures found around the Mediterranean paved the way for Western civilisation. Given that the achievements of these ancient cultures still influence ideas and institutions today, the Ancient History major is a good way of understanding the modern world. In the Ancient History major you'll learn about the history, literature, religion, philosophy, social customs, art and architecture of ancient peoples like the Egyptians, Persians, Greeks and Romans. Courses span the Bronze Age to Late Antiquity and focus on a number of important individuals, ideas and events, including Alexander the Great, Greek democracy and the rise of Imperial Rome.
Graduates of the Ancient History major typically work in careers that require researching, writing, and presentation skills – particularly with a wide breadth of historical knowledge. These include roles in museums, publishing, media, international agencies, or the public sector.
The Ancient History / History major provides insight into the ancient and modern world. Ancient History will teach you about early Mediterranean cultures, including their art, literature, religion, philosophy and social customs. Courses from the History part of your major cover topics like turning points in world history, Chinese history from 1500 until the present, the modern Middle East, modern South-East Asia and the United States since 1945. Both Ancient History and History teach you how to interrogate the past and better understand the forces that have shaped societies and cultures in the modern world. This major is tailored to meet the teaching prerequisites for education students who want to teach history in high schools.
Graduates of the Ancient History / History major typically work in education, but also pursue careers that require researching, writing, and presentation skills – particularly with a wide breadth of historical knowledge. These include roles in museums, publishing, media, international agencies, or the public sector.
Anthropology is the study of human beings and the societies and cultures they live in. Anthropologists study a diversity of cultures in all their complexity and richness in places that are both unfamiliar and familiar. The aim of anthropology is to address the way cultural traditions continue and change over time, and how we can understand and explain human beliefs and behaviour. Courses in the Anthropology major cover topics like the anthropology of Aboriginal Australia; human religions; the anthropology of the natural world; museum anthropology; and the anthropology of migration, culture and identity. During your studies you'll have access to the Anthropology Museum, which is home to the largest university collection of ethnographic culture materials in Australia.
Graduates of the Anthropology major typically work in government departments, Aboriginal Land Councils and consultancy firms, international development organisations, museums, education, tourism, health and business. They usually work in any role that requires understanding diversity and cultural difference.
Archaeology is the scientific study of the human past. Archaeologists search for and excavate ancient sites and examine artefacts to better understand how different peoples and cultures developed and changed over time. As a student in the Archaeology major, you'll develop your understanding of past human cultures and explore major milestones in the human past. You'll also learn about archaeological methods and techniques, including field survey and excavation, materials analysis, and how to interpret archaeological collections and sites. You'll also have a chance to learn about archaeology in countries like Egypt, Turkey, Australia and the Pacific Islands, and study the relevance of archaeology to fields like forensics and criminal investigations.
Graduates of the Archaeology major develop skills in written communication, problem-solving, critical thinking, scientific methods and interpersonal understanding. They typically work for museums; cultural centres and agencies; law enforcement; government departments; educational and research institutions; and in industries like mining where environmental protection and management are important.
The world we live in is dominated by images and having the ability to read, describe and interpret visual imagery is becoming more and more important. The Art History major will help you to understand the evolving values of visual cultures by using a range of different approaches. You’ll examine objects, paintings, sculptures, films and other creative media across cultures and through time to better understand the evolution of creativity. You'll also develop stronger visual literacy and a broad understanding of art traditions. In your final year, you'll have a chance to undertake placements at the UQ Art Museum and a range of curatorial internship and professional development opportunities in Australia and internationally.
Graduates of the Art History major have a long history of finding employment in private galleries and public art institutions. Graduates have worked as arts writers, curators, education officers, registrars and in various arts administration positions in art galleries, art museums, state ministries and arts councils in Queensland, nationally and internationally.
Learning Chinese opens a window to understanding China's culture and way of life. China is a multiethnic society made up of 56 ethnic groups and has a rich heritage of cultural diversity. Since 2008 especially, China has played an increasingly active and significant role in world culture, economy and politics, and the Chinese language is a key to understanding the redistribution of power in the Asia-Pacific region. There are separate majors for native speakers of Mandarin and other Chinese dialects. You can also undertake specialist courses in literature, culture, translation, business and language teaching.
Graduates of the Chinese major develop competence in spoken (Mandarin) and written Chinese. Many of our students study Chinese alongside courses in business, education, tourism, engineering, information technology, politics, or various other fields.
The Chinese Translation and Interpreting major will teach you the key issues in English to Chinese; Chinese to English; English to Mandarin; and Mandarin to English translation, based on standards set by the National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters (NAATI). As a student in this major, you'll learn about how culture influences the meaning of written and spoken texts, and how to take culture into consideration when translating or interpreting. You'll also learn about key issues in translation and interpreting ethics, and understand the essentials of intercultural communication.
Graduates of the Chinese Translation and Interpreting major have the foundations to build a future career as an interpreter or a translator (you'll need to complete further postgraduate study to fully qualify for professional accreditation with NAATI). Chinese language skills are an advantage for careers in diplomacy, law, education, business, politics, health, education and academia.
If you're curious about the history of Western culture, then you might be interested in learning two of the most important languages from the ancient world. Classical Greek and Latin will provide you with reading and writing skills in two of the oldest languages in the world. These classical languages are not only important for studying the Greco-Roman world, but also for better understanding other European (including English) languages, ideas, cultures and societies. This major is a good fit for anyone who wants to boost their studies in law, history, ancient history, science, literature, art history or languages.
Graduates of the Classical Languages major typically find careers in government, publishing and editing, museums and cultural centres, archives and libraries, media, education or academia.
Criminology draws on sociology, psychology, anthropology and the law to examine the nature of crime and the causes of criminal behaviour. The Criminology major at UQ is distinguished by its focus on crime and public policy, and its strong emphasis on sociological explanations for crime. As a student in the Criminology major, you'll be trained in social research methods and learn how to study crime and its regulation in contemporary society. Elective courses cover a broad range of topics including youth deviance and delinquency, victims of crime, drugs and crime, and the relationship between race, gender, crime and criminal justice.
Graduates of the Criminology major typically find careers in policing, security and intelligence, corrective services, insurance, youth services, and in social policy and research.
Whether you're interested in theatre-making or theatre-going, the Drama major will help you understand the performances you see and the performances you might want to make. The Drama major focuses on theatre through time and across cultures – and UQ is the only uni in Australia to offer this approach. As a student in the Drama major, you'll encounter the entire spectrum of theatre practice, from Antiquity to the present day, and most stops in between. The major includes contemporary performance taking place in Brisbane now, and looks at theatre from Australia and many different countries around the world. Our staff includes not only full-time educators, but also industry professionals and writers with international reputations.
Graduates of the Drama major typically pursue creative roles within the arts sector in areas like performing, directing, playwriting, writing and reviewing. Many of our graduates also work in education, government, arts administration, arts policy, publicity, festivals and events, and marketing.
Economics is the science of decision making. As a student in the Economics major, you'll understand how individuals, communities, companies and governments make choices every day, weighing up the costs and benefits of their decisions. You'll also understand how economics, globalisation, development and sustainability shape the availability of resources in today's societies. Students in the Economics major are well-positioned to play a leading role in the future direction of business, government and society.
Graduates of the Economics major are highly employable across private and public sectors in a large number of agencies, international organisations, consultancy companies, utilities, insurance companies, financial organisations, and banks. The university has a dedicated Student Employability Team for economics students, which includes meetings with coaches to provide assistance with resumes and interview preparation.
The English major combines courses from English literature, media studies, and film and television studies, to give you deeper insight into the English-speaking world and English-language culture. As a student in the English major, you'll begin by studying Introduction to Film and Television Studies and a course on literature. Once you’ve completed these, you can choose to study topics as varied as Gothic literature; new media; Shakespeare; popular culture; film movements and genres; classics of English, American and Australian literature; and the important influences of postcolonial and Black Australian writing. The courses in this major were chosen in consultation with the School of Education to meet the teaching prerequisites for education students who want to teach English or English extension in high schools.
Graduates of the English major typically work in education as school teachers, heads of department, education advisors and student mentors. Other graduates choose to work with non-school-based education providers (such as tutoring companies), government agencies or education advocacy organisations.
As a student in the English Literature major, you'll develop your enjoyment of reading and refine your analytical skills when you look at some of the world's major English-language novels and works. The major begins with compulsory and elective courses in Australian literature, contemporary fiction, and literary traditions. You'll then get to choose from a wide variety of advanced-level courses in areas like literary criticism and critical theory, Australian literature, Jane Austen, the novel, poetry, Shakespeare, modernist literature, and 21st-century literature. UQ offers the biggest range of English literature courses in Queensland and is home to nationally recognised teaching staff. Many students also combine English Literature with the Latin American Studies minor, which teaches a course about Latin American literature.
Graduates of the English Literature major have the ability to read and critique complex written works, communicate their ideas through convincing, fluent arguments, and appreciate and take pleasure in reading. Graduates typically work in education, government and arts administration, arts policy, law, publicity, communications, festivals and events, and marketing.
Migration, mobility, and interconnection increasingly characterize life across the globe, leading to a need to understand social interaction in contact zones. The major in English as an International Language is designed for students of all language backgrounds wishing to deepen their understanding of the ways in which English is used as a global means of communication. Through the study of language use and language change when people of different backgrounds communicate, the major prepares students to engage creatively with living spaces and workplaces characterized by super-diversity.
Film and television were the most important creative forms of the 20th century and drastically reshaped politics, society and our human experience. Film and TV continue to transform society today, as moving images (in lots of different forms) still play a prominent role in personal and public life. The Film and Television major will teach you how to understand and analyse the development of the moving image – from its origins in the 19th century to today. You'll understand how film and TV have shaped our history, influence the present, and how they might shape our future. Introductory courses will teach you how to analyse and better understand the production of film and TV programs, while advanced-level courses cover topics like the history of film and TV (as both major commercial industries and artistic forms), film movements and genres, and different national cinemas. Practical courses include screen writing and digital video production.
Graduates of the Film and Television Studies major typically work in a broad range of roles in areas like education, festivals and events, publicity, marketing, film culture organisations, and screen corporations and film distributors. Graduates also work in arts administration, communications, journalism, writing and blogging, and in various production roles like researcher or location manager. Digital streaming has also presented graduates with a range of opportunities in development, consumer insight, research, content acquisition, design, legal, PR, marketing, data and creative services.
French is still one of the most widely spoken languages in the world today. In this major you'll study both French language and culture. Whether you're interested in the French language because it's one of the major diplomatic languages, or simply because you like how it sounds, you need to understand something about France and French-speaking people. Courses in this major cover language skills and offer knowledge about some of the major historical, cultural, social, literary and philosophical movements in the Francophone world.
Graduates of the French major develop competence in speaking, reading and writing French. Many of our students study French alongside courses in business, education, tourism, politics, international relations, engineering, film and television, law, or various other fields.
Gender Studies is a lively, thought-provoking and very relevant field that brings together ideas about women’s lives, their status around the world, and contradictions found in gender relations and sexualities. If you're interested in topics like women, femininity, masculinity, sexuality, feminism and related areas – Gender Studies is for you. In the Gender Studies minor, you'll examine questions around gender, both in Australia and internationally. Introductory courses cover key concepts and approaches in Gender Studies, as well as the effects of globalisation on women around the world. Electives cover topics like gender and sexuality; gender, race and ethnicity; cross-cultural research; and feminist philosophy.
Graduates of the Gender Studies minor have the opportunity to work in both the public and private sectors in roles that advance social justice and the status of women and girls around the world. Graduates can work in politics, public policy, research, or analysis; or in areas like international development, education advocacy, or social work. There are also opportunities available in women's services, media, and equity and diversity roles in HR, business and the private sector.
Geography has never been more relevant or important to society and our future. Geographers are actively involved in addressing important issues like climate change and population growth by studying the patterns and processes of natural and human environments and activities. As a student in the Geography major, you'll begin by studying courses about the relationship between natural systems (climate, landscape, biota) and social systems (human populations, economic activity, society and culture). You also have the option of studying geographical information and data analysis. More advanced-level courses will teach you about the geography of Australia and a huge range of topics, including resource management, human activities and migration, meteorology, climate change and environmental management, and the science and technology of geographical information systems. In total there are more than 30 electives to choose from.
Graduates of the Geography major typically work in a broad range of roles in areas like natural resource management (including coastal, river and catchment systems); national parks and wildlife conservation; ecotourism; planning the delivery of services (e.g. health or infrastructure); environmental consultancy; environmental monitoring and pollution control; transport; and planning.
The German-speaking countries lie at the heart of Europe, and Germany has been a major economic and political powerhouse since the late 1950s. Since the Global Financial Crisis of 2008, Germany has also become increasingly important in international affairs, including the mass migration of people from conflict regions in the Middle East and Africa, and the management of European debt crises. The German major offers study in German language, history and culture, including an overview of significant events, trends, places and people in contemporary German-speaking countries.
Graduates of the German major develop competence in speaking, reading and writing German. Many of our students study German alongside courses in business, education, tourism, politics, international relations, engineering, law, commerce, or various other fields.
Knowledge of history goes hand-in-hand with understanding the present and shaping our expectations for the future. As a student in the History major, you'll develop important professional skills including the ability to initiate an original inquiry, conduct archival research, analyse documents and interpret evidence. Courses in the History major cover topics including turning points in world history, Chinese history from 1500 until the present, the modern Middle East, modern South-East Asia and the United States since 1945.
Graduates of the History major typically work in careers that require researching, writing, and presentation skills – particularly with a wide breadth of historical knowledge. These include roles in museums, publishing, media, international agencies, libraries, archives, education, or the public sector.
Bahasa Indonesia is the official language of Indonesia, the fourth most populous and largest Muslim majority country in the world. In the Federal Government's 2012 White Paper on "Australia in the Asian Century", Indonesian was also identified as one of the crucial language skills needed for future Australian growth, prosperity and regional development. The Indonesian major covers Indonesian history, politics, culture and society. Language courses are available for beginning and intermediate students.
Graduates of the Indonesian major develop competence in speaking, reading and writing Indonesian. Many of our students study Indonesian alongside courses in business, education, tourism, politics, international relations, law, mining, or various other fields.
The International Relations major equips you with the necessary theoretical and practical tools to analyse and evaluate events and issues in world politics and how they can be understood both domestically and internationally. Courses are designed to introduce you to the forces shaping the world around you and to help you make sense of current events in their proper analytical, historical and global contexts. You can also choose from courses about foreign policy, terrorism and insurgency, human rights, and foreign policies of the great powers. In an era of unprecedented social and political upheaval, the International Relations major has never been more relevant.
Graduates of the International Relations major typically pursue challenging and rewarding careers in a diverse range of organisations and industries, both locally and around the world. Graduates have found work as policy advisors, trade advisors, diplomats, consular attachés, humanitarian affairs advisors, international advocates in federal departments (including DFAT, and Defence), state agencies concerned with trade and economic development, international organisations like the United Nations and the World Bank, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and private sector companies with interests in international business.
Japanese is a key world language and is used to facilitate business, research and government activity. As a student in the Japanese major, you'll broaden the scope of your personal, social and professional networks when you learn about Japanese language and culture. The major includes speaking and writing courses from beginner to advanced levels, and courses that teach students about Japanese culture, including the different levels of politeness and contextually appropriate expressions that are used in Japanese language and society. More than 20 exchange programs with Japanese universities are available.
Graduates of the Japanese major develop competence in speaking, reading and writing Japanese. Many of our students study Japanese alongside courses in business, education, tourism, politics, international relations, engineering, law, commerce, or various other fields.
The Journalism and Mass Communication major will teach you about the key ideas in global journalism, mass communication and digital media. It provides knowledge that is important for careers in journalism, media and related professions like PR, marketing, digital content, and communications, which need people who understand the changing media landscape. Courses cover the study of journalism, other forms of public communication, and the broader media environment. More advanced-level courses teach research skills and you can choose from electives like social media and journalism, the relationship between the media and society, or a communications research project. If you want to develop specific skills in writing, creating content, or media production, you should also enrol in the Bachelor of Communication or the Bachelor of Journalism.
Graduates of the Journalism and Mass Communication major work in practically every industry, sector and field you can think of, from the social (arts, business, government, media, law and social sciences) to the technical (engineering, information technology, sciences). They typically work in journalism, marketing, PR or communications, or in management or business roles, where their knowledge of the media is valued.
As a student in the Korean major, you'll understand different ways of thinking about and appreciating Korea's diverse history and rich cultural traditions. The major includes speaking and writing courses from beginner to advanced levels, and courses that teach students about Korean culture, including contemporary Korean films, TV dramas, Internet culture and pop songs. Courses also look at honorifics in Korean language and variations in South and North Korean expressions.
Graduates of the Korean major develop competence in speaking, reading and writing Korean. Many of our students study Korean alongside courses in business, education, tourism, politics, film and television, international relations, engineering, law, commerce, or various other fields.
The Latin American Studies minor provides a broad introduction to the factors that shape the diverse cultures of Latin America, including the Indigenous peoples of the continent, the effects of European conquistadors and colonisers, the ideals of independence, and the contemporary continental order under the influence of the US. Courses also cover Latin American culture (particularly in the 20th century), contemporary Latin American literature, and some of the major aspects of Latin American thought and debates. The aim of this minor is to prepare students for further study in the area of Latin American Studies, or to provide students with insight into some of the diversity and richness on the South American continent. Students sometimes choose to combine their studies with the Spanish major, or the English Literature major.
Graduates of the Latin American Studies minor are prepared for international careers or any career that requires cross-cultural understanding with Latin America. These include roles in government, diplomacy, international relations, international development, business, finance, education, tourism and hospitality, and non-government organisations.
Linguistics is the study of human language as a feature of human knowledge and social organisation. Despite the diversity that exists in languages around the world, there are also many features that languages have in common. Linguists are interested in discovering the universal features of human languages, as well as accounting for the differences across the world's languages. Courses in the Linguistics major examine the sounds of language (phonetics and phonology), words (morphology), sentences (syntax), and meaning (semantics), and the complex interactions between them. As a student in the Linguistics major, you'll also get to choose from courses about the way languages change across time; how different regional, social or occupational language types develop; and how language is used.
Graduates with a Linguistics major typically work in a huge variety of careers in areas as diverse as engineering and artificial intelligence (designing linguistics algorithms), software engineering (speech recognition), health sciences, education, law and publishing. Many students who study Linguistics also progress to postgraduate courses in speech pathology studies; writing, editing and publishing; audiology; laws (graduate entry); or translating and interpreting.
Mathematics is one of the oldest fields of study and plays an important role in a large number of disciplines and professions. Introductory courses for the Mathematics major cover essential topics in calculus and linear algebra; and multivariate calculus and ordinary differential equations. In higher-level courses, you'll learn about topics including mathematical analysis and advanced calculus and linear algebra, and get to choose from elective courses about topics like probability and statistics, financial mathematics, bifurcation and chaos, and mathematical biology. The Mathematics major offers more than 20 different courses, so you can choose topics based on your interests and career goals.
Graduates with qualifications in mathematics are respected for their excellent quantitative and problem-solving abilities and have opportunities to work in a large number of roles across the public and private sectors. Many mathematics graduates study advanced degrees and go on to research positions at universities, agencies like the CSIRO or the Defence Science and Technology Organisation, and private companies. There are also opportunities in the commercial world and there has been a particular increase in the number of mathematicians employed in banking, finance, insurance and risk-management.
The Media and Digital Cultures major offers a distinctive critical engagement with the role of media in cultural life and the exercise of power. The major places particular emphasis on cultural practices characterised by the ubiquity of digital media technologies in everyday life. Courses cover important forms of media like television and news, the emergence of digital media industries and technologies, and the cultural formations characteristic of media-dense digital societies.
Music is a powerful and evocative art form. As a student in the Music major you'll develop knowledge about the the many social and historical meanings of music. You'll also better appreciate its written and aural complexities, and approach the study of Western music in a challenging and engaging way. Courses include critical perspectives on and historical knowledge about music, along with written and aural skills. In the extended major you'll have a choice of two streams: Musicology (the scholarly study of music) and Professional (which is designed for students who are interested in music education).
Graduates of the Music major typically pursue careers in areas including education, festivals and events, arts administration, publishing, media and writing, as well as roles in marketing, publicity and PR for various music-focused organisations. Other graduates also pursue careers as professional musicians.
Music psychology examines how people think, feel and behave in relation to music. It helps you to understand music from diverse perspectives, including the scientific study of the human mind, brain and behaviour, emotion, learning and development, and social interaction, through to the everyday uses and therapeutic applications of music. You will learn how music and related psychological processes operate in larger socio-cultural contexts, and experience connections with the world beyond the University. You will develop critical thinking, problem solving, and communication skills through the courses that transfer usefully to other domains and contexts. Pathways for graduates include practical application of knowledge and skills in music practice, educational, therapeutic and organisational contexts, and postgraduate study in allied music psychology fields.
The Peace and Conflict Studies major examines issues including international conflict, peacekeeping, Indigenous politics, ethics and justice, and development politics. The aim of this major is to provide you with an understanding of the causes of political conflict and the possibilities of finding peaceful solutions to them. Courses will develop your capacity to analyse social and political situations, and to engage in, and evaluate, alternative courses of action. Students in the Peace and Conflict major sometimes combine their studies with International Relations, Political Science, or Public Policy to prepare for careers in government.
Graduates of the Peace and Conflict major typically work in a variety of roles in both the public and private sectors. These include roles in diplomacy and foreign affairs; defence and intelligence; government and policy; international development; humanitarian services; community services; and consulting.
Philosophy is a challenging and sometimes controversial discipline that explores important questions about reality, value, morals and political ideas. It spans a range of topics in areas including science, history, art and the humanities. Philosophers are less concerned with "right" or "wrong" answers – instead they think deeply about a range of topics and develop well-constructed, informed arguments to address particular questions. The Philosophy major, then, is less about teaching you WHAT to think and more with HOW to think. The Philosophy major emphasises the key role that critical thinking plays in a healthy society and will equip you to participate more fully in leadership roles in the broader community. The Philosophy major is particularly useful for anyone studying politics, law, public policy, business or international relations – or any field where you'll be expected to analyse complex social phenomena and make original arguments, judgements, or determine a course of action.
Graduates of the Philosophy major typically work in a range of careers in areas including government, ethics, law, public policy, social science, education, arts and culture, and business. Philosophers with an interest in ethics sometimes also work in the fields of science, technology, health and medicine and provide input into areas like the ethics of emerging technologies, particularly those that involve cloning, artificial intelligence or genetic engineering.
The Political Science major involves the study of political structures, processes and policies in Australia and other societies. It examines contemporary ideas, ideologies and theories that shape political decision-making and the various approaches to co-operation and conflict resolution within the international system. As a student in the Political Science major, you'll develop knowledge about different aspects of Political Science and how to integrate them, so you can better understand key political processes. You'll also be taught how to engage with and address pressing local and global issues. Students in the Political Science major sometimes combine their studies with International Relations, Peace and Conflict Studies, or Public Policy to prepare for careers in government.
Graduates of the Political Science major typically work in a variety of roles in both the public and private sectors. These include roles in diplomacy and foreign affairs; defence and intelligence; government and policy; international development; humanitarian services; community services; and consulting. Graduates also work in a range of careers anywhere that places a premium on skills like critical analysis, preparing papers in line with the protocols and conventions of the discipline, and communication.
Popular music has the power to uplift, stimulate, comfort, motivate and communicate. Its attractiveness lies in its ubiquity, openness and lack of convention. It helps you to understand your own response to music and the society in which you live. The courses help you express yourself in writing and in music production and equip you for changing music making environments by developing practical musical making skills and technical knowledge with mobile devices, digital audio workstations, and recording studio technologies.
Professional Pathways: Humanity and Society is a future-facing minor designed to complement, utilise and provide communication between students' humanities, arts and social sciences course choices. It will prepare students for the many potential professional pathways that await them upon graduation, and for a successful career in the culturally, politically and digitally diverse communities. Throughout the program, students will develop skills such as intellectual agility, textual and digital literacy, creative and critical thinking, collaborative and communication techniques, all of which will make them competitive in the future job market. Furthermore, this diverse minor will facilitate smooth and productive transitions between the many disciplinary languages and methodologies within the BA, and help students develop, understand and communicate their unique professional profile.
You will be introduced to professional writing and digital communication skills including multi-media story-telling and production, media design, basic public relations writing, and editing and publishing practices. The course of study will provide you with an introductory set of skills that you can use in a contemporary workplace or in a career where clear writing and creative communication in print or digital modes are required.
This single major (like the single major in Journalism and Mass Communication) is intended as a practice-driven suite with appeal to domestic and international students considering the Bachelor of Arts at the University of Queensland. This major may particularly appeal to domestic or international BA students as a ¿second¿ or ancillary major¿providing a focus on vocational skills¿with which they might augment their curiosity-driven studies in other areas.
Psychology is the scientific study of how people behave, think, and feel. It is a large discipline that covers topics like brain function, memory, conscious experience, lifespan development and social behaviour, as well as the full spectrum of functional and dysfunctional behaviour. As a student in the Psychology major, you'll have more than 30 courses to choose from. Introductory courses cover topics like physiological and cognitive psychology; clinical, developmental and social psychology; and research methods. Higher-level courses cover areas like neuroscience; social and organisational psychology; health psychology; and parenting and family psychology. During your studies you'll learn how to apply scientific methods to psychological phenomena, both in the classroom and in the broader world.
Graduates of the Psychology major must pursue further study if they want to register as a provisional psychologist with the Psychology Board of Australia. You can learn more about requirements for registration as a psychologist in Australia from the Psychology Board of Australia. Many graduates from the Psychology major choose to undertake broader careers, and use their knowledge and skills in industries and sectors including: human resources; mental health services; youth and child support work; relationship counselling; residential care work; family and social services; public and private sector management; marketing, advertising and market research; disability support services and aged care; and juvenile justice and corrective services.
Are you curious about the political, institutional, economic, social and ideological forces that inform and shape Australian governance and public policy? The Public Policy major will help you understand various issues and controversies within modern governance – particularly those that relate to institutions and processes of public policy. Compulsory and elective courses in the Public Policy major cover a broad range of areas including Australian politics, Indigenous politics and policy, political communication, the politics of global development, and democracy. You'll also learn about the principles and methods of policy analysis, and develop your understanding about how governments deal with various problems and issues facing society. In your final year, you can also choose to complete an internship with institutions like the Australian Federal Parliament, Queensland Parliament, or a number of national and international government and non-government agencies. Students in the Public Policy major sometimes combine their studies with International Relations, Peace and Conflict Studies, or Political Science to prepare for careers in government.
Graduates of the Public Policy major have superior analytical abilities for successful policymaking and typically pursue advisory careers within the public, private and community sectors. Specific roles include policy advisor, policy maker, lobbyist, community development manager, and business liaison officer.
With almost 200 million native speakers in Europe and Asia, Russian is truly an international language and a gateway to one of the world's great cultures. The Russian major combines a comprehensive language acquisition program with studies in many other aspects of the Russian world. You'll learn about how Russian society has changed over centuries and develop an appreciation of Russian culture, including literature, drama and film. This will not only give you insight into the broader Russian world, but also encourage you to look beyond the stereotypes that often characterise our ideas of other nations.
Graduates of the Russian major develop competence in speaking, reading and writing Russian. Many of our students study Russian alongside courses in business, education, tourism, politics, international relations, engineering, law, commerce, or various other fields.
Sociology will teach you how to look at the world in new ways. Sociologists are interested in every aspect of human social life and human communities, and how we are shaped by forces like gender, sexuality, education, socio-economic status, religion, race and ethnicity. They critically analyse the causes and consequences of social problems, and provide arguments about possible reasons for inequality – and how to address them. As a student in the Sociology major, you'll study key concepts and perspectives in sociology, along with research methods. At more advanced levels, you'll get to choose from a range of sociology electives, including sociology of the environment, the relationship between media and culture, sociology of sport, and sociology of the city. Throughout the major, you'll learn how to analyse social problems and issues, and make evidence-based findings about some of the biggest issues of our time. The Sociology major is helpful for anyone who might be interested in a career in health, law, social work, government, teaching or business – or any field that involves understanding a changing, globalised world and finding solutions to complex social problems.
Graduates of the Sociology major typically work in a variety of roles in the public and private sectors, including as policy analysts, researchers, policy advisors, project managers, health services managers, human services consultants, social workers and lobbyists. They also work in the fields of justice and law enforcement, education, business and health.
Spanish is the first language of more than 400 million people worldwide, and the second language of millions more in Europe, the United States, Brazil, Asia and North Africa. Spanish is also an official language in major international bodies like the United Nations and World Bank. The Spanish major includes language courses from beginner to intermediate levels, as well as courses about Latin American thinking, European film, and the broader Spanish-speaking world. Being fluent in a world language like Spanish will give you highly employable communication skills. Students in the Spanish major sometimes also undertake the Latin American Studies minor.
Graduates of the Spanish major develop competence in speaking, reading and writing Spanish. Many of our students study Spanish alongside courses in business, education, tourism, politics, international relations, engineering, law, commerce, or various other fields.
Are you passionate about sports and activity? Have you ever wondered if sport contributes anything to Australian society other than health and fitness? The Sports Studies major might be for you. The Sports Studies major takes a look at sport, activity and leisure from sociological, historical, economic and psychological perspectives. As a student in the Sports Studies major you'll develop a "big picture" understanding of the role and importance of sport, including how different social factors influence exercise motivation and participation; the history of sport; and the relationship between sport and health. The major also offers a range of courses about the human body and its nervous, sensory and muscular systems, which are taught through the School of Human Movement and Nutrition Sciences.
Graduates of the Sports Studies major typically undertake a diverse range of roles in social policy, journalism, management, PR and marketing, public health, education, and psychology. Many graduates find leadership positions with state and national sporting teams, the media, and international sporting organisations.
The Studies in Australian Culture minor gives you a chance to learn about the distinctiveness of Australian culture, from Aboriginal and Colonial Australia to the "swinging sixties", the "nervous 1990s" and present day. You'll learn about the images, identities and politics of Australian culture and the challenges of reconciliation, youth culture, globalisation, and race and refugee issues. Studies in Australian Culture brings together key courses that let you focus on different dimensions of Australian culture, including the visual arts and Indigenous art, literature, drama, cinema, television, and other forms of popular culture. The Studies in Australian Culture minor is helpful to anyone who might be interested in a career in government, business, marketing, the arts – or any field that requires understanding Australia's place in the world and Australia's unique cultural identity.
Graduates of the Studies in Australian Culture minor have a strong appreciation of Australian culture and society. Our graduates typically work in both the public and private sectors in areas including tourism and hospitality, business and enterprise, politics, diplomacy, culture and the arts. They also work in various advocacy and marketing roles, where they use their knowledge of Australian culture to promote Australia as a destination for investment, trade and innovation.
In almost every culture, people have wrestled with questions about human existence through religious ideas. People today still look to religion for answers to questions about meaning, ethics and bigger life-questions. Studies in Religion is about reflecting on and understanding religious traditions, questions and values, and the Studies in Religion major offers a critical, multi-disciplinary approach to a range of faiths and spiritual experiences. Compulsory and elective courses cover major faiths like Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam and Christianity, and use ideas from historians, philosophers, psychologists, sociologists and linguists. UQ's Studies in Religion discipline is the largest university religious studies unit in Australia.
Understanding religions and different religious practices is becoming increasingly important to global business, trade, diplomacy, development and tourism – as well as foreign affairs and government activities. Graduates of the Studies in Religion major also typically work in areas including education and academia, health and social welfare, law and justice, and broadcasting, where they use their cross-cultural understanding to communicate with others.
There's a knack to producing writing worth reading, and that's what this major is about. As a student in the Writing major, you'll develop a fundamental and substantial understanding of how language works at the level of words, sentences, paragraphs and documents. You'll also learn strategies for designing, structuring, writing, and revising on paper and online. Whether you’re aiming to be a creative or a corporate writer – or simply a better writer – the Writing major will teach you how to produce compelling content for your audience in a variety of fiction and non-fiction forms.
Writing skills are in demand in practically every industry, sector and field you can think of. Graduates of the Writing major have found work as professional journalists, teachers, editors, ghost-writers, publishers, science communicators, copywriters, playwrights, corporate communicators, public relations managers, travel writers, arts reviewers, bloggers, columnists, critics, feature writers, fiction writers, poets, publishing coordinators, screen writers, speech writers, and digital content developers.
You should refer to the Program Rules for more information. Full definitions of majors and minors are available in the Policies and Procedures Library.
Domestic places in the Diploma in Arts are Commonwealth Supported. This means the cost of your education is shared between you and the Australian Government.
Instead of tuition fees, Commonwealth Supported students pay what are called student contribution amounts.
HECS-HELP is an Australian Government loan scheme to assist eligible students with the cost of their student contribution amounts.
Find out more about HECS-HELP.
The Australian Government offers a number of income-support payments to eligible Australian university students. For more information, visit the Centrelink website.
The "indicative annual fee" is the approximate cost of enrolling in a Commonwealth supported place (CSP) in the Diploma in Arts for the 2019 academic year. It is calculated based on a standard full-time study load.
A standard full-time study load is 16 units over two semesters. Actual fees (student contribution amounts) will vary according to your choice of courses and their unit value.
The Australian Government indexes student contributions each year.
Visit Student contributions and tuition fees for more information.
The University offers more than 200 scholarships for prospective students and more than 350 scholarships and prizes for current students.
Scholarships cover the full range of academic disciplines and are open to domestic students and international students.
Many scholarships have specific eligibility criteria. More information, including information about how to apply, is available on the Scholarships website.
All domestic student applications for the Diploma in Arts need to be lodged through the Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre (QTAC).
The QTAC code for the Diploma in Arts is 707121. You'll need this when applying.
Find out more about applying for postgraduate coursework study.
Apply now to QTACThere are a number of dates and deadlines you need to meet when applying for university. Many of these dates are managed by organisations that are independent of UQ.
A good resource is the QTAC website, which has information about the application process and closing dates. Note: what QTAC calls a "course” we call a "program".
A full list of dates relevant to UQ students is available on the Student Matters Calendar.
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