Course overview
Unlock your potential with a Deakin Bachelor of Arts degree: one in four Deakin arts graduates hold leadership or managerial roles and one in 10 are chief executives or managing directors. Fuel your creativity and launch a career with purpose, adaptability and global reach.
Be empowered to explore a diverse range of over 30 study areas in a way that suits you – from Indigenous studies and digital cultures to history, media studies, education and more. Personalise your degree with topics you care about to build a career you will love. As AI, automation and global change reshape careers, Deakin’s Bachelor of Arts prepares students to navigate uncertainty with enduring skills in communication, creativity, collaboration and critical thinking. It’s why two-thirds of Australia’s workforce have humanities and social sciences degrees, as do two in three CEOs of ASX200 listed companies^.
^The Dassh report HASS and the Future Workforce – DASSH
Key dates
Direct applications to Deakin for Trimester 3 2026 close 18 October 2026
Direct applications to Deakin for Trimester 1 2027 close 7 February 2027
Timely VTAC entry closes 28 September 2026 at 5pm. View other VTAC dates
Current Deakin students
To access your official course details for the year you started your degree, please visit the handbook
- Award granted
- Bachelor of Arts
- Year
2027 course information
- VTAC code
Arts: 1400311241 - Regional Access Scheme - Waurn Ponds (Geelong), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Arts: 1400314101 - Waurn Ponds (Geelong), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Arts: 1400514101 - Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Arts: 1400614101 - Online, Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)Arts (Criminology major): 1400311911 - Waurn Ponds (Geelong), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Arts (Criminology major): 1400511911 - Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Arts (Criminology major): 1400611911 - Online, Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Arts (Education major): 1400511951 - Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Arts (Education major): 1400611951 – Online, Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Arts (English - Children’s Literature major): 1400311941 - Waurn Ponds (Geelong), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Arts (English - Children’s Literature major): 1400511941 - Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Arts (English - Children’s Literature major): 1400611941 – Online, Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Arts (English – Creative Writing major): 1400311931 - Waurn Ponds (Geelong), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Arts (English - Creative Writing major): 1400511931 - Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Arts (English - Creative Writing major): 1400611931 – Online, Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Arts (English – Literature major): 1400311921 - Waurn Ponds (Geelong), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Arts (English - Literature major): 1400511921 - Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Arts (English - Literature major): 1400611921 – Online, Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Arts (Film and Television Studies major): 1400512151- Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Arts (Film and Television Studies major): 1400612151 - Online, Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Arts (History major): 1400311871 - Waurn Ponds (Geelong), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Arts (History major): 1400511871 - Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Arts (History major): 1400611871 - Online, Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Arts (Indigenous Studies major): 1400612161 - Online, Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Arts (Media and Communication major): 1400311971 - Waurn Ponds (Geelong), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Arts (Media and Communication major): 1400511971 - Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Arts (Media and Communication major): 1400611971 – Online, Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Arts (Philosophy major): 1400311891 - Waurn Ponds (Geelong), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Arts (Philosophy major): 1400511891 - Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Arts (Philosophy major): 1400611891 – Online, Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Arts (Politics and Policy Studies major): 1400311881 - Waurn Ponds (Geelong), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Arts (Politics and Policy Studies major): 1400511881 - Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Arts (Politics and Policy Studies major): 1400611881 – Online, Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Arts (Sociology major): 1400311901 - Waurn Ponds (Geelong), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Arts (Sociology major): 1400511901 - Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Arts (Sociology major): 1400611901 - Online, Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Arts (Visual Communication Design major): 1400311961 - Waurn Ponds (Geelong), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Arts (Visual Communication Design major): 1400511961 - Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Arts (Visual Communication Design major): 1400611961 - Online, Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)- Deakin code
- A310
- CRICOS code?Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students
- 109270F Burwood (Melbourne), Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
- Level
- Undergraduate
- Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition
The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 7
See where an arts degree can take you
New career insights from nearly 10,000 Deakin Bachelor of Arts graduates show how an arts degree can lead to leadership roles, global opportunities and meaningful careers.
Course structure
To complete the Bachelor of Arts you must pass 24 credit points. This includes:
- DAI001 Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin (0-credit-point compulsory unit) in your 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:
- 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.
Most units are equal to one credit point. As a full-time student you will study four credit points per trimester and usually undertake two trimesters per year.
Students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements.
Compulsory 0-credit point module
To be completed in the first trimester of study:
Employability sequence
Plus 1 credit point from:
Plus 1 credit point from:
Intakes by location
The availability of a course varies across locations and intakes. This means that a course offered in Trimester 1 may not be offered in the same location for Trimester 2 or 3. Check each intake for up-to-date information on when and where you can commence your studies.
- Start date: March
- Available at:
- Burwood (Melbourne)
- Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
- Online
- Start date: July
- Available at:
- Burwood (Melbourne)
- Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
- Online
- Start date: November
- Available at:
- Burwood (Melbourne)
- Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
- Online
Deakin splits the academic year into three terms, known as trimesters. Most students usually undertake two trimesters each year (March-June, July-November).
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students can apply directly through the NIKERI Institute.
You may be able to study available units in the optional third trimester to fast-track your degree, however your course duration may be extended if there are delays in meeting course requirements, such as completing a placement.
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.
Participation requirements
Reasonable adjustments to participation and other course requirements will be made for students with a disability. More information available at Disability support services.
More skills, more careers
Earn two degrees, faster, at the #1 Victorian university for graduate employment. With a double degree, you can combine an arts degree with information technology, laws, science, international relations, teaching , business, commerce or health sciences. Save time, reduce costs and unlock more career opportunities.
Entry requirements
Selection is based on a holistic consideration of your academic merit, work experience, likelihood of success, availability of places, participation requirements, regulatory requirements, and individual circumstances. You will need to meet the minimum academic and English language proficiency requirements to be considered for selection, but this does not guarantee admission.
A combination of qualifications and experience may be deemed equivalent to minimum academic requirements.
If you don't meet the academic entry requirements as outlined in the tabs below, or haven't completed Year 12, or don't hold any relevant qualifications, the STAT (Skills for Tertiary Admissions Test) Multiple Choice (MC) may be an option for you to meet course entry requirements.
Academic requirements
If you’re currently studying Year 12, or completed Year 12 in the last two years, you will need to meet all the following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:
Year 12 prerequisite subjects
- Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English EAL (English as an Additional Language) or at least 20 in English other than EAL
ATAR
- Senior Secondary Certificate of Education with an unadjusted ATAR of at least 50 or equivalent
If you have undertaken higher education studies after secondary schooling, you will need to meet all the following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:
- successful completion of at least two bachelor level or above units (AQF Level 7 or equivalent)
If you have undertaken any Vocational Education and Training (VET) study after secondary school, you will need to meet at least one of following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:
- completion of a certificate IV or higher in a related discipline
- completion of a diploma or higher in any discipline
- at least 50% completion of a diploma or higher in a related discipline
If you finished Year 12 more than three years ago, or did not finish Year 12, and have not undertaken any further study, you may be considered for admission to this degree based on your work, volunteer and/or life experience.
Submit a personal statement outlining your motivation to study, previous education and employment history, and how this course can assist your career aspirations or progression. Think of it as a job application cover letter – it should be relevant and demonstrate your commitment and interest in this course or study area.
To meet the English language proficiency requirements of this course, you will need to demonstrate at least one of the following:
- Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) English Units 3 and 4: Study score of 25 in English as an Additional Language (EAL) or 20 in any other English
- IELTS overall score of 6.0 (with no band score less than 6.0) or equivalent
- other evidence of English language proficiency (learn more about other ways to satisfy the requirements)
Access and equity
Equity schemes and scholarships, formerly known as Special Entry Access Schemes (SEAS), enable Deakin to consider any disadvantaged circumstances you may have experienced and how these have impacted your studies. Equity schemes help us identify whether you are from an under-represented group when making selection decisions for certain courses. It's important to note that participation in an equity scheme does not exempt you from meeting the standard course entry requirements. Learn more about Deakin's equity schemes and scholarships.
Subject adjustments
A study score of 30 in Art Creative Practice, Dance, Drama, any English, any Humanities, any LOTE, Media, Creative and Digital Media (VCE VET) I, any Music, Art Making and Exhibiting, Theatre Studies or Visual Communication Design equals 2 aggregate points per study. Overall Maximum of 12 points.
Subject adjustment points are applied to the aggregate, not the ATAR. Use the subject adjustment tool to estimate your course selection rank.
Learn more about Deakin courses and how we compare to other universities when it comes to the quality of our teaching and learning. We're also committed to admissions transparency. Read about our first intake of 2026 students (PDF, 879KB) – their average ATARs, whether they had any previous higher education experience and more.
Not sure if you can get into Deakin? Discover the different entry pathways we offer and study options available to you, no matter your ATAR or education history.
Recognition of prior learning
If you have completed previous studies which you believe may reduce the number of units you have to complete at Deakin, indicate in the appropriate section on your application that you wish to be considered for credit transfer. You will need to provide a certified copy of your previous course details so your credit can be determined. If you are eligible, your offer letter will then contain information about your credit transfer.
Your credit transfer is formally approved prior to your enrolment at Deakin during the Enrolment and Orientation Program. You must bring original documents relating to your previous study so that this approval can occur.
You can also refer to the recognition of prior learning (RPL) system which outlines the credit that may be granted towards a Deakin University degree.
The standout was Deakin’s Study Abroad Program. The chance to live and learn overseas sparked a long-term drive to explore international opportunities and build a global career.
Bachelor of Commerce/Bachelor of Arts graduate and Director, Commercial Operations for e& United Arab Emirates
Fees and scholarships
Fee information
Estimated tuition fee - (CSP) ?Enrolling in a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) means the Australian Government pays part of your course fees directly to Deakin, and you pay a 'student contribution'.
$15,971 for 1 yr full-time - Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
Learn more about fees.
The estimated tuition (student contribution) fee above is based on a typical first-year full-time enrolment of 8 credit points and is provided as a guide only. Your student contribution is determined by the units you enrol in and will vary depending on the units you choose, your study load, the course duration, and any approved recognition of prior learning. You may also be eligible for a HECS-HELP loan to defer payment of all or part of your student contribution.
Check your eligibility or learn more about CSP or HECS-HELP.
Scholarship options
We want to help you excel at Deakin. Our scholarships recognise your dedication and achievements, providing financial support that can ease the cost of living and studying. With less pressure, you’ll have more freedom to focus on what matters most – your education and future success.
Apply now
Apply through VTAC
Applications for Trimester 1, 2027 are open. We've helped over 300,000 Deakin graduates across Australia and throughout the world apply with confidence. In Year 12? Follow these how to apply steps. Completed secondary education in or prior to 2024? Follow these how to apply steps.
Apply directly to Deakin
To apply, create an account in the Deakin Application Portal, enter your personal details and education experience, upload supporting documents and submit. Need help? Play this video, or contact one of our friendly future student advisers on 1800 693 888 or submit an online enquiry.
Indigenous students
Courses at Deakin are flexible and culturally inclusive. Explore the various ways you can apply to study this course - including through the NIKERI Institute and via the Indigenous Access Scheme.
Pathways
View pathways into the Bachelor of Arts with our pathways finder.
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:
The Humanities and Social Sciences - with Masters offered in Criminology, Cultural Heritage and Museum Studies, Humanitarianism and Development, International Relations and Politics and Policy
Communication and Creative Arts - with Masters offered in Communication, Creative Arts, and Writing and Literature
Education - the Bachelor of Arts articulates into a postgraduate preservice teaching qualification through either the Master of Teaching (Primary) or Master of Teaching (Secondary).
Further Education pathway on offer: Education (Specialist Inclusive Education)
Research pathways - A Bachelor of Arts may also lead to a Bachelor of Arts (Honours), Bachelor of Communication and Creative Arts (Honours), or even a Higher Degree by Research.
*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.
Alternate exits
- Associate Degree of Arts (A250)
- Diploma of Arts (A215)
Articulated courses:
Career outcomes
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.
Deakin is the #1 Victorian university for course satisfaction.* With us you can step-into your future with confidence. 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.
For more information go to DeakinTALENT.
*Graduate Outcomes Survey 2025. Quality Indicators for Learning and Teaching (QILT) based on overall employment for domestic undergraduates
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.
Deakin's graduate learning outcomes describe the knowledge and capabilities graduates can demonstrate at the completion of their course. These outcomes mean that regardless of the Deakin course you undertake, you can rest assured your degree will teach you the skills and professional attributes that employers value. They'll set you up to learn and work effectively in the future.
| Course Learning Outcomes |
|---|
| Critically analyse and synthesise a broad and coherent body of knowledge in one or more Arts disciplines, and apply specialised conceptual understanding to professional practice and/or scholarship. |
| Articulate complex ideas using oral, written and digital communication skills and create professional and /or scholarly materials that effectively impart knowledge and research findings to diverse audiences. |
| Critically evaluate the effectiveness and ethical implications of digital technologies and apply them responsibly in the creation of research and analysis that is both authentic and accountable |
| Analyse, synthesise and evaluate, complex and wide-ranging knowledge and information to create logical judgements and informed perspectives in a range of professional and academic contexts. |
| Integrate cognitive, methodological, and creative skills to generate and communicate innovative approaches to unpredictable and complex problems |
| Plan and execute actions with a high level of responsibility, accountability, and independence, while maintaining a consistent commitment to continuous learning in professional and scholarly contexts. |
| Collaborate effectively and contribute constructively to team objectives with colleagues, other professionals, and members of the wider community in diverse professional and scholarly contexts. |
| Apply culturally responsive, critically reflective and embodied self-knowledge in decolonial practice and diversity principles, to engage ethically with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island peoples as well as diverse communities and cultures, within professional and/or scholarly contexts. |
Approved at Faculty Board May 2025
Note – From 2026, Deakin commenced introducing Graduate Attributes (GAs), which define the distinctive characteristics of a Deakin graduate. You may notice some courses still refer to Graduate Learning Outcomes (GLOs) during this transition period.
*Deakin references data from a range of government, higher education and reputable media sources. Learn more about our achievements on our University rankings page, or explore our sources page for supporting references.
