Bachelor of Arts

Course Learning Outcomes express learning achievement in terms of what a student should know, understand and be able to do on completion of a course. These outcomes are aligned with the graduate attributes.

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Apply critical analysis, reasoning and reflexivity to social and cultural situations and problems.
2. Demonstrate the ability to develop a persuasive independent argument incorporating a range of perspectives and evidence.
3. Develop innovative and creative responses to contemporary and historical social, environmental and cultural issues.
4. Investigate and evaluate issues with reference to principles of social justice and equity and according to ethical conventions.
5. Demonstrate a depth and breadth of knowledge and understanding of society and culture in chosen disciplines of study.
6. Apply disciplinary knowledge to diverse contexts.
7. Access, evaluate, interpret and present information using academic conventions to inform decision-making and action.
8. Communicate effectively in academic and professional settings in a variety of forms, including through working autonomously or collaboratively.
9. Demonstrate a commitment to multicultural perspectives as well as the ability to engage in a culturally competent way with Indigenous peoples.

The Bachelor of Arts focuses on human cultures, values and beliefs that will broaden your mind with challenging ideas. This course fosters transferable skills that are highly valued across all sectors – qualities such as communication, analysis, critical thinking and problem solving.

At Southern Cross you have the opportunity to apply those skills to the real world through community engagement as you delve into contemporary social and environmental issues. Graduates develop cultural awareness and a deeper understanding of how to build their creative capacities and communication effectiveness.

The Bachelor of Arts is a very flexible degree – you can tailor your studies through the choice of a major in History, Creative Writing, Cultural Studies, Digital Media, Politics and International Relations or Social Science, or choose a shared major from a wide range of disciplines across the University.

Recommended study pattern

As a guide, core subjects in this degree can include:

• Australia, Asia and the World
• Critical Thinking for Digital Times
• World Politics and Global Environmental Challenges
• Create: Innovate: Change.

Plus there’s a selection of majors and electives to choose from. As part of your application, you’ll be guided through how to get the right degree structure in place for you.

Award requirements

To be eligible to receive the Bachelor of Arts, students must complete the equivalent of 24 units (288 credit points), comprising:

• 6 core units (72 credit points); AND
• 1 major (96 credit points) and 10 university-wide electives (120 credit points); OR
• 1 major (96 credit points) and 1 shared major (96 credit points) and 2 university wide electives (24 credit points); OR 
• 1 major (96 credit points), a second major (96 credit points) and 2 university wide electives (24 credit points).

Choose your subjects

Majors

Choose a single or double major from the following:

History

Historical study fosters critical approaches to evidence and argument and the ability to interpret and communicate complex ideas, as well as insight into how personal and cultural values are shaped over time.

Creative Writing

This major offers a rich blend of fiction and nonfiction, experimental writing, journalism, life writing, poetry, writing for stage and screen, and writing for young adults. It is taught by published writers from the Northern Rivers arts community and beyond.

Cultural Studies

Cultural Studies introduces you to critical approaches in the study of different cultural forms and practices and the political dynamics of contemporary culture.

Digital Media

This major introduces key digital media production skills and theories. It provides a background in media history and theory, as well as practical experience in design, journalism, narrative forms and audio-visual media production.

Politics and International Relations

This major takes a strong social justice approach to cover political, cultural and economic relations from local government to international organisations.

Social Science

This major examines how institutions, the economy, individuals and groups interact; movements for change and crucial issues of social concern. You'll learn a range of methods of analysis and ways of doing research, critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Shared majors

You can also choose a shared major as part of your degree.

Exit points

Students may be eligible to exit with an Associate Degree of Creative Writing after completing all 16 units (192 credit points) from the Associate Degree of Creative Writing. 

Students may be eligible to exit with the Diploma of Arts and Social Sciences after completing 8 core units (96 credit points) from one specialisation from the Diploma of Arts and Social Sciences. 

Southern Cross University believes in the power of change. Their graduates stride the global stage at the frontline of healthcare, transforming education in the classroom, and tackling the world’s wicked problems with scientific and engineering solutions. Students enjoy award winning support, teaching quality, and online delivery. Ranked among the best for many years, they will help you make the change you seek to transform your tomorrow.

Learn more about SCU.

Explore SCU courses.

QS Ranking 2024:

32

Times Higher Education Ranking 2024:

34

ATAR: 60 or equivalent.

English language requirements apply to International applicants and other applicants whose previous study was undertaken in a language other than English. The minimum English language requirements for such applicants for entry to this course are as follows:

• Overall - 6.0
• Listening - minimum 5.5
• Reading - minimum 5.5
• Speaking - minimum 5.5
• Writing - minimum 5.5.

Candidates who completed an Associate Degree of Creative Writing or the Associate Degree of Arts may be granted advanced standing for up to sixteen (16) units towards the Bachelor of Arts.

Where a student has completed multiple awards of the same level below AQF level 7, only one will be assessed for Advanced Standing.

Credit for Prior Learning, also referred to ‘Advanced Standing’ or Recognition for Prior Learning (RPL), is the process of looking at your prior study and/or experience to assess if you can be awarded academic credit for knowledge and skills you have already acquired. Credit gained through prior learning, experiences and qualification can reduce the duration and cost of your course.

The Digital Media major in this degree includes a compulsory 70-hour placement.

An optional professional placement in the other majors provides students with the opportunity to gain experience in the workplace and to establish key contacts. In the Bachelor of Arts, students can undertake learning opportunities in the community through a number of units as well as through assessment opportunities.