Bachelor of Arts (Indigenous Australian Studies)

Learn about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history and culture. Participate in field trips with Indigenous communities and elders and gain a deeper understanding of their history, culture, language and economies.

Course summary
Townsville; Cairns; External
3 years full time
Part time available
Midyear start - Yes
OP/Rank 2012 was 19/61
CRICOS code is 010346B

Important for our community

Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people have an important place in tropical Queensland, as the traditional custodians of the land and sea and as part of a culturally diverse community.

Traditional connections and responsibilities remain strong, making an important contribution to the region’s cultural life.

The School of Indigenous Australian Studies (SIAS) provides subjects in this course and manages research projects that provide the opportunity for students to undertake research in the field of Indigenous studies.

The Bachelor of Arts (Indigenous Australian Studies) gives you a deeper understanding of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people and their histories, environment, cultures, languages, politics and economies.

The degree is offered to both Indigenous and non-Indigenous students. It recognises the significance of Indigenous languages and cultures as an important part of the heritage of all Australians.

Course highlights

  • through collaboration with Indigenous communities, the Bachelor of Indigenous Studies offers first-hand experience of the diversity of Indigenous life in northern Australia

  • field trips give students first-hand experience of contemporary Indigenous communities, enhancing their understanding of community histories and current issues

  • students also gain an insight into research ethics and protocols for consulting with communities.

Study online

If you choose to study online, you will:

  • Download podcasts and slideshows of lectures

  • Participate in weekly quizzes and questions

  • Participate in web based tutorials

  • Download readings

  • Participate in online discussion boards

Assessment is done via

  • Weekly quizzes

  • Participation in online discussion boards

  • Essays

  • online exams (sometimes physical exams are held in a location close to you)

Career Opportunities

This is an employment-orientated degree that equips Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples to work with Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people. Career pathways include private sector, Indigenous community organisations and government departments.

Indigenous Australian Studies graduates are sought for careers in both the public and private sectors in management, politics, policy and planning, research, advocacy, administration, community engagement, cultural heritage management, education and training, and community welfare. Key industries include tourism, the arts, media, health, law, the environment, human services and resource management.

Joint degree options

Joint degrees give students expertise in a complementary discipline in reduced time and can enhance career prospects. At JCU the Bachelor of Arts degree can be combined as a joint degree in:


Staff requiring changes to this course page should contact their Faculty Marketing Co-ordinator.