Bachelor of Arts (Sociology)

Sociology explores human behaviour and social interaction to explain how societies form, develop and change. You will gain valuable skills in social research and analysis. Graduates work in forecasting, consulting, policy analysis and development.

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

The world around us

Sociology is the scientific study of human society, including social interactions involving individuals and social institutions.

Sociologists seek to understand the forces that operate throughout society to mould individuals, and shape their behaviour, which in turn influences social events.

Sociology explores our national and international institutions, social structures, social action and social relationships. Sociologists are at the forefront of attempts to understand the causes of the cultural, economic, environmental and technological changes that transform our lives.

As a sociologist you will explore human behaviour and social interaction in an effort to help explain how societies form, develop and change.

The freedom to choose

This is a flexible degree that allows students to choose whether they undertake a single specialisation or follow a more general program.

Sociology subjects can be selected to make up a large or small part of your overall program. You can also choose subjects from complementary areas such as history, political science or law, to name just a few.

Our academic advisors will assist you to design a study program and select subjects to match your interests and career plans.

The Bachelor of Arts

The Bachelor of Arts (BA) is one of the best known university degrees. It brings together subjects from the humanities and social sciences to create graduates who have a broad knowledge of society and culture and key skills in communication, research and critical analysis.

Arts graduates are recognised for their excellent communication skills, ability to critically analyse information, creative problem solving and research abilities. They find careers in the private and public sector in many interesting roles.

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)

Job opportunities

Sociology graduates frequently obtain employment in many federal and state government departments, as well as with some large local government organisations.

Employment opportunities also exist in private and non-government organisations, as well as with international organisations, such as the United Nations, especially in the areas of forecasting, consulting, policy analysis, social development and community welfare.

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: