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Bachelor of Arts

Understand the world and people around you

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Anthropology ArchaeologyCriminologyEnglishHistoryHuman GeographyHuman ServicesIndigenous StudiesPolitics and International RelationsPsychology StudiesSociology
Looking for a degree with flexibility and purpose? Today’s employers are looking for people with the skills to analyse complex issues, think critically and communicate clearly. The Bachelor of Arts at JCU allows you to tailor your studies to your interests while gaining expertise across the humanities and social sciences. With 11 majors to choose from, you’ll graduate ready to influence change, shape culture, apply your insight and make a difference through your chosen career.
Why study Arts at JCU?
  • Study a flexible, future-focused degree that aligns with your interests and goals.
  • Choose from 11 majors, or combine two to focus your expertise.
  • Learn to analyse, question and interpret the world around you with academic depth.
  • Develop highly transferable skills in communication, research and critical thinking.
  • Graduate ready to contribute to government, NGOs, education, social policy and more.
1. 2025 Good Universities Guide l 2. 2025 Good Universities Guide, UG Humanities, Culture and Social Sciences

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Develop unique skills

Go beyond a single field – your advanced critical thinking and transferable skills are valuable in every workplace.

Small class sizes

Our small class sizes provide students with access to lecturers who genuinely care about their progress and their studies.

Transferable skills

Expand employability opportunities. JCU students gain valuable communication and creative thinking skills, applicable to various career pathways.

▶ Bachelor of Arts Majors
Anthropology
Study how people organise their lives, express beliefs and navigate the political, social and economic systems that shape their communities. Gain the analytical tools to understand cultural complexity and work respectfully with people from a wide range of backgrounds in Australia and internationally.

Fast facts

Location: Online, Cairns, Townsville
Starts: January, May, September
Entry requirements:* ATAR: 59
Recommended knowledge: English (Units 3/4,C)

*This web page is intended as a general guide for domestic students commencing 2025 or later. Prospective domestic students and all international applicants should contact the University to confirm admission requirements and the availability of courses. Information is correct at the time of publishing. James Cook University reserves the right to alter any course or admission requirement without prior notice.


What career possibilities are there?

You could work in research, social policy, aid and development, heritage or intercultural consulting. Anthropology graduates apply their knowledge in government, NGOs and private sectors to support community engagement, policy development and cultural understanding.

Photo: two Bachelor of Arts students browsing an Anthropology text book
Archaeology
Learn how to investigate human history through physical remains, from ancient civilisations to contemporary heritage sites. Explore Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander archaeology, maritime sites, and global cultural heritage through fieldwork, lab analysis and hands-on experience.

Fast facts

Location: Online, Cairns, Townsville
Starts: January, May, September
Entry requirements:* ATAR: 59
Recommended knowledge: English (Units 3/4,C)

*This web page is intended as a general guide for domestic students commencing 2025 or later. Prospective domestic students and all international applicants should contact the University to confirm admission requirements and the availability of courses. Information is correct at the time of publishing. James Cook University reserves the right to alter any course or admission requirement without prior notice.


What career possibilities are there?

You could work in Indigenous, maritime or historical archaeology, cultural heritage, conservation or consulting. Archaeology graduates find roles in government, mining, environmental planning and heritage organisations both in Australia and internationally.

Photo: Archaeology students on a dig
Criminology
Focus on the causes, consequences and control of crime, including justice systems, offender rehabilitation and social responses. You’ll develop the skills to analyse real-world issues and contribute to policy, prevention and reform.

Fast facts

Location: Online, Cairns, Townsville
Starts: January, May, September
Entry requirements:* ATAR: 59
Recommended knowledge: English (Units 3/4,C)

*This web page is intended as a general guide for domestic students commencing 2025 or later. Prospective domestic students and all international applicants should contact the University to confirm admission requirements and the availability of courses. Information is correct at the time of publishing. James Cook University reserves the right to alter any course or admission requirement without prior notice.


What career possibilities are there?

You could work in law enforcement, corrections, youth justice, policy development or research. Criminology graduates contribute to criminal justice systems, social services and policy reform across a wide range of sectors.

Photo: a group of students chatting to a police officer
English
Explore literature, language and storytelling across genres, cultures and historical periods. You’ll learn to interpret meaning, critique ideas and build strong written communication skills for creative, academic and professional use.

Fast facts

Location: Online, Cairns, Townsville
Starts: January, May, September
Entry requirements:* ATAR: 59
Recommended knowledge: English (Units 3/4,C)

*This web page is intended as a general guide for domestic students commencing 2025 or later. Prospective domestic students and all international applicants should contact the University to confirm admission requirements and the availability of courses. Information is correct at the time of publishing. James Cook University reserves the right to alter any course or admission requirement without prior notice.


What career possibilities are there?

You could work in publishing, communications, education, editing or the creative industries. English graduates also apply their skills in government, cultural institutions or academia, with opportunities in research, writing and content development.

Photo: a student working on their laptop with three English Literature books on the table
History
Examine political, social and environmental change through the lens of time. Develop critical thinking and research skills as you study the rise and fall of societies and explore how historical events continue to shape our world today.

Fast facts

Location: Online, Cairns, Townsville
Starts: January, May, September
Entry requirements:* ATAR: 59
Recommended knowledge: English (Units 3/4,C)

*This web page is intended as a general guide for domestic students commencing 2025 or later. Prospective domestic students and all international applicants should contact the University to confirm admission requirements and the availability of courses. Information is correct at the time of publishing. James Cook University reserves the right to alter any course or admission requirement without prior notice.


What career possibilities are there?

You could work in museums, archives, education, policy, journalism or research. History graduates bring critical thinking and contextual understanding to roles across the public and private sectors.

Photo: a student teaching kids about the 'reshaping of Townsville's landscape after World War One'
Human Geography
Analyse the relationship between people, place and environment, and how this affects communities, development and sustainability. Learn to interpret spatial data and propose solutions to large-scale social and environmental problems.

Fast facts

Location: Online, Cairns, Townsville
Starts: January, May, September
Entry requirements:* ATAR: 59
Recommended knowledge: English (Units 3/4,C)

*This web page is intended as a general guide for domestic students commencing 2025 or later. Prospective domestic students and all international applicants should contact the University to confirm admission requirements and the availability of courses. Information is correct at the time of publishing. James Cook University reserves the right to alter any course or admission requirement without prior notice.


What career possibilities are there?

You could work in urban planning, disaster management, environmental consulting or policy. Human Geography graduates contribute to sustainable development, infrastructure planning and community resilience.

Photo: a student looking at a globe with a school pupil
Human Services
Gain the tools to support individuals and communities experiencing disadvantage, hardship or marginalisation. You’ll study social policy, ethics and practice, and learn how to work with people across health, housing, education and welfare systems.

Fast facts

Location: Online, Cairns, Townsville
Starts: January, May, September
Entry requirements:* ATAR: 59
Recommended knowledge: English (Units 3/4,C)

*This web page is intended as a general guide for domestic students commencing 2025 or later. Prospective domestic students and all international applicants should contact the University to confirm admission requirements and the availability of courses. Information is correct at the time of publishing. James Cook University reserves the right to alter any course or admission requirement without prior notice.


What career possibilities are there?

You could work in community outreach, case management, welfare support, crisis response or social policy. Human Services graduates help improve lives through direct service and systemic advocacy.

Photo: Sandra Croaker
Indigenous Studies
Engage with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives, knowledge systems and histories. You’ll explore the social, political and cultural forces that shape Indigenous experiences in contemporary Australia and beyond.

Fast facts

Location: Online, Cairns, Townsville
Starts: January, May, September
Entry requirements:* ATAR: 59
Recommended knowledge: English (Units 3/4,C)

*This web page is intended as a general guide for domestic students commencing 2025 or later. Prospective domestic students and all international applicants should contact the University to confirm admission requirements and the availability of courses. Information is correct at the time of publishing. James Cook University reserves the right to alter any course or admission requirement without prior notice.


What career possibilities are there?

You could work in Indigenous affairs, education, policy, heritage or community development. Graduates are valued for their cultural competence and ability to support respectful engagement and inclusion.

Photo: Indigenous Studies students in a garden setting
Politics and International Relations
Study systems of governance, global affairs and power dynamics between nations and institutions. You’ll examine diplomacy, policy and social movements with a focus on Australian and Asia-Pacific contexts.

Fast facts

Location: Online, Cairns, Townsville
Starts: January, May, September
Entry requirements:* ATAR: 59
Recommended knowledge: English (Units 3/4,C)

*This web page is intended as a general guide for domestic students commencing 2025 or later. Prospective domestic students and all international applicants should contact the University to confirm admission requirements and the availability of courses. Information is correct at the time of publishing. James Cook University reserves the right to alter any course or admission requirement without prior notice.


What career possibilities are there?

You could work in public policy, foreign affairs, international development, political journalism or government. Graduates influence decision-making and policy at all levels.

Photo: three Bachelor of Arts students browsing politics text books at a table
Psychology Studies
Explore how people think, feel and behave across different life stages and social settings. Learn foundational theories and concepts in psychological science and develop research and communication skills relevant to many professions.

Fast facts

Location: Online, Cairns, Townsville
Starts: January, May, September
Entry requirements:* ATAR: 59
Recommended knowledge: English (Units 3/4,C)

*This web page is intended as a general guide for domestic students commencing 2025 or later. Prospective domestic students and all international applicants should contact the University to confirm admission requirements and the availability of courses. Information is correct at the time of publishing. James Cook University reserves the right to alter any course or admission requirement without prior notice.


What career possibilities are there?

You could work in counselling, behaviour support, human resources, research or social services. Graduates can also pursue postgraduate pathways toward psychology registration.

Photo: two students in a psychology clinic setting / Image by Roslyn Budd – Budd Photography.
Sociology
Investigate how human relationships, institutions and cultures are shaped by power, identity and inequality. You’ll build analytical skills to understand social trends and contribute to policy, community development or research.

Fast facts

Location: Online, Cairns, Townsville
Starts: January, May, September
Entry requirements:* ATAR: 59
Recommended knowledge: English (Units 3/4,C)

*This web page is intended as a general guide for domestic students commencing 2025 or later. Prospective domestic students and all international applicants should contact the University to confirm admission requirements and the availability of courses. Information is correct at the time of publishing. James Cook University reserves the right to alter any course or admission requirement without prior notice.


What career possibilities are there?

You could work in policy, research, social services, education or advocacy. Sociology graduates apply analytical and problem-solving skills to address complex social issues.

Photo: Sociology lecturer Theresa Petray and two students

Take your next step with confidence

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▶ Discover pathway options
If you do not meet the entry requirements of your chosen degree, there are pathways and bridging courses you can take to help you gain entry.

Enrolling in JCU Prep can help you meet entry requirements. Introductory academic subjects are also available to prepare you for taking the leap into tertiary study.
Photo: three students sitting outside reading text books
Elena Reynolds

"I highly recommend studying a BA at JCU to anyone interested in humanities and/or social science. The faculty's expertise and dedication, coupled with a curriculum that encourages critical thinking and hands-on experiences, create an ideal environment for personal and academic growth. The university's commitment to providing opportunities for practical learning, combined with its supportive community, makes it an excellent choice for aspiring students in the field of Arts."

Elena Reynolds

Bachelor of Arts (majoring in English and Politics and International Relations) – Alumni

Patrick Cowan

"I would 100% recommend studying a BA at JCU to others. The lecturers are extremely helpful and are very responsive if you have to email them any questions you might have regarding the subject. As an external student, I have found that the LearnJCU site for the subjects is well organised and the subject outlines are very detailed."

Patrick Cowan

Bachelor of Arts (majoring in History) – Alumni

Georgia Noble

"During my time studying Anthropology at JCU, I learned how to understand the complexities of the world, both politically and socially, through the perspectives of different cultures. By understanding how different cultures interact and perceive their environments, it allowed for a deeper appreciation of our world through our individual belief systems. Collaborating and working alongside my classmates and my professors allowed me to develop unique outlooks, enabling me to better understand human existence."

Georgia Noble

Bachelor of Arts (majoring in Anthropology) – Alumni

▶ How to apply
Apply today via the link below using the QTAC or course code on the relevant course page.
1
Explore your options

Chose your JCU course, confirm that you meet the entry requirements, and note the QTAC code or course code.

2
Check the application dates

Refer to the application due dates on the QTAC or JCU websites to ensure you apply before the deadline. 

3
Apply online via QTAC or JCU

If applying for entry into a bachelor's degree please submit your application via QTAC. For all other applications please apply via the JCU Application Portal.

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