Humanities and Social Sciences

The Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Humanities and Social Sciences at The University of Queensland offers an in-depth academic pathway for students passionate about exploring the diverse facets of human society, culture, history, and social dynamics. This program is designed to cultivate critical thinking, analytical skills, and a comprehensive understanding of social phenomena through rigorous coursework and independent research. Students will have the opportunity to engage with a broad spectrum of disciplines including anthropology, archaeology, cultural studies, history, philosophy, political science, sociology, and more, enabling them to develop a multidisciplinary perspective essential for addressing complex societal issues. The program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications, preparing graduates for diverse careers in research, public policy, education, media, and community development. With access to world-class facilities, expert faculty, and a vibrant academic community, students can tailor their degree to align with their interests and career aspirations, choosing from a variety of electives and specializations. The Honours component encourages original research, fostering intellectual independence and scholarly excellence. Throughout their studies, students will enhance their communication, critical analysis, and problem-solving skills, equipping them to contribute meaningfully to society. Graduates of this program will be well-positioned to pursue advanced studies or enter the workforce with a strong foundation in understanding human behavior, cultural diversity, and social change. The University of Queensland commits to providing an enriching educational environment that values diversity, inquiry, and innovation, ensuring that students are prepared to make a positive impact both locally and globally.

Students in the Doctor of Philosophy are expected to research, develop and write a substantial thesis that makes an original contribution to their field.

During your candidature, you’ll usually work under the guidance of two supervisors (sometimes more), who have expertise in your thesis topic. You should meet regularly with your supervisors – a schedule will need to be worked out after you enrol.

Writing a thesis is a challenging process and can take a number of years. You will need to work diligently to keep within the specified time frame. During your studies, we encourage you to participate in the University’s research life by attending different guest lectures, seminars, speaking events, and conferences.

To have your degree conferred, you will need to comply with the General Award Rules. 

To meet the Graduate School admissions requirements for a PhD you would need to provide evidence of one of the following:

• A bachelor’s degree with honours class IIA or better from approved universities, which should include a relevant research component.
• A research master’s degree
• A coursework master’s degree and an overall GPA (grade point average) equivalent to 5.65 on the 7-point UQ scale, which should include a relevant research component.
• A postgraduate degree of at least one year full-time equivalent with an overall GPA (grade point average) equivalent to 5.0 on the 7-point UQ scale, together with demonstrated research experience equivalent to honours IIA will be considered for PhD entry on a case by case basis.
• A bachelor’s degree plus at least two years of documented relevant research experience, including research publications.

English Proficiency

IELTS overall 6.5; reading 6; writing 6; speaking 6; listening 6. 

International students are eligible to apply for a number of scholarships and prizes. These may be offered by the University, the Australian Government, foreign governments, or private organisations.

The UQ Graduate School support almost 1800 research students from an annual scholarship budget of almost $40 million in Australian Government and University funding. The Graduate School coordinates a competitive, merit-based process for awarding scholarships in two rounds each year. 

The University of Queensland offers a diverse range of programs within the field of Humanities and Social Sciences, designed to provide students with comprehensive knowledge and critical skills to understand and engage with complex societal issues. These programs include undergraduate and postgraduate degrees such as Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Social Science, and various combined and honours programs. The curriculum is structured to foster analytical thinking, effective communication, and cultural awareness, preparing graduates for careers in education, public policy, international relations, media, and community development.

Students enrolled in Humanities programs have opportunities to study a wide array of disciplines including history, philosophy, languages, cultural studies, and ethics, allowing them to develop interdisciplinary perspectives. Social Sciences programs focus on understanding human behavior, societal structures, political systems, and economic frameworks through both theoretical and applied approaches. The university emphasizes experiential learning, offering internships, research projects, and international exchange programs to enhance practical skills and global outlook.

Research within these faculties is highly regarded, with faculty members actively involved in cutting-edge projects that contribute to societal advancement. Students at UQ benefit from access to extensive libraries, research centers, and collaborations with industry partners and community organizations. The university's strong emphasis on critical thinking and evidence-based analysis equips students to adapt to various professional environments and contribute meaningfully to society.

In addition, the programs support diverse and inclusive learning environments, catering to students from different backgrounds and promoting cultural competence. UQ’s campus facilities include modern lecture theatres, collaborative workspaces, and dedicated centers for social sciences research, providing an enriching academic atmosphere. Graduates of Humanities and Social Sciences at UQ are well-prepared for further academic pursuits or entry into a broad spectrum of careers across public, private, and non-profit sectors. Overall, the university’s commitment to excellence and innovation makes it a leading institution for studying Humanities and Social Sciences in Australia and globally.