Arts

Harness your creative talents and deepen your understanding of artistic practices with the Bachelor of Arts in Arts at The University of Sydney. This comprehensive undergraduate program is designed to provide students with a broad foundation in the arts, enabling them to explore various disciplines including visual arts, music, theatre, media, and cultural studies. Throughout the degree, students will engage with diverse theoretical perspectives and practical skills, fostering critical thinking, innovative expression, and cultural awareness. The curriculum emphasizes both historical and contemporary perspectives, encouraging students to analyze the role of arts within society and to develop their own artistic voice. Students will have opportunities to participate in studio work, performances, exhibitions, and community engagement projects, gaining invaluable hands-on experience. With access to world-class facilities, experienced academic staff, and vibrant arts communities, graduates will be well-prepared for careers in creative industries, arts administration, education, or further academic study. The program also promotes interdisciplinary collaboration, allowing students to tailor their studies to align with personal interests and career goals. By the end of the course, students will have built a robust portfolio of work and a deep understanding of arts and cultural practices, equipping them to contribute meaningfully to the arts sector and society at large.

The Bachelor of Arts may be undertaken full-time over three years or part-time over six years. Full-time students enrol in junior units of study with a maximum 48 credit points (cp) during first year. A typical unit of study has a value of 6cp. All students complete at least one major (i.e. study in one subject area), comprising 36cp of senior units of study, from the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. The degree structure provides for the completion of two majors, which can be an asset in a competitive job market while also providing a flexible basis for further postgraduate coursework or research study.

Most subject areas within the Bachelor of Arts allow for students to take part in an international exchange program. The program enables students to enhance their skills in a language other than English and their knowledge of other societies and cultures.

Admission to this course is on the basis of a secondary school leaving qualification such as the NSW Higher School Certificate (including national and international equivalents), tertiary study or an approved preparation program. English language requirements must be met where these are not demonstrated by sufficient qualifications taught in English. 

English Language Requirements: IELTS: A minimum result of 6.5 overall and a minimum result of 6.0 in each band TOEFL paper-based: A minimum result of 565 overall including a minimum result of 4.5 in Writing TOEFL IBT: A minimum result of 85 overall including a minimum result of 17 in Reading, Listening and Speaking and 19 in Writing

Indicative international tuition fees for undergraduate students

This international tuition fee is an indication only of the fees that are payable by you in the calendar year you commence your course, commencing in 2016, for a standard annual full time load of 48 credit points (1.0 EFTSL). The exact tuition fees that you pay will depend on the specific units of study in which you ultimately enrol. If you commence your studies after 1 January 2016, the fee is $34,000.00 per year of full-time study of 48 credit points (1.0 EFTSL). Fees are indicative and may differ based on the subjects you choose.

Additional incidental fees and health insurance

For some courses there are incidental fees additional to the tuition fees. Some of those fees are significant, for example, faculty-specific materials, tools, protected clothing, and equipment. For further information about these additional incidental fees, please visit the University's Future Students' website.

In addition to the fees indicated here for the course of study, International Students studying on an Australian Student Visa must have appropriate health insurance for the duration of their studies on a Student Visa through an approved provider of the Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) scheme. This is a requirement of the Australian Government, unless otherwise exempted by the Government.

The Bachelor of Arts at the University of Sydney is a versatile and comprehensive undergraduate program designed to provide students with broad knowledge and critical skills across a wide range of disciplines within the arts and social sciences. The program typically spans three years of full-time study, during which students have the opportunity to tailor their degree according to their interests and career aspirations by choosing from a diverse array of majors, minors, and electives available within the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences.

Students pursuing the Bachelor of Arts can engage in interdisciplinary learning, gaining insights into areas such as humanities, languages, cultural studies, politics, history, philosophy, and communication. The program emphasizes critical thinking, effective communication, research skills, and cultural awareness, preparing graduates for careers in education, media, government, arts administration, international relations, and further academic study.

The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, often including opportunities for internships, community engagement, and research projects that enhance employability and real-world understanding. The university also supports students through academic advising, language learning support, and access to a wide network of alumni and industry connections.

The faculty at the University of Sydney is renowned for its research and teaching excellence, contributing to a vibrant campus environment rich in cultural diversity and intellectual exchange. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, extensive library resources, and numerous student associations that foster a supportive and stimulating academic community. The program encourages critical inquiry, global citizenship, and the development of independent thinking skills, empowering graduates to adapt to diverse professional environments and contribute meaningfully to society.

Overall, the Bachelor of Arts at the University of Sydney offers a flexible, rigorous, and enriching educational experience that prepares students for a dynamic and interconnected world, whether they choose to pursue further graduate study or enter the workforce directly upon graduation.