Key facts

Domestic students course information.

Entry requirements

Entry is based on a bachelor or postgraduate qualification.

Entry is based on a bachelor or postgraduate qualification. English language requirements must also be met.

View full entry requirements
Duration
  • 1 or 1.5 years full-time
  • Up to 6 years part-time
Number of Units (Subjects)
  • 12 units (72 credit points)
View course structure
Fees
  • Commonwealth Supported Place (quotas apply)
  • Full Fee
  • International
View more fees information
CRICOS code
  • 111164A
Start Dates and Campus
Trimester 1 – February 2024Trimester 2 – June 2024Trimester 3 – October 2024
OnlineOfferedOfferedOffered
Armidale CampusOfferedOfferedNot Offered
Sydney CampusNot OfferedNot OfferedNot Offered
OnlineOfferedOfferedOffered
Armidale CampusOfferedOfferedNot Offered
Sydney CampusNot OfferedNot OfferedNot Offered

Course information

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UNE’s Master of Arts is designed to equip you with specialised knowledge as well as a wide range of transferrable skills that employers highly value, such as communication and critical thinking. This course is also a focused pathway to higher degree research.

With a master's degree, you can make a switch to a new career field or gain additional expertise to enhance your existing path. At UNE, you can select a major from 16 specialty areas, dive into research and tailor the program to your interests and career goals.

The following majors are available: Ancient History, Archaeology, Asia Pacific, English, Geography, History, Studies in Settler Colonialism, Linguistics, Media and Communications, Medieval and Modern European Studies, Philosophy, Political and International Studies, Sociology, Studies in Religion, Theatre and Performance, Writing.

Why study the Master of Arts with UNE?

UNE’s Master of Arts is a relatively unrestricted program of study, giving you the opportunity to enhance your existing professional skills or gain new expertise. Our course is flexible, allowing you to select subjects relating to your major, as well as units from a variety of areas. You can also delve deeper into your chosen field of study by conducting in-depth research.

By the end of this program, you will have mastered higher-level research and communication skills, detailed knowledge of your chosen subject area and key problem-solving skills.

Upon graduation, you will be more intellectually flexible, will have a sharpened analytical mind, and will be able to think independently, exercise initiative and process information efficiently. These are the skills employers seek, allowing you to remain ahead of the curve in a rapidly changing job market.

What makes our course different?

Our Master of Arts is one of the most comprehensive coursework MAs in Australia because of its depth and breadth. As a student, you will have the opportunity to:

  • Choose from 16 majors across multiple disciplines. Learn from experienced and supportive educators who are at the forefront of their fields.
  • Study when and where it fits your schedule, taking advantage of UNE's expertise in online learning, noting that some majors require attendance at residential schools. Or study on campus, and benefit from a university known for its global outlook, community feel and outstanding facilities.

Students consistently give UNE a maximum 5-star rating for both their overall experience and their student support, so whether you choose to study online or on campus, you are in good hands.

Majors

  • Ancient History
  • Archaeology
  • Asia Pacific
  • English
  • Geography
  • History
  • Linguistics
  • Media and Communications
  • Medieval and Modern European Studies
  • Philosophy
  • Political and International Studies
  • Sociology
  • Studies in Religion
  • Studies in Settler Colonialism
  • Theatre and Performance
  • Writing

Study online

Most of our students choose to study online across three study periods with 24/7 tutor support* and fit study around work and family commitments. Uniquely, our online students are mostly over 30 and bring valuable experience with them. They form a community of adults juggling the same challenges and priorities and who bring their life and work experience together at UNE in order to become future-fit and better respond to a rapidly changing world.

Study on campus

Many of our students choose to take advantage of the on-campus lifestyle in Armidale, in the beautiful New England region, with access to unparalleled support, accommodation and sporting facilities. These students are often starting their first degree and have left school recently. Through access to academic and career support they get a fantastic start to their careers.

* 24/7 tutor support includes: essay feedback (within 24 hours); live chat 24/7 for generic feedback on academic writing; and subject-specific help at a foundation or first-year level for subjects including mathematics, chemistry, biology, physics, business, accounting, microeconomics, macroeconomics and statistics. There are also a wide range of workshops, resources and courses available in academic skills support to assist you and help you to succeed.

Entry requirements

Select the option that best describes you.

If you are an international applicant who wants to study on campus in Australia:

You will need to meet both the Academic and English Language Requirements to gain admission into this course. Meeting academic requirements means we review what you have already studied to see if you have the results needed for admission to your preferred course.

This course is offered under two admission rules, each with its own Course Structure (Program of Study).

Rule A: You have completed a Bachelor qualification (AQF Level 7 or overseas equivalent) in any discipline.
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule A. Please see the Rule A Course Structure (Program of Study).

Rule B: You have completed one of the following qualifications (or an overseas equivalent) in a discipline relevant to your chosen major:*

  • Bachelor degree (AQF Level 7)
  • Graduate Certificate (AQF Level 8)
  • Graduate Diploma (AQF Level 8)
  • Bachelor with Honours (AQF Level 8)
  • Masters (AQF Level 9)

If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule B. Please see the Rule B Course Structure (Program of Study).

* To view majors and their Rule B eligibility requirements please see the Additional Admission Requirements section.

Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.

When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.

International applicants, please note: You may also need to show evidence of your English language proficiency to the Department of Home Affairs if you are applying for a Student Visa.

These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.

Additional Admission Requirements

If you are admitted under Rule A, you can choose your preferred major in this course. However, if you are admitted under Rule B, which major/s you are eligible to study in this course will depend on the major/s of the qualification you are using for admission. For example, if you are admitted under Rule B and you would like to study the Ancient History major in this course, your previous qualification must have included a relevant major such as (but not limited to) Ancient History, Archaeology, History, Philosophy, or Religious Studies. Please see below a list of majors in this course (bolded), and examples of major/s we consider relevant. If you are unsure if the major of your previous qualification can be considered relevant, please submit your application and allow us to assess this for you.

  • Ancient History – Ancient History, Archaeology, Classical Languages, History, Philosophy, Religious Studies
  • Archaeology – Ancient History, Archaeology, Classical Languages, History, Indigenous Studies
  • Asia-Pacific Studies – Asian Languages, Chinese, International Relations, Political Science
  • English – Communication and Media Studies, Drama and Theatre Studies, English, Philosophy, Political Science, Religious Studies, Studies in Human Society
  • Geography – Earth and Environmental Sciences, Geography, Studies in Human Society
  • History: Australian and World Histories – Ancient History, Archaeology, Heritage Studies, History, Indigenous Studies, Languages, Philosophy, Religious Studies
  • Linguistics – English, Languages, or Education with a major in English Literacy, Languages Other Than English (LOTE), English as a Second Language (ESL), Linguistics
  • Media and Communications – Communication and Media Studies, Languages, Literature, Performing Arts, Philosophy, Policy Studies, Political Science, Religious Studies, Studies in Human Society
  • Medieval and Modern European History – Ancient History, Archaeology, Heritage Studies, History, Indigenous Studies, Languages, Philosophy, Religious Studies
  • Philosophy – Philosophy, Religious Studies
  • Political and International Studies – International Relations, Policy Studies, Political Science, Security Studies, Studies in Human Society
  • Sociology – Criminology, Geography, History, Linguistics, Peace Studies, Political Science, Sociology
  • Studies in Religion – Ancient History, History, Philosophy, Religion
  • Studies in Settler Colonialism – Archaeology, Curriculum and Education Studies, History, Indigenous Studies, Policy Studies, Political Science
  • Theatre and Performance – English, Media and Communications, Performance, Theatre Studies, Writing
  • World Literatures - Languages, Literature, English
  • Writing – Communication and Media Studies, History, Literature, Philosophy, Policy Studies, Religious Studies, Writing
 
Intensive Schools

Mandatory intensive schools on campus may be a requirement of some of the units in this course. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit.

Visa Information

On-Campus study
If you would like to study full-time in Australia at one of UNE's campuses, you will need to have a visa that allows you to study. For most international students this visa will need to be a Student Visa. The Australian Department of Home Affairs has further information about visa eligibility and conditions.

If you are an international applicant who wants to study online (overseas or in Australia):

You will need to meet both the Academic and English Language Requirements to gain admission into this course. Meeting academic requirements means we review what you have already studied to see if you have the results needed for admission to your preferred course.

This course is offered under two admission rules, each with its own Course Structure (Program of Study).

Rule A: You have completed a Bachelor qualification (AQF Level 7 or overseas equivalent) in any discipline.
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule A. Please see the Rule A Course Structure (Program of Study).

Rule B: You have completed one of the following qualifications (or an overseas equivalent) in a discipline relevant to your chosen major:*

  • Bachelor degree (AQF Level 7)
  • Graduate Certificate (AQF Level 8)
  • Graduate Diploma (AQF Level 8)
  • Bachelor with Honours (AQF Level 8)
  • Masters (AQF Level 9)

If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule B. Please see the Rule B Course Structure (Program of Study).

* To view majors and their Rule B eligibility requirements please see the Additional Admission Requirements section.

Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.

When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.

International applicants, please note: You may also need to show evidence of your English language proficiency to the Department of Home Affairs if you are applying for a Student Visa.

These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.

Additional Admission Requirements

If you are admitted under Rule A, you can choose your preferred major in this course. However, if you are admitted under Rule B, which major/s you are eligible to study in this course will depend on the major/s of the qualification you are using for admission. For example, if you are admitted under Rule B and you would like to study the Ancient History major in this course, your previous qualification must have included a relevant major such as (but not limited to) Ancient History, Archaeology, History, Philosophy, or Religious Studies. Please see below a list of majors in this course (bolded), and examples of major/s we consider relevant. If you are unsure if the major of your previous qualification can be considered relevant, please submit your application and allow us to assess this for you.

  • Ancient History – Ancient History, Archaeology, Classical Languages, History, Philosophy, Religious Studies
  • Archaeology – Ancient History, Archaeology, Classical Languages, History, Indigenous Studies
  • Asia-Pacific Studies – Asian Languages, Chinese, International Relations, Political Science
  • English – Communication and Media Studies, Drama and Theatre Studies, English, Philosophy, Political Science, Religious Studies, Studies in Human Society
  • Geography – Earth and Environmental Sciences, Geography, Studies in Human Society
  • History: Australian and World Histories – Ancient History, Archaeology, Heritage Studies, History, Indigenous Studies, Languages, Philosophy, Religious Studies
  • Linguistics – English, Languages, or Education with a major in English Literacy, Languages Other Than English (LOTE), English as a Second Language (ESL), Linguistics
  • Media and Communications – Communication and Media Studies, Languages, Literature, Performing Arts, Philosophy, Policy Studies, Political Science, Religious Studies, Studies in Human Society
  • Medieval and Modern European History – Ancient History, Archaeology, Heritage Studies, History, Indigenous Studies, Languages, Philosophy, Religious Studies
  • Philosophy – Philosophy, Religious Studies
  • Political and International Studies – International Relations, Policy Studies, Political Science, Security Studies, Studies in Human Society
  • Sociology – Criminology, Geography, History, Linguistics, Peace Studies, Political Science, Sociology
  • Studies in Religion – Ancient History, History, Philosophy, Religion
  • Studies in Settler Colonialism – Archaeology, Curriculum and Education Studies, History, Indigenous Studies, Policy Studies, Political Science
  • Theatre and Performance – English, Media and Communications, Performance, Theatre Studies, Writing
  • World Literatures - Languages, Literature, English
  • Writing – Communication and Media Studies, History, Literature, Philosophy, Policy Studies, Religious Studies, Writing
 
Intensive Schools

Mandatory intensive schools on campus may be a requirement of some of the units in this course. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit.

Visa Information

Online study in your own country
If you would like to study online with UNE while you reside outside of Australia you do not need a Student Visa. If your course requires you to visit Australia to attend any mandatory study requirements, you would need to explore Visitor Visa options for a short-term stay.

Online study in Australia
If you would like to study online with UNE while you are residing in Australia, you will need to hold a visa (other than a Student Visa) that allows you to study. If you are unsure if your visa allows you to study, you can check with UNE's International Admissions team. If you hold a Student Visa you cannot study completely online; you must be enrolled as an on-campus student (although you can study a limited number of online units).

Some courses require you to provide documentary evidence, or interviews to support your application. The following documents are required to support your application:

  • A certified academic transcript of your completed qualification.
  • Proof of identity and citizenship. This can be a certified/notarised copy of the photo page of your passport, or another form of official photo identification that lists your full personal details including name and date of birth; for example, a foreign government identity card.
  • Evidence of English Language Requirements satisfied. If you have completed a UNE-approved formal English test within the last two years, you must provide a copy of the test results with your application. Please see UNE’s English Language Requirements above for further information.

Advanced Standing is credit or recognition of your previous study, work and/or life experience. This can reduce the cost and length of your studies.

Course Entry Advanced Standing
Some entry rules come with Advanced Standing or Articulation Programs that are assessed automatically without the need for you to fill in an additional application. Simply apply for your course and we’ll look after the rest.

If you are admitted under Rule B you will be granted 24 credit points of Block Advanced Standing.

Individual Unit Advanced Standing
If you are admitted into this course and believe you have already completed the equivalent of one or more of the units in your Course Structure (Program of Study) within the last ten years, you can apply for Individual Unit Advanced Standing.

  • If you are admitted under Rule A you can apply for up to 36 credit points of Advanced Standing.
  • If you are admitted under Rule B you can apply for up to a further 12 credit points of Advanced Standing.

Please note: Advanced Standing cannot be granted for research and/or reading units.

> Learn how to apply for Individual Unit Advanced Standing

This course is offered under two admission rules, each with its own Course Structure (Program of Study).

Rule A: You have completed a Bachelor qualification (AQF Level 7 or overseas equivalent) in any discipline.
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule A. Please see the Rule A Course Structure (Program of Study).

Rule B: You have completed one of the following qualifications (or an overseas equivalent) in a discipline relevant to your chosen major:*

  • Bachelor degree (AQF Level 7)
  • Graduate Certificate (AQF Level 8)
  • Graduate Diploma (AQF Level 8)
  • Bachelor with Honours (AQF Level 8)
  • Masters (AQF Level 9)

If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule B. Please see the Rule B Course Structure (Program of Study).

* To view majors and their Rule B eligibility requirements please see the Additional Admission Requirements section.

Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.

These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.

English Language Requirements

When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.

Additional Admission Requirements

If you are admitted under Rule A, you can choose your preferred major in this course. However, if you are admitted under Rule B, which major/s you are eligible to study in this course will depend on the major/s of the qualification you are using for admission. For example, if you are admitted under Rule B and you would like to study the Ancient History major in this course, your previous qualification must have included a relevant major such as (but not limited to) Ancient History, Archaeology, History, Philosophy, or Religious Studies. Please see below a list of majors in this course (bolded), and examples of major/s we consider relevant. If you are unsure if the major of your previous qualification can be considered relevant, please submit your application and allow us to assess this for you.

  • Ancient History – Ancient History, Archaeology, Classical Languages, History, Philosophy, Religious Studies
  • Archaeology – Ancient History, Archaeology, Classical Languages, History, Indigenous Studies
  • Asia-Pacific Studies – Asian Languages, Chinese, International Relations, Political Science
  • English – Communication and Media Studies, Drama and Theatre Studies, English, Philosophy, Political Science, Religious Studies, Studies in Human Society
  • Geography – Earth and Environmental Sciences, Geography, Studies in Human Society
  • History: Australian and World Histories – Ancient History, Archaeology, Heritage Studies, History, Indigenous Studies, Languages, Philosophy, Religious Studies
  • Linguistics – English, Languages, or Education with a major in English Literacy, Languages Other Than English (LOTE), English as a Second Language (ESL), Linguistics
  • Media and Communications – Communication and Media Studies, Languages, Literature, Performing Arts, Philosophy, Policy Studies, Political Science, Religious Studies, Studies in Human Society
  • Medieval and Modern European History – Ancient History, Archaeology, Heritage Studies, History, Indigenous Studies, Languages, Philosophy, Religious Studies
  • Philosophy – Philosophy, Religious Studies
  • Political and International Studies – International Relations, Policy Studies, Political Science, Security Studies, Studies in Human Society
  • Sociology – Criminology, Geography, History, Linguistics, Peace Studies, Political Science, Sociology
  • Studies in Religion – Ancient History, History, Philosophy, Religion
  • Studies in Settler Colonialism – Archaeology, Curriculum and Education Studies, History, Indigenous Studies, Policy Studies, Political Science
  • Theatre and Performance – English, Media and Communications, Performance, Theatre Studies, Writing
  • World Literatures - Languages, Literature, English
  • Writing – Communication and Media Studies, History, Literature, Philosophy, Policy Studies, Religious Studies, Writing
 
Intensive Schools

Mandatory intensive schools on campus may be a requirement of some of the units in this course. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit.

Some courses require you to provide documentary evidence, or interviews to support your application. The following documents are required to support your application:

A certified academic transcript of your completed qualification.

Advanced Standing is credit or recognition of your previous study, work and/or life experience. This can reduce the cost and length of your studies.

Course Entry Advanced Standing
Some entry rules come with Advanced Standing or Articulation Programs that are assessed automatically without the need for you to fill in an additional application. Simply apply for your course and we’ll look after the rest.

If you are admitted under Rule B you will be granted 24 credit points of Block Advanced Standing.

Individual Unit Advanced Standing
If you are admitted into this course and believe you have already completed the equivalent of one or more of the units in your Course Structure (Program of Study) within the last ten years, you can apply for Individual Unit Advanced Standing.

  • If you are admitted under Rule A you can apply for up to 36 credit points of Advanced Standing.
  • If you are admitted under Rule B you can apply for up to a further 12 credit points of Advanced Standing.

Please note: Advanced Standing cannot be granted for research and/or reading units.

> Learn how to apply for Individual Unit Advanced Standing

Course structure

1. To qualify for the award a candidate must pass units to the value of 72 credit points including a minimum of 48 credit points at 500 level. Dissertation, research and reading units may only be undertaken within the same area of study as the nominated Major.

2. To qualify for a Master of Arts, candidates must include units to the value of at least 48 credit points at 500-level from units in their nominated Major.

3.(a) Candidates admitted under Rule (a):
(i) may complete a maximum of 12 credit points at 100-level;
(ii) may complete a maximum of 12 credit points at 200/300/400-level;
(iii) must complete a minimum of 48 credit points at 500-level as identified in the program of study for each Major.

3.(b) Candidates admitted under Rule (b):
must complete a minimum of 48 credit points at 500-level as identified in the program of study for each Major.

72 credit points

Complete ONE of the following Majors: Rule (a) must complete 72 credit points Rule (b) 24 credit points of block credit and must complete 48 credit points
Students admitted under Rule (a) are required to complete 72cps consisting: 24cps prescribed coursework units; 6-18cps of Research-based units; 6cps at 300-level from the Listed Units and 24-36cps at 500-level Listed Units. Students admitted under Rule (b) will be granted a block credit of 24cps and will be required to complete 48cps consisting: 6cps prescribed coursework unit; 6-18cps of Research-based units and 24-36cps from the 500-level Listed Units.
Rule (a) must complete 72 credit points Rule (b) 24 credit points of block credit and must complete 48 credit points
Complete 18 credit points from the following units including 6 credit points at 300-level

6 credit points

Complete the following unit:
Complete 6 to 18 credit points from the following units:
Complete the following units relevant to the Rule you are enrolled:
Complete 6 credit points from the following units: Note: Listed units are offered on a two-year rotation cycle ie every second year.
Complete 24 to 36 credit points from the following units: Note: Listed units are offered on a two-year rotation cycle ie every second year.
Students admitted under Rule (a) are required to complete 72cps consisting: 18cps prescribed coursework units; 6-18cps of Research-based units; 12cps at 300-level from the Listed Units and 24-36cps at 500-level Listed Units. Students admitted under Rule (b) will be granted a block credit of 24cps and will be required to complete 48cps consisting: 6cps prescribed coursework unit; 6-18cps of Research-based units and 24-36cps from the 500-level Listed Units.
Rule (a) must complete 72 credit points Rule (b) 24 credit points of block credit and must complete 48 credit points

12 credit points

Complete the following units:

6 credit points

Complete the following unit:
Complete 6 to 18 credit points from the following units:
Complete the following units relevant to the Rule you are enrolled:

12 credit points

Complete the following units:
Complete 24 to 36 credit points from the following: Note: Listed units are offered on a two-year rotation cycle ie every second year.
Students admitted under Rule (a) are required to complete 72cps consisting: 18cps prescribed coursework units; 6-18cps of Research-based units; 12cps at 300-level from the Listed Units and 24-36cps at 500-level Listed Units. Students admitted under Rule (b) will be granted a block credit of 24cps and will be required to complete 48cps consisting: 6cps prescribed coursework unit; 6-18cps of Research-based units and 24-36cps from the 500-level Listed Units.
Rule (a) must complete 72 credit points Rule (b) 24 credit points of block credit and must complete 48 credit points

12 credit points

Complete the following units:

6 credit points

Complete the following unit:
And complete 6 to 18 credit points from the following units:
Complete the following units relevant to the Rule you are enrolled:
Complete 12 credit points from the following units: Note: Listed units are offered on a two-year rotation cycle ie every second year.
Complete 24 to 36 credit points from the following units: Note: Listed units are offered on a two-year rotation cycle ie every second year.
Students admitted under Rule (a) are required to complete 72cps consisting: 18cps prescribed coursework units; 6-18cps of Research-based units; 12cps at 300-level from the Listed Units and 24-36cps at 500-level Listed Units. Students admitted under Rule (b) will be granted a block credit of 24cps and will be required to complete 48cps consisting: 6cps prescribed coursework unit; 6-18cps of Research-based units and 24-36cps from the 500-level Listed Units
Rule (a) must complete 72 credit points Rule (b) 24 credit points of block credit and must complete 48 credit points

12 credit points

Complete the following units:

6 credit points

Complete the following unit
And complete 6 to 18 credit points from the following units:
Complete the following units relevant to the Rule you are enrolled:
Complete 12 credit points from the following units: Note: Listed units are offered on a two-year rotation cycle ie every second year.
Complete 24 to 36 credit points from the following units: Note: Listed units are offered on a two-year rotation cycle ie every second year.
Students admitted under Rule (a) are required to complete 72cps consisting: 18cps prescribed coursework units; 6-18cps of Research-based units; 12cps at 300-level from the Listed Units and 24-36cps at 500-level Listed Units. Students admitted under Rule (b) will be granted a block credit of 24cps and will be required to complete 48cps consisting: 6cps prescribed coursework unit; 6-18cps of Research-based units and 24-36cps from the 500-level Listed Units.
Rule (a) must complete 72 credit points Rule (b) 24 credit points of block credit and must complete 48 credit points

12 credit points

Complete the following units:

6 credit points

Complete the following unit:
Complete 6 to 18 credit points from the following units:
Complete the following units relevant to the Rule you are enrolled:
Complete 12 credit points from the following:
Complete 24 to 36 credit points from the following units:
Students admitted under Rule (a) are required to complete 72cps consisting: 24cps prescribed coursework units; 6-18cps of Research-based units; 12cps at 300-level from the Listed Units and 18-30cps at 500-level Listed Units. Students admitted under Rule (b) will be granted a block credit of 24cps and will be required to complete 48cps consisting: 12cps prescribed coursework unit; 6-18cps of Research-based units and 18-30cps from the 500-level Listed Units.
Rule (a) must complete 72 credit points Rule (b) 24 credit points of block credit and must complete 48 credit points
Complete 12 credit points from the following units:

12 credit points

Complete the following units:
And complete 6 to 18 credit points from the following units:
Complete the following units relevant to the Rule you are enrolled:
Complete 12 credit points from the following Units: Note: Listed units are offered on a two-year rotation cycle ie every second year.
Complete 18 to 30 credit points from the following units: Note: Listed units are offered on a two-year rotation cycle ie every second year.
Students admitted under Rule (a) are required to complete 72cps consisting: 18cps prescribed coursework units; 6-18cps of Research-based units; 12cps at 300-level from the Listed Units and 24-36cps at 500-level Listed Units. Students admitted under Rule (b) will be granted a block credit of 24cps and will be required to complete 48cps consisting: 6cps prescribed coursework unit; 6-18cps of Research-based units and 24-36cps from the 500-level Listed Units.
Rule (a) must complete 72 credit points Rule (b) 24 credit points of block credit and must complete 48 credit points

12 credit points

Complete the following units:
Complete 6 credit points from the following units:
And complete 6 to 18 credit points from the following units:
Complete the following units relevant to the Rule you are enrolled:
Complete 12 credit points from the following units: Note: Listed units are offered on a two-year rotation cycle ie every second year.
Complete 24 to 36 credit points from the following units: Note: Listed units are offered on a two-year rotation cycle ie every second year.
Students admitted under Rule (a) are required to complete 72cps consisting: 18cps prescribed coursework units; 6-18cps of Research-based units; 12cps at 300-level from the Listed Units and 24-36cps at 500-level Listed Units. Students admitted under Rule (b) will be granted a block credit of 24cps and will be required to complete 48cps consisting: 6cps prescribed coursework unit; 6-18cps of Research-based units and 24-36cps from the 500-level Listed Units.
Rule (a) must complete 72 credit points Rule (b) 24 credit points of block credit and must complete 48 credit points

12 credit points

Complete the following units:

6 credit points

Complete the following unit:
Complete 6 to 18 credit points from the following units:
Complete the following units relevant to the Rule you are enrolled:
Complete 12 credit points from the following units: Note: Listed units are offered on a two-year rotation cycle ie every second year.
Complete 24 to 36 credit points from the following units: Note: Listed units are offered on a two-year rotation cycle ie every second year.
Students admitted under Rule (a) are required to complete 72cps consisting: 24cps prescribed coursework units; 6-18cps of Research-based units; 12cps at 300-level from the Listed Units and 18-30cps at 500-level Listed Units. Students admitted under Rule (b) will be granted a block credit of 24cps and will be required to complete 48cps consisting: 12cps prescribed coursework unit; 6-18cps of Research-based units and 18-30cps from the 500-level Listed Units
Rule (a) must complete 72 credit points Rule (b) 24 credit points of block credit and must complete 48 credit points
Complete 12 credit points from the following units:

12 credit points

Complete the following units:
Complete 6 to 18 credit points from the following units:
Complete the following units relevant to the Rule you are enrolled:
Complete 12 credit points from the following units: Note: Listed units are offered on a two-year rotation cycle ie every second year.
Complete 18 to 30 credit points from the following units: Note: Listed units are offered on a two-year rotation cycle ie every second year.
Students admitted under Rule (a) are required to complete 72cps consisting: 18cps prescribed coursework units; 6-18cps of Research-based units; 12cps at 300-level from the Listed Units and 24-36cps at 500-level Listed Units. Students admitted under Rule (b) will be granted a block credit of 24cps and will be required to complete 48cps consisting: 6cps prescribed coursework unit; 6-18cps of Research-based units and 24-36cps from the 500-level Listed Units.
Rule (a) must complete 72 credit points Rule (b) 24 credit points of block credit and must complete 48 credit points
Complete 12 credit points from the following units:

6 credit points

Complete the following unit:
Complete 6 to 18 credit points from the following units:
Complete the following units relevant to the Rule you are enrolled:
Complete 12 credit points from the following units: Note: Listed units are offered on a two-year rotation cycle ie every second year.
Complete 24 to 36 credit points from the following units: Note: Listed units are offered on a two-year rotation cycle ie every second year.
Students admitted under Rule (a) are required to complete 72cps consisting: 18cps prescribed coursework units; 6-18cps of Research-based units; 12cps at 300-level from the Listed Units and 24-36cps at 500-level Listed Units. Students admitted under Rule (b) will be granted a block credit of 24cps and will be required to complete 48cps consisting: 6cps prescribed coursework unit; 6-18cps of Research-based units and 24-36cps from the 500-level Listed Units.
Rule (a) must complete 72 credit points Rule (b) 24 credit points of block credit and must complete 48 credit points

12 credit points

Complete the following units:

6 credit points

Complete the following unit:
And complete 6 to 18 credit points from the following units:
Complete the following units relevant to the Rule you are enrolled:

12 credit points

Complete the following units: Note: Listed units are offered on a two-year rotation cycle ie every second year.
Complete 24 to 36 credit points from the following units: Note: Listed units are offered on a two-year rotation cycle ie every second year.
Students admitted under Rule (a) are required to complete 72cps consisting: 18cps prescribed coursework units; 6-18cps of Research-based units; 12cps at 300-level from the Listed Units and 24-36cps at 500-level Listed Units. Students admitted under Rule (b) will be granted a block credit of 24cps and will be required to complete 48cps consisting: 6cps prescribed coursework unit; 6-18cps of Research-based units and 24-36cps from the 500-level Listed Units.
Rule (a) must complete 72 credit points Rule (b) 24 credit points of block credit and must complete 48 credit points

12 credit points

Complete the following units:

6 credit points

Complete the following unit:
Complete 6 to 18 credit points from the following units:
Complete the following units relevant to the Rule you are enrolled:
Complete 12 credit points from the following units: Note: Listed units are offered on a two-year rotation cycle ie every second year.
Complete 24 to 36 credit points from the following units: Note: Listed units are offered on a two-year rotation cycle ie every second year.
Students admitted under Rule (a) are required to complete 72cps consisting: 18cps prescribed coursework units; 6-18cps of Research-based units; 12cps at 300-level from the Listed Units and 24-36cps at 500-level Listed Units. Students admitted under Rule (b) will be granted a block credit of 24cps and will be required to complete 48cps consisting: 6cps prescribed coursework unit; 6-18cps of Research-based units and 24-36cps from the 500-level Listed Units.
Rule (a) must complete 72 credit points Rule (b) 24 credit points of block credit and must complete 48 credit points

12 credit points

Complete the following units:

6 credit points

Complete the following unit:
And complete 6 to 18 credit points from the following units:
Complete the following units relevant to the Rule you are enrolled:
Complete 12 credit points from the following units: Note: Listed units are offered on a two-year rotation cycle ie every second year.
Complete 24 to 36 credit points from the following units: Note: Listed units are offered on a two-year rotation cycle ie every second year.
Students admitted under Rule (a) are required to complete 72cps consisting: 18cps prescribed coursework units; 6-18cps of Research-based units; 12cps at 300-level from the Listed Units and 24-36cps at 500-level Listed Units. Students admitted under Rule (b) will be granted a block credit of 24cps and will be required to complete 48cps consisting: 6cps prescribed coursework unit; 6-18cps of Research-based units and 24-36cps from the 500-level Listed Units.
Rule (a) must complete 72 credit points Rule (b) 24 credit points of block credit and must complete 48 credit points

12 credit points

Complete the following units:

6 credit points

Complete the following unit:
Complete 6 to 18 credit points from the following units:
Complete the following units relevant to the Rule you are enrolled:
Complete the following units:
Complete 24 to 36 credit points from the following units: Note: Listed units are offered on a two-year rotation cycle ie every second year.
Students admitted under Rule (a) are required to complete 72cps consisting: 18cps prescribed coursework units; 6-18cps of Research-based units; 12cps at 300-level from the Listed Units and 24-36cps at 500-level Listed Units. Students admitted under Rule (b) will be granted a block credit of 24cps and will be required to complete 48cps consisting: 6cps prescribed coursework unit; 6-18cps of Research-based units and 24-36cps from the 500-level Listed Units.
Rule (a) must complete 72 credit points Rule (b) 24 credit points of block credit and must complete 48 credit points

12 credit points

Complete the following units:

6 credit points

Complete the following unit:
Complete 6 to 18 credit points from the following units:
Complete the following units relevant to the Rule you are enrolled:
Complete 12 credit points from the following units: Note: Listed units are offered on a two-year rotation cycle ie every second year.
Complete 24 to 36 credit points from the following units: Note: Listed units are offered on a two-year rotation cycle ie every second year.
Students admitted under Rule (a) are required to complete 72cps consisting: 30cps prescribed coursework units; 6-18cps of Research-based units; 12cps at 300-level from the Listed Units and 24-36cps at 500-level Listed Units. Students admitted under Rule (b) will be granted a block credit of 24cps and will be required to complete 48cps consisting: 6cps prescribed coursework unit; 6-18cps of Research-based units and 24-36cps from the 500-level Listed Units.
Rule (a) must complete 72 credit points Rule (b) 24 credit points of block credit and must complete 48 credit points

24 credit points

Complete 24 credit points from ONE of the language areas: NOTE: Students with prior knowledge of their chosen language must sit a placement test and commence their program of study at the appropriate level in consultation with the Discipline Convenor and approval of the Course Coordinator.

24 credit points

Complete the following units

24 credit points

Complete the following units:

24 credit points

Complete the following units:
Complete 6 credit points from the following units:
Complete 6 to 18 credit points from the following units
Complete 24 to 36 credit points from the following units: Note: Listed units are offered on a two-year rotation cycle ie every second year.
Students admitted under Rule (a) are required to complete 72cps consisting: 18cps prescribed coursework units; 6-18cps of Research-based units; 12cps at 300-level from the Listed Units and 24-36cps at 500-level Listed Units. Students admitted under Rule (b) will be granted a block credit of 24cps and will be required to complete 48cps consisting: 6cps prescribed coursework unit; 6-18cps of Research-based units and 24-36cps from the 500-level Listed Units.
Rule (a) must complete 72 credit points Rule (b) 24 credit points of block credit and must complete 48 credit points

12 credit points

Complete the following units:

6 credit points

Complete the following unit:

6 credit points

Complete 6 credit points from the following units:
And complete 6 to 18 credit points from the following units:
Complete the following units relevant to the Rule you are enrolled:
Complete 12 credit points from the following units: Note: Listed units are offered on a two-year rotation cycle ie every second year.
Complete 24 to 36 credit points from the following units: Note: Listed units are offered on a two-year rotation cycle ie every second year.

See UNE Handbook for more details. The Handbook contains detailed course information designed for enrolled students, including course plans, exit awards, intensive schools, and work placement requirements.

Fees and scholarships

How much will it cost?

Estimated fees for your first year of study in this course are:

Fee typeCost
Full Fee
$27,040*
International
$30,200*
Commonwealth Supported Place (quotas apply)
$13,100*
Estimated amenities fee per year if studying full-time$351
*The costs will depend on the units you choose to study as the cost of individual units vary. “Estimated fees” are provided as a guide only based on a typical enrolment of students undertaking a study load of 48 credit points in the first year of this course. For courses that require less than 48 credit points the fees indicated are based on the total credit points required for completion of that course. For more information, please see fees and costs.

*Annual course fees only cover the cost of tuition. They do not include other expenses associated with university study such as text books, accommodation and living expenses. If you are successful in gaining admission to study at UNE, the Offer of Admission will list the exact tuition fees you need to pay for your course. Fees quoted cover full-time tuition for two full-time trimesters only. For more information, please see fees and costs.

What are the course fee payment options?

Full Fee places are mostly in postgraduate coursework degrees. In a full fee place you pay the tuition fee set for your course, however you may be eligible for a FEE-HELP Loan to defer payment of your fees until you are earning above the threshold.

If you are enrolled in a Full Fee place and there is a direct connection between your work and your study, you may be able to claim your tuition fees as a tax deduction.

A Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) is a government subsidised place in a university course. The government pays part of your tuition fees, and you pay the remainder.

If you have a CSP in either an undergraduate or postgraduate (coursework) degree, you may be eligible for a HECS-HELP Loan, which allows you to defer payment of your fees until you are earning above the threshold.

UNE scholarships are open for all to apply and offer financial help while you are studying. There are scholarships for students with high academic achievement, from rural areas, studying specific degrees, in disadvantaged groups, experiencing financial hardship, who excel at sport or want to live in a UNE residential college.

UNE scholarship applications are free and confidential. You may apply for more than one scholarship.

Scholarships

UNE offers bursaries and scholarships that can help you with the costs of studying and living in Australia.

The UNE International Bursary reduces the published annual tuition fees for international students by up to 20%. These bursaries are available for international students commencing coursework studies at UNE in 2024. View detailed Bursary information.

UNE also offers a number of substantial research scholarships to postgraduate students studying research-based degrees.

Your career

Career outcomes

Examples of careers that may be bolstered by a Master of Arts include, but are not limited to:

  • public relations
  • foreign affairs
  • creative industries
  • political and social management
  • journalism and communications
  • GLAM (galleries, libraries, archives and museums) and cultural heritage.
Other career information

Employers look for flexibility in their staff, expecting to retrain staff as work demands change. To meet this need, they tend to seek out people who are intellectually flexible, with analytical minds and good communication skills. At UNE, students who complete a Master of Arts are trained to think for themselves, acquire and process information, communicate their thoughts effectively and exercise initiative; all skills that employers seek.

Course outcomes

This course offers those people who have already completed an undergraduate degree the opportunity to continue university study, either to further career or professional aspirations or to pursue a specific area of interest. The course can also provide an avenue into a research degree such as a research Masters or PhD (in order to qualify for a PhD a Masters must include an independent research unit of 12 credit points or greater). Students must complete a specific course of study (ie, badged Major). The course also provides the opportunity to complete reading and dissertation (research) units. The major subject areas are provided from the School of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences.
  1. appreciate and apply expert knowledge of specific subject areas, including recent development, research principles and inter-disciplinary approaches and practice;
  2. demonstrate and apply mastery of higher level research and communication skills including theoretical, technical and analytical concepts to their research; and
  3. utilise enhanced critical thinking and analytical skills with creativity and initiative in a variety of academic settings, including a research project and capstone experience, with high level personal output.
Knowledge of a Discipline

Graduates will have detailed and higher level knowledge of selected subject areas and disciplines that will be taught through unit materials, online discussions, guided readings, directed learning and research activities. This will include an appreciation of the processes through which knowledge has evolved. This knowledge is practised and assessed through a variety of discipline relevant assignment tasks.

Communication Skills

Graduates will have advanced skills to communicate and substantiate the results of research and analysis in a variety of written and multi-media formats. These skills are taught through guided learning activities, oral and written feedback on assignments and online discussions. They will be practised through participation in online discussions and through written or other forms of assignments relevant to the area of study with particular acknowledgement of the diversity of communication styles and forms employed by different disciplines and by individuals from different cultural backgrounds. They are assessed through assignment work and against criteria relevant to the specific form of communication and to the subject area being studied.

Problem Solving

Graduates will have a deep knowledge of key problem-solving strategies relevant to their selected subject areas. They will be able to apply their information literacy skills to develop their own responses to particular problems in different environments and contexts.

Information Literacy

Graduates will develop and practice a range of higher level research skills relevant to their selected subject areas and disciplines, including inter-disciplinary approaches. These include awareness of the level and nature of information required and where and how it can be acquired; relevant methods for analysing and evaluating information; and the use of information to demonstrate their understanding of topics and issues and to do so in different forms and media, depending on subject and discipline requirements.

Ethical Conduct and Social Responsibility

Graduates will have advanced understanding of their professional and ethical responsibilities to provide balanced and accurate research; their social responsibility to recognise and address social justice issues; and their need for awareness and action in relation to issues such as the impact of social change, sustainable development, Indigenous rights and occupational risk. These are taught, practised and assessed in accordance with the requirements and understandings relevant to their different disciplinary, inter-disciplinary and professional areas of study and interest.

Lifelong Learning

Graduates will develop lifelong skills to continue to research, evaluate, discuss and present information and issues in a variety of contexts and for a variety of purposes. The skills they will acquire, both disciplinary and inter-disciplinary, will be useful in a range of professional and community settings.

Independence and Collaboration

Graduates will be able to exercise responsibility and accountability for their own learning and professional practice as well as the ability to work collaboratively with others. Through online discussions and teaching and learning activities, graduates are required to work collaboratively and network effectively in the sharing of resources and ideas, and in order to solve problems. They will understand and practise an appreciation of different approaches and styles, be supportive of each other, and assert their own values and opinions while respecting the values and contributions of others. These skills and awareness are reinforced through discipline-specific tasks, discussions and activities relating to strategies for effective collaborative work as students, as community members and in professional contexts.

A five-star experience

2024 Overall Experience Good University Logo

Five Stars,
18 Years in a Row

UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 18 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience

Good Universities Guide 2007-2024
2024 Student Experience Good University Logo

No.1 in NSW for
Student Experience

QILT (government-endorsed) ranks UNE as the top public NSW uni for Student Experience

QILT Student Experience Survey
2024 Teaching Quality Good University Logo

Five Stars for
Teaching Quality

UNE rates among the top 20 per cent of universities in Australia for Teaching Quality

Good Universities Guide 2024
Woman studying online at home

Studying online

At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian university.

We understand the challenges faced by busy adults studying at home. We know that a vital part of online study is your engagement with the learning community. Communication with your classmates, teaching staff and university support staff will enhance your study experience and ensure that your skills extend beyond the subject matter. UNE’s teaching staff are experts in their field which is why UNE consistently receives five stars from students for teaching quality, support and overall experience.*

*The Good Universities Guide

A five-star experience

2024 Overall Experience Good University Logo

Five Stars,
18 Years in a Row

UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 18 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience

Good Universities Guide 2007-2024
2024 Student Experience Good University Logo

No.1 in NSW for
Student Experience

QILT (government-endorsed) ranks UNE as the top public NSW uni for Student Experience

QILT Student Experience Survey
2024 Teaching Quality Good University Logo

Five Stars for
Teaching Quality

UNE rates among the top 20 per cent of universities in Australia for Teaching Quality

Good Universities Guide 2024
Woman studying online at home

Studying online

At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian University.

As an international student you can take advantage of flexible online study from overseas or while you are studying in Australia on a visa other than a student visa. You can’t study fully online on a Student Visa.

To study online from overseas you need to consider that you may need to travel to Australia to attend a UNE campus for some mandatory intensive schools.

Studying on Campus

Whether you are an undergraduate student coming to study in Australia for the first time, a PhD student coming to live here with your family, or you only need short-stay accommodation whilst in Armidale for Intensive Schools, we have the perfect accommodation option for you.

Find out more about studying on campus

Stay connected

Register your interest and we'll keep you updated

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Why study with us?

UNE Master of Arts graduate headshot

It was excellent to have the opportunity to skill up in anything that I could apply to my own work.

Amanda Vanelderen, graduate, Master of Arts (Communication Studies)

Why study with us?

UNE graduate poses on campus with camera

Studying at UNE was an amazing experience for me not only because of education but also because of the multicultural environment, the academic staff and resources and the international services.

Shyama Prashad Chakma, UNE graduate

How to apply

Applying to UNE is quick and easy. If you are an
you can apply at any time. Apply now and we'll get you started in the next possible intake.

Preparing to apply

You should always provide the details of past or current studies in your application. You may also need to include documents to support your application.

The kind of documents you need will depend on:

  • Your preferred course/s
  • Your personal circumstances
Applying to UNE is quick and easy. If you are applying as a
, the application process may be a little different depending on who you are and what you want to study.

Preparing to apply

You should always provide the details of past or current studies in your application. You may also need to include documents to support your application.

The kind of documents you need will depend on:

  • Your preferred course/s
  • Your personal circumstances

Important Dates

Different application methods and courses can have different closing dates. To find your correct application method click the Apply Now button below. Please check the appropriate application website for opening and closing dates.

If you are applying online direct to UNE please see below for application dates.

IntakeApplication Closing DateTrimester Start Date
Trimester 116 February 202426 February 2024
Trimester 214 June 202424 June 2024
Trimester 311 October 202421 October 2024

Important Notice for Prospective Students

For accurate, up-to-date details on entry requirements, course structure, and other essential information, please consult the UNE Student Handbook before applying or enrolling. The Handbook provides comprehensive guidance to assist in your decision-making process. We apologise for any inconvenience.