Bachelor of Arts with Honours (A4A)

The Aboriginal Studies programme facilitates understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and societies, past and present relationships between indigenous Australians and other peoples (nationally and internationally) and the development of intercultural competence. Our guiding principal is to foster social inclusion while respecting and valuing cultural diversity. We aim to formulate and deliver a programme committed to student-centred learning, academic freedom, creativity, real world relevance, critical scholarship and rigour. We envisage continuing to develop as a broadly based cross-disciplinary enquiry that draws on contemporary theories and established traditions of the humanities and social sciences, situates local and national issues within international flows and frameworks (and vice versa), and engages with issues of sustainability and change

The Ancient Civilisations major connects students with the histories, literatures, and cultures of ancient Greece and Rome. ‘Ancient Civs’ is uniquely broad in its thematic range, reflecting the diverse body of evidence that survives from the ancient world. Our units include topics in mythology and religion, ancient drama, Roman social history, classical epic, and many others. As such, Ancient Civilisations is dynamic, rigorous, and multidisciplinary: it incorporates elements of ancient historiography, literary criticism, archaeology, and philosophical enquiry.

The teaching staff and curriculum of the Ancient Civilisations major encourage students to develop interpretive and analytical skills, as well as skills in written and oral communication. We foster critical thinking, research methods, and intercultural awareness. Our major prepares students for a range of professional careers, as well as for postgraduate study. Students might also wish to supplement their studies by studying Latin (HTL) and/or Ancient Greek (HTG). These complementary majors equip students with the skills to read ancient sources in their original languages.

The Ancient Civilisations major begins with a pair of introductory units which offer a broad survey of the ancient Greek and Roman cultures, and introduce skills for interpreting these. At the intermediate level, students have the opportunity to pursue a wide variety of interests ranging from love-poetry to Roman Republican history. At the advanced level, we offer a suite of capstone units which seeks to draw the major’s thematic threads together.

The study of ancient Greek is traditionally one of the core disciplines in the humanities. This is the language in which the fundamentals of western thought were argued out, in the sciences, philosophy and medicine, as well as in literature in the broadest sense. Students gain from the careful study of ancient texts a better understanding of the contemporary world, and analytical and linguistic skills, which are extremely valuable in a range of professions and pursuits. What the Greek curriculum offers is a rigorous intellectual training that can be put to use in any field. To this end we train students in the skills needed to read a range of ancient texts, and to be alert to cultural and linguistic nuance.

Asian Studies is an interdisciplinary area of study that equips graduates with the skills, knowledge and conceptual understanding for employment engaged with the Asian region, either directly or indirectly. Students will develop a knowledge of the developments that have shaped - and continue to shape -the Asian region as well as an understanding of the diversity within and across countries in the region. Students will build up knowledge of Asian societies, cultures, beliefs, history, politics, media, cities and environments, and the connections between the peoples of Asia, Australia and the rest of the world within the overall framework of global competence and Asia literacy. Asian Studies students will also develop an understanding of the concept of ‘Asia’ and will be able bring a perspective informed by knowledge of Asia to major issues and challenges facing our world today. Asia Studies provides students with the skills and knowledge to effectively communicate and engage with Asia in order to live, work, and learn in the region.

The Chinese language program aims to develop students’ Chinese (Mandarin) linguistic capability in the areas of listening, speaking, reading, and writing; as well as to cultivate students’ cross-cultural communicative skills through the integration of relevant cultural knowledge in language learning.

Students are strongly encouraged to complete their studies in another discipline with a China-Asia focus such as Asian Studies and International Relations to complement their language study.

The Chinese language program also provides students with opportunities to study in country thereby fostering a global perspective and intercultural competence in their personal and future professional interactions.

Criminology is the study of crime, criminality and criminal justice systems, focussing on criminalisation as a process, the causes of crime, the social context of offending, crime prevention, systems of social control, and the punishment and rehabilitation of offenders. Criminologists critically analyse the policies, practices, systems, cultures and relationships between key stakeholders (from an individual level to a societal level) to improve understanding, advance the evidence base, and develop new initiatives and agendas for change. Criminology involves study and intervention at local, national, regional and international levels, and engagement in issues of local through to global importance (e.g., assault, terrorism, eco-crime, human trafficking, cybercrime).

Criminology is not a discipline but a field, incorporating disciplinary expertise from areas such as sociology, psychology, law, history, politics, social work, philosophy and Indigenous studies. Its foundational disciplines are sociology and law, and criminology programmes are usually based in either a Law School or School of Sociology.

The Criminology Programme is mainly designed to cater to students and researchers who have an interest in pursuing a study programme that offers a grounded understanding and practical experience of criminology as an academic field. It is also intended to provide a platform for the professional development of practitioners working directly in the area of criminal justice and in allied fields (such as juvenile justice, youth and community work, crime prevention projects, social work, prisoner support, victim services and local government).

The Programme as a whole will enhance student academic and professional skills, provide opportunities for careers in criminal justice and enhance movement through career pathways, and be relevant to the professional needs of those working in the fields of criminology and criminal justice. It will equip them with the skills and knowledge to eventually lead to more senior managerial, policy development or research positions.

In 2015, English was one of nine University of Tasmania subjects included in the QS World University Rankings by Subject. We offer a broad and dynamic program across the key areas of contemporary English studies: literary studies, screen studies, theatre studies, cultural studies, and creative writing. A major in English builds knowledge of literary and cultural histories and practices, develops highly valued and transferable skills in the analysis and writing of literary and non-literary texts, and fosters expertise in written and oral communication. An English major also trains students in research, so that graduates are able to locate, assess and use resources to construct coherent, persuasive arguments.

The study of French is traditionally one of the core disciplines in the humanities. Along with German, this is one of the principal languages in which the fundamentals of western thought were argued out, in the sciences, philosophy and medicine, as well as in literature in the broadest sense. The study of a second language helps students gain a sense of personal achievement and enhances insights into diverse cultural and linguistic practices. Students gain from the careful study of French texts a better understanding of the contemporary world, and analytical and linguistic skills, which are extremely valuable in a range of professions and pursuits. What the French curriculum offers is a rigorous intellectual training, which can be put to use in almost any field.

To understand Gender is to understand better human beings and our cultures. Because all human beings are gendered, and because many areas of study are focused on human beings – our histories, our social institutions and practices, our creative endeavours, the relations between different communities or nations, religion, ethics – because gender is implicated in all of these things, it is deeply useful to gain an awareness of what gender is and isn’t, of how it acts in and upon our lives, and of how various disciplines address the fact of sex and gender as a part of human life.

A major or minor in Geography and Environment enables students to develop interdisciplinary knowledge and skills relevant to the study of people-environment interactions. It also affords opportunities to develop specialist expertise across the physical, spatial and social sciences in the discipline of geography. Program content builds sequentially over the three years of the major and is informed by international, national and local research. Program teaching emphasises student-led, problem- based and field-based learning. The structure of the program provides a variety of enrolment pathways and learning experiences that prepare students for a diverse range of careers in such areas as environmental management, sustainability planning and policy, community development and nature conservation.

The study of German is traditionally one of the core disciplines in the humanities. Along with French, this is one of the principal languages in which the fundamentals of western thought were argued out, in the sciences, philosophy and medicine, as well as in literature in the broadest sense. The study of a second language helps students gain a sense of personal achievement and enhances insights into diverse cultural and linguistic practices. Since the English language has Germanic roots, the study of German also promotes awareness and confidence in the correct use of standard English. Students gain from the careful study of German texts a better understanding of the contemporary world, and analytical and linguistic skills, which are extremely valuable in a range of professions and pursuits. The German program at UTAS aims at developing a deep understanding of not only the language, but the society and culture behind it, through units that cover modern society, literature and popular culture.

History is the study of the past and its interpretation in the present. Historians make sense of the past using evidence from a wide range of sources. Using a range of theories and methodologies, they examine past events, processes and relationships, interpreting their origins, significance, and consequences. Historians accept that their interpretations are always provisional and subject to modifications as future historians ask new questions or revisit old ones, apply new methodologies, and add new interpretations.

Studying a major in History involves the study of places and periods, but it actually involves much more than this. Through completing a range of units covering multiple themes, geographies, and chronologies, students with a History major will develop both broad and detailed understanding of multiple historical contexts as well as fundamental and transferable skills in historical analysis, historical research, and communication. Having studied a History major students will have a firm foundation for future pathways in postgraduate History study and also will be equipped to apply their skills, knowledge, and methods of enquiry in wide contexts, both consolidating and extending the range of contexts studied within the major.

Learning a second language assists in developing and improving communication skills, and enhancing socio-cultural understanding. The study of a second language helps students gain a sense of personal achievement, enhances insights into diverse cultural and linguistic practices and also promotes awareness and confidence in the correct use of standard English. The Indonesian program at UTAS aims at developing a deep understanding of not only the language, but the society and culture behind it, through units that cover modern society, literature and popular culture.

The purpose of the International Relations (IR) major is to provide students with a solid grounding in the core theories, issues and debates in the discipline. This commences in first year with an introduction to key conceptual approaches (incorporating realism, neoliberalism, social constructivism and Marxist approaches). These approaches are then used to evaluate key contemporary issues such as globalisation, changing patterns of power, poverty and dependency, human rights and international justice, the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, security and war, and the role of international institutions and regimes.

After completing their first year of study, students have the option of studying themes that encapsulate core sub--‐ disciplinary debates. These include the foreign policies of great powers, international political economy, order and justice in IR, the international politics of the Asia--‐Pacific, and international security. We have deliberately developed these units to provide pathways that allow students to focus either on national security issues or those that are more focused on global justice and rights. High achieving students then finish with a ‘capstone’ unit – HIR311 – with a more intensive theory--‐and--‐research focus.

The intention here is that our students can develop their own specialisation that matches the hiring profiles of agencies and organisations. These include government departments specialising in international affairs (such as DFAT, Defence, ASIO, ASIS, DIO, Immigration and others) as well as the United Nations, human rights and aid NGOs, and businesses working in a competitive global marketplace that frequently hire IR graduates.

If you wish to major and minor, or double major, in International Relations and Politics & Policy HIR101 and HPP101 cannot count to both and different introductory level units will be required. Please choose another minor that commences at first year and complete the 2 x introductory level units towards this discipline, eg Sociology HGA101 and HGA102. You will then commence your IR OR Politics & Policy major/minor from second year with the normal units as per schedule. 

The philosophy of this program is grounded in the assumption that all students have the capacity and should have the right to learn a second language, including a scripted language – specifically in this instance, Japan. Second language learning is imperative in terms of globalisation, with high levels of proficiency in Asian languages being a pre-requisite for Australia to take an effective role in the Asia-Pacific region and in the wider world. In 2016, Japan remains, behind China and ahead of both South Korea and the United States, Australia’s second largest two-way trade partner. In other words, an understanding of Japan and the Japanese language remains crucially important to Australia’s successful trade relations. Knowledge of both the language and the society of Japan will have a positive impact on future student employment in the case of those students who seek to engage in commercial exchange with East Asia.

The program aims to provide a full range of second language learning experiences for students, ranging from activities based on face-to-face teaching and conventional print materials through electronically supported language learning to in-country programs. Importantly, recognition is given to the necessity of providing students with opportunities for interaction with the language and speakers of the language outside the classroom and to equip students with the strategies necessary to use the language acquired in the UTAS learning environment in the natural socio-linguistic environment.

The program has a number of entry levels although the substantive major provides a language/sociocultural learning experience that structures students through beginner, intermediate and early advanced levels of language/sociocultural knowledge acquisition.

Through the promotion of in-Japan learning opportunities, the program also provides interested students with the opportunity for both short-term and long-term linguistic and sociocultural immersion experience that graduates high quality, work-place orientated graduates. In this way, the program draws on both issues of culture and creativity while overcoming the isolation that can be a factor of island learning to place students in the natural laboratory of the real-life Japanese social and language environment.

Furthermore, rather than presenting exit as an end-point learning, the program seeks to encourage a consciousness of the value of life-long learning among students and of the benefits of collaborative learning. In doing so, the program creates a community of practice in which participants can share a passion for learning while building a skill set of values for the future work-orientated world. On the other hand, the nature of language learning results in the high level of individual agency required of learners who will achieve success in the future world. This agency is particularly developed during the outward bound in-Japan study programs that are a feature of the major during which time students are required to act with integrity and independence in order to achieve success and thrive.

The study of Latin is one of the core humanist disciplines. Along with Ancient Greek, this is one of the principal languages in which the fundamentals of western thought were argued out, in the sciences, philosophy and medicine, as well as in literature in the broadest sense. Students gain from the careful study of ancient texts a better understanding of the contemporary world, and analytical and linguistic skills, which are extremely valuable in a range of professions and pursuits. The Latin curriculum offers a rigorous intellectual training that can be put to use in almost any field. To this end we train students in the skills needed to read a range of ancient texts, and to be alert to the expression of cultural nuance both in language and in written communication.

The Legal Studies major gives students an introduction to some of the essential techniques and knowledge applied by lawyers and a grounding in some of the major fields of law. With guidance from law school academics, students will develop the ability to read and interpret legal texts (statutes and case law), gain an understanding of some of the central policy issues in law and advance legal arguments orally and in writing.

The Politics and Policy major teaches students to understand and analyse political, social, economic and organisational processes that shape politics, governance, public policy and public affairs. It aims to produce graduates who are informed and active citizens equipped to undertake varied roles in government agencies, political parties, non-governmental organisations and the private sector as researchers, policy analysts, activists, advisers and elected representatives. In doing so, the major develops students’ understanding of the contemporary political, policy, economic, social and environmental challenges faced by governments and how local, national and global institutions may respond to complex governance problems in an era of globalisation and change.

The major develops students’ understanding of the discipline though units on sub-fields including Australian and comparative politics, political ideas, governance and public policy, and environmental politics. In its teaching and assessment practices, it draws on case studies of local, national, regional and international political and policy issues to allow students to connect and critically analyse political science scholarship with respect to real word issues and events. Further, the program offers students the opportunity to undertake an internship unit with the Tasmanian Public Service or Tasmanian member of parliament (subject to student performance and available places). The Politics and Policy major program thus provides students with knowledge of the complex world of politics, governance and public affairs involving ideas, values, beliefs, interests and array of institutions with a focus on the role of governments and how they operate. Politics and Policy students are thus equipped with essential skills in research, reasoned argument, and in written and verbal communication.

If you wish to major and minor, or double major, in International Relations and Politics & Policy HIR101 and HPP101 cannot count to both and different introductory level units will be required. Please choose another minor that commences at first year and complete the 2 x introductory level units towards this discipline, eg Sociology HGA101 and HGA102. You will then commence your IR OR Politics & Policy major/minor from second year with the normal units as per schedule. 

The way we behave. The way we think. The way we react and interact. When you study psychology, you'll begin to understand the science behind human behaviour – and how we can use this science to solve practical problems in all sorts of situations.

Students considering a career in Psychology need to complete an accredited undergraduate sequence of study in Psychology (12 units) to progress to fourth year and a postgraduate study in Psychology. The requirement for the accredited undergraduate sequence is completion of an accredited Psychological Science major (8 core units) and a minor in Applied Psychology (4 units). 

Sociology is the study of human societies, focusing on the organisation of social life from individuals to social institutions. It examines people and other actors in their social contexts, and provides insights into the ways factors such as class, wealth, race, gender, ethnicity, age, sexuality, disability, and religion shape societies at the individual, group, and institutional levels. Central to the sociological endeavour is a critical perspective: sociologists question the popular explanations of social life, through the application of rigorous and systematic methods of enquiry, and examine the dynamics of power and inequality.

Sociology graduates are expected to exhibit an understanding of sociology as an academic discipline. Sociology includes a great diversity of areas of specialisation, objects of study, research methods and theoretical approaches. Sociological knowledge is often contested, provisional, and situated.

As a discipline, Sociology is characterised by empirically based social research and by carefully examined social theory. Sociology students develop skills in critical thinking, self-direction, collaboration and communication. Graduates of sociology programs are well equipped to go into a variety of careers across a range of government and non-government sectors, particularly those that require high level research and critical thinking skills.

The Aboriginal Studies programme facilitates understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and societies, past and present relationships between indigenous Australians and other peoples (nationally and internationally) and the development of intercultural competence. Our guiding principal is to foster social inclusion while respecting and valuing cultural diversity. We aim to formulate and deliver a programme committed to student-centred learning, academic freedom, creativity, real world relevance, critical scholarship and rigour. We envisage continuing to develop as a broadly based cross-disciplinary enquiry that draws on contemporary theories and established traditions of the humanities and social sciences, situates local and national issues within international flows and frameworks (and vice versa), and engages with issues of sustainability and change

The Ancient Civilisations major connects students with the histories, literatures, and cultures of ancient Greece and Rome. ‘Ancient Civs’ is uniquely broad in its thematic range, reflecting the diverse body of evidence that survives from the ancient world. Our units include topics in mythology and religion, ancient drama, Roman social history, classical epic, and many others. As such, Ancient Civilisations is dynamic, rigorous, and multidisciplinary: it incorporates elements of ancient historiography, literary criticism, archaeology, and philosophical enquiry.

The teaching staff and curriculum of the Ancient Civilisations major encourage students to develop interpretive and analytical skills, as well as skills in written and oral communication. We foster critical thinking, research methods, and intercultural awareness. Our major prepares students for a range of professional careers, as well as for postgraduate study. Students might also wish to supplement their studies by studying Latin (HTL) and/or Ancient Greek (HTG). These complementary majors equip students with the skills to read ancient sources in their original languages.

The Ancient Civs major begins with a pair of introductory units which offer a broad survey of the ancient Greek and Roman cultures, and introduce skills for interpreting these. At the intermediate level, students have the opportunity to pursue a wide variety of interests ranging from love-poetry to Roman Republican history. At the advanced level, we offer a suite of capstone units which seeks to draw the major’s thematic threads together.

The study of ancient Greek is traditionally one of the core disciplines in the humanities. This is the language in which the fundamentals of western thought were argued out, in the sciences, philosophy and medicine, as well as in literature in the broadest sense. Students gain from the careful study of ancient texts a better understanding of the contemporary world, and analytical and linguistic skills, which are extremely valuable in a range of professions and pursuits. What the Greek curriculum offers is a rigorous intellectual training that can be put to use in any field. To this end we train students in the skills needed to read a range of ancient texts, and to be alert to cultural and linguistic nuance.

The way we behave. The way we think. The way we react and interact. When you study psychology, you'll begin to understand the science behind human behaviour – and how we can use this science to solve practical problems in all sorts of situations.

Students considering a career in Psychology need to complete an accredited undergraduate sequence of study in Psychology (12 units) to progress to fourth year and a postgraduate study in Psychology. The requirement for the accredited undergraduate sequence is completion of an accredited Psychological Science major (8 core units) and a minor in Applied Psychology (4 units). 

Asian Studies is an interdisciplinary area of study that equips graduates with the skills, knowledge and conceptual understanding for employment engaged with the Asian region, either directly or indirectly. Students will develop a knowledge of the developments that have shaped - and continue to shape -the Asian region as well as an understanding of the diversity within and across countries in the region. Students will build up knowledge of Asian societies, cultures, beliefs, history, politics, media, cities and environments, and the connections between the peoples of Asia, Australia and the rest of the world within the overall framework of global competence and Asia literacy. Asian Studies students will also develop an understanding of the concept of ‘Asia’ and will be able bring a perspective informed by knowledge of Asia to major issues and challenges facing our world today. Asia Studies provides students with the skills and knowledge to effectively communicate and engage with Asia in order to live, work, and learn in the region.

The requirement for the accredited undergraduate sequence is completion of an accredited Psychology major (8 core units) and a minor in Behavioural Science (4 units).

The Chinese language program aims to develop students’ Chinese (Mandarin) linguistic capability in the areas of listening, speaking, reading, and writing; as well as to cultivate students’ cross-cultural communicative skills through the integration of relevant cultural knowledge in language learning.

Students are strongly encouraged to complete their studies in another discipline with a China-Asia focus such as Asian Studies and International Relations to complement their language study.

The Chinese language program also provides students with opportunities to study in country thereby fostering a global perspective and intercultural competence in their personal and future professional interactions.

The Creative Arts and Health minor draws together expertise from the School of Creative Arts and the School of Social Sciences to offer a curriculum that enables students to engage with the exciting national and international developments in the field of Creative Arts and Health and begin to prepare them to contribute to improvements in the wellbeing of Australians. The minor provides students with knowledge of recent research regarding creative arts interventions in a range of community and health-care settings, skills for evaluation of case studies, and qualitative data and awareness of social institutions and social impacts of health and illness. It provides a unique interdisciplinary study experience as the units draw on recent research in neuroscience and arts-based health care interventions and provide opportunities for exploration of the student’s own creativity and the nature and structures of community engagement. With ageing populations in developed countries, there is a growing international emphasis on non-pharmaceutical interventions for chronic health conditions and interest in the benefits of the arts to public health. The minor is of direct relevance to those working in various health and community care sectors and for students in the creative arts developing a portfolio career embracing arts in community and health sectors, or planning to undertake postgraduate study in creative arts therapies.

Criminology is the study of crime, criminality and criminal justice systems, focussing on criminalisation as a process, the causes of crime, the social context of offending, crime prevention, systems of social control, and the punishment and rehabilitation of offenders. Criminologists critically analyse the policies, practices, systems, cultures and relationships between key stakeholders (from an individual level to a societal level) to improve understanding, advance the evidence base, and develop new initiatives and agendas for change. Criminology involves study and intervention at local, national, regional and international levels, and engagement in issues of local through to global importance (e.g., assault, terrorism, eco-crime, human trafficking, cybercrime).

Criminology is not a discipline but a field, incorporating disciplinary expertise from areas such as sociology, psychology, law, history, politics, social work, philosophy and Indigenous studies. Its foundational disciplines are sociology and law, and criminology programmes are usually based in either a Law School or School of Sociology.

The Criminology Programme is mainly designed to cater to students and researchers who have an interest in pursuing a study programme that offers a grounded understanding and practical experience of criminology as an academic field. It is also intended to provide a platform for the professional development of practitioners working directly in the area of criminal justice and in allied fields (such as juvenile justice, youth and community work, crime prevention projects, social work, prisoner support, victim services and local government).

The Programme as a whole will enhance student academic and professional skills, provide opportunities for careers in criminal justice and enhance movement through career pathways, and be relevant to the professional needs of those working in the fields of criminology and criminal justice. It will equip them with the skills and knowledge to eventually lead to more senior managerial, policy development or research positions.

The undergraduate Criminology major builds from the two core introductory major study units of any the following disciplines: Psychology, Politics and Policy, International Relations, Law, Sociology, Behavioural Studies, Police Studies. Students in the Criminology major take one of the pairs of units at first year level, which then count as first year units in Criminology; completion of the major requires 4 intermediate units and 2 advanced level units, chosen from the schedule below.

This minor introduces you to some of the key competencies and skills which would apply to any field of endeavour you choose to study. In addition, an introduction to some of the theoretical aspects and evidence-based practice which are important to the field of teaching are prominent in these offerings.

If you intend to continue onto a Bachelor of Arts Honours in the Professional Pathway Specialisation (Education, Primary or Secondary) A4A or Master of Teaching E7G we would recommend structuring your Bachelor of Arts accordingly. These courses have specific entry requirements for the Primary and Secondary streams to ensure students have the content knowledge required for their preferred specialisations. For this reason, if you decide to study the Education minor we would recommend structuring your Experience and Engagement units to form an additional minor in a second area, differing from your major and Education minor. Please see http://www.utas.edu.au/courses/cale/courses/e7g-master-of-teaching. 

In 2015, English was one of nine University of Tasmania subjects included in the QS World University Rankings by Subject. We offer a broad and dynamic program across the key areas of contemporary English studies: literary studies, screen studies, theatre studies, cultural studies, and creative writing. A major in English builds knowledge of literary and cultural histories and practices, develops highly valued and transferable skills in the analysis and writing of literary and non-literary texts, and fosters expertise in written and oral communication. An English major also trains students in research, so that graduates are able to locate, assess and use resources to construct coherent, persuasive arguments.

The study of French is traditionally one of the core disciplines in the humanities. Along with German, this is one of the principal languages in which the fundamentals of western thought were argued out, in the sciences, philosophy and medicine, as well as in literature in the broadest sense. The study of a second language helps students gain a sense of personal achievement and enhances insights into diverse cultural and linguistic practices. Students gain from the careful study of French texts a better understanding of the contemporary world, and analytical and linguistic skills, which are extremely valuable in a range of professions and pursuits. What the French curriculum offers is a rigorous intellectual training, which can be put to use in almost any field.

To understand Gender is to understand better human beings and our cultures. Because all human beings are gendered, and because many areas of study are focused on human beings – our histories, our social institutions and practices, our creative endeavours, the relations between different communities or nations, religion, ethics – because gender is implicated in all of these things, it is deeply useful to gain an awareness of what gender is and isn’t, of how it acts in and upon our lives, and of how various disciplines address the fact of sex and gender as a part of human life.

A minor in Geography and Environment enables students to develop interdisciplinary knowledge and skills relevant to the study of people-environment interactions. It also affords opportunities to develop specialist expertise across the physical, spatial and social sciences in the discipline of geography. Program content builds sequentially over the three years of the major and is informed by international, national and local research. Program teaching emphasises student-led, problem- based and field-based learning. The structure of the program provides a variety of enrolment pathways and learning experiences that prepare students for a diverse range of careers in such areas as environmental management, sustainability planning and policy, community development and nature conservation.

The study of German is traditionally one of the core disciplines in the humanities. Along with French, this is one of the principal languages in which the fundamentals of western thought were argued out, in the sciences, philosophy and medicine, as well as in literature in the broadest sense. The study of a second language helps students gain a sense of personal achievement and enhances insights into diverse cultural and linguistic practices. Since the English language has Germanic roots, the study of German also promotes awareness and confidence in the correct use of standard English. Students gain from the careful study of German texts a better understanding of the contemporary world, and analytical and linguistic skills, which are extremely valuable in a range of professions and pursuits. The German program at UTAS aims at developing a deep understanding of not only the language, but the society and culture behind it, through units that cover modern society, literature and popular culture.

History is the study of the past and its interpretation in the present. Historians make sense of the past using evidence from a wide range of sources. Using a range of theories and methodologies, they examine past events, processes and relationships, interpreting their origins, significance, and consequences. Historians accept that their interpretations are always provisional and subject to modifications as future historians ask new questions or revisit old ones, apply new methodologies, and add new interpretations.

Studying a major in History involves the study of places and periods, but it actually involves much more than this. Through completing a range of units covering multiple themes, geographies, and chronologies, students with a History major will develop both broad and detailed understanding of multiple historical contexts as well as fundamental and transferrable skills in historical analysis, historical research, and communication. Having studied a History major students will have a firm foundation for future pathways in postgraduate History study and also will be equipped to apply their skills, knowledge, and methods of enquiry in wide contexts, both consolidating and extending the range of contexts studied within the major.

The learning outcomes for this major are framed by the Australian Learning and Teaching Academic Standards Project (2010) intended learning outcomes for History.

Learning a second language assists in developing and improving communication skills, and enhancing socio-cultural understanding. The study of a second language helps students gain a sense of personal achievement, enhances insights into diverse cultural and linguistic practices and also promotes awareness and confidence in the correct use of standard English. The Indonesian program at UTAS aims at developing a deep understanding of not only the language, but the society and culture behind it, through units that cover modern society, literature and popular culture.

The purpose of the International Relations (IR) major is to provide students with a solid grounding in the core theories, issues and debates in the discipline. This commences in first year with an introduction to key conceptual approaches (incorporating realism, neoliberalism, social constructivism and Marxist approaches). These approaches are then used to evaluate key contemporary issues such as globalisation, changing patterns of power, poverty and dependency, human rights and international justice, the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, security and war, and the role of international institutions and regimes.

After completing their first year of study, students have the option of studying themes that encapsulate core sub--‐ disciplinary debates. These include the foreign policies of great powers, international political economy, order and justice in IR, the international politics of the Asia--‐Pacific, and international security. We have deliberately developed these units to provide pathways that allow students to focus either on national security issues or those that are more focused on global justice and rights. High achieving students then finish with a ‘capstone’ unit – HIR311 – with a more intensive theory--‐and--‐research focus.

The intention here is that our students can develop their own specialisation that matches the hiring profiles of agencies and organisations. These include government departments specialising in international affairs (such as DFAT, Defence, ASIO, ASIS, DIO, Immigration and others) as well as the United Nations, human rights and aid NGOs, and businesses working in a competitive global marketplace that frequently hire IR graduates.

A key aspect of our major is the fact that it is explicitly based on a program of study developed after consultation with the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs on the qualities and skills that organisation looks for in its graduates. It is also benchmarked (see below) against leading national and international programs.

If you wish to major and minor, or double major, in International Relations and Politics & Policy HIR101 and HPP101 cannot count to both and different introductory level units will be required. Please choose another minor that commences at first year and complete the 2 x introductory level units towards this discipline, eg Sociology HGA101 and HGA102. You will then commence your IR OR Politics & Policy major/minor from second year with the normal units as per schedule. 

The philosophy of this program is grounded in the assumption that all students have the capacity and should have the right to learn a second language, including a scripted language – specifically in this instance, Japan. Second language learning is imperative in terms of globalisation, with high levels of proficiency in Asian languages being a pre-requisite for Australia to take an effective role in the Asia-Pacific region and in the wider world. In 2016, Japan remains, behind China and ahead of both South Korea and the United States, Australia’s second largest two-way trade partner. In other words, an understanding of Japan and the Japanese language remains crucially important to Australia’s successful trade relations. Knowledge of both the language and the society of Japan will have a positive impact on future student employment in the case of those students who seek to engage in commercial exchange with East Asia.

The program aims to provide a full range of second language learning experiences for students, ranging from activities based on face-to-face teaching and conventional print materials through electronically supported language learning to in-country programs. Importantly, recognition is given to the necessity of providing students with opportunities for interaction with the language and speakers of the language outside the classroom and to equip students with the strategies necessary to use the language acquired in the UTAS learning environment in the natural socio-linguistic environment.

The program has a number of entry levels although the substantive major provides a language/sociocultural learning experience that structures students through beginner, intermediate and early advanced levels of language/sociocultural knowledge acquisition.

Through the promotion of in-Japan learning opportunities, the program also provides interested students with the opportunity for both short-term and long-term linguistic and sociocultural immersion experience that graduates high quality, work-place orientated graduates. In this way, the program draws on both issues of culture and creativity while overcoming the isolation that can be a factor of island learning to place students in the natural laboratory of the real-life Japanese social and language environment.

Furthermore, rather than presenting exit as an end-point learning, the program seeks to encourage a consciousness of the value of life-long learning among students and of the benefits of collaborative learning. In doing so, the program creates a community of practice in which participants can share a passion for learning while building a skill set of values for the future work-orientated world. On the other hand, the nature of language learning results in the high level of individual agency required of learners who will achieve success in the future world. This agency is particularly developed during the outward bound in-Japan study programs that are a feature of the major during which time students are required to act with integrity and independence in order to achieve success and thrive.

The study of Latin is one of the core humanist disciplines. Along with Ancient Greek, this is one of the principal languages in which the fundamentals of western thought were argued out, in the sciences, philosophy and medicine, as well as in literature in the broadest sense. Students gain from the careful study of ancient texts a better understanding of the contemporary world, and analytical and linguistic skills, which are extremely valuable in a range of professions and pursuits. The Latin curriculum offers a rigorous intellectual training that can be put to use in almost any field. To this end we train students in the skills needed to read a range of ancient texts, and to be alert to the expression of cultural nuance both in language and in written communication.

The Legal Studies major gives students an introduction to some of the essential techniques and knowledge applied by lawyers and a grounding in some of the major fields of law. With guidance from law school academics, students will develop the ability to read and interpret legal texts (statutes and case law), gain an understanding of some of the central policy issues in law and advance legal arguments orally and in writing.

The Politics and Policy major teaches students to understand and analyse political, social, economic and organisational processes that shape politics, governance, public policy and public affairs. It aims to produce graduates who are informed and active citizens equipped to undertake varied roles in government agencies, political parties, non-governmental organisations and the private sector as researchers, policy analysts, activists, advisers and elected representatives. In doing so, the major develops students’ understanding of the contemporary political, policy, economic, social and environmental challenges faced by governments and how local, national and global institutions may respond to complex governance problems in an era of globalisation and change.

The major develops students’ understanding of the discipline though units on sub-fields including Australian and comparative politics, political ideas, governance and public policy, and environmental politics. In its teaching and assessment practices, it draws on case studies of local, national, regional and international political and policy issues to allow students to connect and critically analyse political science scholarship with respect to real word issues and events. Further, the program offers students the opportunity to undertake an internship unit with the Tasmanian Public Service or Tasmanian member of parliament (subject to student performance and available places). The Politics and Policy major program thus provides students with knowledge of the complex world of politics, governance and public affairs involving ideas, values, beliefs, interests and array of institutions with a focus on the role of governments and how they operate. Politics and Policy students are thus equipped with essential skills in research, reasoned argument, and in written and verbal communication.

If you wish to major and minor, or double major, in International Relations and Politics & Policy HIR101 and HPP101 cannot count to both and different introductory level units will be required. Please choose another minor that commences at first year and complete the 2 x introductory level units towards this discipline, eg Sociology HGA101 and HGA102. You will then commence your IR OR Politics & Policy major/minor from second year with the normal units as per schedule. 

Sociology is the study of human societies, focusing on the organisation of social life from individuals to social institutions. It examines people and other actors in their social contexts, and provides insights into the ways factors such as class, wealth, race, gender, ethnicity, age, sexuality, disability, and religion shape societies at the individual, group, and institutional levels. Central to the sociological endeavour is a critical perspective: sociologists question the popular explanations of social life, through the application of rigorous and systematic methods of enquiry, and examine the dynamics of power and inequality.

Sociology graduates are expected to exhibit an understanding of sociology as an academic discipline. Sociology includes a great diversity of areas of specialisation, objects of study, research methods and theoretical approaches. Sociological knowledge is often contested, provisional, and situated.

As a discipline, Sociology is characterised by empirically based social research and by carefully examined social theory. Sociology students develop skills in critical thinking, self-direction, collaboration and communication. Graduates of sociology programs are well equipped to go into a variety of careers across a range of government and non-government sectors, particularly those that require high level research and critical thinking skills

The visual arts and music are crucial to the articulation of cultural identities and historical change. This minor provides students with a strong foundational knowledge of the ways in which the visual arts and music have functioned within the context of changing aesthetic values and socio-political circumstances. Cognizant of the long history of interplay between diverse forms of making and expression within the musical and visual arts, this minor recognises the potential for enriched understanding of these practices in an interdisciplinary frame. This is particularly pertinent in the current context where there is an increasing fluidity and confluence between these art forms in contemporary creative practice.

Both music and the visual arts, as predominantly non-text based forms of communication demand different methods of interpretation and analysis from those applied to written texts in order to decipher their cultural meanings so a minor which addresses these two areas provides a useful complement to the other text-weighted programmes within the Faculty. This minor will be particularly relevant to students wishing to pursue careers in art and music criticism, art and music teaching and curation.