Bachelor of Arts and Social Sciences (Honours)

Bachelor of Arts and Social Sciences (Honours) at The University of New South Wales (UNSW)

Bachelor of Arts and Social Sciences (Honours) (CRICOS course code 082196D) is a Bachelor Honours Degree delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 1 year. This AQF Level 8 program is designed for students who wish to deepen their expertise in society and culture, combining advanced coursework with a substantial research project. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 00098G), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. Whether you aim to pursue further research or enhance your career prospects, this honours year offers a rigorous academic experience in one of Australia's leading universities. UNSW is consistently ranked among the top 50 universities worldwide, located in the vibrant city of Sydney. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000+ courses across Australia, HeadStart Academy helps you find the right fit. All data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026.

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Course Overview

Bachelor of Arts and Social Sciences (Honours) (CRICOS course code 082196D) is a Bachelor Honours Degree delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 1 year. This program falls under the field of education 090000 - Society and Culture, n.f.d., and is classified as AQF Level 8. It is designed for students who have completed a relevant bachelor's degree and wish to undertake advanced study and research. The course provides a pathway to higher degrees by research (e.g., PhD) or to specialised professional roles. UNSW is a public, government-funded university with a strong reputation for research and industry connections. International students benefit from the ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality education and consumer rights. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, the provider must meet strict registration conditions to enrol overseas students. Duration on the CRICOS register is 1 year (52 weeks), with full-time study in English. There is no dual qualification or foundation studies component, and no mandatory work placement. The indicative tuition fee is A$45,000, with non-tuition fees of A$1,000, totalling approximately A$46,000. These fees are indicative and subject to change — always confirm with UNSW directly.

What You'll Study

The Bachelor of Arts and Social Sciences (Honours) is an advanced program in the Society and Culture field. At this AQF Level 8, students typically engage in advanced coursework that deepens theoretical and methodological knowledge in arts and social sciences disciplines, followed by a significant independent research thesis or project. Graduates develop critical thinking, research design, data analysis, and communication skills applicable to diverse careers in policy, education, community services, media, or further academic research. While the specific syllabus is determined by UNSW, honours programs generally require a thesis of 15,000–20,000 words and coursework in research methods. This year-long intensive program is ideal for those seeking to stand out in a competitive job market or pursue doctoral studies. Australia's higher education system is known for its quality assurance, and honours degrees are highly regarded both domestically and internationally.

Duration and Study Mode

According to the CRICOS register, the Bachelor of Arts and Social Sciences (Honours) has a duration of 1 year (52 weeks). The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification — there is no dual award or integrated foundation program. Students are expected to study full-time on campus at UNSW's Kensington campus in Sydney. The program is structured to provide intensive research training, and attendance requirements follow standard university policies. As an international student, you must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with your Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions. The course does not include a work component, but you may engage in voluntary or paid work outside study hours subject to visa conditions (48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks).

Fees (Indicative)

The indicative tuition fee for Bachelor of Arts and Social Sciences (Honours) is A$45,000 per year. Non-tuition fees (such as student amenities, materials, or orientation) amount to approximately A$1,000, making the estimated total A$46,000. Please note: these figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are indicative only. Fees are set by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) and are subject to change without notice. Additional costs not included in this estimate: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) — mandatory for international students (approximately A$500–A$700 per year for single cover); living expenses (Sydney average: rent A$250–A$400/week, groceries A$80–A$120/week, transport A$40–A$60/week); and the Student visa application charge (currently A$1,600). Always check the latest fees on the UNSW website before applying. HeadStart Academy does not set fees and recommends confirming all costs directly with the institution.

Entry Requirements (General Guidance)

Entry to Bachelor of Arts and Social Sciences (Honours) typically requires completion of a relevant bachelor's degree (AQF Level 7) with a strong academic record, often a credit average or higher. The specific GPA requirement is set by UNSW. English language proficiency: a minimum IELTS overall score of 6.0 to 6.5 (no band below 5.5 to 6.0), or equivalent. Other recognised English tests (TOEFL, PTE) may be accepted. Some students may need to complete a pathway or foundation program before entry — consult UNSW for options. As this is an honours program, it is competitive, and places are limited. Always refer to the official UNSW course page for the most current and precise entry requirements. HeadStart Academy cannot guarantee admission; we provide guidance based on typical standards for this level.

Work Component

This course does not include a mandatory work component. There is no internship, placement, or work experience required as part of the program. However, as an international student, you are permitted to work under your Student visa (Subclass 500): up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods, and unlimited hours during scheduled university holidays. Work must not interfere with your studies. You can seek casual or part-time employment in Sydney. The ESOS Act protects your rights as an international student, including the right to work in accordance with visa conditions.

Delivery Locations

This course is delivered at The University of New South Wales — Kensington, NSW. The Kensington campus is the main campus of UNSW, located approximately 6 km southeast of Sydney's central business district. It is well served by public transport, including buses from the city and nearby suburbs. Sydney is Australia's largest city, with a multicultural population of over 5 million. The city offers a vibrant student life with numerous cultural, recreational, and networking opportunities. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average, but the city also offers excellent part-time job prospects for international students. There are over 20 CRICOS-registered universities in Sydney alone, making it a hub for international education. The Kensington campus features modern facilities, libraries, and research centres.

Student Visa

International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). To apply, you must have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from UNSW. The visa requires you to demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) intentions, meet English proficiency, have sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and satisfy health and character requirements. Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. OSHC is mandatory for the duration of your stay. The visa application charge (currently A$1,600) is non-refundable. For detailed advice, consult the Department of Home Affairs website (homeaffairs.gov.au) or a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent and does not provide immigration advice. All CRICOS-registered courses comply with the ESOS Act, which includes tuition protection and refund frameworks.

How to Apply

Applying for Bachelor of Arts and Social Sciences (Honours) at UNSW is straightforward. Follow these three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Bachelor Honours Degree), field (Society and Culture), and location (Sydney). The CRICOS register ensures you are dealing with a legitimate institution. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: UNSW. Check entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application online through the UNSW admissions portal. You may need to provide academic transcripts, a personal statement, and references. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Once you accept UNSW's offer and pay the required deposit, you will receive a CoE. Then lodge your visa application online via ImmiAccount. Ensure you have OSHC arranged. After visa grant, you can make travel and accommodation plans.

Is Sydney Right for You?

Sydney is Australia's most iconic city, known for its harbour, beaches, and diverse culture. It hosts over 20 CRICOS-registered higher education providers, including UNSW, University of Sydney, UTS, and Macquarie University. The student population exceeds 200,000 international students from over 150 countries. Living costs in Sydney are among the highest in Australia: average weekly rent for a share house is A$250-A$400, groceries A$80-A$120, and public transport A$40-A$60. Part-time work opportunities are plentiful in hospitality, retail, and administration. The city's public transport network (trains, buses, light rail, ferries) makes commuting from suburbs to UNSW Kensington convenient. Sydney's climate is temperate, with warm summers and mild winters. Consider your budget, lifestyle preferences, and career goals when choosing Sydney. HeadStart Academy provides this guide to help you make an informed decision.

Ready to advance your studies? Explore Bachelor of Arts and Social Sciences (Honours) on the UNSW website today.

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Source-backed course facts

Bachelor of Arts and Social Sciences (Honours) is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of New South Wales (UNSW). Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.

CRICOS register extract

Course
Bachelor of Arts and Social Sciences (Honours)
CRICOS course code
082196D
Provider
The University of New South Wales (UNSW) (00098G)
Course level
Bachelor Honours Degree
Field of education
09 - Society and Culture
Duration
52 weeks
Tuition (indicative)
A$45,000
Estimated total (indicative)
A$46,000
Delivery locations
Kensington
Work component
No

This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.

Important notes for international students

  • Tuition and living-cost figures on this site are indicative only — confirm current fees with the provider before you accept an offer.
  • HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent and does not provide immigration advice. For Student visa (Subclass 500) rules, OSHC and financial capacity, verify with the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA agent.
  • Only CRICOS-registered providers may enrol overseas students. Always check the CRICOS course and provider codes on your offer and Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).

Related pages

Frequently Asked Questions

The indicative tuition fee is A$45,000, with non-tuition fees of approximately A$1,000, totalling around A$46,000 per year. This does not include OSHC, living expenses (rent, food, transport), or the student visa application charge. Fees are set by UNSW and may change. Always confirm current fees on the UNSW website before applying.
The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks) on the CRICOS register. It is a full-time, single qualification program. There is no extension option for part-time study under Student visa conditions, though compassionate circumstances may be considered by UNSW.
Typically, you need a relevant bachelor's degree (AQF Level 7) with a strong academic record (e.g., credit average or higher). English language: IELTS 6.0–6.5 overall with no band below 5.5–6.0, or equivalent. Specific requirements are set by UNSW; check the official course page for exact details.
The course is delivered at the UNSW Kensington campus in Sydney, New South Wales. This is the main campus of The University of New South Wales, located about 6 km from the Sydney CBD, with easy access via public transport.
CRICOS lists estimated total fees of A$46,000 for Bachelor of Arts and Social Sciences (Honours) (tuition A$45,000). Figures are indicative as at the April 2026 register snapshot — confirm current fees with The University of New South Wales (UNSW) before applying.
The CRICOS course code is 082196D, offered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) (provider code 00098G). Use these codes when checking your offer and CoE.