Indigenous Australian Studies
UNDERGRADUATE MAJOR
The major in Indigenous Australian Studies aims to develop a deep understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures and knowledge systems, and draws upon the ideas and methods of disciplines within the humanities and social sciences. After completing our foundation unit of study KOCR 2600 Introduction to Indigenous Australia, you are given the opportunity to engage in analysis, discussion and debate around key issues that are of significance to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Some of these issues include language revitalization, the burgeoning field of Indigenous film and literature, the ongoing efforts to improve Indigenous health outcomes, and the broader pursuit of Indigenous self-determination and social justice.
Study plan
To major in Indigenous Australian Studies you must complete 36 senior credits points (generally 6 units) of Indigenous Australian Studies units. These can be Koori Centre units of study only or you can select up to 18 credit points (generally 3 units) of cross listed units. Cross listed units are offered through the Faculty of Arts, but please contact the Koori Centre to find out more.
To help you attain a cohesive major in Indigenous Studies, the existing Koori Centre units of study have been aligned with an additional 5 units to be introduced in 2011.
Graduate opportunities
Graduates who have completed a major in Indigenous Australian Studies have described their study experience as challenging and rewarding. Their study influenced their everyday lives and transformed their thinking about a range of social issues, not exclusively limited to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Indigenous Australian Studies develops knowledge and critical skills which ensure that our graduates secure employment in a variety of professional roles, which include public policy advisers and policy decision makers in government and non government sectors.
Further study for major
In 2012 a further 8 units of study will be introduced. These units will build on the existing offerings. By 2013 students who have successfully completed an Indigenous Studies major will be eligible to enrol in an honours year.
Related subject areas
Anthropology; Art History; Australian Studies; Australian Literature; Cultural Studies; Film Studies; Linguistics; Performance Studies; Social Policy; Sociology; History, Political Economy; and Gender Studies.