This program investigates key global issues such as poverty, governance, debt reduction, inequality, human rights, HIV and AIDS, conflict, ecology, the environment, health and gender rights in developing countries. You will explore, question and analyse the impact of these issues on the social, economic and political structures of societies and develop analytical and methodological skills that will be useful in a wide range of careers, including government, aid and development organisations as well as the private sector.

Your knowledge of global relations and developmental processes will grow through an interdisciplinary program that includes both theoretical and practical elements.

After the first year, students will have the opportunity to participate in the in-country development studies professional practicums run by the Australian Consortium for ‘In-Country’ Indonesian Studies (ACICIS). Students who excel will also be able to apply for local internships through the Arts Internship Scheme.  

Study Abroad and Exchange Opportunities

The University has student exchange links with over 100 overseas institutions. You can study overseas for one or two semesters which counts as credit towards your degree program at the University of Adelaide. In addition there are no extra tuition fees for this study. What better way to test out newly developed language skills or experience another culture as you learn?

The program consists of compulsory courses in Development Studies, and electives with a development studies focus from disciplines such as Anthropology, Geography, Environment and Population, Economics, Politics, Asian Studies, History and Gender, Work and Social Inquiry. Students are encouraged to study a language minor, in particular Indonesian, French or Spanish.

Honours Degree of Bachelor of Development Studies

 Double Degrees 

If you have strong interests in more than one area, then completing a double degree is a great investment. The following double degree program has a direct entry code for SATAC:

• Bachelor of Development Studies / Bachelor of Laws (5 years)

Concurrent Degrees

Are you enrolled in a single degree and would like to apply for a second degree? Have you ever wondered if you could study a combination of programs not covered in any of the listed double degrees? Both of these options are possible. And, by selecting the appropriate courses to enrol in, you can complete both awards in four years of full time study.

You can apply through SATAC for one program, and then apply for the second program the following year. Even better, you may be able to apply internally through the university for your second program in the middle of the year. The university rules for internal transfers, i.e. transferring from one degree to another or applying to enrol in a second degree can be found at http://www.adelaide.edu.au/student/admission/internaltransfers.

Please talk to the Faculty Office for enrolment advice if you are considering this option.

Diploma in Languages

Studying for a humanities and social sciences degree means you can choose to study a language as part of your degree. Alternatively, any student enrolled in an undergraduate program at the university can elect to study a language through the Diploma in Languages. Start as a complete beginner or with more advanced knowledge and choose from Chinese, French, German, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Modern Greek or Spanish. The Diploma in Languages will extend study for one year to fit the language sequence, and you will graduate with certificates in both your program and the Diploma in Languages. You will leave university with language expertise, communication skills and greater cultural insight.

*The Diploma in Languages is not available to international students. 

The Bachelor of Development studies will provide a critical entry point for gaining employment in:

• Government (such as the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and AusAID)
• Private sector consultancy firms (Official Development Assistance management contracters)
• Non-government organisations
• Development research agencies
• United Nations agencies (UNESCO)
• Foreign aid agencies

A very popular option for your third year is to take part in an internship with an organisation from within the arts, media, parliament or environment. These include State Parliament and a range of public and business sector agencies, where you can use the knowledge from your university study in a practical work environment, building valuable networks and gaining experience that counts towards your degree program and prepares you for your future career.

• Program Information Leaflet
• Faculty of Humanities & Social Sciences
• Undergraduate Scholarships
• University Contact Centre enquiry form