Diploma in Arts

Upon completion of this degree, students will be able to:

1. demonstrate general knowledge in their chosen areas of study in the arts, humanities and social sciences and be able to apply that knowledge;
2. demonstrate a basic understanding of theories, factual content, research procedures and ethical practice in their areas of study;
3. exhibit lifelong learning skills and employment skills including the ability to analyse, evaluate and communicate ideas, as well as solve problems with a degree of intellectual independence in their fields of study;
4. act as informed participants within a community of scholars; and
5. display communication skills.

This degree is designed to provide students with basic skills and knowledge in a range of disciplinary studies in the humanities, arts and social sciences. The Diploma in Arts examines historic, environmental, social, behavioural and cultural features of humanity, allowing students to analyse, reflect upon and anticipate patterns of human conduct. Students will develop creative, critical and analytical skills to assist with future employment or to pursue further study.

The Diploma in Arts is an attractive option for students who would prefer to trial university study while gaining an introductory undergraduate qualification.

The Diploma in Arts provides students with a broad range of disciplinary and interdisciplinary studies from across the University, with a basic focus on aspects of human culture and achievement.

The degree aims to provide students with:

(i) an introductory knowledge in their chosen areas of study;

(ii) the ability to apply the knowledge they have acquired;

(iii) the ability to communicate effectively in a range of ways;

(iv) creative, critical and analytical skills;

(v) the ability to work both independently and collaboratively;

(vi) the skills to connect across geographical, disciplinary, social and cultural boundaries;

(vii) an understanding of the value of ethical behaviour; and

(viii) the foundation skills demanded by employers in a global jobs market.

Recommended study pattern

Complete two of the following subjects:

• HASS100 Foundations of Academic Research
• HASS101 Controversies: Foundations of Critical Social Analysis
• WRIT101 The Craft of Academic Writing

Complete six Listed subjects.

To access the course rules and plans go to the UNE Course Handbook.

Award requirements

To qualify for the award a candidate must pass subjects to the value of 48 credit points (8 subjects).

Degrees are usually made up of core subjects and electives. Some degrees include a choice of majors, so you can focus your studies on a specialisation.

This list is a general overview. Download the full Degree Guide for more information.

• Core Subjects

• Listed Subjects

Students must contact UNE with their intent to graduate. 

UNE Graduation

The University of New England is the only Australian public university to be awarded the maximum 5 stars for Overall Experience by the Good Universities Guide, 13 years in a row. UNE has delivered distance education since 1955—that’s longer than any other Australian university. Perhaps that’s why students continue to rate UNE so highly for student satisfaction and teaching quality. With over 170 degrees offered online, and more than 22,000 students, UNE is an expert in online education.

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To be admitted to the Diploma in Arts you need to complete two of the three following subjects:

• HASS100 Foundations of Academic Research
• HASS101 Controversies: Foundations of Critical Social Analysis
• WRIT101 The Craft of Academic Writing

To be admitted to the Diploma in Arts you need to complete two of the three following subjects:

• HASS100 Foundations of Academic Research
• HASS101 Controversies: Foundations of Critical Social Analysis
• WRIT101 The Craft of Academic Writing

At least one of the following criteria must be met:

1. English is the applicant's first language; or
2. Satisfactory completion, within five years of the date of application for admission to UNE, of at least one year of full-time or equivalent full-time study at senior secondary, post-secondary or tertiary level in a country in which English is the primary official language or co-official language and in which English was the sole medium of instruction and assessment for the particular period of study claimed, resulting in an AQF award or an award recognised by the National Office of Overseas Skills Recognition (NOOSR); or
3. A pass grade or better in an English language subject at Australian Year 12 level or overseas equivalent; or
4. An IELTS (Academic) overall score of at least 6.0 with no sub-band less than 5.5; or equivalent TOEFL score of at least 213 in the computer-based test; or at least 79 in the internet-based test with no less than 22 in the written component; or a PTE Academic minimum overall score of 57 with no skill less than 50; or
5. Satisfactory completion of the English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program:
   1. at the University of New England English Language Centre; or
   2. an equivalent EAP program at an Australian university NEAS-accredited English Language Centre (subject to certification from the university concerned that satisfactory completion of that university's EAP program would entitle the applicant to be accepted into a comparable award-bearing program at that university); or
   3. at a non-university NEAS-accredited English Language Provider that has a formal agreement with UNE under which it provides an equivalent EAP Program; or
   4. a NEAS-accredited TAFE NSW EAP Program.

More detailed information regarding these requirements can be viewed here:

UNE English Language Requirements for Admission Rule

Students admitted to the degree with prior tertiary studies that satisfy part of the academic requirements of this degree may be eligible for advanced standing. For more information on Advanced Standing or Recognition of Prior Learning, please visit: UNE Advanced Standing

Depending on subject intensive, school attendance may be required.