Bachelor's Degree Sociology Full Time

Bachelor of Development Studies

at Australian National University · Canberra, Australian Capital Territory

CRICOS course code

073987C

CRICOS provider code

00120C

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

3 years

Tuition (whole course)

A$173,130 total

Per year

A$57,710/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

The Bachelor of Development Studies at Australian National University (ANU) explores the complex issues shaping societies around the world, focusing on human development, global inequality, policy making, and social change. Rooted in sociology and drawing on interdisciplinary perspectives, the course covers critical themes such as economic development, environmental sustainability, and governance. Students investigate both local Australian development contexts and global case studies, fostering a nuanced understanding of how theory translates into practice.

This degree is structured over three years of full-time study, typically divided into semesters. Students complete a range of core and elective units of study, accumulating credit points towards graduation. The curriculum is designed to develop skills in research, analysis, communication, and problem-solving, supported by opportunities for work-integrated learning or fieldwork where appropriate. In the final year, students may undertake a capstone project, synthesising their learning through independent research or a group initiative.

The Australian setting of ANU, located in Canberra, provides excellent access to non-governmental organisations, government departments, and international agencies—offering industry and research engagement that enriches classroom learning. The programme supports pathways to professional employment upon graduation, with international students able to benefit from Australia’s post-study work rights via the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) and the ability to work up to 48 hours per fortnight while studying. This course best suits individuals motivated by a desire to contribute to social change and equipped to tackle development issues from both sociological and multidisciplinary perspectives.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.

International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

Development practitioner in Australian and international NGOs
Policy officer for government agencies
Research officer or analyst in think tanks and universities
Community development coordinator
Corporate social responsibility advisor in the private sector
International development consultant

Graduates find opportunities across government departments, international agencies, research institutes, and the not-for-profit sector in Australia and abroad.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Bachelor of Development Studies at Australian National University?

It typically takes 3 years, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$173,130 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Development practitioner in Australian and international NGOsPolicy officer for government agenciesResearch officer or analyst in think tanks and universitiesCommunity development coordinatorCorporate social responsibility advisor in the private sectorInternational development co...

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