Master of Disaster Resilience and Sustainable Development
The University of Newcastle offers a unique and forward-thinking Master of Disaster Res...
Bachelor of Development Studies / Bachelor of Global Indigenous Studies
Newcastle
INTAKE: Jul & Feb
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Development Studies / Bachelor of Global Indigenous Studies program at the University of Newcastle, Australia, offers a unique and interdisciplinary approach to understanding global development issues through the lens of Indigenous perspectives and experiences. This innovative program integrates the study of development theory, policy, and practice with a focus on Indigenous knowledge systems, cultures, and rights. Students explore topics such as colonialism, land rights, Indigenous governance, environmental sustainability, and community development, gaining the knowledge, skills, and perspectives needed to contribute to Indigenous-led development initiatives and address the challenges facing Indigenous communities worldwide.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the Bachelor of Development Studies / Bachelor of Global Indigenous Studies program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of development issues from both Western and Indigenous perspectives. Core courses cover topics such as development theory, Indigenous studies, decolonisation, social justice, and research methodologies. Students also have the opportunity to choose elective courses and specialisations in areas such as Indigenous health, education, land management, cultural revitalisation, and Indigenous rights. The program emphasises experiential learning through fieldwork, internships, and community-based projects, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings and develop practical skills for careers in Indigenous development, advocacy, and research.
Research Focus: The University of Newcastle is committed to promoting research excellence in Indigenous studies and development studies. Faculty members and students engage in research activities aimed at understanding the impacts of colonialism, promoting Indigenous rights, and supporting Indigenous-led development initiatives. Research areas within the program may include Indigenous knowledge systems, cultural revitalisation, Indigenous governance, land rights, environmental sustainability, and community-led development. Students have the opportunity to participate in research projects, work alongside Indigenous communities on research initiatives, and develop research skills that are valuable for careers in academia, research institutes, non-profit organisations, and Indigenous organisations.
Industry Engagement: The Bachelor of Development Studies / Bachelor of Global Indigenous Studies program at the University of Newcastle maintains strong connections with Indigenous organisations, government agencies, non-profit organisations, and international development organisations to ensure that its curriculum remains relevant and responsive to industry needs. The university collaborates with Indigenous partners to provide students with internship opportunities, work placements, and industry-based projects, allowing them to gain firsthand experience and develop professional networks in the Indigenous development sector. Industry professionals are involved in curriculum development, guest lectures, and workshops, providing students with insights into current practices, emerging trends, and career pathways in Indigenous development and advocacy.
Global Perspective: As a globally focused institution, the University of Newcastle promotes a multicultural and global perspective in its Bachelor of Development Studies / Bachelor of Global Indigenous Studies program. Students have the opportunity to learn from Indigenous scholars and community leaders, engage with Indigenous perspectives from around the world, and participate in global learning experiences such as study abroad programs, international exchanges, and Indigenous-led projects. The program emphasises the interconnectedness of local and global Indigenous issues, encouraging students to critically analyse the impacts of colonialism, imperialism, and neoliberalism on Indigenous peoples and communities. Students are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and cross-cultural competencies needed to work effectively in multicultural environments and contribute to Indigenous-led development efforts worldwide.
Location
Newcastle
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
AUD 35220
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 or 6.5 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 79 with a minimum of 12 in each section.
- PTE (Pearson Test of English): Overall score of 58 with a minimum of 50 in each section.
Students must provide:
- academic marksheets & transcripts
- letters of recommendation
- a personal statement - SOP
- passport
- other supporting documents as required by the university.
It's important to note that entry requirements can vary by program and may change over time. Additionally, some programs may have additional requirements, such as interviews, portfolios, or work experience.
The University of Newcastle, Australia, is making high-quality education accessible to international students. One of the ways it achieves this is by offering a wide range of scholarships designed to support and reward academic excellence, diversity, and achievement among international students.
International Excellence Scholarships: These scholarships are aimed at high-achieving international students who have a strong academic record. They provide financial assistance to cover a portion of tuition fees, making quality education more affordable.
Country-Specific Scholarships: The University of Newcastle offers scholarships tailored to specific countries, ensuring students from various regions have the opportunity to study in Australia. These scholarships may vary in terms of eligibility criteria and benefits.
Women in STEM Scholarships: To promote gender diversity in STEM fields, the university provides scholarships specifically for women pursuing degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Graduating with a Bachelor of Development Studies / Bachelor of Global Indigenous Studies from the University of Newcastle, Australia, equips students with a diverse set of skills and knowledge that prepares them for a wide range of career opportunities focused on Indigenous development, social justice, and community empowerment.
Indigenous Community Development Officer: Graduates may work as community development officers for Indigenous organisations, government agencies, or non-profit organisations. They collaborate with Indigenous communities to identify needs, develop programs, and implement initiatives aimed at promoting cultural revitalisation, economic development, and social well-being. Community development officers facilitate community consultations, build partnerships, and advocate for the rights and interests of Indigenous peoples, empowering communities to take control of their own development processes.
Indigenous Policy Analyst/Advocate: Graduates may pursue careers as policy analysts or advocates, working for government departments, research institutes, or advocacy organisations. They analyse policies, legislation, and government programs affecting Indigenous peoples, advocating for policy reforms that promote Indigenous rights, self-determination, and social justice. Policy analysts conduct research, engage stakeholders, and develop policy recommendations on issues such as land rights, education, healthcare, and economic development, ensuring that Indigenous perspectives are considered in decision-making processes.
Indigenous Cultural Liaison Officer: Graduates may work as cultural liaison officers, bridging the gap between Indigenous communities and external organisations such as government agencies, educational institutions, or businesses. They facilitate cross-cultural communication, provide cultural awareness training, and promote respectful engagement with Indigenous peoples. Cultural liaison officers may work on projects related to Indigenous tourism, heritage preservation, language revitalisation, or reconciliation initiatives, fostering mutual understanding and collaboration between Indigenous and non-Indigenous stakeholders.
Indigenous Education Officer/Teacher: Graduates with a passion for education may pursue careers as Indigenous education officers or teachers, working in schools, universities, or Indigenous education centres. They develop culturally relevant curriculum materials, deliver educational programs, and provide support services to Indigenous students, promoting academic success, cultural identity, and language preservation. Indigenous education officers may also work on initiatives to increase Indigenous representation in higher education, address barriers to access and retention, and promote inclusive learning environments.
Indigenous Health Worker/Advocate: Graduates may work in Indigenous health organisations, community health centres, or government agencies, advocating for improved health outcomes and access to healthcare services for Indigenous peoples. They may work as health educators, community health workers, or health promotion officers, developing culturally appropriate health programs, conducting outreach activities, and addressing social determinants of health. Indigenous health workers play a crucial role in addressing health disparities, promoting preventive care, and empowering communities to take control of their health and well-being.
Indigenous Cultural Heritage Officer/Curator: Graduates may work in museums, galleries, cultural centres, or heritage organisations, preserving and promoting Indigenous cultural heritage and knowledge. They may work as cultural heritage officers, curators, or researchers, documenting Indigenous cultural practices, artefacts, and traditions, and advocating for their preservation and protection. Cultural heritage officers may collaborate with Indigenous communities on repatriation initiatives, exhibitions, or cultural revitalisation projects, ensuring that Indigenous cultural heritage is respected, valued, and celebrated.
