Confused about what a Bachelor of Arts (BA) actually is? You’re not alone! We’ve compiled all you need to know about this versatile degree.
What Exactly is a Bachelor of Arts?
A Bachelor of Arts is a multidisciplinary undergraduate degree. But what does “Arts” even mean? Contrary to popular belief, it’s not just about painting or literature. Instead, it encompasses a wide array of subjects spanning humanities, creative arts, social sciences, and even some sciences.
When you enrol in a Flinders Bachelor of Arts program, you’ll have the opportunity to explore diverse fields such as English, history, psychology, sociology, languages, creative arts, philosophy, and more. Essentially, it’s an intellectual playground where you can delve into topics that pique your curiosity and broaden your understanding of the world.
Understanding the Major
One of the defining features of a Bachelor of Arts is the concept of a “major.” Think of a major as your academic specialisation within the broader BA framework. It’s the area where you’ll concentrate the majority of your studies, diving deep into the intricacies of a particular subject.
For instance, if you’re passionate about history, you might choose to major in History. This means you’ll take a series of core courses and electives focused on historical theories, research methods, and applied practices. Similarly, if you’re drawn to literature, you could opt for a major in English, immersing yourself in literary classics and critical analysis.
Why Choose a Bachelor of Arts?
Now, you might be wondering, why should someone opt for a Bachelor of Arts over other degree programs? Well, the beauty of a BA lies in its flexibility and adaptability.
Firstly, a BA offers a broad-based education that fosters critical thinking, communication skills, and cultural awareness—qualities highly sought after in today’s job market. Whether you aspire to pursue a career in journalism, education, public policy, or even business, the analytical skills and cultural fluency gained through a BA can set you apart from the crowd.
Secondly, a BA allows you to tailor your education to match your interests and career goals. With a plethora of majors and elective options to choose from, you have the freedom to design a curriculum that reflects your passions and aspirations. This flexibility enables you to explore diverse fields, experiment with different disciplines, and carve out a unique academic journey that aligns with your personal vision.
You can also use a BA as a stepping stone into another degree (conditions apply), or you can combine it with one of the combined degree options available at Flinders to merge practicality with passion.
Moreover, a Bachelor of Arts equips you with valuable transferable skills that are applicable across various industries. Whether it’s research and critical analysis, written and verbal communication, or problem-solving and adaptability, the skills cultivated through a BA are highly transferable and can open doors to a wide range of career opportunities.
In essence, a Bachelor of Arts is not just a degree—it’s a degree that empowers you to think critically, embrace diversity, and engage with the world in meaningful ways.
So, if you’re passionate about exploring the human experience, unravelling the mysteries of society, and making a positive impact on the world, a Bachelor of Arts might just be the perfect fit for you.
Interested in studying a Bachelor of Arts at Flinders? Check out the course page for more information on the 28 majors and minors you can choose from.
Do you want a good job with good pay and a happy boss? Do an arts degree. Read more from Dassh about the results from the 2023 QILT Graduate Outcome survey results.