Course Changes from 2008 in the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences

In 2008 all undergraduate programs changed as a result of a University wide decision to introduce 3 unit courses. Students who commenced their studies before 2008 may be affected by course changes that will be introduced in Level Two and Level Three in 2009.

The curricula restructure has taken place to:

• Address student requests for a more focussed curriculum with opportunities to specialise in issues facing the 21st century (e.g. globalisation, internationalisation, environmental issues)
• Encourage inter- and cross-faculty enrolments via similar course structures and units values (especially in the case of the Double and Combined degrees)
• Refresh the content of the programs
• Build upon recognised research strengths of staff
• Increase the core content in the named programs

Which courses have changed? 

Previously all Level One courses were worth 3 units. From 2009, the majority of Level Two and Level Three courses will be converted to 3 unit courses, and will be called 'Advanced Level' courses. The exception will be courses in languages and media courses. Students will need to take a major sequence worth 24 units, and a minor sequence worth 18 units for each program.

View your Pre-2008 Study Plans

How can I get more information?

Please read the Frequently Asked Questions section for more information. If you have further questions, then please contact Ms Vicki Johnson or visit the Faculty Office.

Frequently asked questions

1   Will there be any changes to how I enrol in my courses?

There will be no change to the enrolment procedure.

2  How will I know how many units I have completed already?

Check your enrolment history through Access Adelaide to find out how many units you have completed. Only count units of courses you have passed, do not count any failed or withdrawn courses.

3   How will I know how many units I still need to get my degree?

Check your enrolment history as per question 2.  Each single program in Humanities and Social Sciences is worth 72 units. Subtract the amount of units you have completed from 72 to find out how many units you have left to complete your degree. A typical program is divided into three years of study, each worth 24 units.

4  I am doing a double degree (or combined). How will I know which courses have changed?

Check your Pre-2008 Study Plans to see what courses you need to complete to graduate. For further information please contact Vicki Johnson or visit the Faculty Office.

5   I started in 2007, are any of the changes going to affect me?

If you have been enrolled as a full-time student, you should have completed all Level I and Level II courses in your degree. From 2009, all Level II and Level III courses (with the exception of languages and media) will become 3 unit courses. This means you will be required to take eight courses in your 3rd Year instead of four. If you have still to complete Year 2 and are unsure of how many courses you need to take, please visit the faculty office or contact Vicki Johnson.

6   What if I haven't finished my degree by the time all the courses in the program have changed to the new unit value?

You will need to complete 72 units, including the the new 3 unit courses. Please visit the Faculty Office if you are unsure of how to complete your program.

7   I started in 2005 and took a break from studying. Now I want to finish my degree. How will the changes affect me?

You will need to complete 72 units, including the new 3 unit courses (instead of the 4 and 6 unit courses previously available). Please visit the Faculty Office if you are unsure of how to complete your program.

8  How will the restructuring affect postgraduate qualifications?

The restructuring will not affect postgraduate qualifications. You will need to complete a Bachelors degree and any other stated prerequisites before applying for a postgraduate program.

9   What are the new unit value requirements for a major? Will this change affect me?

The new unit value requirement for a major is 24 units. Students enrolled before 2008 are required to take 20 units for their major and should view the Pre-2008 Study Plans for the requirements of their program and the list of Majors and Approved Electives. You will not be required to take the new 24 unit major.

10   I am adding a new program to my existing program in 2009, to make up a double degree. How will I know what to do?

As each student will be at different stages in their programs, we suggest you contact the Faculty Office for advice.