Program Overview

Bachelor of Arts (Major: Writing)

Overview

The University of Notre Dame Australia's Bachelor of Arts (Major: Writing) is an intensive writing degree that will prepare you to research, write and edit various written materials. During the program, you will study everything from literary works to technical journals and websites; looking at the works of others will also allow you to improve the range and depth of your writing ability.

Why Study This Degree?

Do you want to write the great Australian novel? Perhaps you dream of becoming a professional speechwriter or embarking on a career as a digital copywriter? Our Writing Major demonstrates just how expansive the role of a professional writer has become in the 21st Century.

This program balances literary appreciation and skills-based training. You will be encouraged to think both creatively and critically – and to explore the relationship between writing practice, form and genre. In addition to learning about the Western literary tradition, you will also be introduced to many other genres such as screen writing, feature writing, professional writing and drama. You will also gain valuable training in researching and editing, both of which are crucial skills for any writer.

This degree is a natural choice if you want to become a professional writer, but is also a great asset if you want to pursue a career in journalism, the theatre, politics or film and screen production.

Program Summary

• Compulsory courses:
  • WRIT2000 The Western Literary Tradition
  • WRIT2000 Narrative Writing
  • WRIT3010 Writing Project
• Plus at least FOUR (4) of the following:
  • COMM2020 Screenwriting
  • Professional Writing
  • COMM3040 Feature Writing
  • WRIT3000 Writing for Performance
  • Australian Writer’s Workshop
• Plus at least ONE (1) of the following:
  • ENGL3320 The Novel in English
  • ENGL3030 Gothic Literature and its Legacy
  • COMM3090 Adaptation Studies
  • ENGL3160 Australian Literature and the Post-Colonial Challenge
  • ENGL3010 Uses and Abuses of Literary Theory
  • ENGL3060 Australian Theatre
• Core Curriculum:
  • CORE I: Foundations of Wisdom
  • CORE II: Elective
    • Electives in philosophy and/or theology
    • Professional embedded electives that integrate studies in a profession with philosophy and/or theology
    • An option to undertake a pilgrimage embedded in the study of the philosophy and theology of pilgrimage, e.g., World Youth Day
    • An option to undertake a course that integrates philosophy & theology with community service and charity work
    • An option to undertake an elective in philosophy, theology, and the liberal arts contained within an international experience
• Plus 12 electives which may form another Major or Minor (undertaken during Years One, Two and/or Three).

Entry Requirements

• Applicants with recent Secondary Education:
  • Prescribed ATAR/Selection Rank*
  • Equivalent International Baccalaureate (IB) score
• Applicants with Higher Education:
  • Successful completion of 2 subjects at an undergraduate level or higher*
  • Successful completion of the Notre Dame Tertiary Pathway Program (TPP), or a tertiary preparation program from another institution that is deemed to be of a similar academic rigour to the Notre Dame TPP
• Applicants with Vocational Education and Training (VET) study:
  • Successful completion of AQF Certificate IV or higher from an accredited provider such as TAFE or a Registered Training Organisation (RTO)
• Applicants with Work and Life Experience:
  • Applicants who have completed at least two years of relevant work experience may be considered for direct entry. Applicants must provide evidence of their work experience, including duties undertaken and years of experience, and they must demonstrate that they have the academic capability to undertake undergraduate studies. The Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT) may be required*.
  • Completion of STAT with scores of at least 150 in the Multiple Choice section and 150 in the Written English section*.
  • Completion of two Year 12 WACE, HSC or equivalent exams, with a result equivalent to the Indicative ATAR/Selection Rank listed under Secondary Education section above.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the Bachelor of Arts graduates will be able to:

1. Demonstrate broad theoretical and practical knowledge, with depth in the underlying principles and concepts of one or more disciplines or practice areas
2. Identify appropriate sources and evaluate information
3. Demonstrate an awareness of different conceptual approaches and/or research methods
4. Demonstrate the technical skills, professional skills and ethical practice required by one or more disciplines
5. Synthesise knowledge and apply skills in order to solve complex problems
6. Communicate arguments and/or ideas in a range of forms
7. Work independently and, where appropriate, in collaboration with others; and
8. Reflect upon personal knowledge, skills and experiences.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of this program can follow diverse career paths in the private and public sectors; many employers will welcome the transferable skills. The following careers are open to graduates of this program: professional writer, journalism, theatre, politics or film and screen production.

Real-World Experience

You will learn from our academics, who are leaders in their field. While not a requirement, internship courses and work-integrated learning opportunities are available to enable you to gain on-the-job experience with professionals in your chosen field.

Honours

An Honours award is available for this program. Further information can be found in the Bachelor of Arts (Honours) regulations, or by contacting the School of Arts & Sciences.

Opportunities and Experiences

At the University of Notre Dame, we believe that gaining a global perspective is an important part of your university education. We offer various opportunities for students to study abroad and become active global citizens. These opportunities include exchange programs, professional placements, study tours, and volunteer opportunities.

Scholarships

Scholarships provide financial support to students while they are completing their studies. There are various scholarships available to prospective and current students, across all study levels and campuses.

Fees and Costs

This Program has the following loan scheme(s) available for eligible students:

• Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP): A Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) is a place at a university where the Australian Government pays part of your fees. This part is a subsidy, not a loan, and you don’t have to pay it back. However, this subsidy does not cover the entire cost of your study. Students must pay the rest, which is called the ‘student contribution amount’.
• International Full-Fee Paying: Tuition costs depend on an international student’s study load and discipline. Fees are payable each semester at least four weeks prior to the commencement of your program.

Student Profile Data

• ATAR and selection rank profile: The University of Notre Dame Australia offers clear and transparent information regarding ATAR and selection rank for domestic students beginning in Semester 1. This data includes the highest, median and lowest ranks required for admission to assist you in making informed study decisions.

More Information

• Considering your uni options?: Our advisors provide support while choosing a program of study and completing our application process.
• International students: If you need advice about studying at Notre Dame, fill out our Make an Enquiry form, and you can book a session with one of our friendly International Student Advisors.