Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples have inhabited the Australian continent for over 60,000 years. With many cultures, languages, connections to lands and waters and a complex recent history, there is always more to learn and understand.
Our Master of Aboriginal Studies will give you the tools to amplify Aboriginal voices, influence policy and preserve culture. Learn how to confront and tackle inequity. Understand historical and contemporary issues and debates. Analyse concepts of representation, power and privilege.
Develop advanced research, communication and critical thinking skills. Connect with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander scholars, community leaders and advocates. Bridge cultural divides and develop a deeper understanding of yourself and others.
Our Master of Aboriginal Studies privileges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledges, pedagogies and voices. It is designed for postgraduate students of any discipline with an interest in Aboriginal history, cultures, politics and education.
Through a mix of theoretical and practical learning, you’ll explore Aboriginal issues and worldviews in relation to health, law, history, education, the environment, policy and research.
Learn from highly respected Aboriginal professionals, including academics and lecturers who offer a wealth of valuable insight and experience.
You’ll undertake a significant research project in an area of interest –from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander agricultural practices to poetry – exploring relevant global, cultural, social and political themes. You’ll gain a deep appreciation of Aboriginal languages, research and knowledges – and how they can drive local solutions and global impact.
You’ll graduate with advanced research and project management skills, equipped to meaningfully collaborate with Aboriginal communities in Australia – and champion positive change.
Explore Aboriginal cultures, society and history – from law, health and education to Aboriginal Nation building and governance. Learn from respected Aboriginal researchers and lecturers. Undertake a major research project or minor thesis in an area of passion. Study Aboriginal research methodologies and languages. Build the project management skills needed to work with and in Aboriginal communities. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community leaders are actively involved in the development of this qualification, ensuring the content is relevant and culturally appropriate. You’ll benefit from Adelaide University’s strong ties and relationships with industry and government – including many leading Aboriginal organisations. This means you’ll learn directly from experts working in the field.
You’ll complete core courses, including:
In your second year, you’ll choose one elective, then focus on Aboriginal research methodologies and ethics, preparing for a major research project or minor thesis in your area of interest. This project will occupy much of your final year.
You’ll experience a truly collaborative teaching and learning environment. We have experienced Aboriginal professionals in our academic team, each with different insights, expertise and approaches. You’ll also attend guest lectures, engaging with highly respected Aboriginal academics and speakers who are leaders in their field.
This degree is part of a stackable set of qualifications, meaning your study choices are flexible. If your goals shift, you can exit after six months of study with a standalone Graduate Certificate or after one year with a Graduate Diploma qualification.
You can also begin your studies with a shorter qualification like the six-month Graduate Certificate and continue on to complete the Graduate Diploma (one year) or full master’s degree.
Complete 96 units comprising:
A study plan sets out the courses you will need to complete and the recommended timing for each one. This will help to guide your enrolment in each study period, alongside any additional information provided below. If you have received a personalised plan or alternative advice from your Program Director, please refer to that guidance in the first instance, or seek help from your Program Director or Student Assist if you are unsure.
Find details about the rules and notes that apply to your program, along with other essential information required for successful enrolment. Supplementary supporting resources may also be provided where applicable.
Listed here are all the courses that contribute to your program, including elective options that can be chosen. These courses come together to form your study plan. Courses fall into different categories, each of which have specific unit values that need to be met under the program rules.
Complete 96 units comprising:
Complete 90 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Course name
Indigenous Perspectives on Globalisation
|
Course code
INDG5003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Law and Land
|
Course code
INDG5004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing
|
Course code
INDG5005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Aboriginal Futures
|
Course code
INDG5008
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Australian Indigenous Languages, Identity and Belonging
|
Course code
INDG5009
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Cultural Competency: Challenging Racism in Australian and Indigenous Contexts
|
Course code
INDG5010
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Aboriginal Studies Master Class
|
Course code
INDG5011
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Rebuilding Aboriginal Nations
|
Course code
INDG6002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Research Thesis 1
|
Course code
INDG5012
|
Units
12
|
|
|
Course name
Research Thesis 2
|
Course code
INDG5013
|
Units
12
|
|
|
Course name
Pitjantjatjara Culture and Language
|
Course code
INDG5014
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Aboriginal Research Methods and Ethics
|
Course code
INDG6007
|
Units
12
|
Notes
1. Students will be supported in their negotiations with workplaces, community groups and organisations regarding their Thesis.
2. The thesis to be undertaken must be negotiated with the appropriate Aboriginal people/community/organisation to determine whether the issue being investigated addresses their concerns and is deemed to fit with their priorities and aspirations. The thesis must meet the ethics approval and research design requirements and procedures of the relevant Aboriginal people; it must also meet the ethics approval and research design requirements and procedures of the University of South Australia.
3. Students not undertaking Pitjantjatjara Culture and Language can undertake an elective from those listed.
4. The Aboriginal Studies Master Class is a two day intensive led by leading Aboriginal scholars and international Indigenous researchers. If this course is not offered in any given year the students may take an approved elective in lieu.
Electives description
A flexible course choice within your degree.
Complete 6 units comprising:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Aboriginal Education, Culture, Curriculum and Change
|
Course code
EDUC5013
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Community Partnerships
|
Course code
ENVI5006
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
People, Leadership and Organisational Performance
|
Course code
HRES5002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Social Work and Policy Practice
|
Course code
SOWK5000
|
Units
6
|
Notes
Program electives - The Elective is selected from those listed above; other postgraduate elective courses may be approved by the Program Director. In consultation with the Program Director students may choose an elective in a field related to their topic of research.
This program can lead to a variety of project, advisory, management and leadership roles in the following settings:
You could be a cultural heritage officer, managing and protecting sites of cultural significance. You might guide policy initiatives, liaising with community leaders to identify solutions. Perhaps you’ll be a consultant for film and TV, making sure writers and directors portray Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander accurately and respectfully.
You could also be a:
Or, go straight on to complete a Master of Research or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) where you’ll contribute new knowledge to the field of Aboriginal Studies.
The defeat of the 2023 Voice referendum in Australia, which sought to establish an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice to Parliament, underscores the complex and often contentious nature of Aboriginal rights and recognition within Australia's broader political and social framework. The referendum left the nation grappling with how to move forward in addressing disadvantage, systemic discrimination and unsustainable environmental practices.
Studying a Master of Aboriginal Studies at Adelaide University will give you the knowledge, connections and advanced research skills to contribute to these conversations, work alongside Aboriginal Peoples and support positive change moving forward.
Please note that a non-refundable application fee of AUD$150 applies for every application submitted to Adelaide University.
Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.
You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.
Student services
We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:
You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.
Program Director
College of Education, Behavioural and Social Sciences
School of Society and Culture
You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.
Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.
During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include:
