Why do a Bachelor’s Degree?
A bachelor’s degree from UNSW is more than just a qualification – it’s a launch pad to greater career opportunities, personal growth and a chance to make your mark on the world.
Earning a bachelor’s degree can open doors to loads of different career opportunities. The right degree can pave the way for a rewarding job and give you the tools and experiences to find your calling.
But as you’ve probably guessed, studying a bachelor’s degree is a big commitment, so it’s normal to have a few questions before applying. Questions like:
- Is getting a bachelor’s degree hard?
- Is a bachelor’s degree worth it?
- How much does a bachelor’s degree cost?
All great questions that you’ll find the answers to in this guide. We cover the benefits, challenges and time commitment involved so you can make an informed decision about your future.
What is a bachelor’s degree?
A bachelor's degree is an undergraduate qualification offered by universities, typically taking three to four years of full-time study. A bachelor’s degree provides a strong foundation in a specific field, such as business, arts, science, technology, law or media – or multiple fields if you study a double degree.
A bachelor's degree isn't just about memorising textbooks and passing exams – it's a comprehensive educational experience designed to help you build the essential skills to thrive in your future career.
Here’s an overview of what you can expect:
Coursework: A combination of lectures, tutorials, group work, assignments, exams and practical experience. The exact mix will depend on your degree.
Specialisations: Bachelor’s degrees are available in a wide range of fields, such as business, arts, science, technology, law, engineering and media. In many degrees, you can hone your skills by choosing a major or specialisation.
Skills: Critical thinking, problem solving, communication and research.
Outcome: A widely recognised qualification that opens doors to jobs, internships, research and postgraduate study.
By the time you graduate, you’ll have spent years honing your skills, exploring your interests and developing knowledge that will make you an asset to any team. Whether you have a career in mind when you start or you find your calling along the way, completing an undergraduate degree demonstrates your determination – something future employers are always looking for.
Still have questions? This undergraduate degree guide explains exactly what a bachelor's degree is and how to decide if it’s the right path for you.
How long does it take to get a bachelor’s degree?
The time it takes to earn a bachelor’s degree varies depending on several factors. On average, it takes three to four years of full-time study to complete a single bachelor’s degree and four to five years of full-time study for a double degree.
These factors may influence how long it takes to get a bachelor’s degree:
Part-time study: If you choose to study part-time while working or managing other responsibilities, it will likely take you longer to complete your degree.
Accelerated programs: Some universities offer accelerated programs that allow you to finish your degree in 2-3 years, or earn a double degree in the same time it takes some to earn one bachelor’s degree.
Changing your major: If you decide to switch your area of study partway through your degree, this may add extra time as you may need to take additional courses.
Unforeseen circumstances: Life doesn’t always go to plan! Job opportunities, travel, personal commitments or other unexpected events can sometimes delay your studies and extend the time required to complete your degree.
In the grand scheme of things, your studying years will feel like a small blip compared to the impact it will have over the long term. In as little as three years, you could be entering the workforce leaps and bounds ahead of your counterparts, with the practical skills and knowledge to carve out a career you can be proud of.
How much does it cost to get a bachelor’s degree?
The cost of earning a bachelor’s degree in Australia varies depending on the university, degree and whether you’re an Australian citizen, permanent resident or an international student. Your tuition fees will make up the majority of the costs, but there’s also equipment, textbooks and amenities fees to factor in.
You’ve heard it before, but it’s true – studying a bachelor’s degree is an investment into your future. It will open doors to opportunities that would otherwise be out of reach. In many cases, it fast-tracks your success and puts you on a path to higher earnings, greater career satisfaction and the ability to drive real progress in a field you care about.
For a full list of bachelor’s degrees and how much they cost at UNSW, head over to Degree Finder.
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The cost of a bachelor’s degree for domestic students varies depending on your field of study. Most of UNSW’s undergraduate degrees have Commonwealth Supported Places (CSPs) that subsidise the cost of your tuition. Plus, government student loans, known as HECS-HELP loans, are available for domestic students to spread out the cost of their studies.
You’re considered a domestic student if you are:- an Australian citizen
- a New Zealand citizen
- a permanent resident in Australia; or
- you hold a permanent humanitarian visa.
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Tuition fees for international students also vary based on the program and university. As with domestic students, fields like medicine, law, and engineering often have higher fees. If you’re an international student, it’s worth looking into our Sponsored Student Program to see if you can gain sponsorship support from a UNSW partner in your home country.
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It’s important to note that there’s more to the cost of a bachelor’s degree than tuition fees. Students must factor in costs such as textbooks, materials, accommodation, transport and living expenses.
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Many universities, including UNSW, offer scholarships and financial aid to help reduce the costs of a bachelor’s degree. These may be merit-based, needs-based or field-specific. If you’re unsure if you’re eligible, just ask – our Future Student Advisers are here to help!
Is getting a bachelor’s degree hard?
Earning a bachelor’s degree can be challenging, but it’s a great investment in your future career. While study requires self-discipline, time management and perseverance, it pays in bucketloads once you enter the workforce as at a highly skilled, highly employable graduate. Plus, there’s plenty of support available to help you learn the skills required to succeed.
Tips to support your bachelor’s degree studies
Here are some strategies to help you make the most of your experience:
Use university support services such as tutoring, workshops, career advice and wellbeing support.
Connect with classmates through things like study groups, sports and social clubs. At UNSW, this all happens at Arc, our student organisation.
Ask for help when you need it. Lecturers, tutors and student support staff are there to help if you need clarification or guidance.
Choose a course that interests you. When you study something you’re genuinely curious about, you may find it easier to keep up with the coursework.
Experiment with different study techniques. Everyone has a different learning style – find what works for you.
Is getting a bachelor’s degree worth it?
In Australia, people with a bachelor’s degree tend to earn more than those who have no post-school qualifications or shorter qualifications, such as a certificate or diploma.
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS, 2025), the median weekly earnings for someone with a bachelor’s degree is $1,578. This increases to $1,893 per week with a postgraduate qualification. Those with no post-school qualifications, on the other hand, earn a median of $988 per week.
For many prospective uni students, higher earning potential plays a huge role in deciding whether a bachelor’s degree is worth it. However, there are more benefits to a bachelor’s degree than just a higher salary.
Beyond salary: More benefits of getting a bachelor's degree
Think of a bachelor's degree as an investment in yourself. The benefits extend well beyond acquiring knowledge and increasing your earning potential.
It's an important phase of your life that will broaden your horizons and shape you and your peers into well-rounded individuals.
You’ll be exposed to diverse perspectives and people from all different backgrounds, fostering cultural understanding and empathy.
A bachelor's degree also offers a fun and exciting chance for self-discovery. It's a time when you can refine your passions, explore your interests and make lifelong friendships.
Why study a bachelor's degree at UNSW?
UNSW has been recognised for producing Australia’s most employable graduates for six years in a row (AFR Top100 Future Leaders Awards, 2020-2025). We’re also ranked #1 in Australia for employment outcomes (QS World University Rankings, 2026). As a UNSW student, you can access a range of employability support services to help you plan your future. That means direct access to mentors, internship opportunities and workshops to build the skills employers are looking for.
Still have questions?
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To get the most out of your undergraduate degree, you should choose a field that ignites your passion and aligns with your career goals. Your high school studies should give you a good sense of what you enjoy and what you’re good at.
You should also consider your specific career goals and work towards understanding the market demand. Research those potential fields that spark your interest, and check out the program curriculums, future job prospects and growth opportunities within those sectors. Finally, explore the opportunity for internships within the courses you’re interested in, speak to professionals about it and weigh up the financial aspects associated with the study.
If you’re still unsure, take our 2-minute quiz to help you identify some degrees to look into.
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A four-year bachelor’s degree is an incredible investment in yourself and your future. It provides specialised knowledge and critical thinking skills and enhances your employability across various industries. Graduates from these courses tend to earn higher salaries and experience lower unemployment rates than those without undergraduate degrees.
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Gaining two different bachelor’s degrees allows you to develop a broader skill set and deeper expertise in multiple fields. Having multiple degrees under your belt can enhance career prospects, offering a unique advantage in a competitive job market. At UNSW, you can choose from hundreds of double degree options and, in most cases, you can cut a year or two off the standard study load.
Ready to explore your degree options?
Check out our full list of bachelor’s degrees and kickstart your UNSW experience.
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