Studying at university can open you up to possibilities you might never have dreamt of. At UNSW, we know it feels like a huge decision. But choosing the right undergraduate degree is about more that academic fulfilment. It's about discovering your passion, honing your skills and creating a future you can be proud of.
Before we dig in, let’s get the terminology down pat. At UNSW, we call our uni courses ‘programs’ or ‘degrees’. Here, ‘courses’ refer to the individual subjects you take during your studies. ‘Classes’ refer to timetable slots, and you’ll have ‘lectures’ and ‘tutorials’ within those class slots.
How to find the right degree
Pinpointing your ideal pathway to the career you want begins with exploring your passions, interests and strengths. Here are a few tips on how to find out what uni course is right for you:
- Reflect: Think about subjects that captivate you, activities that ignite your curiosity and your future career aspirations – it’s okay if you don’t have all the answers right now.Talk it out: Your mentors, friends and family may be able to help you to gather diverse perspectives.
- Do your research: Check out the course curriculums, university facilities and alumni success stories – something unexpected might spark your interest.
- Join us at our events: Events including Experience Days, Open Day and Info Week can help you immerse yourself in the atmosphere and pathways that UNSW offers.
- Be open: Know that every step brings you closer to uncovering the program that aligns with your ambitions and aspirations.
Search degrees by area of interest
UNSW has a huge range of degree options, from bachelor’s degrees to PhDs. Our world-class academics – including a handful of Nobel Laureates and Scientia Professors – and our state-of-the-art facilities will help you unlock your full potential and get a taste of professional life after graduation.
But where to start your search? UNSW is home to seven leading faculties, each with dozens of programs to choose from. We’re a hands-on, future-focused university – so you’ll be given the tools to take your passion and turn it into a rewarding career that makes an impact.
Explore some areas of interest below, take a look at the related degrees and see where it takes you.
Architecture, Planning & Construction
Learn to balance creativity and precision. Join an open, supportive and inclusive community where you'll challenge others and be challenged, and develop unique career-ready skills to create real-life solutions. Our programs pave the way for careers in architecture, urban planning, construction management, and sustainable design. You’ll learn how to shape cities, design iconic structures and build communities that thrive.
Degrees you may be interested in:
- Bachelor of Architectural Studies
- Bachelor of Construction Management and Property
- Bachelor of City Planning (Honours)
- Bachelor of Interior Architecture (Honours)
- Bachelor of Landscape Architecture (Honours)
Visit the School of Built Environment to learn more about what’s on offer at UNSW.
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Environment Management & Sciences
When you explore a career in Environmental Management and Sciences at UNSW, you’ll be encouraged to think big and form deeper connections with our world. Benefit from cutting-edge knowledge and hands-on experience to unlock a broad range of career pathways. Explore future roles in sustainability, conservation or resource management when you’re empowered to become a changemaker in fields such as environmental consulting, policy development, renewable energy or wildlife conservation.
Degrees you may be interested in:
Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours) – Majors include biology, climate systems, ecology, marine and coastal science or physical oceanography.
Bachelor of Arts – Majoring in environmental humanities
Visit the School of Biological, Earth & Environmental Sciences to learn more.
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Media, Design & Fine Arts
Immerse yourself in a world where creativity meets innovation. You’ll learn both theory and practice in a place with the facilities and networks to help make your creative ideas a reality. These programs offer a canvas for your imagination to flourish, leading to careers in graphic design, film production, advertising, animation and more. With industry-aligned programs and dedicated mentors, you’ll be encouraged to unleash your artistic prowess and pave the way for a captivating, impactful career in the dynamic world of media and the arts.
Degrees you may be interested in:
Visit the School of Art & Design to find a program that piques your interest.
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Humanities & Social Sciences
Delve into diverse perspectives, learn to think critically and gain a deeper understanding of societies. These programs lead to careers in counselling, journalism and public policy. You’ll uncover your passion, gain invaluable insights and drive progress in a world hungry for change.
Degrees you may be interested in:
Bachelor of Arts – Majors include sociology and anthropology, environmental humanities, gender studies and languages.
Visit the School of Social Sciences or the School of Humanities & Languages to explore more study areas.
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Medicine & Health Science
Prepare yourself for the future of health when you study within a collaborative community focused on improving life for all. From medicine to nursing, public health to biomedical research, our degrees will prepare you for diverse careers that lead to saving lives, advancing medical breakthroughs and fostering healthier communities.
Degrees you may be interested in:
Bachelor of Nutrition / Master of Dietetics and Food Innovation
Bachelor of Applied Exercise Science / Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology
Visit the faculty of Medicine & Health to discover our full list of undergraduate programs.
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Business & Commerce
Drive purposeful change to shape a better future. With our career-focused education, you’ll become equipped for long-term success that empowers you to become an adaptive thinker to thrive in a fast-changing world. These programs could pave the way for careers in finance, marketing, management and so much more. Embrace opportunities to lead, strategise and drive new ideas in diverse industries.
Degree you may be interested in:
Bachelor of Economics – Majors include data analytics and econometrics, economic policy and society and macroeconomics and financial markets.
Bachelor of Commerce – Majors include accounting, business analytics, cybersecurity management and Taxation.
Visit UNSW Business School, voted Australia’s #1 Business School four years running*, or explore our study areas to see what’s on offer.
*AFR BOSS Best Business Schools List
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Education, Teaching & Social Work
Develop unique career-ready skills that will help you turn creativity and critical thinking into real-life solutions. You’ll embrace the power to shape minds, ignite change and build inclusive communities. These UNSW programs prepare you for impactful careers in teaching, counselling, social services and educational leadership. Be a catalyst for positive transformation and empower future generations.
Degrees you may be interested in:
Combine the Bachelor of Education (Secondary) with a second bachelor’s degree in Arts, Commerce, Design, Economics, Fine Arts or Science.
Visit our School of Education and School of Social Sciences to explore degrees that lead to purpose-led careers in education and social work.
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Engineering
Challenge yourself at Australia's #1 Engineering faculty*, where world-changing action starts with fearless thinking. These degrees pave paths to careers in civil, mechanical, electrical engineering, and beyond. Join us in designing sustainable solutions and innovative technology, and learn how to engineer a brighter future for generations to come.
Degrees you may be interested in:
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) – Specialisations include Civil, Surveying, Nuclear, Aerospace, Renewable Energy and Quantum Engineering.
Visit the Engineering faculty to browse degrees by school or study area.
*QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023
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Law & Criminal Justice
Be equipped to tackle tomorrow’s big challenges. With an interactive educational approach, you’ll be immersed in the real-world practice of law and justice. UNSW shapes sharp minds through the exploration of complex ideas and our faculty is underpinned by an ethos of justice for all. You’ll study justice, ethics and societal order and open doors to careers in law, criminology, policy-making, and advocacy.
Degrees you may be interested in:
Combine the Bachelor of Laws with one of 20+ double degree options, including psychology, social work and economics.
Visit the Law & Justice faculty or explore our three highly reputable schools to discover your study options.
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Data & Technology
Prepare for the jobs of tomorrow with a science and technology degree that focuses on personal development, career training and hands-on learning. You’ll find yourself at the forefront of innovation, where you’ll unlock potential careers in data science, cybersecurity and artificial intelligence. Learn to solve complex challenges and drive positive change in a data-driven world. Embrace the future with limitless possibilities in this ever-evolving and exciting field.
Degrees you may be interested in:
Visit the School of Computer Science and Engineering or the School of Mathematics and Statistics to explore your degree options.
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FAQs
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After completing a bachelor's degree, there are so many wonderful opportunities that await. You can pursue further education like a Master's or PhD, dive into your dream career, or even travel abroad to take on post-graduate studies and explore new horizons in your field. The world is your oyster and your bachelor’s degree could be the key that unlocks a multitude of exciting paths and possibilities.
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At UNSW, our most popular program is the Bachelor of Medical Studies/Doctor of Medicine – it’s highly sought-after and offers limited places. Other in-demand programs revolve around technology, healthcare and sustainability. Fields such as data science and environmental studies are becoming increasingly popular too.
However, the ideal program for you is the one that aligns with your interests and strengths. Our best advice? Pick something you’re passionate about and go from there.
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Selecting the right uni course is about finding your passion and purpose. Reflect on your interests, strengths and long-term goals. Consider talking to professionals in the field, exploring course curriculums and seeking guidance from mentors, teachers or careers counsellors. When you feel enthusiastic and driven about your studies, that's a sign you've chosen a path that resonates with you. If you trust your instincts – they will often lead to amazing opportunities.
Looking for more info to help you get ready for uni? Check our this year's Undergraduate Guide.
Connect with us
Want to find out more about your journey to uni?
If you have any questions about studying at UNSW or how you can make your studies work for you, contact us below. We’re here to help.