Bachelor of Social Science (Honours)

Bachelor of Social Science (Honours)

UNDERGRADUATE

Elevate your expertise: uncover, question and transform social understandings with a personal research project.

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Student type:
Learning mode:
On campus
Entry score:

Not applicable

Duration:
Full-time 1 year
or part-time equivalent
Fees:

Commonwealth supported places

Next intake:
February
Location:
Melbourne City
Learning mode:
On campus
Entry score:

See admissions

Duration:
Full-time 1 year
Fees:

AU$35,520 (2025 annual)

Next intake:
February
Location:
Melbourne City

Overview

Develop superior research skills by delving deeply into a topic that extends on and questions our shared comprehension of human interactions and their relationships with the environments they inhabit.

As a student in the Bachelor of Social Science (Honours), you will critically examine a pressing societal issue that interests you. Focus on the design and completion of a scholarly thesis or research project, leveraging the capabilities you acquired during your undergraduate degree and supported by advanced research-related coursework. 

The skills you gain from this degree lay the groundwork for pursuing further studies or launching your social science career.

Why study social science at RMIT?

Academic guidance

Learn research strategies, specialist knowledge and vital skills from expert educators and cutting-edge social science researchers.

Industry connections

Build local and global networks to enhance your future career and/or studies.

Peer learning

Collaborate with colleagues to establish connections and share relevant insights in social science.

Make an original contribution

The interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary nature of research in the School of Global, Urban and Social Studies offers unparalleled opportunities for honours students to connect with leading-edge researchers. Depending on your project, you will work with a supervisor who is actively contributing to the Centre for Urban Research or the Social Equity Centre.

Whether you pursue your own research or collaborate within a larger research group, you will make an original contribution to your chosen field.

Details

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Learning and teaching

As an honours student, you primarily focus on a research project under the guidance of a supervisor. This project may be undertaken independently or as part of a team.

To support your progress, you complete a series of coursework modules designed to develop your skills in social science research methods, practices and communication. Through these courses and in consultation with your supervisor, you develop a research plan and conduct your research accordingly. Document your findings in a written thesis or alternative equivalent output, suitable for your chosen research area, that you negotiate with your supervisor and the Program Manager.

Assessment methods

You will conduct your research as prescribed in your plan and document your findings in your written thesis (or equivalent). Assessments undertaken in your supporting courses are designed to develop your social science research and communication skills.

Learning at RMIT

The types of classes you have will depend on the course you’re studying. Classes are offered in various formats designed to provide meaningful engagement with staff, industry and peers and provide for access and use of spaces where learning can be applied and active, including an array of specialised equipment.

Most RMIT courses do not include passive large-scale classes such as lectures, instead the content traditionally provided in lectures is made available online. This may be in the form of readings, videos or other on-demand learning materials. This content will also support the basis of interactive learning that takes place in on-campus classes.

Honours supervisors are directly connected to industry through RMIT’s many courses, research centres and groups.

In some cases, honours research projects may also comprise part of a larger industry collaboration.

Global work, exchange and study experiences

RMIT offers a range of opportunities for our students to study abroad through global work, exchange and study experiences with over 165 partner universities worldwide.

The knowledge and skills you will acquire throughout this degree/diploma and how they can be applied in your career are described in the learning outcomes.

The central focus of the honours year is a research project, culminating in a written thesis or an equivalent output, as negotiated with your supervisor and the Program Manager.

This degree enhances your existing academic capabilities and hones your research skills, providing a broader understanding of social science research while allowing you to investigate a topic of relevance to your disciplinary area.

You will complete a series of coursework modules to develop skills in research methods, practices and communication. In consultation with your supervisor, you will create and execute your research plan.

Course structure

Choose a plan below to find out more about the subjects you will study and the course structure.

Bachelor of Social Science (Honours)
Program code: BH131
Title
Location
Duration
Plan code
CRICOS
Bachelor of Social Science (Honours)
City Campus
1 year full-time or part-time equivalent
BH131
116817F
Location
City Campus
Duration
1 year full-time or part-time equivalent
Plan code
BH131
CRICOS
116817F
View plan
Bachelor of Social Science (Honours)
City Campus
1 year full-time
BH131
116817F
Location
City Campus
Duration
1 year full-time
Plan code
BH131
CRICOS
116817F
View plan

Note: International student visa holders can only study full-time.

Career

An honours degree in social science provides several key benefits and opportunities, equipping you with advanced knowledge, skills and experiences that provide opportunities to pursue higher degree studies or a professional career.

Graduates of this course will work effectively as critical and reflective practitioners in their chosen social science disciplinary area, engaging in activities that involve studying human behaviour, societies and social relationships. This work can be applied in various fields and roles, including:

  • research and analysis
  • policy development and evaluation
  • community and social work
  • education and training
  • consulting
  • human resources and organisational development
  • market and consumer research
  • advocacy and public awareness.

You will be able to work in various settings, including academic institutions, government agencies, non-profit organisations, private sector companies and international organisations.

Entry requirements and admissions

You need to satisfy all of the following entry requirements to be considered for entry into this degree.

You must have successfully completed an Australian bachelor degree (or equivalent overseas qualification) in a relevant discipline with an overall grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 (out of 4.0) or equivalent.

The relevant disciplines include, but are not limited to, social science, sociology, criminology, environmental studies, gender studies, geography, international studies, policy, politics, psychology, history, sustainability, urban planning and youth work.

There are no prerequisite subjects required for entry into this qualification.

You must provide a one-page statement outlining why you wish to study Honours and what you are hoping to research in 300-500 words. If you have discussed your project with a potential supervisor, please indicate that in your statement.

Applicants are encouraged to review current projects in the two social science related research centres, the Centre for Urban Research and the Social Equity Research Centre. There is scope to embed Honours' projects within existing centre projects and if this is of interest to you, please indicate that in your statement submission.

Please note that if you are successful in gaining entry, you will have the opportunity to modify your research (providing a suitable supervisor is available) where required, once you commence your studies.

You must meet the University's minimum English language requirements to be eligible for a place in this program.

Selection criteria by applicant type

The highest level of education you have previously completed will determine which category applies to you.

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Secondary education (Year 12) is not considered for entry into this program.

Vocational education and training (VET) is not considered for entry into this program.

You must have successfully completed an Australian bachelor degree (or equivalent overseas qualification) in a relevant discipline with an overall grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 (out of 4.0) or equivalent.

Work and life experience is not considered for entry into this program.

You need to satisfy all of the following requirements to be considered for entry into this degree.

You must have successfully completed an Australian bachelor degree (or equivalent overseas qualification) in a relevant discipline with an overall grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 (out of 4.0) or equivalent.

The relevant disciplines include, but are not limited to, social science, sociology, criminology, environmental studies, gender studies, geography, international studies, policy, politics, psychology, history, sustainability, urban planning and youth work.  

There are no prerequisite subjects required for entry into this qualification.

Please provide a one-page statement outlining why you wish to study this program and what you are hoping to research in 300-500 words.

To study this course you will need to complete one of the following English proficiency tests:

  • IELTS (Academic): minimum overall band of 6.5 (with no individual band below 6.0)
  • TOEFL (Internet Based Test - IBT): minimum overall score of 79 (with minimum of 13 in Reading, 12 in Listening, 18 in Speaking and 21 in Writing)
  • Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE (A)): minimum score of 58 (with no communication band less than 50)
  • Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE): minimum of 176 with no less than 169 in any component.

For detailed information on English language requirements and other proficiency tests recognised by RMIT, visit English language requirements and equivalency information.

Don't meet the English language test scores? Complete an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) Advanced Plus at RMIT University Pathways (RMIT UP).

Pathways

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You can gain entry into this honours degree from a range of RMIT undergraduate programs, if you meet the entry requirements.

Credit, recognition of prior learning, professional experience and accreditation from a professional body can reduce the duration of your study by acknowledging your earlier, relevant experience.

Credit and exemptions will be assessed consistent with the principles of the RMIT Credit Policy.

Upon successful completion of this honours degree, you may be eligible to undertake further studies in related programs, such as the Master of Social Science (Global, Urban & Social Studies) by research and PhD (Global, Urban & Social Studies) at RMIT University, subject to the program's entrance requirements.

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You can gain entry to this honours degree from a range of RMIT undergraduate programs.

Credit may reduce the duration of your study by acknowledging your earlier, relevant study experience.

When you are submitting an application, please indicate that you want to be considered for credit and provide detailed course syllabus (also known as course outline), outlining volume of learning, course content and weekly topics, learning objectives/outcomes, assessment types and their weightings, and reference to the learning resources such as prescribed textbooks and recommended readings.

When you successfully complete this program, you may be eligible for entry into an RMIT postgraduate program or RMIT Masters by Research or Doctoral (PhD) program.

Fees

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2025 indicative fees

In 2025, the annual student contribution amount (tuition fee) you will pay for a standard year of full-time study is between AU$4,627 to AU$16,992*.

Additional expenses

  • Student services and amenities fee (SSAF): AU$365 maximum fee for 2025*.
  • Other items related to your program, including field trips, textbooks and equipment.

Annual fee adjustment

Amounts quoted are indicative fees per annum, and are based on a standard year of full-time study (96 credit points). A proportionate fee applies for more or less than the full-time study load.

Fees are adjusted on an annual basis and these fees should only be used as a guide.

Defer your payment

You may be eligible to apply for a HECS-HELP loan, which can be used to defer payment of up to the full amount of your student contribution fees. You may also be eligible to apply to defer payment of your SSAF through the SA-HELP loan scheme.

Learn more about fees for undergraduate study.

Paying your fees and applying for refunds

For information on how to pay your fees or how to apply for a refund, please see Paying your fees and applying for refunds.

If you are offered a Commonwealth supported place, your tuition fees are subsidised by the Australian Government.

Your share of the fee (student contribution) is set on an annual basis by the government and is determined by the discipline areas (bands) of your individual enrolled courses, not the overall program.

How much can I expect to pay for my Commonwealth supported place?

The Australian Government has introduced changes to university funding and student contribution fees under its Job-ready Graduates Package. 

The fees in the table below apply to students who commence their program in 2025. Fees for continuing students are available at fees for Commonwealth supported students.

Each course (subject) falls into a band. The band determines the student contribution amount for the course.

Amounts listed in the table below are based on a standard, full-time study load (96 credit points per year) with all courses in the same band. A proportionate fee applies for more or less than the full-time study load or for enrolment in courses (subjects) from a combination of bands.

You can learn how to calculate your exact tuition fees for units from different bands at Fees for Commonwealth supported students.

Maximum student contribution amount for Commonwealth supported places in 2025 for commencing students

Student contribution band by course (subject)

Maximum annual student contribution amount (per EFTSL) in 2025
Education, Postgraduate Clinical Psychology, English, Mathematics, Statistics, Nursing, Indigenous and Foreign Languages, Agriculture $4,627 per standard year
$578 per standard (12 credit point) course
Allied Health, Other Health, Built Environment, Computing, Visual and Performing Arts, Professional Pathway Psychology, Professional Pathway Social Work, Engineering, Surveying, Environmental Studies, Science, Pathology $9,314 per standard year
$1,164 per standard (12 credit point) course
Dentistry, Medicine, Veterinary Science $13,241 per standard year
$1,655 per standard (12 credit point) course
Law, Accounting, Administration, Economics, Commerce, Communications, Society and Culture $16,992 per standard year
$2,124 per standard (12 credit point) course

Student Learning Entitlement

On 1 January 2022, the Government implemented the Student Learning Entitlement (SLE).

  • The SLE allows students 7 years of full-time subsidised study in Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP).
  • Your total SLE amount will be reduced in accordance with your overall study load in a CSP. 
  • Once you have utilised all your SLE, you can not longer study in a CSP.

For more information about SLE, visit Study Assist.

HECS-HELP Loans

The Australian Government provides financial assistance via the HECS-HELP loan scheme, which allows eligible students (such as Australian citizens or holders of an Australian permanent humanitarian visa) to defer payment of up to the full amount of their student contribution.

SA-HELP Loans

You may be eligible to apply to defer payment of the Student services and amenities fee (SSAF) through the SA-HELP loan scheme. If you use SA-HELP, the amount will be added to your accumulated HELP debt.

How does a HELP loan work?

If your FEE-HELP and/or SA-HELP loan application is successful, the Australian Government will pay RMIT, on your behalf, up to 100% of your fees. This amount will become part of your accumulated HELP debt.

You only start repaying your accumulated HELP debt to the Australian Government once you earn above the minimum income threshold for repayment, which is set each year by the Australian Government (this also applies if you are still studying). The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) will calculate your compulsory repayment for the year and include this on your income tax notice.

For more information about loan repayment options see Commonwealth assistance (HELP loans) or Study Assist.

In addition to tuition fees, you will be charged an annual student services and amenities fee (SSAF), which is used to maintain and enhance services and amenities that improve your experience as an RMIT student.

The SSAF is calculated based on your enrolment load and the maximum fee for 2025 is $365.

You may also be required to purchase other items related to your course, including field trips, textbooks and equipment. These additional fees and expenses vary from course to course.

RMIT awards more than 2000 scholarships every year to recognise academic achievement and assist students from a variety of backgrounds.

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In addition to tuition fees you also need to pay for:

You also need to account for your living expenses. Estimate the cost of living in Melbourne.

Student services and amenities fee (SSAF)

In addition to tuition fees, you will be charged an annual student services and amenities fee (SSAF), which is used to maintain and enhance services and amenities that improve your experience as an RMIT student.

The SSAF is calculated based on your enrolment load and the maximum fee for 2025 is $365. 

Find out more details about how fees are calculated and the expected annual increase.

Applying for refunds

Find information on how to apply for a refund as a continuing international student.

RMIT awards more than 2000 scholarships every year to recognise academic achievement and assist students from a variety of backgrounds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Looking for answers or more general information?

Use our Frequently Asked Questions to learn about the application process and its equity access schemes, find out how to accept or defer your offer or request a leave of absence, discover information about your fees, refunds and scholarships, and explore the various student support and advocacy services, as well as how to find out more about your preferred program, and more.

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Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Sentient' by Hollie Johnson, Gunaikurnai and Monero Ngarigo.

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aboriginal flag
torres strait flag

Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business.

More information