Humanities & Social Inquiry

Career information for your major

Discipline overview

The Archaeology and Ancient History major at UOW offers you the opportunity to combine two distinct but overlapping disciplines that will transform your understanding and perceptions of the past. The Archaeology and Ancient History major is a new major jointly offered by the School of Humanities and Social Inquiry and the Centre for Archaeological Science. 

Archaeology and Ancient History at UOW will enable you to gain valuable skills and study topics about which both you and our staff are passionate. Graduates from the Archaeology and Ancient History major may gain employment in heritage management, museums, in archaeological research and as teachers.

Key employability skills

Graduates can use their skills across a range of careers. It is vital for you to not only become more aware of the skills you will gain through your course and other experiences, and to learn to effectively articulate these skills to prospective employers.

The following is a sample list of key skills adapted from the QAA UK subject benchmark statement for this discipline. The full skills list can be found at QAA UK.

  • significant degree of autonomy, manifested in self-direction, and intellectual initiative, both in learning and study and in the management of the time devoted to them
  • capacity for critical reflection on the extent and limitations of how and what one has learned, discovered and understood
  • capacity for critical judgement in the light of evidence and argument.
  • gather, commit to memory, organise and deploy evidence and information and to show awareness of the consequences of the unavailability of evidence
  • engage in analytical and evaluative thinking about texts, sources, arguments and interpretations, independently estimating their relevance to the issue in question, discriminating between opposing theories, and forming judgements on the basis of evidence and argument
  • engage in lateral thinking, making creative connections between ideas and information in different fields of study
  • marshal arguments lucidly, coherently and concisely both orally and in writing
  • work creatively and flexibly, both independently and also collaboratively with others
  • organise their work, conduct independent study, write and think under pressure and meet deadlines.
  • make effective and appropriate use of digital resources and information technology (IT) at all stages of their work. Generally, this includes the capacities to collect and evaluate digitised data, to use electronic texts and databases and their associated software, to make effective use of virtual learning environments and other e-pedagogy, to organise and present arguments, text and images electronically.

Related occupations

Whether you are considering a number of career possibilities, are starting to think deeply about your career future or have a clear career idea in mind, it’s useful to explore the range of career possibilities available.

The following list is of jobs held by UOW graduates sourced through the UOW Alumni Team or the LinkedIn Alumni Tool (up to four years after graduation).  Note that some of these graduates have undertaken further study:

  • Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Consultant
  • Archaeologist
  • Cultural Heritage & Environmental Officer
  • Field Archaeologist
  • Historians
  • Heritage Consultant
  • Lithic Analyst
  • Project Officer
  • University Academic and Research Staff

Employers

Explore the type of organisations you would like to work for by looking at some of the employers in your field.

The following list of employers of UOW graduates sourced through the UOW Alumni Team or the LinkedIn Alumni Tool (up to four years after graduation).

  • Australian Cultural Heritage Management
  • Australian National Maritime Museum
  • Austral Archaeology
  • ERM
  • George Bourne & Associates
  • GML Heritage
  • Kelleher and Nightingale Consulting
  • NGH Environmental Consultancy
  • Niche Environment and Heritage
  • Rio Tinto
  • Universities worldwide

Key industry job websites

Many industries have job websites dedicated to careers within their industry. These also often have links to other career resources. Also be aware that LinkedIn Jobs is increasingly used by employers to target graduates.

Formal graduate programs

Make sure you consider the fast-tracked career pathway programs which are offered by some large corporate organisations and government agencies. Here are some of the organisations that take graduates of this discipline.

Details of relevant graduate recruitment programs can be found on websites such as GradConnection.

Career research and networks

When researching possible careers, obtaining relevant information from a range of sources helps inform your career decisions.

Labour Market Information Portal – Australian government website with salaries, industry growth and required skills for a wide range of jobs

Your career – Australian government website with a range of careers information

UK Prospects – a UK based career exploration site

Build your career network and stay up to date with the latest developments in your industry by joining a professional association.

Postgraduate study and research

Some career paths require postgraduate study. The 2019 Graduate Outcomes Report identified that 18.9% of undergraduates Australia wide were engaged in postgraduate study four months after graduation.

You can specialise through academic coursework or pursue further research studies. Explore UOW's postgraduate coursework degrees and Higher Degrees by Research or postgraduate courses from other institutions for specific careers of interest.

Developing industry experience

Graduate employers increasingly value industry experience as an addition to formal qualifications to demonstrate your employability skills. This work-related experience can be obtained through university internship subjects, co-curricular activities, student exchange or volunteering.

UOW Work experience subjects – Formal work integrated learning subjects available at UOW across all disciplines.

UOWx – A range of co-curricular activities available for UOW students

Course information

The relevant undergraduate degree options available at UOW for this discipline are listed below. You may also wish to explore available courses more broadly to see if you might be interested in pursuing a double major or a double degree.

Discipline overview

A major in Community, Culture and Environment will equip you with knowledge about Indigenous peoples and the environment, Australian cultures and identities, post-federation Australian literature, children and young adult fictional literature, environmental contexts and current issues and problems and change in the human environment. You will be prepared to work in a variety of sectors including archiving and librarianship, art and design, business development, community and social services, diplomacy, education, government, social policy, politics, production, tourism and hospitality.

Key employability skills

Graduates can use their skills across a range of careers. It is vital for you to not only become more aware of the skills you will gain through your course and other experiences, and also to learn to effectively articulate these skills to prospective employers.

The following is a sample list of key skills adapted from the QAA UK subject benchmark statement for this discipline. The full skills list can be found at QAA UK.

  • Discover and synthesize complex information and diverse evidence
  • Ability to consider issues from a range of interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary perspectives
  • Communicate effectively in interpersonal settings, in writing and in a variety of media
  • Assessing the merits of competing theories and explanations
  • Critical understanding of other cultures and practices other than one's own

Related occupations

Whether you are considering a number of career possibilities, are starting to think deeply about your career future or have a clear career idea in mind, it’s useful to explore the range of career possibilities available.

Below is a list of jobs held by UOW graduates sourced from the 2018 and 2019 QILT Graduate Outcomes Survey (up to four months after graduation).

  • Training Coordinator
  • Student Mentor

The following list is of jobs held by UOW graduates sourced through the UOW Alumni Team or the LinkedIn Alumni Tool (up to four years after graduation).  Note that some of these graduates have undertaken further study:

  • University Tutor
  • Career Consultant
  • Outreach Officer
  • Teacher
  • Project Officer
  • Administration Officer
  • Quality Assurance Compliance Manager

Employers

Explore the type of organisations you would like to work for by looking at some of the employers in your field.

Below is a list of employers of UOW graduates sourced from the 2018 and 2019 QILT Graduate Outcomes Survey (up to four months after graduation).

  • Smart Oysters
  • University of Wollongong

The following list of employers of UOW graduates sourced through the UOW Alumni Team or the LinkedIn Alumni Tool (up to four years after graduation).

  • NSW Department of Education
  • University of Wollongong
  • Local Government (Council)
  • OysterLife Management

Key industry job websites

Many industries have job websites dedicated to careers within their industry. These also often have links to other career resources. Also be aware that LinkedIn Jobs is increasingly used by employers to target graduates.

Formal graduate programs

Make sure you consider the fast tracked career pathway programs which are offered by some large corporate organisations and government agencies.

  • Australian Public Service Commission
  • NSW Government Graduate Programs
  • Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet

Details of relevant graduate recruitment programs can be found on websites such as GradConnection.

Career research and networks

When researching possible careers, obtaining relevant information from a range of sources helps inform your career decisions.

Build your career network and stay up to date with the latest developments in your industry by joining a professional association.

Postgraduate study and research

Some career paths require postgraduate study. The 2019 Graduate Outcomes Report identified that 18.9% of undergraduates Australia wide were engaged in postgraduate study four months after graduation.

You can specialise through academic coursework or pursue further research studies. Explore UOW's postgraduate coursework degrees and Higher Degrees by Research or postgraduate courses from other institutions for specific careers of interest.

Developing industry experience

Graduate employers increasingly value industry experience as an addition to formal qualifications to demonstrate your employability skills. This work related experience can be obtained through university internship subjects, co-curricular activities, student exchange or volunteering.

UOW Work experience subjects – Formal work integrated learning subjects available at UOW across all disciplines

UOWx – A range of co-curricular activities available for UOW students

Course information

The relevant undergraduate degree options available at UOW for this discipline are listed below. You may also wish to explore available courses more broadly to see if you might be interested in pursuing a double major or a double degree.

Discipline overview

A major in Environmental Humanities will equip you with the tools to analyse, critique and engage with contemporary debates about the environment. You will acquire a deep and critical understanding of the social contexts through which we experience environmental issues and problems such as climate change, species loss, adaptation, exploitation and natural disasters. You will gain a clear understanding of the role of cultural forces (histories, narratives, cultural values and ethics) that influence and shape relationships to the environment.

Key employability skills

Graduates can use their skills across a range of careers. It is vital for you to not only become more aware of the skills you will gain through your course and other experiences, and also to learn to effectively articulate these skills to prospective employers.

The following is a sample list of key skills for this discipline.

  • written and verbal communication
  • cross cultural awareness
  • critical and creative thinking
  • innovative problem solving
  • team work

Related occupations

Whether you are considering a number of career possibilities, are starting to think deeply about your career future or have a clear career idea in mind, it’s useful to explore the range of career possibilities available.

The following list is of jobs held by UOW graduates sourced through the UOW Alumni Team or the LinkedIn Alumni Tool (up to four years after graduation).  Note that some of these graduates have undertaken further study:

  • University Academic and Research Staff
  • Environmental Journalist
  • Artist
  • Anthropologist
  • Environmental Educator
  • Policy Officer
  • Public Service Officer
  • Sustainability Manager

Employers

Explore the type of organisations you would like to work for by looking at some of the employers in your field.

The following list of employers of UOW graduates sourced through the UOW Alumni Team or the LinkedIn Alumni Tool (up to four years after graduation).

  • Universities worldwide
  • National Museum of Australia
  • Art Gallery of NSW
  • Guardian Australia
  • Australian Broadcasting Corporation
  • The Australian
  • Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning
  • Wollongong City Council

Key industry job websites

Many industries have job websites dedicated to careers within their industry. These also often have links to other career resources. Also be aware that LinkedIn Jobs is increasingly used by employers to target graduates.

Formal graduate programs

Make sure you consider the fast tracked career pathway programs which are offered by some large corporate organisations and government agencies.

Details of relevant graduate recruitment programs can be found on websites such as GradConnection.

Career research and networks

When researching possible careers, obtaining relevant information from a range of sources helps inform your career decisions.

Labour Market Information Portal – Australian government website with salaries, industry growth and required skills for a wide range of jobs

Your career – Australian government website with a range of careers information

UK Prospects – a UK based career exploration site

Build your career network and stay up to date with the latest developments in your industry by joining a professional association.

  • Australian Environmental Humanities Hub - central site for the gathering, dissemination and coordination of news and events in the Environmental Humanities field.
  • Sydney Environment Institute – one of the leaders in multidisciplinary environmental research, known for work in the environmental humanities and social sciences. A number of scholarships for postgraduate research and fellowships are available.
  • Australia New Zealand Society for Ecological Economics (ANSZEE) - trans-disciplinary group who shares a common passion about improving our society to achieve a sustainable future.
  • EASLCE: European Association for the Study of Literature, Culture, and Environment - international forum for the promotion of research and education in the fields of literary, cultural, and environmental studies.
  • ASLE: Association for the Study of Literature and Environment - community of teachers, writers, students, artists, and environmentalists interested in the natural world and its meanings and representations in language and culture.

Postgraduate study and research

Some career paths require postgraduate study. The 2019 Graduate Outcomes Report identified that 18.9% of undergraduates Australia wide were engaged in postgraduate study four months after graduation.

You can specialise through academic coursework or pursue further research studies. Explore UOW's postgraduate coursework degrees and Higher Degrees by Research or postgraduate courses from other institutions for specific careers of interest.

Developing industry experience

Graduate employers increasingly value industry experience as an addition to formal qualifications to demonstrate your employability skills. This work related experience can be obtained through university internship subjects, co-curricular activities, student exchange or volunteering.

UOW Work experience subjects – Formal work integrated learning subjects available at UOW across all disciplines

UOWx – A range of co-curricular activities available for UOW students

Course information

The relevant undergraduate degree options available at UOW for this discipline are listed below. You may also wish to explore available courses more broadly to see if you might be interested in pursuing a double major or a double degree.

Discipline overview

A major in Global Sustainable Development explores ethical issues surrounding global challenges and the interaction between human and environmental security. With 2.4 billion people on the planet living on less than US$2 a day, poverty and inequality remain two of the biggest challenges of our time. Equally, environmental change is a major concern that will affect human activity for the foreseeable future. Potential career paths are in advocacy, equity, community development, energy, environmental public relations and education, fund-raising, volunteer coordination, social enterprise, aid and development.

Key employability skills

Graduates can use their skills across a range of careers. It is vital for you to not only become more aware of the skills you will gain through your course and other experiences, and also to learn to effectively articulate these skills to prospective employers.

The following is a sample list of key skills adapted from the QAA UK subject benchmark statement for this discipline. The full skills list can be found at QAA UK.

  • problem-solving skills: problem-based learning, imagination and flexibility in seeking and evaluating alternative solutions, through critical reflection, to social problems
  • evaluative and analytical skills: able to summarise, analyse and critique arguments, reports, documents and other written, audiovisual and verbal data
  • an ability to relate to wider international and global contexts: critical awareness and appreciation of transnational and globalised social problems, and of addressing human social needs in a global context.
  • personal communication skills: the ability to convey ideas and arguments effectively, using a variety of media, to a range of audiences.
  • self-management of learning and personal resilience: the ability to work independently, within deadlines, supported only by broad guidance as to sources and objectives.
  • team-working skills: interpersonal skills that allow them to collaborate with others and to contribute effectively in group-based research and problem solving
  • information and communications technology skills

Related occupations

Whether you are considering a number of career possibilities, are starting to think deeply about your career future or have a clear career idea in mind, it’s useful to explore the range of career possibilities available.

Below is a list of jobs held by UOW graduates sourced from the 2018 and 2019 QILT Graduate Outcomes Survey (up to four months after graduation).

  • Compliance Officer
  • Graduate Stakeholder Engagement Consultant
  • Program Coordinator
  • Renewable Energy & Climate Change Advisor

The following list of jobs were held by UOW graduates sourced through the UOW Alumni Team or the LinkedIn Alumni Tool (up to four years after graduation).  Note that some of these graduates have undertaken further study:

  • Fundraising Officer
  • General Manager
  • Government Support Analyst
  • Operations Coordinator
  • People & Organisational Development Advisor
  • Senior Correspondent
  • Sustainability Administrator

Employers

Explore the type of organisations you would like to work for by looking at some of the employers in your field.

Below is a list of employers of UOW graduates sourced from the 2018 and 2019 QILT Graduate Outcomes Survey (up to four months after graduation).

  • Clean Energy Regulator
  • EduGrowth
  • Energy Estate
  • GHD

The following list of employers of UOW graduates sourced through the UOW Alumni Team or the LinkedIn Alumni Tool (up to four years after graduation).

  • ActionAid UK
  • Childfund
  • Equality Australia
  • Hidden Harvest
  • Meltwater
  • The Organisation for World Peace
  • Sunrice

Key industry job websites

Many industries have job websites dedicated to careers within their industry. These also often have links to other career resources. Also be aware that LinkedIn Jobs is increasingly used by employers to target graduates.

Formal graduate programs

Make sure you consider the fast tracked career pathway programs which are offered by some large corporate organisations and government agencies. Here are some of the organisations that take graduates of this discipline.

Details of relevant graduate recruitment programs can be found on websites such as GradConnection.

Career research and networks

When researching possible careers, obtaining relevant information from a range of sources helps inform your career decisions.

Build your career network and stay up to date with the latest developments in your industry by joining a professional association.

Postgraduate study and research

Some career paths require postgraduate study. The 2019 Graduate Outcomes Report identified that 18.9% of undergraduates Australia wide were engaged in postgraduate study four months after graduation.

You can specialise through academic coursework or pursue further research studies. Explore UOW's postgraduate coursework degrees and Higher Degrees by Research or postgraduate courses from other institutions for specific careers of interest.

Developing industry experience

Graduate employers increasingly value industry experience as an addition to formal qualifications to demonstrate your employability skills. This work related experience can be obtained through university internship subjects, co-curricular activities, student exchange or volunteering.

  • UOW Work experience subjects – Formal work integrated learning subjects available at UOW across all disciplines.
  • UOWx – A range of co-curricular activities available for UOW students
  • GradConnection - internship programs available with corporate organisations

Course information

The relevant undergraduate degree options available at UOW for this discipline are listed below. You may also wish to explore available courses more broadly to see if you might be interested in pursuing a double major or a double degree.

Discipline overview

History enriches your understanding of the world by offering knowledge and skills to comprehend the broad scope of human experiences - from our everyday lives, to global processes. Historians are trained to critically assess evidence and events of the past and place them into a broader political, economic and social context.

The skills of professional historians are invaluable in documenting, interpreting and presenting history on many levels. Professional historians can work as consultants on commissioned work or short term contracts. They also work as heritage practitioners, in museums, local councils or cultural institutions. Other career paths for history graduates can be as teachers, in the public service or using their valuable key skills in a range of other contexts.

Key employability skills

Graduates can use their skills across a range of careers. It is vital for you to not only become more aware of the skills you will gain through your course and other experiences, and also to learn to effectively articulate these skills to prospective employers.

The following is a sample list of key skills adapted from the QAA UK subject benchmark statement for this discipline. The full skills list can be found at QAA UK.

  • A questioning disposition and the ability to formulate and pursue clearly defined questions and enquiries
  • Ability to work with others, and to have respect for others' reasoned views
  • Structure, coherence, clarity and fluency of written and oral expression
  • Ability to gather, organise and deploy evidence, data and information; and familiarity with appropriate means of identifying, finding, retrieving, sorting and exchanging information
  • Analytical ability, and the capacity to consider and solve problems, including complex problems to which there is no single solution
  • Awareness of ethical issues and responsibilities that arise from research into the past and the reuse of the research and writing of others.

Related occupations

Whether you are considering a number of career possibilities, are starting to think deeply about your career future or have a clear career idea in mind, it’s useful to explore the range of career possibilities available.

Below is a list of jobs held by UOW graduates up to four months out from graduation, sourced from the 2018 and 2019 QILT Graduate Outcomes Survey.

  • Research Assistant
  • Gallery/Museum Attendant
  • Hotel Receptionist
  • Marketing Analyst
  • Archaeologist
  • Disability Support Officer
  • Teachers’ Aide
  • Policy Advisor
  • Human Resources Clerk
  • Public Relations Consultant
  • Administration Officer

The following list is of jobs held by UOW Alumni up to four years out from graduation, as advised by the UOW Alumni Team.  Note that some of these graduates have undertaken further study:

  • University Academic and Research Staff
  • University Recruitment Officer
  • School Teacher
  • Journalist
  • News Editor
  • Assistant Registrar
  • Librarian
  • Policy Officer/Manager
  • Marketing Officer
  • Cultural Development Officer
  • Tour Guide

Employers

Explore the type of organisations you would like to work for by looking at some of the employers in your field.

Below is a list of UOW graduate employers up to four months out from graduation, sourced from the 2018 and 2019 QILT Graduate Outcomes Survey.

  • Handsons Lawyers
  • UNSW
  • University of Wollongong
  • University of New South Wales
  • Peak Media Relations
  • NSW Department of Education
  • Australian Department of Veterans Affairs
  • Disability Services Australia
  • Audit Office of NSW

The following list of UOW graduate employers up to four years out from graduation, as advised by the UOW Alumni Team.

  • University of Wollongong
  • NSW Department of Education
  • NSW Department of Communities and Justice
  • UNSW
  • University of Sydney
  • Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC)
  • Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences
  • Macquarie University
  • UTS
  • TAFE NSW
  • Wollongong City Council
  • Rida International Travel and Tourism

Key industry job websites

Many industries have job websites dedicated to careers within their industry. These also often have links to other career resources. Also be aware that LinkedIn Jobs is increasingly used by employers to target graduates. 

Formal graduate programs

Make sure you consider the fast tracked career pathway programs which are offered by some large corporate organisations and government agencies.

Details of relevant graduate recruitment programs can be found on websites such as GradConnection.

Career research and networks

When researching possible careers, obtaining relevant information from a range of sources helps inform your career decisions.

Build your career network and stay up to date with the latest developments in your industry by joining a professional association.

Postgraduate study and research

Some career paths require postgraduate study. The 2019 Graduate Outcomes Report identified that 18.9% of undergraduates Australia wide were engaged in postgraduate study four months after graduation.

You can specialise through academic coursework or pursue further research studies. Explore UOW's postgraduate coursework degrees and Higher Degrees by Research or postgraduate courses from other institutions for specific careers of interest.

If you are interested in becoming a Teacher, UOW offers a Masters of Teaching through the ASSH faculty. Postgraduate courses in Archiving are also available.

Developing industry experience

Graduate employers increasingly value industry experience as an addition to formal qualifications to demonstrate your employability skills. This work related experience can be obtained through university internship subjects, co-curricular activities, student exchange or volunteering.

UOW Work experience subjects – Formal work integrated learning subjects available at UOW across all disciplines.

UOWx – A range of co-curricular activities available for UOW students

Course information

The relevant undergraduate degree options available at UOW for this discipline are listed below. You may also wish to explore available courses more broadly to see if you might be interesed in pursuing a double major or a double degree.

Discipline overview

Indigenous Studies explores the controversies, complexities and contradictions that shape what it means to be Indigenous in Australia and the world today. Indigenous Studies at UOW is designed to equip you to think incisively about issues that impact on Indigenous individuals and communities on a local, national and global scale. In the private sector graduates are increasingly sought by Australian industry in areas such as mining, agriculture, tourism and the arts. They carry out a range of tasks from policy advisors, community liaison and economic development, applied research and human resource management. In the public sector graduates work as policy, financial and legal advisors, administrators, managers and researchers.

Key employability skills

Graduates can use their skills across a range of careers. It is vital for you to not only become more aware of the skills you will gain through your course and other experiences, and also to learn to effectively articulate these skills to prospective employers.

The following is a sample list of key skills adapted from the QAA UK subject benchmark statement for this discipline. The full skills list can be found at QAA UK.

  • critical understanding of other cultures and practices other than one's own
  • reflect critically and make judgements in light of evidence and argument
  • ability and willingness to engage with other cultures, appreciating their distinctive features
  • ability to articulate to others the contribution that the culture has made at a regional and global level

Related occupations

Whether you are considering a number of career possibilities, are starting to think deeply about your career future or have a clear career idea in mind, it’s useful to explore the range of career possibilities available.

Below is a list of jobs held by UOW graduates up to four months after graduation, sourced from the 2018 and 2019 QILT Graduate Outcomes Survey.

  • Indigenous Community Engagement Ambassador
  • School Learning Support Officer
  • Project Officer
  • Training and Development Professional (National Parks)
  • Disability Support Worker
  • Training Coordinator
  • Administration Manager
  • Wellbeing Coordinator
  • Casework (Welfare)

The following list is of jobs held by UOW Alumni up to four years after graduation, as advised by the UOW Alumni Team.  Note that some of these graduates have undertaken further study:

  • University Professional and Academic Staff
  • Indigenous Engagement Consultant
  • Research Assistant
  • Human Resources Officer
  • Centre Manager
  • Aboriginal Consultant

Employers

Explore the type of organisations you would like to work for by looking at some of the employers in your field.

Below is a list of employers of UOW graduates sourced from the 2018 and 2019 QILT Graduate Outcomes Survey (up to four months after graduation).

  • University of Wollongong
  • Department of Education (NSW)
  • National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Worker Association
  • Commonwealth Government
  • Aboriginal Legal Service (NSW/ACT)
  • Harper Collins
  • Mission Australia
  • National Parks

The following list of employers of UOW graduates as advised by the UOW Alumni Team (up to four years after graduation).

  • University of Wollongong
  • NSW Department of Education
  • University of Sydney
  • Country University Centre
  • CareerTrackers Indigenous Internship Program
  • Transport for NSW
  • ARUP

Key industry job websites

Many industries have job websites dedicated to careers within their industry. These also often have links to other career resources. Also be aware that LinkedIn Jobs is increasingly used by employers to target graduates.

Formal graduate programs

Make sure you consider the fast tracked career pathway programs which are offered by some large corporate organisations and government agencies.

Many graduate employers actively target Indigenous graduates for their graduate programs. Indigenous Careers is a targeted government program for supporting indigenous graduates into public service employment.

Details of relevant graduate recruitment programs can be found on websites such as GradConnection.

Career research and networks

When researching possible careers, obtaining relevant information from a range of sources helps inform your career decisions.

Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies - Australia's only national institution focused exclusively on the diverse history, cultures and heritage of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australia.

Labour Market Information Portal – Australian government website with salaries, industry growth and required skills for a wide range of jobs

Your career – Australian government website with a range of careers information

Build your career network and stay up to date with the latest developments in your industry by joining a professional association.

Postgraduate study and research

Some career paths require postgraduate study. The 2019 Graduate Outcomes Report identified that 18.9% of undergraduates Australia wide were engaged in postgraduate study four months after graduation.

You can specialise through academic coursework or pursue further research studies. Explore UOW's postgraduate coursework degrees and Higher Degrees by Research or postgraduate courses from other institutions for specific careers of interest.

Developing industry experience

Graduate employers increasingly value industry experience as an addition to formal qualifications to demonstrate your employability skills. This work related experience can be obtained through university internship subjects, co-curricular activities, student exchange or volunteering.

UOW Work experience subjects – Formal work integrated learning subjects available at UOW across all disciplines.

UOWx – A range of co-curricular activities available for UOW students

Course information

The relevant undergraduate degree options available at UOW for this discipline are listed below. You may also wish to explore available courses more broadly to see if you might be interested in pursuing a double major or a double degree.

Discipline overview

International Relations is a vibrant, growing and constantly evolving discipline designed for students interested in careers in international organisations, foreign affairs or any organisation that has a focus beyond Australia’s borders.

Whether it is the latest peace deal in a conflict zone, aid package, humanitarian relief operation, trade deal or climate negotiation, studying International Relations at UOW helps you understand the motives behind the actions taken by states, international organisations and the many other actors in global politics. Potential careers can include diplomacy, intelligence, politics, immigration, lobbying and research analysis.

Key employability skills

Graduates can use their skills across a range of careers. It is vital for you to not only become more aware of the skills you will gain through your course and other experiences, but also to learn to effectively articulate these skills to prospective employers.

The following is a sample list of key skills adapted from the QAA UK subject benchmark statement for this discipline. The full skills list can be found at QAA UK.

  • describe, evaluate and apply different approaches involved in collecting, analysing and presenting (political) information
  • identify issues for (political) enquiry; assess their ethical implications; and gather, organise and deploy evidence, data and information from a variety of sources
  • identify, investigate, analyse and advocate solutions to problems
  • develop a reasoned argument, synthesise relevant information and exercise critical judgement
  • communicate ideas effectively and fluently, both orally and in writing
  • use communication and information technologies for the retrieval, analysis and presentation of information
  • work independently, demonstrating initiative, self-organisation and time management
  • collaborate with others and contribute effectively to the achievement of common goals

Related occupations

Whether you are considering a number of career possibilities, are starting to think deeply about your career future or have a clear career idea in mind, it’s useful to explore the range of career possibilities available.

Below is a list of jobs held by UOW graduates sourced from the 2018 and 2019 QILT Graduate Outcomes Survey (up to four months after graduation).

  • Ministerial and Parliamentary Officer
  • Policy Officer
  • Project Support Officer
  • Public Servant

The following list of jobs were held by UOW graduates sourced through the UOW Alumni Team or the LinkedIn Alumni Tool (up to four years after graduation).  Note that some of these graduates have undertaken further study:

  • Client Service Officer
  • Consultant
  • Corporate Partnership Coordinator
  • Governance Officer
  • Graduate Officer
  • Policy and Project Officer
  • Senior Policy Officer
  • Youth Engagement Officer

Employers

Explore the type of organisations you would like to work for by looking at some of the employers in your field.

Below is a list of employers of UOW graduates sourced from the 2018 and 2019 QILT Graduate Outcomes Survey (up to four months after graduation).

  • Australian Human Rights Commission
  • Department of Communities and Justice
  • Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
  • NSW Electoral Commission
  • NSW Government

The following list of employers of UOW graduates sourced through the UOW Alumni Team or the LinkedIn Alumni Tool (up to four years after graduation).

  • Apis Group
  • The Australian Government
  • Department of Defence
  • Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources
  • Redkite
  • United Nations Information Centre

Key industry job websites

Many industries have job websites dedicated to careers within their industry. These also often have links to other career resources. Be aware that LinkedIn Jobs is increasingly used by employers to target graduates.

Formal graduate programs

Make sure you consider the fast tracked career pathway programs which are offered by some large corporate organisations and government agencies. Here are some of the organisations that take graduates of this discipline.

  • Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
  • Australian Security Intelligence Organisation
  • Department of Defence
  • Department of Immigration & Citizenship
  • Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade
  • Department of Home Affairs

Details of relevant graduate recruitment programs can be found on websites such as GradConnection.

Career research and networks

When researching possible careers, obtaining relevant information from a range of sources helps inform your career decisions.

Build your career network and stay up to date with the latest developments in your industry by joining a professional association.

Postgraduate study and research

Some career paths require postgraduate study. The 2019 Graduate Outcomes Report identified that 18.9% of undergraduates Australia wide were engaged in postgraduate study four months after graduation.

You can specialise through academic coursework or pursue further research studies. Explore UOW's postgraduate coursework degrees and Higher Degrees by Research or postgraduate courses from other institutions for specific careers of interest

Developing industry experience

Graduate employers increasingly value industry experience as an addition to formal qualifications to demonstrate your employability skills. This work related experience can be obtained through university internship subjects, co-curricular activities, student exchange or volunteering.

Course information

The relevant undergraduate degree options available at UOW for this discipline are listed below. You may also wish to explore available courses more broadly to see if you might be interested in pursuing a double major or a double degree.

Discipline overview

The globalisation of the economy and culture means that knowledge of a language is more and more in demand. Learning a second language will develop and improve your communication skills and give you a greater understanding of a different country and its culture. Studying a language makes you more employable and will prepare you to work in a multicultural and globalised economy. The study of languages can also be combined with another discipline to expand your career options in your chosen field.

Key employability skills

Graduates can use their skills across a range of careers. It is vital for you to not only become more aware of the skills you will gain through your course and other experiences, and also to learn to effectively articulate these skills to prospective employers.

The following is a sample list of key skills adapted from the QAA UK subject benchmark statement for this discipline. The full skills list can be found at QAA UK.

  • ability and willingness to engage with other cultures, appreciating their distinctive features
  • ability to appreciate and evaluate critically one's own culture.
  • engage with, summarise and interpret layers of meaning within texts and other cultural products
  • use and present material in the target language and one's own language in written and oral forms in a clear and effective manner
  • ability to articulate to others the contribution that the culture has made at a regional

Related occupations

Whether you are considering a number of career possibilities, are starting to think deeply about your career future or have a clear career idea in mind, it’s useful to explore the range of career possibilities available.

Below is a list of jobs held by UOW graduates up to four months out from graduation, sourced from the 2018 and 2019 QILT Graduate Outcomes Survey.

  • Language Teacher
  • Language Assistant
  • English Language Assistant
  • Receptionist (General)
  • Public Servant
  • Support Officer (Education)
  • Administration Manager
  • Graduate Project Officer
  • Marketing Assistant
  • University Professional and Academic Staff

The following list is of jobs held by UOW Alumni up to four years out from graduation, as advised by the UOW Alumni Team.  Note that some of these graduates have undertaken further study:

  • Language Teacher
  • Linguist
  • Writer
  • Administration
  • Translator
  • Solicitor
  • Editor
  • Communications Officer
  • Journalist
  • Tourist Officer
  • Interpreter
  • Journalist
  • Public Servant
  • Marketing Graduate
  • Research Assistant
  • International Communications Officer

Employers

Explore the type of organisations you would like to work for by looking at some of the employers in your field.

Below is a list of UOW graduate employers up to four months out from graduation, sourced from the 2018 and 2019 QILT Graduate Outcomes Survey.

  • Interac
  • Ministers of Education, Spain
  • National French Education
  • Beach Park Motel
  • Novotel
  • Flying Pigs Creative Agency
  • Australian Government Department of Finance
  • Audit Office of New South Wales
  • Department of Family & Community Services (NSW)
  • University of Wollongong

The following list of UOW graduate employers up to four years out from graduation, as advised by the UOW Alumni Team.

  • University of Wollongong
  • University of Sydney
  • NSW Department of Education
  • NSW Department of Planning, Industry, and Environment
  • The Australian
  • PwC
  • Telstra
  • Tutoring Excellence

Key industry job websites

Many industries have job websites dedicated to careers within their industry. These also often have links to other career resources. Also be aware that LinkedIn Jobs is increasingly used by employers to target graduates.

Formal graduate programs

Make sure you consider the fast tracked career pathway programs which are offered by some large corporate organisations and government agencies.

Details of relevant graduate recruitment programs can be found on websites such as GradConnection.

Career research and networks

When researching possible careers, obtaining relevant information from a range of sources helps inform your career decisions.

Build your career network and stay up to date with the latest developments in your industry by joining a professional association.

Postgraduate study and research

Some career paths require postgraduate study. The 2019 Graduate Outcomes Report identified that 18.9% of undergraduates Australia wide were engaged in postgraduate study four months after graduation.

You can specialise through academic coursework or pursue further research studies. Explore UOW's postgraduate coursework degrees and Higher Degrees by Research or postgraduate courses from other institutions for specific careers of interest.

Students may want to complete the Master of Teaching in order to move into the teaching or TESOL professions. They can also complete post-graduate qualifications in Translating or Interpreting (see NAATI approved courses)

Developing industry experience

Graduate employers increasingly value industry experience as an addition to formal qualifications to demonstrate your employability skills. This work related experience can be obtained through university internship subjects, co-curricular activities, student exchange or volunteering.

UOW Work experience subjects – Formal work integrated learning subjects available at UOW across all disciplines.

UOWx – A range of co-curricular activities available for UOW students

Course information

The relevant undergraduate degree options available at UOW for this discipline are listed below. You may also wish to explore available courses more broadly to see if you might be interested in pursuing a double major or a double degree.

Discipline overview

Majoring in Legal Studies will provide you with a sound understanding of the Australian Legal System and its court structure. You will learn key aspects of private law in Australia, including principles of the law of contract and torts, and be able to critically examine the relationship between law and justice. This flexible major allows you to create a degree around your interests by combining Legal Studies with other study areas. The major consists of four core subjects with a broad range of elective options, including family law, international business law and taxation law. In your final year you will undertake a Law Research Project where you will work with a supervisor on a research topic to produce a thesis addressing real-world issues, using knowledge and skills obtained in the Legal Studies major.

Key employability skills

Graduates can use their skills across a range of careers. It is vital for you to not only become more aware of the skills you will gain through your course and other experiences, and also to learn to effectively articulate these skills to prospective employers.

The following is a sample list of key skills adapted from the QAA UK subject benchmark statement for this discipline. The full skills list can be found at QAA UK.

  • awareness of principles and values of law and justice, and of ethics
  • knowledge and understanding of theories, concepts, values, principles and rules of public and private laws within an institutional, social, national and global context
  • ability to conduct self-directed research, including accurate identification of issue(s) which require researching, retrieval and evaluation of accurate, current and relevant information from a range of appropriate sources, including primary legal sources
  • ability to work with a range of data, including textual, numerical and statistical
  • ability to recognise ambiguity and deal with uncertainty in law
  • ability to produce a synthesis of relevant doctrinal and policy issues, presentation of a reasoned choice between alternative solutions and critical judgement of the merits of particular arguments
  • ability to apply knowledge and understanding to offer evidenced conclusions, addressing complex actual or hypothetical problems
  • ability to communicate both orally and in writing, in relation to legal matters, including an ability to listen and respond to written and oral stimuli, including questions and instructions

Related occupations

Whether you are considering a number of career possibilities, are starting to think deeply about your career future or have a clear career idea in mind, it’s useful to explore the range of career possibilities available.

The following list is of jobs held by UOW graduates sourced through the UOW Alumni Team or the LinkedIn Alumni Tool (up to four years after graduation).  Note that some of these graduates have undertaken further study:

  • Administrative Officer
  • Contract & Commercial Manager
  • Legal Associate
  • Legal Clerk
  • Legal Councillor
  • Legal Studies University Academic and Research Staff
  • Policy and Project Officer
  • Recruiter
  • Risk and Compliance Officer
  • High School Teacher

Employers

Explore the type of organisations you would like to work for by looking at some of the employers in your field.

The following list of employers of UOW graduates as advised by the UOW Alumni Team (up to four years after graduation).

  • Accenture
  • EY
  • King & Wood Mallesons
  • Legal Aid NSW
  • Mercer Australia
  • NSW Department of Communities and Justice
  • NSW Department of Education
  • Office of Director of Public Prosecutions
  • Roche
  • Shoalhaven City Council
  • University of Wollongong
  • Western Sydney University
  • Westpac
  • NSW Department of Education

Key industry job websites

Many industries have job websites dedicated to careers within their industry. These also often have links to other career resources. Also be aware that LinkedIn Jobs is increasingly used by employers to target graduates.

Formal graduate programs

Make sure you consider the fast tracked career pathway programs which are offered by some large corporate organisations and government agencies. Here are some of the organisations that take graduates of this discipline.

  • Clifford Chance
  • Corrs Chambers Westgarth
  • FDM Group

Details of relevant graduate recruitment programs can be found on websites such as GradConnection and GradAustralia.

Career research and network

When researching possible careers, obtaining relevant information from a range of sources helps inform your career decisions.

Legal Vitae – Careers website for law students, linked to NSW Law Society

Beyond Law – Leading careers website for law graduates.

Job Outlook – Australian government website with salaries, industry growth and required skills for a wide range of jobs

Your career – Australian government website with a range of careers information

UK Prospects – a UK based career exploration site

Build your career network and stay up to date with the latest developments in your industry by joining a professional association.

Postgraduate study and research

Some career paths require postgraduate study. The 2019 Graduate Outcomes Report identified that 18.9% of undergraduates Australia wide were engaged in postgraduate study four months after graduation.

You can specialise through academic coursework or pursue further research studies. Explore UOW's postgraduate coursework degrees and Higher Degrees by Research or postgraduate courses from other institutions for specific careers of interest.

Developing industry experience

Graduate employers increasingly value industry experience as an addition to formal qualifications to demonstrate your employability skills. This work related experience can be obtained through university internship subjects, co-curricular activities, student exchange or volunteering.

Beyond law job hub – Careers website for legal students with law related roles relevant to Legal Studies major

UOW Work experience subjects – Formal work integrated learning subjects available at UOW across all disciplines.

UOWx – A range of co-curricular activities available for UOW students

Course information

The relevant undergraduate degree options available at UOW for this discipline are listed below. You may also wish to explore available courses more broadly to see if you might be interested in pursuing a double major or a double degree.

Discipline overview

The study of Philosophy teaches you how to think, not what to think. It enlarges and enriches your understanding of what is possible. You learn to challenge the assumptions that frame the way we think about the world and how we should behave in it.

You will develop an invaluable depth and flexibility of thinking to practical problems in order to make informed decisions about important issues such as social justice, free speech, global poverty, climate change, animal welfare, humane psychotherapy and education. Philosophy is the ultimate transferable work skill and is an excellent preparation for a career in law, IT, consulting, diplomacy, community and social services, health service management, the public service or writing as well as post-graduate education.

Key employability skills

Graduates can use their skills across a range of careers. It is vital for you to not only become more aware of the skills you will gain through your course and other experiences, and also to learn to effectively articulate these skills to prospective employers.

The following is a sample list of key skills adapted from the QAA UK subject benchmark statement for this discipline. The full skills list can be found at QAA UK.

  • reflect clearly and critically on oral and written sources, employing powers of imagination as well as analysis
  • organise and synthesis a complex body of information
  • construct cogent arguments in the evaluation of complex material
  • articulate complicated material in a variety of different modes of presentation.
  • Informational literacy, using online resources and electronic databases to access relevant material.
  • a flexible and adaptable mind able to face new situations
  • the ability to think creatively, self-critically and independently

Related occupations

Whether you are considering a number of career possibilities, are starting to think deeply about your career future or have a clear career idea in mind, it’s useful to explore the range of career possibilities available.

The following list is of jobs held by UOW graduates sourced through the UOW Alumni Team or the LinkedIn Alumni Tool (up to four years after graduation).  Note that some of these graduates have undertaken further study:

  • Public Service Officer
  • English and Arts Teacher
  • Marketing Officer
  • University Academic and Research Staff
  • Research Assistant
  • Recruitment Coordinator
  • Freelance Writer
  • Communication Officer
  • Community Worker
  • Social Media Assistant
  • Administrator

Employers

Explore the type of organisations you would like to work for by looking at some of the employers in your field.

The following list of employers of UOW graduates sourced through the UOW Alumni Team or the LinkedIn Alumni Tool (up to four years after graduation).

  • Australian Federal Government
  • SPEC Australia
  • NSW Department of Education
  • Medium
  • TAFE NSW
  • University of Wollongong
  • University of Newcastle
  • University of Sydney
  • Utrecht University
  • NBN Australia
  • The Daily Telegraph
  • Australian Taxation Office

Formal graduate programs

Make sure you consider the fast tracked career pathway programs which are offered by some large corporate organisations and government agencies. Here are some of the organisations that take graduates of this discipline.

  • Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
  • Australian Public Service Commission
  • Australian Security and Intelligence Organisation (ASIO)
  • NSW Government
  • Australian Communications and Media Authority
  • Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
  • Department of Education and Training
  • Department of Social Services

Details of relevant graduate recruitment programs can be found on websites such as GradConnection.

Career research and networks

When researching possible careers, obtaining relevant information from a range of sources helps inform your career decisions.

  • Looks Philosophical – a U.S. based blog on careers in Philosophy
  • A non-academic career in Philosophy – great information on philosophy careers by the American Philosophical Association
  • Where can Philosophy take me – excellent range of information by the University of Kentucky on careers in philosophy
  • UK Prospects – careers in philosophy from the UK based career site
  • Job Outlook – Australian government website with salaries, industry growth and required skills for a wide range of jobs
  • Your career – Australian government website with a range of careers information

Build your career network and stay up to date with the latest developments in your industry by joining a professional association.

Postgraduate study and research

Some career paths require postgraduate study. The 2019 Graduate Outcomes Report identified that 18.9% of undergraduates Australia wide were engaged in postgraduate study four months after graduation.

You can specialise through academic coursework or pursue further research studies. Explore UOW's postgraduate coursework degrees and Higher Degrees by Research or postgraduate courses from other institutions for specific careers of interest.

Developing industry experience

Graduate employers increasingly value industry experience as an addition to formal qualifications to demonstrate your employability skills. This work related experience can be obtained through university internship subjects, co-curricular activities, student exchange or volunteering.

Australasian Association of Philosophy – Internships section

UOW Work experience subjects – Formal work integrated learning subjects available at UOW across all disciplines.

UOWx – A range of co-curricular activities available for UOW students

Course information

The relevant undergraduate degree options available at UOW for this discipline are listed below. You may also wish to explore available courses more broadly to see if you might be interested in pursuing a double major or a double degree.

Discipline overview

Studying Politics at UOW involves examining the origins and nature of power, consent, authority, and consensus that underpin social and global order. In the Politics Major we examine and explore political institutions, culture, class, gender, ethnicity, political economy, political theory and international relations. A Politics major aims to give you an understanding of how politics can and does operate at many levels—from the gender politics of the bedroom, home or workplace, to the government of nation states, and into the international realm.


The study of politics is not just to do with how people organise power in the here and now, it also concerns itself with both the past and the future. Whether it is a country being studied, relations between countries, or a body of political ideas, studying Politics helps you engage with complex ideas about the individual, government and society.

Key employability skills

Graduates can use their skills across a range of careers. It is vital for you to not only become more aware of the skills you will gain through your course and other experiences, and also to learn to effectively articulate these skills to prospective employers.

The following is a sample list of key skills adapted from the QAA UK subject benchmark statement for this discipline. The full skills list can be found at QAA UK.

  • describe, evaluate and apply different approaches involved in collecting, analysing and presenting (political) information
  • identify issues for (political) enquiry; assess their ethical implications; and gather, organise and deploy evidence, data and information from a variety of sources
  • identify, investigate, analyse and advocate solutions to problems
  • develop a reasoned argument, synthesise relevant information and exercise critical judgement
  • communicate ideas effectively and fluently, both orally and in writing
  • use communication and information technologies for the retrieval, analysis and presentation of information.
  • work independently, demonstrating initiative, self-organisation and time management
  • collaborate with others and contribute effectively to the achievement of common goals

Related occupations

Whether you are considering a number of career possibilities, are starting to think deeply about your career future or have a clear career idea in mind, it’s useful to explore the range of career possibilities available.

Below is a list of jobs held by UOW graduates sourced from the 2018 and 2019 QILT Graduate Outcomes Survey (up to four months after graduation).

  • Australian Public Service Officer
  • Executive and Accounts Assistant
  • Paralegal
  • Graduate Student – Project Services
  • Tipstaff
  • Corporate Partnership Coordinator

The following list is of jobs held by UOW graduates sourced through the UOW Alumni Team or the LinkedIn Alumni Tool (up to four years after graduation).  Note that some of these graduates have undertaken further study:

  • Policy Officer
  • Media Adviser
  • Journalist
  • Candidate Manager
  • Graduate Lawyer
  • Paralegal

Employers

Explore the type of organisations you would like to work for by looking at some of the employers in your field.

Below is a list of employers of UOW graduates sourced from the 2018 and 2019 QILT Graduate Outcomes Survey (up to four months after graduation).

  • Australian Federal Government
  • Sydney Football Club Pty Ltd
  • H A Miedzinski Lawyers
  • Fujitsu Oceania
  • Department of Justice – NSW District Court
  • Redkite

The following list of employers of UOW graduates sourced through the UOW Alumni Team or the LinkedIn Alumni Tool (up to four years after graduation).

  • Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Cities and Regional Development
  • Parliament of Australia
  • Profusion Group
  • Fairfax Media
  • McAneny Lawyers
  • Supreme Court of New South Wales
  • Commonwealth Bank
  • NSW Crown Solicitor’s Office
  • Department of Justice NSW

Key industry job websites

Many industries have job websites dedicated to careers within their industry. These also often have links to other career resources. Also be aware that LinkedIn Jobs is increasingly used by employers to target graduates.

Formal graduate programs

Make sure you consider the fast tracked career pathway programs which are offered by some large corporate organisations and government agencies. Here are some of the organisations that take graduates of this discipline.

  • Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
  • Australian Public Service Commission
  • Australian Security and Intelligence Organisation (ASIO)
  • NSW Government
  • Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
  • ACT Government

Details of relevant graduate recruitment programs can be found on websites such as GradConnection.

Career research and networks

When researching possible careers, obtaining relevant information from a range of sources helps inform your career decisions.

The Guardian – News article on Politics degree options

GradAustralia – ‘Getting hired in Government’ free ebook with career stories, types of roles and recruitment advice

Labour Market Information Portal – A career as a ‘Legislator’ by the Australian government website with salaries, industry growth and required skills

Your career – Australian government website with a range of careers information – look at ‘Other information and Organisation professional’

UK Prospects – Careers in politics by the largest UK based career exploration site

Build your career network and stay up to date with the latest developments in your industry by joining a professional association.

Postgraduate study and research

Some career paths require postgraduate study. The 2019 Graduate Outcomes Report identified that 18.9% of undergraduates Australia wide were engaged in postgraduate study four months after graduation.

You can specialise through academic coursework or pursue further research studies. Explore UOW's postgraduate coursework degrees and Higher Degrees by Research or postgraduate courses from other institutions for specific careers of interest.

Developing industry experience

Graduate employers increasingly value industry experience as an addition to formal qualifications to demonstrate your employability skills. This work related experience can be obtained through university internship subjects, co-curricular activities, student exchange or volunteering.

UOW Work experience subjects – Formal work integrated learning subjects available at UOW across all disciplines.

UOWx – A range of co-curricular activities available for UOW students

How to break into a career in Politics – Guardian article

Course information

The relevant undergraduate degree options available at UOW for this discipline are listed below. You may also wish to explore available courses more broadly to see if you might be interested in pursuing a double major or a double degree.

Discipline overview

Sociology focuses on the study of human behaviour and social interaction to understand how societies are organised, develop and change. It looks at how people’s lives are influenced by their opportunities and experiences; and the impact that people have on society through taking action and creating change. Sociology provides insights into the ways factors such as class, wealth, race, gender, ethnicity, age, sexuality, disability and religion shape people’s lives. Most importantly, Sociologists question the common sense and popular explanations of social life and look at the dynamics of power and inequality in everyday life.

Key employability skills

Graduates can use their skills across a range of careers. It is vital for you to not only become more aware of the skills you will gain through your course and other experiences, and also to learn to effectively articulate these skills to prospective employers.

The following is a sample list of key skills adapted from the QAA UK subject benchmark statement for this discipline. The full skills list can be found at QAA UK.

  • Gathering, retrieving, and synthesising information
  • Interpreting, analysing, judging and evaluating evidence (numerical, visual, spoken and written)
  • Making reasoned and evidenced arguments
  • Appreciating the complexity and diversity of social contexts
  • Digital and IT skills including statistical analysis skills
  • Written, visual and oral communication skills in a variety of contexts and to different types of audiences
  • Independent working and collaborative group work skills

Related occupations

Whether you are considering a number of career possibilities, are starting to think deeply about your career future or have a clear career idea in mind, it’s useful to explore the range of career possibilities available.

Below is a list of jobs held by UOW graduates sourced from the 2018 and 2019 QILT Graduate Outcomes Survey (up to four months after graduation).

  • Administration Manager
  • Support Worker
  • Caseworker (Welfare)
  • Media Advisor
  • Junior Consultant in Public Relations
  • Digital Marketing Assistant
  • Strategic Planner
  • Paralegal
  • Recruitment Administrator
  • Quality Assurance Assessor
  • Receptionist (General)
  • Disability Support Worker
  • History Teacher
  • Centre Service Officer
  • Member Service Officer (Banking)
  • Compliance Analyst

The following list is of jobs held by UOW graduates sourced through the UOW Alumni Team or the LinkedIn Alumni Tool (up to four years after graduation).  Note that some of these graduates have undertaken further study:

  • Administration Manager
  • Business Analyst
  • City Growth and Strategy Manager
  • Communications Officer
  • Community Development and Engagement Manager
  • Community Cultural Planner
  • Compliance Officer
  • Education Program Manager
  • Mental Health Support Worker
  • Project Officer/Manager
  • Social Worker
  • Support Officer (Education)
  • Teacher (History, Society, and Culture)
  • University Academic and Research Staff

Employers

Explore the type of organisations you would like to work for by looking at some of the employers in your field.

Below is a list of employers of UOW graduates sourced from the 2018 and 2019 QILT Graduate Outcomes Survey (up to four months after graduation).

  • Aspect Australia
  • Catholic Education Office
  • Department of Finance, Services and Innovation
  • Dimension Data
  • Gate Group
  • Harper Collins
  • Hausmann
  • Justice NSW
  • Mission Australia
  • Northcott
  • Red Cross Blood Service
  • Tapestry health
  • The Disability Trust
  • Media Precinct
  • Tutoring For Excellence
  • University of Wollongong
  • Wollongong City Council

The following list of employers of UOW graduates sourced through the UOW Alumni Team or the LinkedIn Alumni Tool (up to four years after graduation).

  • CareSouth
  • Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District
  • NSW Department of Communities and Justice
  • NSW Department of Education
  • NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment
  • NSW Health
  • TAFE NSW
  • University of New South Wales
  • University of Sydney
  • University of Wollongong
  • Westpac
  • Wollongong City Council

Key industry job websites

Many industries have job websites dedicated to careers within their industry. These also often have links to other career resources. Also be aware that LinkedIn Jobs is increasingly used by employers to target graduates.

Formal graduate programs

Make sure you consider the fast tracked career pathway programs which are offered by some large corporate organisations and government agencies. Here are some of the organisations that take graduates of this discipline.

  • Australian Public Service Commission
  • Australian Security and Intelligence Organisation (ASIO)
  • NSW Government Graduate Programs
  • Department of Health and Ageing
  • Department of Education and Training
  • Department of Social Services

Details of relevant graduate recruitment programs can be found on websites such as GradConnection.

Career research and networks

When researching possible careers, obtaining relevant information from a range of sources helps inform your career decisions.

  • Prospects UK – UK based career exploration site - Sociology careers
  • The Guardian – Article on Sociology degree career choices
  • Labour Market Information Portal – Australian government website with salaries, industry growth and required skills for a wide range of jobs
  • Your career – Australian government website with a range of careers information

Build your career network and stay up to date with the latest developments in your industry by joining a professional association.

Postgraduate study and research

Some career paths require postgraduate study. The 2019 Graduate Outcomes Report identified that 18.9% of undergraduates Australia wide were engaged in postgraduate study four months after graduation.

Check out this video on Applied Sociology Careers, created for postgraduate sociology students at the TASA postgraduate day workshop.

You can specialise through academic coursework or pursue further research studies. Explore  and  or postgraduate courses from other institutions for specific careers of interest.

Developing industry experience

Graduate employers increasingly value industry experience as an addition to formal qualifications to demonstrate your employability skills. This work related experience can be obtained through university internship subjects, co-curricular activities, student exchange or volunteering.

UOW Work experience subjects – Formal work integrated learning subjects available at UOW across all disciplines.

UOWx – A range of co-curricular activities available for UOW students

Course information

The relevant undergraduate degree options available at UOW for this discipline are listed below. You may also wish to explore available courses more broadly to see if you might be interesed in pursuing a double major or a double degree.

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