Explore your study options
Indigenous studies provides insight into Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples' ways of Valuing, Being, Knowing and Doing. You'll explore the historical and emerging cultural, social and political relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians, and learn how to co-contribute to reconciliation efforts.
Undergraduate
Undergraduate (your first degree)
A Deakin undergraduate course is the foundation of your future career, usually completed in two to four years. Duration varies based on degree type, enrolment pattern and any credit received from recognition of prior learning.
Why choose Indigenous studies
Our community-led, industry-shaped courses give you the opportunity to reflect and come to a deeper cultural understanding about self, others and Country.
Learn from the best
Our teaching staff at Deakin's National Indigenous Knowledges Education Research Innovation Institute (NIKERI) are passionate experts and respected trailblazers in their field. They are engaged in media activities and carry out valuable research – creating a beneficial influence in Australia and globally.
Community connections
NIKERI has a proud 35-year history of supporting over 1,200 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander graduates. NIKERI's teaching staff will help you develop insight into the experiences of First Nations Peoples and build stronger connections with diverse members of your community.
Top professional roles in Indigenous studies
Graduate career outcomes are exciting and varied as Indigenous matters integrate more into the Australian public and private sectors. Culturally responsive graduates can apply the skills and practices learned at Deakin to a wide range of services, including:
- education
- creative industries
- publishing
- policy and health
- community services.
#1 Victorian university for graduate employment
We’re proud to say that 90.8% of Deakin undergraduates find jobs within four months of completing their course.* At Deakin you can study with confidence and get the knowledge and skills you'll need to progress your career.
I see expansion of the subjects we offer to the broader student cohort as critical to fostering productive and meaningful relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and all other Australians to ensure we work together in forging a shared contemporary Australian narrative.
Professor Gabrielle Fletcher
Director, Indigenous Cultural Intelligence
World-class teaching experiences
NIKERI is committed to delivering outstanding Indigenous studies courses that are culturally responsive, relevant and accessible by creating immersive, transformative learning experiences. Through connection and collaboration, you'll learn protocols and practices to help you work alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.
Research with us
Want to enhance your career opportunities? Take on a higher degree by research and become an expert in your chosen specialty in Indigenous studies. Deakin researchers rank in the top 1% for global impact,^ so you know you’ll learn from the best in your field.
Designed by industry
Our industry-led Indigenous studies courses will help you develop the cross-cultural awareness, critical thinking and communication skills needed to succeed in a range of professional environments.
Footnotes
*Graduate Outcomes Survey 2023, Quality Indicators for Learning and Teaching (QILT), based on domestic undergraduates in the labour market finding employment 4–6 months after course completion equal overall employment rate with Monash University.
^Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings 2021.
Deakin references data from a range of government, higher education and reputable media sources. For more information, visit our list of sources
Contact us
Got a question about our Indigenous studies courses? Our course advisers are available to speak to you about your study options and how we can help you further your career.
Domestic students
1800 693 888
Enquire online
International students
+61 3 9918 9188
Enquire online