Global Utilities

La Trobe University
University Handbook 2008

Disciplines and areas of study

Australian Studies

  • Coordinator: Dr Gwenda Tavan
  • Enquiries: (03) 9479 1287

Principal areas of specialisation

Australian Studies is an interdisciplinary program that encourages students to adopt innovative approaches to Australian research topics. La Trobe is recognised in Australia and internationally as a leading research institution and Australian Studies is recognised as one of the University’s areas of strength in research and teaching. Many academics who work in Australian Studies have won prestigious awards and fellowships, including three of the past five Visiting Chairs in Australian Studies at Harvard. Postgraduates have the opportunity to work with academics from the disciplines of archaeology, anthropology, art history, cinema studies, English, history, linguistics, media studies, politics, sociology, and theatre and drama. Thesis topics can involve more than one discipline, and students can choose to have co-supervisors.

In addition to the high standard of academic support, La Trobe offers postgraduates excellent facilities and services; for example, the Borchardt Library at the Melbourne (Bundoora) Campus has a vast collection of materials available to researchers including books, databases, electronic journals and publications, print journals, microfilm and newspapers. Expert advice can also be obtained from subject librarians who can assist researchers in the development of their research projects.

Australian Studies is an intellectually stimulating, evolving, and growing research area. At La Trobe, postgraduates can undertake a rewarding course of study amongst dedicated professionals.

Coursework programs

  • Graduate Diploma in Humanities and Social Sciences
  • Graduate Certificate in Humanities and Social Sciences

Research programs

  • Master of Arts by Research
  • Doctor of Philosophy