School of Humanities and Social Sciences
We specialise in the human experience – from its earliest beginnings to the latest developments in society, politics and culture.
Our teaching programs broaden students’ intellectual horizons, strengthen their career prospects and improve the societies they serve.
We offer students outstanding placement opportunities and exposure to industry projects so that they graduate with workplace experience.
Our scholars are world leading researchers who study the human experience from its earliest beginnings to the modern day, here in Australia and around the world.
OUR DISCIPLINES ADDRESS GLOBAL CHALLENGES AND PROMOTE SOCIAL JUSTICE
Global experiences
Build your skills through overseas study you’ll never forget.
Read more about La Trobe's study tours and exchange programs
Top 10 for postgrad salaries
We're in the top 10 in Australia for median salaries in postgrad humanities and social sciences.
Quality Indicators for Learning and Teaching (QILT), 2025, Humanities, Culture & Social Sciences (Postgraduate)
Top 250 for social sciences
We're ranked in the world’s top 250 for social sciences.
Times Higher Education (THE), 2026, Social Sciences University Rankings 2026
MAKE YOUR IMPACT
If you can't let go of unanswered questions. If you love learning. If you're passionate about the world around you. Then studying arts at La Trobe is going to be your best next step. Turn your passion into a profession with a choice of over 40 majors, minors and electives for Arts. Our courses fit around you with fully online, on-campus and blended study options.
OUR COURSES CREATE PROFESSIONALS WHO MAKE A DIFFERENCE
Study with us
Connect with us
Events
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Open Day – Melbourne Campus
Sunday 02 August 10:00am
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Open Day – Shepparton Campus
Sunday 09 August 09:00am
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Open Day – Mildura Campus
Wednesday 12 August 03:00pm
News
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Hands-on learning in history
When Emily Edwards began her Bachelor of Arts degree, she didn’t expect her studies would take her behind the scenes of one of Australia’s most iconic cultural institutions.
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Clare Wright wins top prize in NSW Literary Awards
Professor Clare Wright wins Book of the Year in NSW Literary Awards.
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Understanding ancient human species
Professor Andy Herries’ research into ancient human fossils is transforming our understanding of human evolution.
Indigenous Acknowledgement
La Trobe University proudly acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands where its campuses are located in Victoria. We recognise that Indigenous Australians have an ongoing connection to the land and the University values their unique contribution to both the University and the wider Australian society. Find out more