Bachelor of Arts in Politics

at University of Wollongong - Wollongong Campus Australia

As data sets continue to expand exponentially, connecting data with artificial intelligence technology can provide new insights that are critical to solving complex problems.

Big Data can solve problems in science, society and business including population growth, transport, security, medical technology, trade and commerce. However, data first needs to be processed and refined so we can gain intelligence and make better decisions.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) aims to develop computer software and hardware to enable machines to learn from experience, adapt to new, incoming information and tackle tasks that require human-like thinking.

The most common examples of AI today - from chess computers to driverless vehicles - are based on deep learning, computer vision and natural language processing and various other methods. With these technologies, computers can be trained for specific tasks by processing large amounts of data and recognising patterns in the data.

AI is being integrated into every major technological system in the world in healthcare, legal and financial services, manufacturing, education, transport, agriculture, mining and other industries where automation and robotics can enhance production and improve safety.

What you will study
You will study subjects in the foundation of AI and Big Data, augmented and virtual reality and complete subjects in foundations of AI, modern AI, Big Data management, Big data mining techniques and implementation.

Mathematics is the basis for successful decision-making and problem-solving independent of sector or industry. Mathematical and statistical models help us analyse information and forecast results in economics, finance, medicine and industrial processes. This analysis helps governments and businesses understand the factors behind important decisions.

This degree
The Bachelor of Mathematics will teach you highly transferable skills in problem-solving, data analysis, probability and variability, mathematical modelling, logistics and logic. The degree is flexible, and allows you to take subjects from other study areas to expand your career options; you can also choose to study a major in Applied Statistics, Applied Mathematics or Pure Mathematics.

Other opportunities include scholarships from corporate partners, summer scholarships and undergraduate research projects with academic staff, access to programs offered by the Australian Mathematical Sciences Institute (AMSI) and inter-university courses via our Access Grid Room.

What you will study
During this degree you will study subjects in applied mathematics, pure mathematics, and statistics; giving you the quantitative skills that are in demand across all industries. The content covered in this degree also serves as initial preparation for employment as a professional mathematician. You will gain problem-solving, critical thinking and analytical skills that are in demand across all government and private sectors.

Financial planning is the design of specific financial outcomes that meet a client's unique needs and objectives, given their financial resources and risk profile. Its broad approach is to fulfil clients' total needs, incorporating investment planning, taxation and social services planning, retirement planning, risk planning and estate planning. The areas of service provision are very wide including investment and asset portfolio construction and advice, superannuation, retirement and estate planning and associated services.

This degree
The Bachelor of Mathematics and Finance (Honours) teaches you the skills to apply sophisticated mathematical and statistical techniques to real-world problems. You are also encouraged to develop computing and communication skills, which are assets in the job market.

Bankers, investment managers, insurance companies and financial companies all rely on financial mathematics to survive and stay ahead of the competition. Maths and Finance graduates work in all areas of industry and government as risk managers, investment advisers, traders, financial analysts and more. They work in all aspects of the finance sector from traditional banking to futures trading.

There are opportunities for scholarships from corporate partners, plus summer scholarships and undergraduate research projects with academic staff, access to programs of the Australian Mathematical Sciences Institute (AMSI) and inter-university courses via our Access Grid Room.

What you will study
You will learn not only finance but accounting, management and marketing principles. You will investigate securities and the markets they operate in as well as theories of the market and the equilibrium prices of securities. You will learn how to assess investments, and the method for identifying the best financial product for a client, with particular attention to their risk profile. You will learn the codes of conduct governing the financial planning industry and relevant regulatory frameworks, advising techniques, and how to build and maintain clients' investment portfolios.

Subjects you will study include: investment analysis, advanced corporate finance, retirement and estate planning, taxation for financial planners, risk and insurance, and advanced financial planning. You will complete a Mathematics and Finance Honours Project.

Combine an accredited psychology degree with a degree in Criminology, to broaden your knowledge and develop your competitive edge. You can qualify for entry to the fourth year of Psychology, required for provisional accreditation as a psychologist.

This degree
You will undertake comprehensive study in processes basic to human psychological functioning, combined with specialised studies that enable you to understand the causes, control, consequences, and prevention of criminal behaviour at the individual and social levels.

Psychology is the scientific study of the human mind and its functions, and how they influence behaviour. Psychologists use research findings to help us understand who we are and how we think, feel, act and change. By understanding these aspects of human behaviour, psychologists are able to promote wellbeing and understand psychological problems affecting people.

Criminology critically examines debates about crime, and how various contested theories and values translate into criminal justice policies and practices. This knowledge and skill set will allow you to contribute to addressing the complex and changing needs of individuals, families and communities in the face of technological, economic, environmental and social change.

The skills and knowledge you will acquire from these combined degrees will give you a distinct advantage in your professional objectives after graduation.

What you will study
In the first year of your degree you will study the foundations of psychology, learn about research methods and statistics, and complete a common set of core subjects from a number of social science disciplines.

In subsequent years, you will undertake study in personality, biological psychology and learning, cognition and perception, and developmental and social psychology.

The Criminology major will focus on criminology subjects relating to offenders, victims and agents of control, multidisciplinary understandings of crime, crime prevention, safe communities, security, probation and parole, human rights, and community justice.

Additional electives and minors from the Social Science, Arts and Science disciplines are also available to complement your studies.

Supply Chain Management is concerned with the entire lifecycle of a product or service, from before it is made, to how it is disposed of, and how it moves between each stage. As well as goods and services, supply chain professionals analyse and manage information from the suppliers, through intermediaries, to the customer and their customers (in the case that your client is a business). It includes managing technical processes: both within the company between functions such as procurement, manufacturing and marketing; and between the company as organisations such as manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers and retailers.

This degree
You will undertake a foundation year that covers all core disciplines of business, giving you a solid understanding of issues facing organisations today. From your second year, you will major in Supply Chain Management and gain overall understanding of supply chain structures and develop an understanding of procurement and inventory management models, the role of enabling technologies within the supply chain, and performance measurements techniques.

Career opportunities include planning and inventory manager, purchasing manager, supply planner, transport manager, logistics manager, and purchasing officer. You will also undertake a final-year capstone subject that lets you apply everything you have learned in collaboration with students from other disciplines. Plus, you have the option of applying for an internship to gain valuable experience whilst receiving credit towards your degree.

What you will study
You will learn the principles and tools associated with operations management and continuous quality improvement. You will also gain an understanding of total supply chain management, systems thinking and simulation and strategic management.

The Bachelor of Science Advanced Honours (Biomolecular Physics) degree is for high-achieving students interested in a challenging program leading to a career in scientific research. The UOW Honours website provides lots of useful information regarding research opportunities, scholarships, and application procedures.

Biomolecular physicists are integrated across a wide range of careers including commercial biomedicine, instrumentation and biotech companies (e.g. Sigma and Life Technologies). They assist in developing molecular diagnostic instrumentation for government and institutional research laboratories, as well beam-line scientists at National Research Facilities (e.g. ANSTO and the Australian Synchrotron).

Biomolecular Physicists work closely with other scientists with an aim to develop a better understanding of diseases and improve treatment and diagnostic, and recovery in a range of medical conditions. They seek to develop new methods and technology to assist with better food processing and preservation. This degree will excite and challenge students with an aptitude for physics and mathematics and an interest in biology and chemistry.

What you will study
This degree requires completion of subjects in physics, mathematics, chemistry, biological science and statistics. You will also study specialist subjects in imaging, structure and dynamics of living and soft matters. These lectures will be provided by experts from within UOW and at external research institutes. You will participate in various enrichment activities and develop a close association with an appropriate member of one of the Faculty’s research teams.

The Master of Management provides an opportunity for you to enhance your career opportunities by further developing theoretical and practical skills and knowledge in key management areas.

Graduates of the Master of Management will have examined organisational structures, led and implemented organisational change, managed projects and leveraged organisational competitive advantages in the changing global marketplace.

Every major company in the world now relies on networks to survive. Network designers enable governments and businesses to share data and applications to achieve greater strategic advantage through, for example, the use of social media and cloud computing. Whether it’s a multinational company with offices throughout the world or a small start-up business, IT networks provide the means by which people can stay connected with each other and the latest information.

Network managers ensure networks operate reliably, so that their performance is appropriate to the organisation’s needs, as well as being made secure from external threats.

By studying network design and management you will develop the skills necessary to build or manage networks to support businesses and governments in a competitive global market.

This degree
The Bachelor of Information Technology provides foundation knowledge of organisational areas in IT, including:

• Database management
• Programming
• Information systems analysis and design
• Communications and networks
• Security
• Project management
• Web-based technology
• Professional practice in IT

You will be able to choose your major in your second year after studying a common core of subjects that links our computer science, IT and information systems degrees. Find your strengths and interests as you study the fundamentals of computer science and IT: programming, problem solving, network and communications, web technology, data management, system analysis, human–computer interaction, and project management. You’ll also complete a final-year capstone team project.

You can also choose to study a double degree with Engineering, Mathematics, Science, Creative Arts or Business. These programs of study will provide you with a broad experience of technology using various industry products such as Microsoft, Apple, Oracle, SAP and Cisco.

What you will study
The Network Design and Management subjects in this course will provide you with an understanding of requirements gathering, requirements analysis and the development of logical design to physical application. You'll learn how architectures provide the framework for addressing and routing, performance characteristics, security and network management.

Studying English Literatures will get you thinking creatively about the English language. You will analyse theories, critique prose and verse, and take a more critical look at the signs and words surrounding us every day. It provides a platform for you to develop the skills that future employers are looking for including analytical thinking, exceptional written and oral communication skills, and the capacity to appreciate differences in cultural perspectives.

At UOW, English Literature is studied with regard to style, theme and form, and also in relation to questions of race, gender, sexuality, class and nation. This major introduces you to a broad range of texts, novels, poetry, essays, short stories, film, diaries and letters from medieval times to the modern, with a strong international focus.

What you will study

• We have a broad list of subjects that you can choose from depending on your area of interest, including literature and film, Romantics, US literature, Victorians, Shakespeare, and Indigenous literature.
• In addition to the English Literatures major you will choose a minor or a second major from the Bachelor of Arts offerings.
• Completion of full majors at regional campuses is subject to availability at time of enrolment.

The study of Philosophy at UOW teaches you how to think, not what to think. As lovers of wisdom, philosophers are deeply, personally invested in their quest for truth and enlightenment. There are no questions that philosophers will not consider.  How should we live and treat others? Do our lives have meaning? Does science have all the answers?  In studying philosophy at UOW you will explore the most fundamental topics, ask the deepest questions and –rigorously and systematically– scrutinize the answers given by the best minds down the ages.

Studying for a UOW degree in Philosophy will train you in logic and argumentation. It will enlarge and enrich your conception of what is possible. You will acquire the intellectual discipline needed to challenge the assumptions that frame the way we think about the world and how we should behave in it. You will learn to bring philosophical considerations to bear on 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; education and expertise.

A philosophical education is valuable in just about any line of work. It develops your persuasive powers; critical thinking, problem solving abilities; and communication skills. A 2016 report by the Foundation for Young Australians reveals that these skills are in great demand today in professions that require people who can stand back and think with an open mind. Past UOW Philosophy graduates have found work in such diverse careers as: administration; art and design; business development; community and social services; consulting; education; entrepreneurship; healthcare; human resources; IT; legal; management; media; program and project research.

What you will study

Core subjects will teach you about: ethics, politics, mind, self, knowledge, science, and the relevance of philosophy to the wider world and the workplace. Elective areas of study include media; art and society; logic; the meaning of life; philosophy in film and literature; global and environmental ethics; bioethics; political philosophy; narrative psychology and selfhood; imagination and emotion; health and happiness; and Eastern philosophy.