Monash University Handbook 2011 Postgraduate - Course

This course offers a new and innovative program for international and local students which offers an advanced level coursework program focusing on the study of contemporary Australia. It aims to develop students' understanding of the diversity and extent of Indigenous and non-indigenous Australian experience, and of Australian cultural and social forms in a global context. As a flexible and interdisciplinary program, the Master of Australian Studies will appeal to students with backgrounds in humanities subjects, such as literary and cultural studies, or in social science subjects, such as journalism, politics and international studies.

Students will develop an understanding of Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australian experience and the diversity of regional and local communities within Australia. They will:

• gain the ability to engage critically with debates relating to Australia in a global context
• be guided by a critical pedagogy which provides a conceptual framework for students to reflect on their prior experience and knowledge, and which is sensitive to different educational traditions
• develop advanced research, writing and communication skills, as well as the ability to reflect upon personal learning
• gain confidence in utilising a range of IT resources, such as word processing and email, searching databases and text files, and locating, employing and evaluating internet sites.

Students complete two 12-point core units and two 12-point elective units at level four, plus one of the options at level five. Students who achieve a distinction average in their level four units have the option of undertaking a 24-point research dissertation at level five with approval of the course coordinator. All units are worth 12 points except where indicated.

Level four

Students complete two core units:

• APG4391 Exploring Australia: Diverse people, diverse lives or APG4392 Australia unlimited: Local issues, global challenges
• APG4396 Researching and writing Australia

plus one of the following:

• APG4273 Contemporary Australian poetry and fiction
• APG4333 Australian national government
• APG4343 Religion and ceremony in Australian society
• one 12 point level four unit with the approval of the course coordinator

Level five

Students complete one of the following options:

Option one

• APG5725 Research project in Australian studies

plus one of the following not already completed at level four:

• APG5273 Contemporary Australian poetry and fiction
• APG5333 Australian national government
• APG5343 Religion in Australian society
• APG5391 Exploring Australia: Diverse people, diverse lives
• APG5392 Australia unlimited: Local issues, global challenges
• one 12 point level five unit with the approval of the course coordinator

Option two

• APG5726 Research dissertation in Australian studies - Pt 1
• APG5727 Research dissertation in Australian studies - Pt 2

Students who undertake the 24 point research project option and achieve at least a distinction are eligible to apply for a higher degree by research.

Students who have completed studies in the Master of Australian studies to the value of:

• 24 points may apply to exit with a related graduate certificate
• 48 points may apply to exit with a related graduate diploma.

Master of Australian Studies