Major overview
Study Indigenous knowledges and practices and apply First Nations knowledge in real-world contexts
Enhance your studies with the Indigenous Knowledges and Practices major to build a deeper understanding of First Nations knowledge and how it can be applied in today’s world. You’ll go beyond studying history to engage with Indigenous knowledge systems and explore how they shape areas such as sustainability, environmental management, health and social justice across different fields.
Throughout your Indigenous studies major, you’ll take part in immersive, relationship-based learning experiences shaped by local Aboriginal knowledge and culture. You’ll gain hands-on experience through field trips to culturally significant sites and interactive workshops led by local Noongar Elders and community members, learning directly from Indigenous people on Country.
You’ll learn how to respectfully apply Indigenous ways of knowing alongside Western approaches, building practical skills to work across different knowledge systems. Through our connection with the Kulbardi Aboriginal Centre, you’ll learn from Indigenous academics in a supportive, community-led environment, helping you develop cross-cultural communication skills and the confidence to work respectfully with Indigenous peoples.
By the time you graduate, you’ll be prepared to apply Indigenous knowledge in your field and contribute as a culturally aware and socially responsible professional.
3 reasons to study Indigenous knowledges and practices at Murdoch University
- Learn with and from Indigenous peoples and academics through our on-campus School of Indigenous Knowledges at the Kulbardi Aboriginal Centre.
- Study our Indigenous studies major that is unique in its focus on applying First Nations knowledge to real-world environmental, social and workplace challenges.
- Learn through our multidisciplinary approach that brings together perspectives from social, health and physical sciences, as well as history and culture.
What you’ll learn
- Understand Indigenous ways of knowing, being and doing.
- Explore connections between land, culture, community and wellbeing, including Indigenous models of social and emotional wellbeing.
- Analyse key social justice issues affecting Indigenous peoples and communities in Australia.
- Understand how Indigenous and Western knowledge systems differ, connect and can be used together.
- Apply Indigenous perspectives to environmental and social challenges.
- Develop cross-cultural communication skills and learn to work respectfully with Indigenous peoples and communities.
Having completed three semesters and my honours research in Indonesia, I was able to get a much better idea of development on the ground. I found that when I graduated, I had a more realistic idea of what to expect in the workplace.
Karis Erceg, Bachelor of Arts
Your future career using Indigenous knowledges and practices
With an Indigenous studies major, you’ll graduate with the skills to apply Indigenous perspectives in a wide range of professional settings. You’ll be able to work respectfully across cultures and contribute to better outcomes in your field. These capabilities are valued across government, community organisations, environmental management, education and the not-for-profit sector.
Potential roles include:
- Community development officer
- Policy or program officer
- Cultural adviser
- Environmental or land management roles
- Education or outreach roles
For more details about our Indigenous Knowledges and Practices major, download our information pack.
Start dates
| Starting period | Location | Face to Face | Online | Mixed mode |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Semester 1, 2026 | Murdoch | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Semester 2, 2026 | Murdoch | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Semester 1, 2027 | Murdoch | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Semester 2, 2027 | Murdoch | Yes | Yes | Yes |
View the dates for our teaching periods or find out more about attendance modes.
Major Structure
Visit the Course Handbook - Get detailed information on units, prerequisites, and pathways.
To help plan the structure of your course, search for our suggested course plans.
| Unit code | Unit name | Credit points |
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How to Apply
Majors are part of a degree and can't be applied on their own. Apply for a related degree first, then choose your major once enrolled.