Humanities offers students the opportunity to better understand people, places, and the world around them. Through studying the past, exploring contemporary issues, and examining how societies, economies and environments function, students develop the knowledge and skills needed to think critically, communicate effectively, and make informed decisions.
By studying Humanities, students develop:
- an understanding of why people, places and societies change and interact over time
- critical thinking, problem-solving, and inquiry skills to approach new ideas and challenges
- the ability to analyse evidence, form perspectives and communicate ideas effectively
- an understanding of how the world has changed, how it works now and what it may look like in the future
In Junior Secondary, students study History and Geography as compulsory subjects through to Year 9, with Business and Economics offered as an elective.
In Year 10, students can choose from Ancient and Modern History, Legal Studies and Geography, and Business and Economics as preparatory pathway subjects.
In Senior Secondary (Years 11–12), students can select from a range of Humanities subjects aligned with university, vocational and career pathways.
General Subjects
These subjects support students considering university pathways and develop higher-order analytical, research and communication skills.
- Ancient History
- Modern History
- Geography
- Legal Studies
- Business
- Accounting
- Economics
Applied Subjects
These subjects focus on practical learning, real-world applications and developing skills for employment, further training, and future pathways.
- Business Studies
- Social and Community Studies
Humanities subjects open doors to a wide range of future opportunities including law, business, education, government, economics, international relations, urban planning, social sciences, public service, engineering and many more. More importantly, they help students become informed, capable, and engaged citizens in an increasingly complex world.
Further information about Humanities subjects and course offerings can be found in the relevant Curriculum Handbooks.
Head of Department – Humanities
Jo Paxton jpaxt4@eq.edu.au