The field of population studies is concerned with how populations change, and how population change impacts society. This course introduces the field of population studies and theories on population change, and considers past, current and future population issues. The topics include the relationship between population size and resources; population transition theories; mortality and fertility decline; population ageing; and population distribution and migration. Students will investigate the effects of population size, growth, and distribution on sustainable development, and consider the role of policy.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion, students will have the knowledge and skills to:
- demonstrate an understanding of demographic changes in the world and their major determinants;
- use major demographic concepts and population theories to explain and evaluate past and present population changes; and
- interpret demographic materials, such as research literature and demographic data, to assess a current demographic situation.
Indicative Assessment
- Topic notes for student-led discussion (co-convened groups) (10) [LO 1,2]
- Analytical essay on a topic related to the student's proposed thesis (5000-6000 words) (60) [LO 1,2,3]
- Final exam (3 hours) (30) [LO 1,2,3]
The ANU uses Turnitin to enhance student citation and referencing techniques, and to assess assignment submissions as a component of the University's approach to managing Academic Integrity. While the use of Turnitin is not mandatory, the ANU highly recommends Turnitin is used by both teaching staff and students. For additional information regarding Turnitin please visit the ANU Online website.
Workload
130 hours of total student learning time made up from:
a) 36 hours of contact over 12 weeks: 24 hours of discussion-based groups (tutorials), and 12 hours of directed online learning activities; and
b) 94 hours of independent student research, problem solving, reading, and writing.
Inherent Requirements
None.
Requisite and Incompatibility
Prescribed Texts
Weeks, J. R. (2021). Population: An Introduction to Concepts and issues (13th edition). Boston: Cengage Learning.
Fees
Tuition fees are for the academic year indicated at the top of the page.
Commonwealth Support (CSP) Students
If you have been offered a Commonwealth supported place, your fees are set by the Australian Government for each course. At ANU 1 EFTSL is 48 units (normally 8 x 6-unit courses). More information about your student contribution amount for each course at Fees.
- Student Contribution Band:
- 14
- Unit value:
- 12 units
If you are a domestic graduate coursework student with a Domestic Tuition Fee (DTF) place or international student you will be required to pay course tuition fees (see below). Course tuition fees are indexed annually. Further information for domestic and international students about tuition and other fees can be found at Fees.
Where there is a unit range displayed for this course, not all unit options below may be available.
| Units | EFTSL |
|---|---|
| 12.00 | 0.25000 |
Course fees
- Domestic fee paying students
| Year | Fee |
|---|---|
| 2024 | $8160 |
- International fee paying students
| Year | Fee |
|---|---|
| 2024 | $12000 |
Offerings, Dates and Class Summary Links
ANU utilises MyTimetable to enable students to view the timetable for their enrolled courses, browse, then self-allocate to small teaching activities / tutorials so they can better plan their time. Find out more on the Timetable webpage.
