This degree equips you with the knowledge and skills to meet the social and emotional wellbeing needs of individuals, families and carers involved with ageing and disability services.

You will develop a broad and coherent body of knowledge of human service practice, with in-depth understanding in the underlying principles and concepts of:

• social and emotional development and wellbeing,
• small business entrepreneurship, and
• ethical practice at the individual, community and policy level of ageing and disability service provision.

In addition to this you will also get practical experience as part of the degree’s field education placement component. This is a valuable learning opportunity where you will build industry networks and further enhance practical skills. 

What you'll need

All students studying this degree will be required to complete criminal history screening through the Department of Communities and Social Inclusion prior to being accepted for work placements. The clearance is valid for three years and can take up to eight weeks to be processed.  

You must also hold a current Child Safe Environments Certificate.

Some placements may also require a current driver's license and a recognised First Aid Certificate.

What you'll learn

You will apply a broad and coherent body of knowledge of political, behavioural and social sciences in a range of ageing and disability focused human service contexts.

You will develop in-depth knowledge of policy and apply it by:

• navigating major systems such as the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and My Aged Care policies,
• informing social policy development,
• enhancing service provisions, and
• promoting social inclusion within the ageing and disability sectors.

You will explore diverse scenarios and learn how to effectively manage challenging situations during on-campus sessions in our state-of-the-art Social Work Studios. You will then get the opportunity to practice these skills when you complete 560 hours of work placements during your final year of study.

You can gain an extra qualification and broaden your career prospects by completing a Diploma in Languages.

There is a need for high calibre, well prepared workers in the ageing and disability sector. The employment opportunities are excellent and the demand for graduates is high*, with graduating students quickly finding work in a wide range of fields.

Careers opportunities are available in:

• disability support
• child and youth health
• multicultural services
• healthcare
• community development
• legal and court services
• child and family wellbeing
• schools/youth work
• mental health
• homelessness services
• Aboriginal health and wellbeing
• correctional services
• drug and alcohol addiction services
• aged care
• domestic violence services
• social planning and administration
• research and private industry
• employment sector
• education department
• child protection

Professional accreditation and recognition

This program is recognised by the Australian Community Workers Association. Graduates will be eligible for full membership of the Australian Community Workers Association.