Bachelor of Social Science (Human Services)
Degree Level Undergraduate
Year 2025
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You're considered an Australian student if you are any of the following:
- Australian or New Zealand Citizen
- Australian Permanent Resident (including Permanent Humanitarian Visa holders)
Entry Scores
2025 Guaranteed Entry
Year 12 (ATAR-based): 67.00
Year 12 (Grades-based): B,B,B
TAFE/RTO: DIP
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2024 Cut-Offs
Year 12 (ATAR-based):
- Internal: 67.00
TAFE/RTO: Cert IV
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Entry requirements
Admission criteria
The admission criteria have been grouped to assist you to easily find the information most relevant to your circumstances. However, you may fit into more than one and the university will consider applicants against each of the relevant criteria.
Certain conditions apply. For more information refer to Appendix 4 of the University's Selection and Entry policy.
Applicants are required to meet one of the following criteria with a competitive result, and demonstrate that they fulfil any prerequisite requirements and essential requirements for admission:
Recent secondary education
Meet any prerequisite requirements with a minimum grade of C- or equivalent
AND- Qualify for the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE), and achieved a competitive Selection Rank (ATAR), or
- Complete secondary qualifications equivalent to SACE, or
- Complete the International Baccalaureate Diploma with a minimum score of 24 points
Applicants who have not achieved the Selection Rank required for automatic selection may be selected for any remaining places based on the grades of their year 12 subjects.
OR
Higher education study- Complete or partly complete a recognised higher education program at a recognised higher education institution, or
- Complete at least four Open Universities Australia (OUA) courses at undergraduate level or above
OR
Vocational Education and Training (VET)- Complete an award from a registered training organisation at Certificate IV or above
OR
Work and life experience- Qualify for Special Entry, or
- Complete a 12-month UniSA Foundation Studies program or equivalent, or
- Hold completed secondary qualifications equivalent to SACE obtained more than 2 years in the past
Essential requirements for admission
Prerequisites
NoneAssumed Knowledge
None
Please note: Mid-year entry will only be available to domestic students.
Degree overview
- Study with the No.1 University in SA for graduate careers in Social Sciences1.
- Join the No.1 University in SA for student satisfaction in Social Sciences2.
- Get hands-on experience and build pivotal networks with 560 hours of supervised field education placements.
- Benefit from flexible study options, with internal (in-person) and external (online) learning available.
- Work alongside practitioners and highly skilled academic staff in simulated real-world scenarios.
- Build your practical skills in our innovative Social Work and Human Services Studio.
- Learn from world-class research in Sociology and Social Work3.
- This degree is nationally recognised by Community Work Australia.
- Use this degree as a pathway to further learning, including the Master of Social Work.
1ComparED (QILT) Graduate Outcomes Survey 2021-23, Humanities, Culture and Social Sciences – Full-time Employment Indicator (Domestic Postgraduate). SA public universities. 2ComparED (QILT) Course Experience Questionnaire 2021-22, Humanities, Culture and Social Sciences – Overall Satisfaction Indicator (Domestic Undergraduate). SA Public universities. 32018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA).
Snapshot
This degree provides you with a sound knowledge of the political, behavioural and social sciences, and equips you with the skills needed for professional practice in the human services field as an accredited community worker, policy advocate or manager of human services.
This degree has been developed around the following four major areas of study:
- behavioural and social sciences
- human service practice
- human service management
- social policy.
You will also gain 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 your practical skills.
Increase your emloyability by combining your Bachelor of Social Science (Human Services) degree with another degree. With just one year of extra study you can graduate with an additional Bachelor of Psychology or Bachelor of Arts qualification. You can discuss the possibilities with Campus Central.
What you'll need
All students studying this degree will be required to undertake Criminal History Checks through the Department of Human Services (DHS), a SAPOL National Police Record Check, and complete a one-day Safe Environments for Children and Young People course prior to being accepted for work placements. Some placements may also require a current driver's licence and/or additional requirements as requested by a specific placement provider.
What you'll learn
Graduates will be well equipped to deal with the contemporary issues facing human service professionals in their work with individuals, families and communities. You will explore diverse scenarios and learn how to effectively manage challenging situations in our state-of-the-art Social Work and Human Services Studio. You will then get the opportunity to practice these skills when you complete 560 hours of work placements during your final year of study. This degree focuses on four major areas of study:
- Behavioural and social sciences: the study of human behaviour and how it is affected by cultural, environmental, psychological and political aspects
- Human service practice: the political influences on human services, as well as the various ethical and cultural considerations; you will also gain the necessary communication skills needed to practice successfully in the field
- Human service management: gain skills that are important in the planning, provision and evaluation of a variety of human services
- Social policy: learn how to identify the social policies that affect people’s lives, and the strategic ways that human service workers may be able to influence these policies.
You can gain an extra qualification and broaden your career prospects by completing a Diploma in Languages.
Study hours
For each course you study, you will need to allocate time for various classes such as lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Plus you will need additional hours to study in your own time to complete assignments, readings and projects, as well as to contribute to online discussion forums (independent study). So as a general rule, if you are studying full-time you would need to allocate 12–26 hours of study when at university and 14–28 hours of independent study per week.
Assessment
Your studies will incorporate practical, professionally focused and research-based learning, so assessment types will vary. You can expect them to include:
- case studies
- projects
- an e-portfolio
- essays and assignments
- examinations
- journals.
Global opportunities
Enrich your studies and your life – make overseas study part of your qualification. You may have the option to undertake an exchange, short-term program or study tour overseas while you study. We have links with universities worldwide, as well as a range of travel grants available to make going overseas much more accessible.
You can choose short-term or semester-long study from a range of universities and countries depending on your area of study and cultural interests.
Take a look at the global opportunities available.
Why Bachelor of Social Science (Human Services)
Learn from industry experts and award-winning researchers, gain practical experience in our on-campus Social Work and Human Services Studio, and build workplace networks when you complete field education placements during your final year.
In our custom-built studios you will work alongside field practitioners and academic staff in simulated, real-life situations. Using state-of-the-art recording equipment and cameras, you can review your work and learn from your experiences. Third year work placements will also provide valuable experience, during which you will experience first-hand what it’s like to work in local and rural settings.
As part of your placement, you may have the opportunity to take part in UniSA’s South Australian Parliamentary Internship program.
Students undertaking their second field placement in their final year of study in an undergraduate Social Science or Social Work degree, including double degrees, are eligible to apply for this opportunity. To find out more about further eligibility, contact Dr Cenz Lancione.
Your career
A career in the human services sector requires a strong interest in human behaviour; you also need to be able to think clearly and logically, to be compassionate, understanding and patient. There are a number of employment opportunities in a wide range of fields available to you upon graduation. Careers to consider include:
- Community development officer: employed by a city, neighbourhood or other municipality to support the growth, health and vitality of a region.
- Community services worker: work with individuals and groups in the areas of psychology, rehabilitation and social work.
- Counsellor (with further study): work with individuals and groups to help people overcome problems.
- Project manager: use your managerial expertise to manage individual projects; work to meet deadlines and budget requirements.
- Policy advisor: review, develop and implement policies and strategies.
- Policy development officer: this is an advisory role where you will be responsible for analysing data and advising policymakers.
- Social researcher: plan, design, conduct, manage and report on a range of social topics, including crime, healthcare, social services and unemployment.
- Youth worker: provide practical and emotional support to children and young people.
- Family support worker: provide assistance and guidance to children and families in need; family support workers are often employed by adoption agencies, protective service agencies, or family services organisations.
- Case worker: responsible for assisting adults, children and families with the coordination of accessing government services and support.
- Child protection practitioner: develop plans to bring about changes required to support the safety, stability and development of children and young people.
Professional accreditation and recognition
Graduates will be eligible for full membership of the Australian Community Workers Association.
Industry facts
Thinking of studying soon?
2025
Ready to start your studies in 2025? You can apply to the University of Adelaide or UniSA now before continuing on to the new Adelaide University in 2026.
When the time comes to transfer, we’ll be here at every step, ensuring you’re well supported with personalised advice and a detailed study plan.
2026
Planning to start your studies in 2026? You can apply to Adelaide University directly.
Applications are currently open for international students and will open for Australian students in August 2025.
Have any questions? We're here to help! Contact Adelaide University's Future Student Enquiries Team.
Applying to study with us:
- go to the top of this page and make note of the SATAC code, then click Apply
- you will be redirected through to the SATAC website to continue your application
Alternative Pathways
Australian
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including:
- UniSA College Diploma in Social Sciences
- UniSA College Undergraduate Certificate in University Studies (Social Sciences)
- SAIBT Diploma of Arts
International
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including:
Deferment
This degree is available for deferment. This option is made available by responding to your offer during the application process via the SATAC website. Applicants who receive an offer into a midyear degree are eligible to defer for six months.
Scholarships
Every year, over 2,500 UniSA students are supported in their studies through scholarships and grants worth millions of dollars. Check out the scholarships below. One of them may be perfect for you. Visit our scholarships page for more.
UniSA Excellence Scholarships
$5,000 scholarship for South Australian students with an ATAR of 99 who enrol to study a UniSA undergraduate degree.
UniSA Outstanding Achievement Scholarship
Up to $10,000 per annum (full time) for South Australian students who obtain an ATAR of 99.95 or IB equivalent and enrol to study at UniSA.
Your study experience and support
Our campuses are home to fantastic facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, workshops and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments. But you’ll also discover that your journey at UniSA is about social experiences, healthy living and getting involved. You’ll find student sports and fitness facilities, community clinics, tech zones and chill-out spaces. There are campus sport activities to keep you active, and if you are keen to explore the social side of university life, there are movies, cooking demonstrations, parties and loads more.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit different requirements and budgets. Options include dedicated student accommodation and private rentals. See our long-term accommodation pages, or explore our student accommodation by Scape on Bank Street in Adelaide’s lively cultural precinct, an ideal location for students. It is within easy reach of UniSA’s city and metropolitan campuses, Rundle Mall shopping, the Central Market, Chinatown, and the West End’s vibrant nightlife. It is also across the road from the Adelaide train station, and on bus and tram routes.
Student services
Our student services provide you with all the support you need at university. We want you to succeed, and if you need help, we're here to assist. You can access a full range of support services, including:
- academic counselling
- personal counselling
- social support services, including family support and nearby childcare
- common rooms
- prayer rooms
- security officers
- career services and mentoring
- Wirringka Student Services, offering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students a supportive place to study
- as well as services offered through our student association, USASA.
When you become a UniSA student, you can also contact Campus Central for help with anything related to your degree. They will help you with your enrolment, ID cards, fees, timetables and more.
24/7 digital environment
Our learnonline facilities include a personal learning environment with virtual classrooms, lecture recordings, emails, learning support, administration, library access and results. The environment is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so you can tailor your learning to your life. We are continually investing in innovative digital technologies for a high-quality student learning experience.
Your study spaces
As a social science student you will have access to our state-of-the art Social Work and Human Services Studio, which is equipped with recording equipment and cameras so you can practice your skills with the help of field practitioners and academic staff.
Your program director
The program provides diverse career opportunities by connecting you to the real world through teaching and research partnerships with leading and emerging government and non-government human services organisations. The industry connections of academic staff provide immediate context in the teaching of the degree, and you can actively implement your learnings through the opportunity of field placements or internships, leading to employment across a number of sectors.
Ask UniSA
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How do I apply?
The way you apply for UniSA will depend on the undergraduate or postgraduate coursework degree you're interested in studying.
The majority of applications are made via the South Australian Tertiary Admissions Centre (SATAC). Check out more information on the SATAC website and follow the appropriate process for your degree of interest.
There are a small number of degrees that you need to apply for through direct application processes. The process you need to follow will be listed on the 'How to Apply' section of the degree homepage, but you'll also be taken to where you need to go if you hit the 'apply' button.
If you are interested in studying one of our 100% online degrees you'll need to apply directly to UniSA Online.
You can find more information about the application processes for UniSA on our How to Apply webpage.
If you're more interested in applying for a postgraduate degree by research, check out and follow the information in our step by step guide to applying. -
Is there a closing date for applications?
Applications for all degrees will close ahead of study commencing, but the timelines may vary for undergraduate and postgraduate degrees.
Undergraduate
The deadline to apply to study a degree at UniSA for semester one (commencing late February) and be guaranteed equal consideration is generally in very late November or early December. While you may be able to apply after this date, you are not guaranteed to be considered equally with other applicants and your application may not be assessed in time for the main round of offers. More competitive degrees may not make any offers after the main offer round. Find more information on the Key Dates section of the SATAC website, but you can also call the Future Student Enquiries team for more information on 08 8302 376.
Postgraduate
Many postgraduate by coursework degrees do not have set closing dates. The exceptions are highly competitive degrees, so it is best to check – either on the degree homepage on the SATAC website or by checking with our Future Student Enquiries team.
As most postgraduate applications are assessed as they are submitted and offers are continuous, there are no set closing dates for applications. Degrees can be filled and closed with little notice so it is best to apply as soon as possible to avoid missing out on a place. For more information, please contact our Future Student Enquires team on (08) 8302 2376 or submit an enquiry.
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What credit can I receive for previous studies?
You may be eligible for credit or advanced standing for your chosen UniSA degree based on your previous studies, if they are in a related area and completed within a certain timeframe. Receiving credit or RPL will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree. You can read more about our pre-existing credit agreements through our online Credit Assessor. If you have related industry experience, you may also be eligible to receive recognised prior learning (RPL) for this experience. Credit and RPL is assessed by the Program Director once you've received an offer, and you apply through UniSA's current student experts, Campus Central.
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Can I speak to someone regarding my study options?
Future Student Enquiries welcomes the opportunity to meet with you to discuss your study options at UniSA. We can discuss degree information, entry requirements and pathways, applications, general career outcomes and student life, so you have the information to make the best study decision for your future. Head to our Book an Appointment webpage to find a date and time to speak with us, and take your next steps on journey to university study.
What others are saying
"As part of this degree’s placement course, I had the opportunity to work as a drug and alcohol counsellor for Drug Arm in Hillbank. This amazing experience allowed me to put to practice counselling capabilities learnt throughout the course as well as case management skills."
Guy Yardley
Bachelor of Social Science (Human Services)
Case Manager, Department of Child Protection, South Australia
I chose UniSA as the flexibility of the degree meant I was able to balance study, family and work commitments effectively. The teaching staff have been supportive, accessible and willing to help throughout my studies. It was a highlight working with the academic staff on a research project for my final placement which brought both challenges and rewards. These practical placements provided the professional environment to apply the theories learnt in the classroom and add further dimension to the theoretical base.
Lachlan McConnochie
Bachelor of Social Science (Human Services)
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Without my degree, I would not have had the courage to come this far. Passion and experience is one thing, but this degree gives you the credibility and confidence you need to take your career to the next level.
Lisa Wheeler
Bachelor of Social Science (Human Services)
Senior Coordinator | New ROADS, Uniting Communities
