Study Bachelor of Social Science (Human Services), Bachelor of Arts at the University of South Australia (UniSA). Information for International students.

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Entry requirements Degree overview Career outcomes How to apply Study experience

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NOT an Australian Permanent Resident (including Permanent Humanitarian Visa holders)

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International students

Start date
February
July

Campus
Magill

Duration
4 year(s) full-time

Mode
On-campus

Program Code
MBSR

Prerequisites
None

Assumed Knowledge
None

Fees
AUD$ 32,800 per annum (per 1.0 EFTSL) for students enrolled in 2025

Admissions
Student Profile

English Language Requirements

IELTS total [6.0]
IELTS reading [6.0]
IELTS writing [6.0]

Equivalent English qualifications (PDF)

International Admission by Country
See full entry requirements

CRICOS Code
095899K

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 level 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

None

Assumed Knowledge

None

English language entry requirements

In addition to meeting academic entry requirements, international students who speak English as a second or additional language must also meet the University's English language entry requirements. The minimum language requirements for this program are:

English language test

IELTS total [6.0]
IELTS reading [6.0]
IELTS writing [6.0]

Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by UniSA and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements: English Language Equivalence Table (PDF)

Admission Requirements by Country

Bangladesh HSC	3.5
Canada High School (OSSD)	65
Eynesbury FSP	320
German Abitur	3.5
Kenya KCSE (average)	B
Malaysia STPM (best 3)	6
Malaysia UEC	31
Norway GPA	3
Pakistan HSSC	80
Sri Lanka A Levels (best 3)	7
Sweden GPA	13
UK Board GCE A Levels/HK Board	7
Vietnam	7.5
Australia	67
IB (best 6)	26
USA SAT (1600)	1110
India (best 4) State Board	75
India (best 4) Central Board	65
HKDSE	15
Nepal NEB	2.51

View full entry requirements Hide full entry requirements

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Degree overview

Study with the Top 10 University in Australia for graduate careers in Social Sciences¹.
Join a Top 5 University in Australia for student satisfaction in Social Sciences².
Get hands-on experience and build pivotal networks with 560 hours of supervised field education placements.
Tailor your degree and select from Arts majors in Sociology, Linguistics, English Language, French, Italian or Japanese Studies.
Gain advanced knowledge, skills and intercultural expertise to develop services for individuals, families, groups and communities.
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.
Learn from world-class research in Sociology and Social Work³.
Benefit from our on-campus facilities, including the Multimedia Languages Lab and Social Work and Human Services Studio.
Immerse yourself in your chosen language and culture through our exchange and in-country study programs.
This degree is nationally recognised by Community Work Australia.
Use this degree as a pathway to further learning, including the Master of Social Work.

¹Ranked equal #6 ComparED (QILT) Graduate Outcomes Survey 2021-23, Humanities, Culture and Social Sciences – Full-time Employment Indicator (Domestic Postgraduate). SA public universities. ²Ranked #3, ComparED (QILT) Course Experience Questionnaire 2021-22, Humanities, Culture and Social Sciences – Overall Satisfaction Indicator (Domestic Undergraduate). Public universities.³2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA).

Snapshot

This unique double degree will prepare you to work as a human services professional and develop services and support for individuals and communities that experience disadvantage, personal and social difficulties.

The human services field is a rapidly growing sector of the Australian economy and an emerging area of global focus. Employers, both in Australia and internationally, are increasingly seeking skilled human service practitioners who are culturally and linguistically diverse. Graduates with a strong grasp of professional English, social policy skills, intercultural communication skills and proficiency in a second language are in high demand.

You will graduate with skills in research, policy and project management, tailored to your area of interest based on your choice of Arts majors, choosing from Languages (English Language; French, Italian or Japanese Studies); Sociology; or Linguistics. Through 560 hours of supervised work placement you will be ready to work in a wide range of jobs in human services and community development.

Language students will also be given the opportunity to immerse themselves in their chosen language and culture through our exchange and in-country study programs.

Many courses within the degree are offered online or in intensive mode, including our exciting summer and winter schools, offering students a flexible mode of study. If you finish your degree with a credit or higher Grade Point Average (GPA) you could also be eligible for the prestigious one-year Bachelor of Arts (Honours) degree.

What you'll need

Students studying this degree will be required to undertake Criminal History Checks through the Department of Human Services (DHS), a 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 students to hold a current driver's licence and or additional requirements as requested by a specific placement provider.

What you'll learn

You will develop the skills, knowledge and intercultural expertise to support individuals, families, groups and communities both locally and internationally in the community aid and humanitarian sector.

You will also gain diverse knowledge in political, behavioural and social sciences, all within the context of human services. To complement your studies in Human Services, you will complete two Arts majors, choosing from Languages (English Language; French, Italian or Japanese Studies); Sociology; or Linguistics.

You could improve your employment prospects by continuing your studies with a one-year Bachelor of Arts (Honours) degree.

Degree structure

Course name	Area and cat no.	Units
FIRST YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Human Service Provision	WELF 1014	4.5
Communication Skills in Social Work and Human Services	WELF 1019	4.5
Major 1		4.5	Rule(s): 1
Major 2		4.5	Rule(s): 1
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5, 6 or 7)
Group Work	BEHL 2009	4.5
Australian Social Policy	POLI 1012	4.5
Major 1		4.5	Rule(s): 1
Major 2		4.5	Rule(s): 1
SECOND YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Human Service Intervention	WELF 2012	4.5
Interviewing Skills in Social Work and Human Services	WELF 2020	4.5
Major 1		4.5	Rule(s): 1
Major 2		4.5	Rule(s): 1
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5, 6 or 7)
Applied Psychology	BEHL 1005	4.5
Policy Practice	POLI 2027	4.5
Major 1		4.5	Rule(s): 1
Major 2		4.5	Rule(s): 1
THIRD YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2, 3)
Aboriginal Australians and the Human Services	WELF 2015	4.5
Case Management	WELF 3015	4.5
Major 1		4.5	Rule(s): 1
Major 2		4.5	Rule(s): 1
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Human Service Project Management	WELF 2014	4.5
Working with Community	WELF 2010	4.5
Major 1		4.5	Rule(s): 1,5
Major 2		4.5	Rule(s): 1,5
FOURTH YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2, 3)
Human Service Field Placement A	WELF 3022	9	Rule(s): 3,4
Major 1		4.5	Rule(s): 1
Major 2		4.5	Rule(s): 1
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Human Service Field Placement B	WELF 3014	9	Rule(s): 3,4
Major 1		4.5	Rule(s): 1,5
Major 2		4.5	Rule(s): 1,5

Majors, Sub-majors & Minors

French Studies

Italian Studies

Japanese Studies

Psychology

Creative Writing and Literature

Applied Linguistics

Sociology

History and Global Politics

Cultural Studies

Law, Policy and Politics

Aboriginal Studies
Rules & notes

Rules

1. Students are required to choose two Majors from a choice of either: Sociology; Psychology; Applied Linguistics; Creative Writing and Literature; Aboriginal Studies; Cultural Studies; French Studies; History and Global Politics; Italian Studies; Japanese Studies; Law, Policy and Politics. Further details and the sequence of courses for each major is available at the Majors, Sub-majors & Minors webpage.

2. Should students choose to undertake a Language major, please note only non-native speakers of a language may enrol in language courses.

3. Field Placement consists of a total of 560 hours of supervised placement to be undertaken in two blocks of 280 hours during the final year, for between 2 and 5 days per week. Students may be required to attend field placements outside of normal working hours.

4. Students are required to undertake Criminal History Checks through the Department of Human Services (DHS) for working with Children, in the Aged Care Sector and in Disability Services; obtain a SAPOL National Police Record Check; completed a one-day Safe Environments for Children and Young People course; and the University's online module, Undertaking a Safe Student Placement. Some placements may also require students to hold a current driver's licence, a recognised First Aid Certificate or other requirements as requested by a specific placement provider.

5. Students undertaking a language major must complete a 9 unit summer school course in Study Period 7, either at the end of year 3 or year 4. Two 4.5 courses from the other chosen major must then be completed concurrently in the alternate study period in the second half of third or fourth year. Students undertaking a Languages Arts Major should review the Language Major Page for more information or contact the Program Director for further enrolment advice.

Notes

1. Based on academic merit, graduates of this program will be eligible to apply for admission to the one year Bachelor of Arts (Honours) program.

2. The Justice & Society Study Tour course can be chosen in place of an elective course as part of this program. Additional fees apply for the study tour component of this course, and enrolment is conditional upon successful application in a competitive Expression of Interest process as well as successful completion of 36 units.

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 at UniSA will incorporate both practical, professionally focused and research-based learning, so assessment types will vary. You can expect them to include:

case studies
projects and presentations
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), Bachelor of Arts

In this double degree you can tailor your learning experience to your interests and career goals.

You will learn from world-class educators and researchers and benefit from our on-campus learning facilities, including the Multimedia Languages Lab where language students can connect in real-time with native speakers from around the world. You will also gain hands-on, practical skills with access to our custom-built Social Work and Human Services Studio.

In your studies you will learn from industry and build strong workplace networks when you complete 560 hours of field placements during your final year.

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.

Real-world connections

You will complete 560 hours of work experience during two field placements in your final year. This real-world experience is a major focus and provides valuable hands-on experience and the opportunity for you to build important industry relationships.

We also host regular University-wide employee master classes and employment expos, and alumni events in Australia and overseas.

This could be you

UniSA’s Bachelor of Arts is taught by world-class educators and researchers and enables you to pursue two areas of academic interest at once. Hear from UniSA student Luke Heathorn and Program Support Coordinator Louis Everuss on what it's like studying our Bachelor of Arts degrees.

Career outcomes

Your career

A career in the human services sector requires a strong interest in people; 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:

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.
Consular officer: issue visas, and offer advice and consular assistance.
Counsellor (with further study): work with individuals and groups to help people overcome problems.
Humanitarian worker: facilitate the distribution of aid to people who have been affected by human or natural disasters.
Project manager: use your managerial expertise to manage individual projects; work to meet deadlines and budget requirements.
Policy developer and analyst: study social problems and develop policies in order to solve them.
Social researcher: plan, design, conduct, manage and report on a range of social topics, including crime, healthcare, social services and unemployment.
Translator/interpreter: assist in communication between two parties and translate either written or spoken words from one language into another.
Youth worker: guide and support young people in their social, educational and personal development.
Policy advisor: review, develop and implement policies and strategies.

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.

How to apply

How to apply for international students will give you helpful information about the application process at the University of South Australia. When you are ready, apply through our International Application System. If you would like to talk to someone near you about studying at the University of South Australia, we have agents all over the world who can assist you. Find an Education Agent in your country.

Alternative Pathways

Australian
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including:

UniSA College Diploma in Social Sciences
UniSA Undergraduate Certificate in University Studies (Social Sciences)
SAIBT Diploma of Arts

International
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including:

SAIBT Diploma of Arts

Credit transfer

You could be eligible for credit for previous studies you have undertaken. Find out online.

Go to credit assessor

Life in Adelaide

Current international students talk about living in Adelaide and studying at UniSA.

Hear from our students

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.

More scholarships

Vice Chancellor's International Excellence Scholarship

Recipients can get a 50% reduction on tuition fees for up to four years of full-time study for selected degrees.

Learn more

International Merit Scholarship

Recipients can get a 15% reduction on tuition fees for the duration of their chosen degree.

Learn more

Your study experience and support

As a UniSA student, you will have unique access to work placement opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events, internships, guest speakers and more.

Our campuses are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, workshops and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform. We have health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and great student lounges. You will also gain access to a range of community clinics, which provide professional and cost effective services in areas of health, business, law and psychology. 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 lots 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 international 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:

career advice and mentoring
help with student visas and health cover
personal counselling
academic counselling
fees and finance help
common rooms
prayer rooms
security officers
accommodation services
as well as services offered through our student association, USASA.

We also offer study support from our Learning Advisers face-to-face or online. They are here to help you develop academically and professionally during your studies, and can offer help with the English language too. 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 campus

We have six campuses in metropolitan and regional areas, each with modern facilities including lecture theatres, libraries and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments.

Your study spaces

As a human services student you will have access to our on-campus Social Work and Human Services Studio, which are equipped with recording equipment and cameras so you can practice your skills with the help of field practitioners and academic staff. As an arts student you will have access to our on-campus Multimedia Languages Lab where you can connect in real-time with native speakers from around the world.

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.

Mrs Paula McCubbin

Program Director

Enquire

Mrs Paula McCubbin

Program Director

Enquire

Ask UniSA

How do I apply?

There are a number of ways to apply to study UniSA's undergraduate and postgraduate coursework degrees.

You can access our online International Application System through our How to Apply page. The International Application System is an easy and secure online application and acceptance process. You will have visibility of your application through the secure online portal with the ability to download offer documents, submit your acceptance and make a payment.

Alternatively you can submit an application through one of the University's registered Education Agents.

If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC http://www.satac.edu.au/.

If you are applying for the UniSA Study Abroad or Study Abroad Plus program, you can submit your application online here.

Postgraduate study by research
For information on applying to do postgraduate study by research, including Masters by Research, PhDs or Doctorates, please visit http://unisa.edu.au/resdegrees.
Is there a closing date for applications?

There is no closing date for submitting your application however the admissions process takes between one and three weeks from the date that we receive your application and all required supporting documentation.

If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC. Key dates for applications can be found here.
What credit can I receive for previous studies?

You may be eligible to receive credit or advanced standing for your chosen UniSA degree based on your previous studies, if they are in a related area at an equivalent or higher level. Receiving credit will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree.

The amount of credit you may be eligible to receive is assessed on a case-by-case basis by the Admissions team.

The best way to determine your eligibility to receive credit or advanced standing is to apply using our International Application System which can be found on our How to Apply page. You will need to supply detailed syllabus documents with your application.
Can I speak to someone regarding my study options?

UniSA welcomes the opportunity to speak with you regarding your study options. Our staff are able to talk to you about degree information, career outcomes and pathways, entry requirements, applications, and student life, so that you are able to make the best study decision for your future.

Click here to book a 1:1 appointment with one of our enquiries team.

We also have many events throughout the year in Australia and overseas where you can speak with UniSA representatives about your area of interest. View our calendar of events in your home country by selecting the 'International' filter.