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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.
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
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)
Study with the Top 10 University in Australia for graduate careers in Social Sciences1.
Join the Top 5 University in Australia for student satisfaction in Social Sciences2.
Gain hands-on experience and build industry networks with 560 hours of supervised local and rural work placements.
Graduate with two qualifications, with just one extra year of study.
Study a double degree that provides a balance of courses in psychology and human services.
Ranked in the Top 10 in Australia for graduate skills in psychology3.
Build your practical skills in our innovative on-campus Social Work and Human Services Studio.
Get practical experience and build pivotal networks with supervised local and rural work placements.
Work alongside practitioners and highly skilled academic staff in simulated real-world scenarios.
Build your practical skills in our innovative on-campus Social Work and Human Services Studio.
Study a curriculum informed by world-class research in Psychology, Social Work and Sociology4.
Gain a well-respected qualification that is accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council.
This degree is also nationally recognised by the Community Work Australia.
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. 3Ranked #7, ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2021-22, Skills Development Indicator (Undergraduate). Public universities.42018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA).
Snapshot
This double degree provides a balance of courses in psychology and human services, enabling graduates to enter the workforce with a strong understanding of psychology as it relates to the human services sector.
You will study a range of topics, including:
behavioural and social sciences
human behaviour
critical and analytical skills
research and data analysis
project management
social policy
Through a range of theoretical and practice-based learning opportunities you will gain a sound understanding of the political, behavioural and social sciences, and will be equipped with the skills needed to work in a diverse range of fields. You will also gain practical experience during your field education placement. This is a valuable learning opportunity where you will build industry networks and further enhance practical skills.
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
Graduates of this double degree will be well equipped to deal with the contemporary issues facing human service professionals. You will study a balance of courses in psychology and human services. The following areas of study are a key focus:
behavioural and social sciences
human behaviour
critical and analytical skills
research and data analysis
project management
social policy
You may also be given the opportunity to choose from a range of specialist psychology courses, including Advanced Research Methods, Conservation Psychology, and Work and Organisational Psychology.
1. Field Education consists of 560 hours of supervised placement to be undertaken in two blocks of 280 hours during the fourth year and after completion of all third year courses. Students are advised that they will be required to attend field education placements generally but not exclusively during normal working hours in both teaching and non-teaching weeks, for between 2 and 5 days per week.
2. 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.
3. Students planning to apply for an Honours in Psychology year, either at UniSA or at another Australian university, must select and successfully complete the Specialist Psychology Course, BEHL 3005 Advanced Research Methods. Entry to the honours year is based on academic merit and subject to quota.
4. Students who qualify for credit must complete at least 36 units from each of the contributing degrees (ie a total of at least 72 units).
Notes
1. The program is designed to graduate professional human service workers who can function effectively in demanding environments. It satisfies professional and employer requirements through its content and its assessment processes. Students are advised that the program does require consistent participation in a diverse range of potentially challenging classroom, assessment and field activities.
2. Specialist Psychology Courses must be selected from the listed options and are offered subject to student demand and staff availability. See the program specific electives list for options.
3. Graduates of this program are eligible to apply for the one year Bachelor of Arts (Honours) program at UniSA.
4. 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 will incorporate 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.
Why Bachelor of Social Science (Human Services), Bachelor of Psychology
This double degree will set you apart from your competitors – and it can be achieved with only one extra year of study.
You will learn from industry experts and world-class researchers, and gain hands-on, practical experience in our on-campus Social Work and Human Services Studio. In the 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.
You will also build workplace networks when you undertake field education placements.
You will graduate with a strong understanding of issues in psychology and how to implement your learning across a range of human service settings, opening up more diverse employment opportunities.
Real-world connections
As part of your studies you will complete 560 hours of work experience during two supervised field education placements in either local or rural settings. This real-world experience is a major focus of your studies and provides valuable practical experience and the opportunity for you to build important industry relationships. You will also work alongside experienced practitioners and academics in our Social Work and Human Services Studio.
Hear from UniSA staff and former Psychology students Dr Alex Agostini and Dr Stephanie Centofanti on where a degree in Psychology can take you.
Career outcomes
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:
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 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; family support workers are often employed by child protection agencies or family services organisations.
Registered psychologist, research psychologist or counsellor (with further study): work with patients to identify and diagnose emotional, mental and behavioural issues.
Professional accreditation and recognition
This program is accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council.
Graduates will be eligible for full membership of the Australian Community Workers Association.
Industry facts
Employment for Welfare Support Workers is expected to increase by 25.2 per cent by November 2026.
Australian Government National Skills Commission Labour Markets Insight, Employment Projections 2021.
By 2024, employment for counsellors in Australia is projected to increase by 24.8 per cent.
Australian Government Department of Employment, Occupational Employment Projections 2019
Healthcare and social assistance has been the primary provider of new jobs in the Australian labour market since the 1990s.
Australian Government Department of Employment 2019
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:
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.
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:
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.
This degree is delivered at the following campus.
Your study spaces
You will have access to two state-of-the art Social Work and Human Services Studios, which are equipped with recording equipment and cameras so that 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Fees This is based on the total number of units for this program where one EFTSL is expressed as 36 units.
*UniSA accepts applications for programs commencing beyond the year advertised and tuition fees for these years will be higher. Please note that your tuition fees will be subject to an annual increase.
