Start date
February
July

Campus
Magill

Duration
4 year(s) full-time

Mode
On-campus

Program Code
MBSP

Prerequisites
None

Assumed Knowledge
None

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

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
055257J

Degree overview

  • 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 Australian Community Workers Association (ACWA).

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

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

What you 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.

Degree structure

Course name Area and cat no. Units Reference  
FIRST YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Human Service Provision WELF 1014 4.5
Child Development WELF 1020 4.5
Psychology 1A BEHL 1003 4.5
Communication Skills in Social Work and Human Services WELF 1019 4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Group Work BEHL 2009 4.5
Governance and Citizenship in Australia POLI 1008 4.5
Psychology 1B BEHL 1004 4.5
Introductory Research Methods BEHL 2005 4.5
SECOND YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Australian Social Policy POLI 1012 4.5
The Social World SOCU 1003 4.5
Developmental Psychology BEHL 3011 4.5
Cognitive Psychology BEHL 3002 4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Working with Community WELF 2010 4.5
Biological and Learning Psychology BEHL 2012 4.5
Social and Community Psychology BEHL 2006 4.5
Human Service Workers and the Law JUST 2005 4.5
THIRD YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Case Management WELF 3015 4.5
Human Service Intervention WELF 2012 4.5
Interviewing Skills in Social Work and Human Services WELF 2020 4.5
Personality Psychology BEHL 3024 4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Human Service Project Management WELF 2014 4.5
Aboriginal Australians and the Human Services WELF 2015 4.5
Policy Practice POLI 2027 4.5
Clinical and Abnormal Psychology BEHL 3004 4.5
FOURTH YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Human Service Field Placement A WELF 3022 9 Rule(s): 1,2
Specialist Psychology Course 1 4.5 Note(s): 2 Rule(s): 3
Specialist Psychology Course 2 4.5 Note(s): 2 Rule(s): 3
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Human Service Field Placement B WELF 3014 9 Rule(s): 1,2
Elective 4.5
Specialist Psychology Course 3 4.5 Note(s): 2 Rule(s): 3

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

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.

Take a look at the global opportunities available.

Global opportunities

Why Bachelor of Social Science (Human Services), Bachelor of Psychology

Why this Degree

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.

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

This could be you

Hear from UniSA staff and former Psychology students Dr Alex Agostini and Dr Stephanie Centofanti on where a degree in Psychology can take you.

UniSA Video

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

column-chart-growth

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.

data-presentation

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

buildings-city

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: 

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

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

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.

Student services

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.

Location 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 study spaces

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
Portrait image for Mrs Paula McCubbin
Portrait image for Mrs Paula McCubbin

Mrs Paula McCubbin

Program Director

Enquire

Ask UniSA

  • How do I apply? minus-thick plus-thick

    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? minus-thick plus-thick

    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? minus-thick plus-thick

    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? minus-thick plus-thick

    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.

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