Master of Disaster Resilience and Sustainable Development
The University of Newcastle offers a unique and forward-thinking Master of Disaster Res...
Bachelor of Social Science
Newcastle, Central Coast
INTAKE: Jul & Feb
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Social Science program at the University of Newcastle, Australia, offers students a comprehensive understanding of the social, cultural, economic, and political factors that shape human behavior and society. This interdisciplinary program encompasses a wide range of disciplines within the social sciences, including sociology, psychology, anthropology, economics, political science, and criminology. Students explore key social issues, theories, and research methods, gaining critical thinking skills and analytical abilities to address complex social challenges and contribute to positive social change.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the Bachelor of Social Science program is designed to provide students with a broad foundation in the social sciences while allowing for specialization in specific areas of interest. Courses cover topics such as social theory, research methods, social policy analysis, human development, diversity and inequality, globalization, and community engagement. Students have the flexibility to choose elective courses from a variety of disciplines, allowing them to tailor their studies to their career goals and interests. They also have the opportunity to undertake practical learning experiences such as internships, fieldwork, and research projects, gaining hands-on experience and applied skills in real-world settings.
Research Focus: The University of Newcastle is committed to promoting research excellence in the social sciences. Faculty members and students engage in research activities aimed at advancing knowledge, addressing social inequalities, and informing evidence-based policies and practices. Research areas within the social sciences may include social justice and human rights, mental health and well-being, migration and multiculturalism, environmental sustainability, crime and criminal justice, and Indigenous studies. Students have the opportunity to participate in research projects, collaborate with faculty members on research initiatives, and gain valuable research skills and experience, preparing them for further study or careers in research, advocacy, or policy analysis.
Industry Engagement: The Bachelor of Social Science program at the University of Newcastle maintains strong connections with industry partners, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and community groups to ensure that its curriculum remains relevant and responsive to industry needs. The university collaborates with employers to provide students with internship opportunities, work placements, and industry-based projects, allowing them to gain practical experience and develop professional networks in their field of interest. Industry professionals are involved in curriculum development, guest lectures, and workshops, providing students with insights into current practices, trends, and career pathways in the social sciences.
Global Perspective: As a globally focused institution, the University of Newcastle promotes a multicultural and global perspective in its social science program. Students have the opportunity to learn from internationally renowned scholars, engage with peers from diverse cultural backgrounds, and participate in global learning experiences such as study abroad programs, international exchanges, and cross-cultural research projects. The program emphasizes the interconnectedness of global issues such as poverty, inequality, migration, and environmental sustainability, preparing graduates to work effectively in diverse and multicultural environments and contribute to positive social change on a global scale.
Location
Newcastle, Central Coast
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
AUD 33045
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 or 6.5 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 79 with a minimum of 12 in each section.
- PTE (Pearson Test of English): Overall score of 58 with a minimum of 50 in each section.
Students must provide:
- academic marksheets & transcripts
- letters of recommendation
- a personal statement - SOP
- passport
- other supporting documents as required by the university.
It's important to note that entry requirements can vary by program and may change over time. Additionally, some programs may have additional requirements, such as interviews, portfolios, or work experience.
The University of Newcastle, Australia, is making high-quality education accessible to international students. One of the ways it achieves this is by offering a wide range of scholarships designed to support and reward academic excellence, diversity, and achievement among international students.
International Excellence Scholarships: These scholarships are aimed at high-achieving international students who have a strong academic record. They provide financial assistance to cover a portion of tuition fees, making quality education more affordable.
Country-Specific Scholarships: The University of Newcastle offers scholarships tailored to specific countries, ensuring students from various regions have the opportunity to study in Australia. These scholarships may vary in terms of eligibility criteria and benefits.
Women in STEM Scholarships: To promote gender diversity in STEM fields, the university provides scholarships specifically for women pursuing degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Graduating with a Bachelor of Social Science from the University of Newcastle opens up diverse and rewarding career opportunities in various sectors.
Social Worker: One of the most common career paths for graduates of the Bachelor of Social Science program is to work as social workers. Social workers help individuals, families, and communities overcome social, emotional, and economic challenges by providing counseling, advocacy, and support services. They work in diverse settings such as hospitals, schools, mental health clinics, government agencies, and non-profit organizations, addressing issues such as poverty, homelessness, domestic violence, mental illness, and substance abuse. Social workers collaborate with other professionals to develop intervention plans, connect clients with resources, and promote social justice and human rights.
Community Development Officer: Graduates may pursue careers as community development officers, working with communities to identify needs, develop programs, and implement initiatives that promote social inclusion, empowerment, and sustainable development. Community development officers work for government agencies, local councils, non-profit organizations, and community-based organizations, engaging with community members, facilitating workshops and forums, and coordinating projects that address issues such as community health, education, housing, and environmental sustainability. They collaborate with stakeholders to mobilize resources, build partnerships, and foster positive change at the grassroots level.
Policy Analyst: Some graduates may choose to work as policy analysts, focusing on analyzing social policies, evaluating programs, and developing policy recommendations that address social issues and promote social justice. Policy analysts work for government agencies, research institutes, advocacy groups, and non-profit organizations, conducting research, collecting data, and analyzing policy implications on issues such as poverty alleviation, education reform, healthcare access, and immigration. They engage with stakeholders, contribute to policy debates, and advocate for evidence-based policies that improve the well-being of individuals and communities.
Human Resources Officer: Graduates may pursue careers in human resources (HR), applying their knowledge of human behavior, organizational dynamics, and social systems to recruit, train, and support employees within organizations. HR officers work for businesses, government agencies, and non-profit organizations, managing recruitment processes, employee relations, performance evaluations, and training programs. They ensure compliance with labor laws, promote diversity and inclusion, and address workplace issues such as conflict resolution, employee morale, and organizational culture, contributing to a positive work environment and organizational effectiveness.
Research Assistant: For graduates interested in research, a career as a research assistant may be appealing. Research assistants work in academic institutions, research centers, and government agencies, assisting researchers in conducting studies, collecting data, and analyzing findings related to social issues, public policy, and community development. They contribute to literature reviews, design research protocols, administer surveys, and organize focus groups, gaining valuable research experience and contributing to the generation of knowledge in the social sciences.
Advocacy Officer: Some graduates may choose to work as advocacy officers, advocating for the rights and interests of marginalized or vulnerable populations within society. Advocacy officers work for non-profit organizations, advocacy groups, and human rights organizations, raising awareness about social issues, lobbying policymakers, and mobilizing public support for policy changes and social reforms. They organize campaigns, coordinate rallies and protests, and engage with media and community stakeholders to amplify the voices of those affected by social injustice and discrimination, driving systemic change and promoting social equality.
