Master of Disaster Resilience and Sustainable Development
The University of Newcastle offers a unique and forward-thinking Master of Disaster Res...
Bachelor of Development Studies / Bachelor of Social Science
Newcastle
INTAKE: Jul & Feb
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Development Studies / Bachelor of Social Science program at the University of Newcastle, Australia, offers students a multidisciplinary approach to understanding and addressing global development challenges. This innovative program integrates the study of development theory, policy, and practice with a broader understanding of social science disciplines such as sociology, anthropology, economics, and political science. Students explore issues related to poverty, inequality, social justice, sustainability, and global governance, gaining the knowledge, skills, and perspectives needed to contribute to positive social change and sustainable development initiatives.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the Bachelor of Development Studies / Bachelor of Social Science program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of development issues from both theoretical and practical perspectives. Core courses cover topics such as development theory, globalisation, poverty and inequality, social research methods, and international relations. Students also have the opportunity to choose elective courses and specialisations in areas such as sustainable development, gender studies, indigenous studies, humanitarian assistance, and environmental sustainability. The program emphasizes experiential learning through fieldwork, internships, and community-based projects, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings and develop practical skills for careers in development practice, advocacy, and research.
Research Focus: The University of Newcastle is committed to promoting research excellence in the field of development studies and social sciences. Faculty members and students engage in research activities aimed at understanding the root causes of global development challenges, evaluating development interventions, and exploring innovative solutions to complex social problems. Research areas within the program may include poverty alleviation, community development, sustainable livelihoods, social justice, human rights, and environmental sustainability. Students have the opportunity to participate in research projects, work alongside faculty members on research initiatives, and develop research skills that are valuable for careers in academia, research institutes, non-profit organisations, and international development agencies.
Industry Engagement: The Bachelor of Development Studies / Bachelor of Social Science program at the University of Newcastle maintains strong connections with industry partners, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), government agencies, and international development organisations to ensure that its curriculum remains relevant and responsive to industry needs. The university collaborates with development practitioners, policy makers, and community organisations to provide students with internship opportunities, work placements, and industry-based projects. Industry professionals are involved in curriculum development, guest lectures, and workshops, providing students with insights into current practices, emerging trends, and career pathways in the field of development studies and social sciences.
Global Perspective: As a globally focused institution, the University of Newcastle promotes a multicultural and global perspective in its Bachelor of Development Studies / Bachelor of 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 fieldwork in developing countries. The program emphasizes the interconnectedness of local and global development issues, encouraging students to critically analyse the impacts of globalisation, colonialism, and neoliberal policies on development processes and outcomes. Students are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and cross-cultural competencies needed to work effectively in multicultural environments and contribute to global efforts towards sustainable development and social justice.
Location
Newcastle
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
AUD 35460
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 Development Studies / Bachelor of Social Science from the University of Newcastle, Australia, prepares students for a wide range of meaningful and impactful career opportunities in the field of international development, social justice, and community engagement.
Development Officer/Coordinator: Many graduates pursue careers as development officers or coordinators with non-governmental organisations (NGOs), international development agencies, or government departments. Development officers work on projects aimed at promoting social justice, poverty alleviation, and sustainable development in local communities and developing countries. They design and implement development programs, manage project budgets and timelines, and collaborate with stakeholders to address social, economic, and environmental challenges. Development officers play a vital role in advancing social change, empowering communities, and improving quality of life for vulnerable populations.
Community Engagement Specialist: Graduates may work as community engagement specialists, facilitating dialogue, collaboration, and participation among diverse stakeholders to address community needs and priorities. Community engagement specialists work for local government, non-profit organisations, or community development projects, building relationships with community members, conducting needs assessments, and designing programs that promote social inclusion, civic participation, and community resilience. They empower communities to take collective action, mobilize resources, and advocate for their rights and interests.
Policy Analyst/Advocate: Some graduates may pursue careers as policy analysts or advocates, working for research institutes, advocacy organisations, or government agencies to influence policy decisions and promote social justice and equity. Policy analysts conduct research, analyse legislation, and develop policy recommendations on issues such as poverty reduction, gender equality, human rights, and environmental sustainability. Advocates lobby policymakers, mobilise public support, and campaign for policy reforms that address systemic injustices and inequities, ensuring that the voices of marginalised communities are heard and represented in policy-making processes.
International Development Consultant: Graduates with specialised knowledge in international development may work as consultants, providing expertise and technical assistance to governments, NGOs, and international organisations on development projects and programs. Development consultants conduct evaluations, provide strategic advice, and facilitate capacity-building initiatives in areas such as governance, education, healthcare, and economic development. They work on projects funded by international donors such as the United Nations, World Bank, and bilateral aid agencies, helping to design and implement sustainable development interventions that promote social justice and human dignity.
Researcher/Academic: Some graduates may pursue careers in research or academia, conducting research on social issues, development challenges, and policy solutions. Researchers work for universities, think tanks, research institutes, or non-profit organisations, investigating topics such as poverty dynamics, gender inequality, environmental degradation, and social movements. They publish research papers, contribute to academic journals, and disseminate knowledge to inform evidence-based policies and practices. Academics teach and mentor students, engage in interdisciplinary research collaborations, and contribute to advancing knowledge and understanding in the field of development studies and social sciences.
Social Entrepreneur: Graduates with an entrepreneurial spirit may start their own social enterprises or non-profit organisations, addressing social and environmental challenges through innovative business models and community-based initiatives. Social entrepreneurs identify unmet needs, develop sustainable solutions, and mobilise resources to create positive social impact and systemic change. They may focus on areas such as sustainable agriculture, renewable energy, fair trade, or education, leveraging market forces and social innovation to address root causes of poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation.
