Counselling & Social Sciences

Bachelor of Applied Social Science

CRICOS: 093683J

Imagine making a lasting impact on your community and society. Now picture yourself going to work each day knowing you are supporting people to have better days. The Bachelor of Applied Social Science at Alphacrucis University College equips you with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience to assist others professionally and compassionately, based on evidence-based interventions and best-practice principles.

Course Duration
3 years full time, up to 10 years part time
Study Modes
Online Recorded, Online Live, Mixed Mode, Face to Face, Online Intensive
Study Locations
Online, Sydney*
* Some subjects are available on campus, see the timetable to confirm location and mode.
Start Dates
March (S1), Aug (S2), November (Summer)
Fees
$3,000 per subject
Subjects
24

What is the Bachelor of Applied Social Science?

Course Introduction

The Bachelor of Applied Social Science is a comprehensive course designed to provide a broad understanding of the theory and practice of applied social sciences. This program allows you to specialise in areas such as counselling, chaplaincy and pastoral care, youth work, community work, or community work. You will learn from qualified and experienced professionals, combining theoretical foundations with skill development and practical experience to work effectively in various applied social science contexts. This course is ideal for those who are passionate about helping others and making a positive difference in their communities.

Who is this for?

Are you someone who feels a deep calling to make a tangible difference in people’s lives?

Do you envision yourself as a compassionate professional who uses evidence-based practices to bring about positive change?

Do you seek a comprehensive education in social sciences to prepare you for diverse career opportunities?

If you are passionate about understanding and addressing the complexities of human behaviour, social issues, and community dynamics, then this program is for you.

Outcomes

Graduates of the Bachelor of Applied Social Science will be well-prepared for various roles in community and social services. Career opportunities include:

– Counsellor, Community, Case Worker, or Youth Worker: Support individuals and groups within community settings.
– School, Hospital, Community, or Other Chaplain: Provide spiritual and emotional support in various institutional settings.
– Policy, Project, or Family Support Officer: Develop and implement programs to support families and communities.

Choosing Applied Social Science it is my hope to learn how to mix my creative background with helping people through avenues like art therapy.

Andreas Sunarja

Accreditation

Our Counselling qualifications are proudly accredited by the Christian Counsellors Association Australia (CCAA), and Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA), reflecting our unwavering commitment to providing counselling education that upholds the highest standards of excellence and ethical practice.

The Chaplaincy qualifications are endorsed by Chaplaincy Australia.

These accreditations ensure that our graduates are recognised for their professional competence, and pave the way for a world of opportunities and professional support in the counselling and chaplaincy professions, wherever you choose to practice.

Course Structure

Subjects & Units

Build a foundation in research and writing in this pivotal unit designed to equip students with robust academic writing and research skills specific to the social sciences and counselling fields. Students will enhance their ability to critically assess literature, construct evidence-based arguments, and effectively communicate both orally and in writing, preparing them for advanced studies and professional effectiveness.

This is a core subject that introduces students to the fields of psychology, social science and the importance of emotions in human identity. It forms the basis for other more advanced psychology subjects. This subject will allow students to develop a better understanding and management of their emotions. This knowledge is then applied to a professional context, enhancing students' abilities to identify and work appropriately with the emotions of clients in an empathetic and professional manner.

Dive into a comprehensive overview of human services and its theoretical frameworks. This subject prepares students for diverse roles within case management, counselling, and support services, focusing on effective service delivery and client care. Students will learn the fundamentals of the case management process, explore various professional roles, and apply reflective practices to improve their proficiency and understanding of good practice.

Enhance your ability to communicate effectively in professional people-helping settings. This subject will equip you with learning foundational interpersonal communication skills. Through practical exercises, you will develop your counselling micro-skills including conflict management responses, within a culturally sensitive framework. This unit is designed to meet PACFA and ACA training requirements.

This subject explores the developmental journey and processes that an individual goes through over a lifespan, from conception to death. It introduces various theories and milestones associated with each life stage and includes multicultural and critical perspectives on development. It will enable students to help individuals understand normal developmental processes, whether in health, education, minstry or people helping fields.

Understanding the principles of psychology is essential for anyone interested in the human mind and behaviour. This subject offers a comprehensive introduction to various psychological models and theories, providing insights into how they shape individual perspectives. By studying topics from developmental to clinical psychology, students will develop advanced critical thinking and learn to integrate psychological concepts into their personal worldview.

Supporting those experiencing grief and loss is crucial for effective counselling. This unit equips students with specialised skills to support individuals navigating these challenging experiences. Students will learn to distinguish between different types of grief and develop tailored intervention strategies, enhancing their ability to empathise and provide essential support within a self-care framework.

Gaining insight into Australian society through a sociological lens is pivotal in understanding the complex influences shaping identity. This unit delves into how cultural and social factors shape personal and community identities. By examining the various structures and facets of society and social policy, students will learn to actively participate in the various social spheres with which they need to engage as practioners.

This subject helps to prepare you to work effectively with clients by learning advanced counselling micro-skills and techniques in. With an emphasis on applying micro-skills and evidence-based methods in counselling contexts, you'll learn how to respond to complex needs such as anxiety and stress. This unit aligns with professional practice standards, offering practical, experiential training, that includes role-plays, to continue the development of your interpersonal communication skills.

Understanding group dynamics and community leadership is essential for supporting effective change in group settings. This unit equips students with the skills to lead and develop communities while integrating both sociological and Christian perspectives. Through hands-on experiences, students will learn to manage ethical issues and apply professional standards, preparing them to positively impact community and group work settings.

Gaining insight into mental health conditions is pivotal for providing effective support and intervention. Students in this subject will learn to recognise symptoms, deliver appropriate assistance, and understand the role of the community in supporting mental wellbeing. They will develop skills in treating individuals with empathy, respect, and compassion, while fostering a hopeful and supportive environment.

Having a basic understanding of trauma and its effects is essential for any professional working within the community. This unit gives an introduction to understanding what constitutes trauma, along a continuum from acute to chronic presentations. Additionally, you will learn about self-care to manage the effects of trauma on the people helper, aiding in longevity and efficacy in this challenging field.

Understanding addictions is pivotal for effective intervention. This unit equips students with knowledge of the dynamics and development of various addictions, from substance abuse to behavioural dependencies. Through examining causes, characteristics, and management strategies, students will learn to identify effective treatment approaches and community resources. They will also explore ethical considerations and develop self-care strategies to maintain their wellbeing in professional counselling settings.

Understanding ethical and legal frameworks is vital for anyone entering the people helping profession. This subject helps students to understand the ethical principles and legal requirements within their field, in order to confidently manage complex ethical dilemmas. You will learn to apply ethical decision-making models, prioritise self-care, and appreciate the importance of ongoing professional development.

Discover the foundations of faith and how it relates to one's worldview and purpose. Students will explore the Christian story from Scripture and express ideas of their own faith, examine how faith shapes views on the meaning and purpose of life, the value of humanity and ideas of human flourishing. Expand your perspective in this core subject and understand the significance of faith in all areas of life.

Understanding family dynamics is pivotal for effective counselling. This unit offers a comprehensive exploration of family structures and their impacts on individuals. It blends modern and post-modern counselling theories with practical role-play exercises, providing insights into systemic approaches to therapy. You will not only learn to navigate complex family situations but also reflect on how your own family experiences might influence your professional practice.

This unit explores the skills and srategies required to understand and support adolescents through their unique challenges. Students will be introduced to the evolution of adolescence and its implications for both historical and contemporary youth work practices. Students will investigate local youth work sectors, and learn to apply an integrative approach to working with young people.

Integrating theoretical knowledge with practical experience is essential to effectively work with young people. This unit offers a 100-hour supervised youth studies placement through a specialised youth organisation. It allows you to apply prior learning and engage in reflective practice, enhancing your professional competence. This placement will also refine your ability to manage professional relationships and administrative tasks within a real-world counselling setting.

Professional accountability is crucial in developing ethical and effective practice as a counsellor or people helper. This unit is delivered in the same semester as students undertake their supervised field placements and offers weekly group supervision. Students will receive weekly support to help build their assessment and intervention skills, whilst working with actual client’s. The subject meets PACFA's experiential training requirements, focusing on real-world application through case conferences and peer review whilst preparing you to handle professional challenges ethically and effectively, integrating critical reflection and a Christian worldview.

Navigating youth issues effectively is essential for fostering supportive environments that address the unique challenges faced by young people. This unit delves into contemporary youth issues, exploring how they are perceived and affect both individual lives and broader societal dynamics. Students will develop non-judgemental, empathetic strategies for engaging with young people on critical topics whilst adhering to standards of best practice

Through this unit, students will be provided with an in-depth overview of developmental, psychological, and behavioural aspects crucial to understanding and supporting children and young people. Students will learn to apply theories in an holistic approach, within professional and ethical frameworks. They will also gain skills in working effectively within broader teams, referral networks and support structures to respond to the unique needs of children and adolescents.

Gaining proficiency in evidenced supported strengths based modalities is important in modern psychological practice. This unit introduces Solution Focused Therapy (SFT) and Positive Psychology, focusing on the methodology of these strengths based approaches and developing skills to implement these across various settings from individual to organisational applications. Students will have the opportunity to develop many specific skills in addition to increasing their ability to integrate techniques from aligned modalities to enhance client engagement and outcomes.

In this introductory subject, students will explore a broad variety of topics that form the very basis of pastoral ministry. Primarily, students will consider contemporary pastoral models that connect academic reflection with the real world. Topics discussed will range from defining ministry, calling and ordination to conflict resolution, and being effective in caring for others. Students will also be provided with ample opportunity to engage creatively with these topics to make connections with their own contexts.

This unit will explore the broader historical roots of spiritual approaches. Students are encouraged to express faith in new ways and deepen the spirituality of your local Christian community. In doing so, students will have a chance to connect with their heritage and participate in a broad range of spiritual exercises practiced by the wider body of Christ throughout history.

Integrating theoretical knowledge with practical experience is essential to effectively work in chaplaincy and pastoral care. This unit offers a 100-hour supervised chaplaincy and pastoral care placement through a chaplaincy organisation. It allows you to apply prior learning and engage in reflective practice, enhancing your professional competence. This placement will also refine your ability to manage professional relationships and administrative tasks within a real-world counselling setting.

Professional accountability is crucial in developing ethical and effective practice as a counsellor or people helper. This unit is delivered in the same semester as students undertake their supervised field placements and offers weekly group supervision. Students will receive weekly support to help build their assessment and intervention skills, whilst working with actual client’s. The subject meets PACFA's experiential training requirements, focusing on real-world application through case conferences and peer review whilst preparing you to handle professional challenges ethically and effectively, integrating critical reflection and a Christian worldview.

Gaining proficiency in evidenced supported strengths based modalities is important in modern psychological practice. This unit introduces Solution Focused Therapy (SFT) and Positive Psychology, focusing on the methodology of these strengths based approaches and developing skills to implement these across various settings from individual to organisational applications. Students will have the opportunity to develop many specific skills in addition to increasing their ability to integrate techniques from aligned modalities to enhance client engagement and outcomes.

Effective chaplaincy and pastoral care requires an understanding of the diverse settings in which care may be required, as well as the pillars of best practice. By learning the foundational theories and skills needed for chaplaincy and pastoral care, students will develop competence in providing care across a range of circumstances and within a variety of social, cultural and spiritual or religious contexts.

Navigating social and cultural diversity skilfully and considerately is vital in people-helping fields. This subject explores the competencies required to understand and respect diversity within communities, developing empathetic and effective strategies to provide care across socially and culturally diverse contexts. Students will learn to assess and enhance their own social and cultural awareness, whilst developing their social and cultural competence for professional practice.

Gaining a deep understanding of various counselling theories is essential for effective therapeutic practice. This subject provides a comprehensive overview of historical and modern counselling methodologies, from Freudian psychoanalysis to contemporary approaches such as Solution Focused Therapy and Positive Psychology. Students will learn how to critically evaluate different models, reflect on their personal and professional implications, and apply them across diverse therapeutic contexts.

Integrating theoretical knowledge with practical experience is essential for effective counselling. This unit offers a 100-hour supervised counselling placement through the AC Wellbeing Centre and an external organisation. It allows you to apply prior learning and engage in reflective practice, enhancing your professional competence. This placement will also refine your ability to manage professional relationships and administrative tasks within a real-world counselling setting.

Professional accountability is crucial in developing ethical and effective practice as a counsellor or people helper. This unit is delivered in the same semester as students undertake their supervised field placements and offers weekly group supervision. Students will receive weekly support to help build their assessment and intervention skills, whilst working with actual client’s. The subject meets PACFA's experiential training requirements, focusing on real-world application through case conferences and peer review whilst preparing you to handle professional challenges ethically and effectively, integrating critical reflection and a Christian worldview.

Understanding family dynamics is pivotal for effective counselling. This unit offers a comprehensive exploration of family structures and their impacts on individuals. It blends modern and post-modern counselling theories with practical role-play exercises, providing insights into systemic approaches to therapy. You will not only learn to navigate complex family situations but also reflect on how your own family experiences might influence your professional practice.

Gaining proficiency in evidenced supported strengths based modalities is important in modern psychological practice. This unit introduces Solution Focused Therapy (SFT) and Positive Psychology, focusing on the methodology of these strengths based approaches and developing skills to implement these across various settings from individual to organisational applications. Students will have the opportunity to develop many specific skills in addition to increasing their ability to integrate techniques from aligned modalities to enhance client engagement and outcomes.

Gaining proficiency in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is highly beneficial for effective counselling as CBT is still considered the gold standard of evidenced based therapeutic intervention. This unit introduces the foundational theories and practices of CBT, offering students practical skills in applying these techniques across diverse counselling scenarios.

Understanding relationships is foundational for effective therapy. Building on prior knowledge of personality and behaviour, you will delve into the complexities of relational dynamics, including the impact of family backgrounds and life changes such as separation or divorce. Through practical role-plays and evidence-based strategies, you'll learn to navigate and improve various relationship scenarios, preparing you to support clients effectively in maintaining healthy relationships.

Through this unit, students will be provided with an in-depth overview of developmental, psychological, and behavioural aspects crucial to understanding and supporting children and young people. Students will learn to apply theories in an holistic approach, within professional and ethical frameworks. They will also gain skills in working effectively within broader teams, referral networks and support structures to respond to the unique needs of children and adolescents.

This is a core subject that introduces students to the fields of psychology, social science and the importance of emotions in human identity. It forms the basis for other more advanced psychology subjects. This subject will allow students to develop a better understanding and management of their emotions. This knowledge is then applied to a professional context, enhancing students' abilities to identify and work appropriately with the emotions of clients in an empathetic and professional manner.

Community Engagement explores Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) principles for mobilizing individual and community strengths. Students learn to identify assets, skills, and passions within communities while building collaborative relationships and leadership capacity. The subject emphasizes developing community engagement plans, ethical multidisciplinary practice, and effective referral processes. Through reflective practice, students examine how personal worldview influences community work while maintaining professional wellbeing in Australian and global contexts.

Foundations of Community Services examines asset-based approaches and core competencies for strengthening communities across diverse contexts including mental health, disability, aged care, and child protection. Students explore culturally responsive practices with Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander communities, trauma-informed care, and multidisciplinary frameworks. The subject emphasizes socio-cultural diversity, ethical practice, and personal worldview awareness while developing sustainable wellbeing strategies for effective community-based practice across the lifespan.

Build a foundation in research and writing in this pivotal unit designed to equip students with robust academic writing and research skills specific to the social sciences and counselling fields. Students will enhance their ability to critically assess literature, construct evidence-based arguments, and effectively communicate both orally and in writing, preparing them for advanced studies and professional effectiveness.

This is a core subject that introduces students to the fields of psychology, social science and the importance of emotions in human identity. It forms the basis for other more advanced psychology subjects. This subject will allow students to develop a better understanding and management of their emotions. This knowledge is then applied to a professional context, enhancing students' abilities to identify and work appropriately with the emotions of clients in an empathetic and professional manner.

Dive into a comprehensive overview of human services and its theoretical frameworks. This subject prepares students for diverse roles within case management, counselling, and support services, focusing on effective service delivery and client care. Students will learn the fundamentals of the case management process, explore various professional roles, and apply reflective practices to improve their proficiency and understanding of good practice.

Enhance your ability to communicate effectively in professional people-helping settings. This subject will equip you with learning foundational interpersonal communication skills. Through practical exercises, you will develop your counselling micro-skills including conflict management responses, within a culturally sensitive framework. This unit is designed to meet PACFA and ACA training requirements.

This subject explores the developmental journey and processes that an individual goes through over a lifespan, from conception to death. It introduces various theories and milestones associated with each life stage and includes multicultural and critical perspectives on development. It will enable students to help individuals understand normal developmental processes, whether in health, education, minstry or people helping fields.

Understanding the principles of psychology is essential for anyone interested in the human mind and behaviour. This subject offers a comprehensive introduction to various psychological models and theories, providing insights into how they shape individual perspectives. By studying topics from developmental to clinical psychology, students will develop advanced critical thinking and learn to integrate psychological concepts into their personal worldview.

Supporting those experiencing grief and loss is crucial for effective counselling. This unit equips students with specialised skills to support individuals navigating these challenging experiences. Students will learn to distinguish between different types of grief and develop tailored intervention strategies, enhancing their ability to empathise and provide essential support within a self-care framework.

Gaining insight into Australian society through a sociological lens is pivotal in understanding the complex influences shaping identity. This unit delves into how cultural and social factors shape personal and community identities. By examining the various structures and facets of society and social policy, students will learn to actively participate in the various social spheres with which they need to engage as practioners.

Understanding group dynamics and community leadership is essential for supporting effective change in group settings. This unit equips students with the skills to lead and develop communities while integrating both sociological and Christian perspectives. Through hands-on experiences, students will learn to manage ethical issues and apply professional standards, preparing them to positively impact community and group work settings.

Gaining insight into mental health conditions is pivotal for providing effective support and intervention. Students in this subject will learn to recognise symptoms, deliver appropriate assistance, and understand the role of the community in supporting mental wellbeing. They will develop skills in treating individuals with empathy, respect, and compassion, while fostering a hopeful and supportive environment.

Gaining a deep understanding of various counselling theories is essential for effective therapeutic practice. This subject provides a comprehensive overview of historical and modern counselling methodologies, from Freudian psychoanalysis to contemporary approaches such as Solution Focused Therapy and Positive Psychology. Students will learn how to critically evaluate different models, reflect on their personal and professional implications, and apply them across diverse therapeutic contexts.

This subject helps to prepare you to work effectively with clients by learning advanced counselling micro-skills and techniques in. With an emphasis on applying micro-skills and evidence-based methods in counselling contexts, you'll learn how to respond to complex needs such as anxiety and stress. This unit aligns with professional practice standards, offering practical, experiential training, that includes role-plays, to continue the development of your interpersonal communication skills.

Understanding ethical and legal frameworks is vital for anyone entering the people helping profession. This subject helps students to understand the ethical principles and legal requirements within their field, in order to confidently manage complex ethical dilemmas. You will learn to apply ethical decision-making models, prioritise self-care, and appreciate the importance of ongoing professional development.

Navigating the transition from theory to practice is critical in any professional field. This subject integrates academic learning with real-world application through a 100-hour supervised placement in a social science-oriented organisation. This experience will help to develop your professional practice skills and self-reflection to ensure continuous professional growth, under the guidance of a professional supervisor.

Integrating theoretical knowledge with practical experience is essential for effective counselling. This unit offers a 100-hour supervised counselling placement through the AC Wellbeing Centre and an external organisation. It allows you to apply prior learning and engage in reflective practice, enhancing your professional competence. This placement will also refine your ability to manage professional relationships and administrative tasks within a real-world counselling setting.

Integrating theoretical knowledge with practical experience is essential to effectively work with young people. This unit offers a 100-hour supervised youth studies placement through a specialised youth organisation. It allows you to apply prior learning and engage in reflective practice, enhancing your professional competence. This placement will also refine your ability to manage professional relationships and administrative tasks within a real-world counselling setting.

Integrating theoretical knowledge with practical experience is essential to effectively work in chaplaincy and pastoral care. This unit offers a 100-hour supervised chaplaincy and pastoral care placement through a chaplaincy organisation. It allows you to apply prior learning and engage in reflective practice, enhancing your professional competence. This placement will also refine your ability to manage professional relationships and administrative tasks within a real-world counselling setting.

Having a basic understanding of trauma and its effects is essential for any professional working within the community. This unit gives an introduction to understanding what constitutes trauma, along a continuum from acute to chronic presentations. Additionally, you will learn about self-care to manage the effects of trauma on the people helper, aiding in longevity and efficacy in this challenging field.

Professional accountability is crucial in developing ethical and effective practice as a counsellor or people helper. This unit is delivered in the same semester as students undertake their supervised field placements and offers weekly group supervision. Students will receive weekly support to help build their assessment and intervention skills, whilst working with actual client’s. The subject meets PACFA's experiential training requirements, focusing on real-world application through case conferences and peer review whilst preparing you to handle professional challenges ethically and effectively, integrating critical reflection and a Christian worldview.

Gaining proficiency in evidenced supported strengths based modalities is important in modern psychological practice. This unit introduces Solution Focused Therapy (SFT) and Positive Psychology, focusing on the methodology of these strengths based approaches and developing skills to implement these across various settings from individual to organisational applications. Students will have the opportunity to develop many specific skills in addition to increasing their ability to integrate techniques from aligned modalities to enhance client engagement and outcomes.

Effective chaplaincy and pastoral care requires an understanding of the diverse settings in which care may be required, as well as the pillars of best practice. By learning the foundational theories and skills needed for chaplaincy and pastoral care, students will develop competence in providing care across a range of circumstances and within a variety of social, cultural and spiritual or religious contexts.

Navigating social and cultural diversity skilfully and considerately is vital in people-helping fields. This subject explores the competencies required to understand and respect diversity within communities, developing empathetic and effective strategies to provide care across socially and culturally diverse contexts. Students will learn to assess and enhance their own social and cultural awareness, whilst developing their social and cultural competence for professional practice.

Gaining proficiency in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is highly beneficial for effective counselling as CBT is still considered the gold standard of evidenced based therapeutic intervention. This unit introduces the foundational theories and practices of CBT, offering students practical skills in applying these techniques across diverse counselling scenarios.

Understanding addictions is pivotal for effective intervention. This unit equips students with knowledge of the dynamics and development of various addictions, from substance abuse to behavioural dependencies. Through examining causes, characteristics, and management strategies, students will learn to identify effective treatment approaches and community resources. They will also explore ethical considerations and develop self-care strategies to maintain their wellbeing in professional counselling settings.

Understanding relationships is foundational for effective therapy. Building on prior knowledge of personality and behaviour, you will delve into the complexities of relational dynamics, including the impact of family backgrounds and life changes such as separation or divorce. Through practical role-plays and evidence-based strategies, you'll learn to navigate and improve various relationship scenarios, preparing you to support clients effectively in maintaining healthy relationships.

Through this unit, students will be provided with an in-depth overview of developmental, psychological, and behavioural aspects crucial to understanding and supporting children and young people. Students will learn to apply theories in an holistic approach, within professional and ethical frameworks. They will also gain skills in working effectively within broader teams, referral networks and support structures to respond to the unique needs of children and adolescents.

Understanding family dynamics is pivotal for effective counselling. This unit offers a comprehensive exploration of family structures and their impacts on individuals. It blends modern and post-modern counselling theories with practical role-play exercises, providing insights into systemic approaches to therapy. You will not only learn to navigate complex family situations but also reflect on how your own family experiences might influence your professional practice.

This unit explores the skills and srategies required to understand and support adolescents through their unique challenges. Students will be introduced to the evolution of adolescence and its implications for both historical and contemporary youth work practices. Students will investigate local youth work sectors, and learn to apply an integrative approach to working with young people.

Navigating youth issues effectively is essential for fostering supportive environments that address the unique challenges faced by young people. This unit delves into contemporary youth issues, exploring how they are perceived and affect both individual lives and broader societal dynamics. Students will develop non-judgemental, empathetic strategies for engaging with young people on critical topics whilst adhering to standards of best practice

Professional accountability is crucial in developing ethical and effective practice as a counsellor or people helper. This unit is delivered in the same semester as students undertake their supervised field placements and offers weekly group supervision. Students will receive weekly support to help build their assessment and intervention skills, whilst working with actual client’s. The subject meets PACFA's experiential training requirements, focusing on real-world application through case conferences and peer review whilst preparing you to handle professional challenges ethically and effectively, integrating critical reflection and a Christian worldview.

Navigating social and cultural diversity skilfully and considerately is vital in people-helping fields. This subject explores the competencies required to understand and respect diversity within communities, developing empathetic and effective strategies to provide care across socially and culturally diverse contexts. Students will learn to assess and enhance their own social and cultural awareness, whilst developing their social and cultural competence for professional practice.

Through this unit, students will be provided with an in-depth overview of developmental, psychological, and behavioural aspects crucial to understanding and supporting children and young people. Students will learn to apply theories in an holistic approach, within professional and ethical frameworks. They will also gain skills in working effectively within broader teams, referral networks and support structures to respond to the unique needs of children and adolescents.

Navigating youth issues effectively is essential for fostering supportive environments that address the unique challenges faced by young people. This unit delves into contemporary youth issues, exploring how they are perceived and affect both individual lives and broader societal dynamics. Students will develop non-judgemental, empathetic strategies for engaging with young people on critical topics whilst adhering to standards of best practice

Foundations of Community Services examines asset-based approaches and core competencies for strengthening communities across diverse contexts including mental health, disability, aged care, and child protection. Students explore culturally responsive practices with Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander communities, trauma-informed care, and multidisciplinary frameworks. The subject emphasizes socio-cultural diversity, ethical practice, and personal worldview awareness while developing sustainable wellbeing strategies for effective community-based practice across the lifespan.

No subjects found in this category.

Work-Integrated Learning

Work-Integrated Learning may be undertaken through various Professional Practice and Professional Experience subjects at AC. These subjects seek to create a direct linkage between the learning, skills and values engaged in lectures, and the reflection which occurs when these are applied in real-life settings. These work-based training subjects comprise of instruction, academic assessment and a placement in a workplace for each subject.

Students are usually required to find their own workplace/ employer/ mentor to be approved by AC. In some cases, a new aspect within a student’s current paid employment may be suitable as a work placement.

More Information

For more information and details of previous course structures see Student Handbook.

*You can also use the Subject & Unit Search to explore the subjects (including electives) available to enrol in for this course and can filter by subject area and level.
For a full list of course dates for new and continuing students, please see our Timetables.

What people say

  • Naomi Jale

    Bachelor of Applied Social Science, Chaplain

    My time at AC has really grounded me in having a biblical approach and worldview and I really appreciate how my lecturers share from a place of genuine experience. After graduating I hope to work in youth or community development where I can bring people together and share Christ's love with them practically. 

  • Brad Middleton

    Master of Arts (Counselling)

    The evidence-based teaching at AC has helped me develop a more intelligent approach when counselling people in sensitive areas such relationship breakdown and addictions. It has really transformed the impact of my ministry.

  • Abigail Comafay

    Bachelor of Applied Social Science

    I was studying the same degree at different university, but then I realised I needed to find a place that aligns with my worldview - after finding Alphacrucis I have never looked back.

  • Learning Outcomes

    Knowledge

    • Understanding and knowledge of historic and current thinking within the social sciences and in-depth ethical, theoretical and practical knowledge about providing informed care to others, as well as a broad and coherent understanding of the dynamic relationship between the two.
    • Broad, coherent and practical knowledge about the underlying principles and concepts for both maintaining currency in their chosen profession and independent lifelong learning as well as the limits inherent in these and their relevance to self-care and professional conduct.

    Skills

    • Able to critically and respectfully debate the nature of self, others and the world in which they live; exercising judgement and the ability to research, analyse, consolidate and synthesise relevant materials from the social sciences to substantiate their claims.
    • Appraise individual and cultural diversity in both development and relationships and the practice implications of these; demonstrate the cognitive, technical and creative abilities to maintain these skills in changing contexts.
    • Display self-awareness and the ability to be self-evaluative.
    • Communicate effectively and creatively, through electronic media, orally and in writing with individuals, families, groups and organisations.

    Application of Knowledge and Skills

    • Demonstrate social responsibility in their engagement with others and by shaping the culture around them in a holistic, ethical, respectful and client focused manner.
    • Able to work independently, exercising responsibility and accountability in matching complex concerns with evidence-based practices.
    • Able to identify and action learning opportunities after reflection on feedback.
    • Develop those specific attributes that prepare them for membership in their chosen professional association and the lifelong learning skills to retain or advance this membership.

    Admission Criteria

    Entry Requirements

    Recent Secondary Education (within the past 2 years)

    Completion of NSW Higher School Certificate (HSC) with an ATAR of 65 or higher (or the completion of the International Baccalaureate or interstate or overseas equivalent qualification and result)

    Special admission is also available for Year 12 students whose ATAR (or equivalent) falls within 5 points of the published guaranteed ATAR but have done well in subjects relevant to the course of study.

    Vocational Education and Training (VET)

    Applicants whose highest level of study after leaving secondary education is a Vocational Education and Training (VET) course must demonstrate the completion of an AQF Level 3 Certificate III or higher by an authorised institution or registered training organisation for admission into this course.

    Higher Education Study

    Completion of an AQF Level 5 Higher Education Diploma (or higher) by an authorised institution.

    Work and Life Experience – Applicants over 21 who do not meet academic requirements

    If you are over the age of 21 at the time of commencement, you can apply for admission into this course on the basis of provisional entry and complete the provisional entry qualifying period to become a full candidate of this course.

    This is an alternate pathway for applicants who do not meet other academic requirements.

    International Students – Language Requirements

    IELTS (or equivalent) Score of 6.5 (with no score below 6.0 in any of the four skills areas).

    Additional Information

    Proof of Identity

    Applicants must submit a proof of identity document for every application. Accepted forms of identification:

    • Birth Certificate
    • Passport (current and valid)

    A supporting document must be submitted in addition to the identity document if an applicant’s name is different on their primary document. (Marriage Certificate or Change of Name Certificate)

    Applicants may be required to provide a certified copy of their identity documents upon request.

    AC does not accept a driver’s license or photo card as sufficient ID.

    Statement of Purpose

    Applicants must submit a Statement of Purpose (minimum 150 words) explaining why you would like to be considered for entry into this course, what relevant experience or previous study you have in this area, what your understanding of the course is, and what it is you hope to gain from studying this course.

    Working With Children Check (WWCC)

    Applicants must provide a valid Working With Children Check (or state-based or overseas equivalent) for admission into this course of study.

    Students will be classified as a ‘volunteer’ in Education.

    Students must also submit a Police Check before enroling into a placement subject.

    How to Apply

    • Get Started

      Read through the admissions criteria and ensure you meet the entry requirements.

    • Apply

      It’s easy! Apply online or contact us and we can help on 1300 228 355.

    • Offer

      We’ll contact you shortly after to confirm your details and help you through the rest of the process.

    Key Dates
    Semester 1
    Term 1
    February / March
    Term 2
    April
    Semester 2
    Term 3
    July / August
    Term 4
    November

    Have a question? We’re here to help.

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