Rachel had always felt drawn to roles where she could support others—working as an executive assistant, events coordinator, and church administrative pastor. Her roles were fulfilling, yet something was missing. She knew she had a natural gift for administration, but she wanted to channel that gift into something that aligned with her passion for helping others who could not help themselves. That’s when she heard about the Bachelor of Applied Social Science at Alphacrucis University College.
“I felt it aligned with my values and my passions,” she recalls. “So after much back and forth, whether I would do it, I decided to enrol in the Bachelor of Applied Social Science, and I studied part-time.”
Finding Purpose in Faith and Service
Rachel didn’t know it then, but her decision to study at Alphacrucis would open doors she never imagined. The Bachelor of Applied Social Science wasn’t just a degree; it was a gateway to a world where her skills and compassion were in high demand.
Though she initially knew little about case management, the path God led her down proved to be life-changing. By the time she completed her degree, Rachel had been promoted from a casework support role to a case manager position at Anglicare. Now, she is entrusted with case management for nine foster children, ranging from young children to an older teenager. In this role, Rachel feels she has truly found her purpose—combining her faith and her passion for helping vulnerable children. Her impact is profound, providing a listening ear and a steadfast presence, embodying the love and compassion of Jesus in her work every day.
Spiritual and Professional Growth
Rachel’s story is not unique—many students at Alphacrucis University College find themselves on a similar journey. What begins as a passion for helping others often leads to a rewarding career, where the skills and knowledge gained through their studies allow them to make a real difference in the lives of those they serve.
Take Brad Middleton, for example. A pastor in Western Australia with over 20 years of ministry experience, Brad decided to pursue a Master of Counselling at Alphacrucis to better serve his congregation.
“The evidence-based teaching at AC has helped me develop a more intelligent approach when counselling people in sensitive areas such as relationship breakdown and addictions. It has really transformed the impact of my ministry.”
Now in his middle age, he finds that the skills he learned in his counselling studies not only made him more effective in his pastoral role—such as in marriage counselling—but also opened up opportunities for bi-vocational ministry, allowing him to serve both his church and the wider community.
Or consider Caleb Dwyer, Senior Pastor of Generosity Church in Bathurst, NSW. Caleb sought to deepen his ministry and leadership through the Master of Counselling program. He found the course transformative, enabling him to better lead his team of campus pastors and to provide more empathetic, informed counsel to those in his care.
These stories illustrate the unique intersection of spiritual and professional development that Alphacrucis fosters. The caring and social assistance sector in Australia is currently experiencing unprecedented growth, expanding at double the rate of other professions. The Australian government is investing heavily in this area, recognising the critical need to support those who are unable to support themselves due to age, sickness, disability, mental health challenges, or marginalisation. This rapid growth presents a unique opportunity to take a passion for helping others and turn it into a profession that is both fulfilling and in demand.
What is Applied Social Science?
But what exactly is Applied Social Science, and how can it lead to a career that you love?
At Alphacrucis University College, Applied Social Science is more than just an academic discipline; it’s a bridge between theory and practice. This interdisciplinary field combines the study of human behaviour, societal influences, and social systems with hands-on experience and real-world application. Every lecturer at Alphacrucis is a practitioner—actively working as a psychologist, counsellor, or chaplain—ensuring that students receive an education that is not only rich in knowledge but also deeply rooted in practical experience.
The curriculum is meticulously designed to prepare students for roles where empathy, ethical practice, and practical skills are essential. Whether you aim to become a counsellor, chaplain, care worker, or case manager, Alphacrucis equips you with the tools and qualifications needed to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others. The learning environment is supportive and nurturing, founded on the firm belief that we are all made in the image of a God who loves and serves others before being served.
Where to Begin?
So, you’re ready to dive into the world of Applied Social Science—but where do you start? Alphacrucis University College offers a range of options tailored to your experience and career aspirations.
If you’re a first-time university student, the Bachelor of Applied Social Science is your perfect entry point. This program provides a comprehensive foundation, covering essential subjects like “Principles of Psychology,” “Cognitive Behavioural Theories and Therapies,” “Counselling Theories,” and “Chaplaincy and Pastoral Care.” With this degree, you’ll graduate ready to step into roles in case management, social work, chaplaincy, or counselling—equipped with both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills that employers are looking for.
Already have some experience or previous study under your belt? Alphacrucis offers a suite of postgraduate courses designed to deepen your expertise and sharpen your focus. The Graduate Diploma of Applied Social Science is ideal for those looking to specialise in areas such as counselling, chaplaincy, or pastoral care. This one-year program includes foundational subjects like “Psychology of Emotion and Wellbeing” and “Interpersonal Communication Skills,” and allows for electives like “Case Management” or “Grief and Loss.”
Perhaps you’re interested in focusing on a niche area? Consider the Graduate Certificate in Trauma Counselling to specialise in helping those affected by trauma, or the Graduate Certificate in Professional Supervision to develop leadership in counselling practices. The Graduate Certificate in Wellbeing Studies is perfect if you’re drawn to promoting holistic health and wellbeing.
For an even more comprehensive qualification, the Master of Counselling program provides the depth and breadth needed for advanced professional practice in counselling and leadership in the field. These programs are tailored for those who are serious about making a significant impact in their careers and in the lives of others.
Get Started
And if you’re looking for flexibility, Alphacrucis has you covered. You can study full-time or part-time, with a hybrid of online and face-to-face classes. Whether you’re starting fresh or advancing in your career, Alphacrucis University College provides the pathway that fits your life and goals.
With the growing demand for skilled professionals in mental health, wellbeing, and social services, there’s never been a better time to equip yourself with Applied Social Science qualifications from Alphacrucis University College. Our programs are recognised and accredited by leading bodies like the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) and the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA), ensuring that your credentials are well regarded throughout Australia.
Ready to take the first step? Connect with us and explore the range of programs at Alphacrucis University College and find the path that’s right for you. Your journey towards a fulfilling and impactful career starts here.
