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

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 award-winning researchers, and gain hands-on experience in our on-campus Social Work Studios. 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 psychological issues, which will open up additional and more diverse employment opportunities.

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.

You can gain an extra qualification and broaden your career prospects by completing a Diploma in Languages.

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. If you think you've got what it takes, the employment opportunities are excellent and the demand for graduates is high1, with graduating students finding work in a wide range of fields. Careers to consider:

• community development officer: employed by a city, neighbourhood or other municipality to ensure 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 in need; family support workers are often employed by adoption agencies, protective service agencies, or family services organisations

You could further improve your employment prospects by continuing your studies with a one-year Bachelor of Arts (Honours) degree or a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) degree.

1Australian Government Department of Employment, Occupational Employment Projections 2015