Bachelor of Social Science majoring in Ageing and Disability
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    Bachelor of Social Science majoring in Ageing and Disability

    University of Adelaide
    University of Adelaide
    Australia
    Australia, Adelaide
    Go to Official Website
    Duration3 year(s)
    Tuition Fee
    AUD 31,018 / year(s)
    Next IntakeJuly 5, 2026
    Bachelor of Social Science majoring in Ageing and Disability

    About

    Our Bachelor of Social Science majoring in Ageing and Disability equips you for a career with real purpose in the human services field. You’ll gain a deep understanding of the role of human services in enabling individuals who are older and those living with disability to gain and maintain independence and quality of life as well as contribute to society.

    Learn how to compassionately assess the needs of individuals who are older and people living with disability so you can identify appropriate resources and supports. Discover how to effectively navigate and work with major systems, including the NDIS and My Aged Care, to ensure individuals receive the assistance and support they’re entitled to. Examine the unique challenges, issues and concerns relevant to these populations alongside key legislation and policies.

    Sharpen your professional skills in our state-of-the-art social work and human service studios under the guidance of our experienced teaching staff. Gain crucial skills in designing and managing human services projects through a capstone course in your final year. You’ll also complete up to 560 hours of placement in a real human services organisation.

    All of these experiences come together to ensure you’ll graduate with the expertise to thrive in your human services career.

    You can also choose to study this program at our regional campuses in Mount Gambier and Whyalla.

    Requirements

    Entry Requirements

    To be eligible, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum entry requirements and demonstrate they fulfil any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission. In cases where there are more eligible applicants than available places, admission will be competitive with ranks based on the entry criteria.

    Secondary education (Year 12)

    • Completion of a secondary education qualification equivalent to the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE).

    Vocational Education and Training (VET)

    • Completion of an award from a registered training organisation (RTO) at certificate IV (AQF level 4) or higher.

    Higher education study

    • Successful completion of at least 6 months full-time study (or equivalent part-time) in a higher education award program.

    English Program Requirements

    IELTS Overall 6.5 | IELTS Reading 6 | IELTS Listening 6 | IELTS Speaking 6 | IELTS Writing 6

    Career

    Career outcomes

    Human services workers connect people in need to the supports that empower them to more fully participate in their own lives and contribute to their communities. Human services roles vary depending on the specific needs of the individuals they support. Broadly speaking, they undertake assessments to understand an individuals unique support needs, aspirations and then connect them with relevant resources and services – empowering them to make informed decisions about their support.

    You could work as a case manager, coordinating access to support services for individuals living with disabilities. Maybe you’ll take on a role as a community outreach worker, designing programs that enhance social connection for citizens who are older. Perhaps you’ll join a holistic care team in a rehabilitation clinic, assisting individuals transition from acute health systems to at-home community living.

    You can pursue careers in many different sectors and contexts, including:

    • Aged care facilities
    • Advocacy groups
    • Community organisations
    • Disability service providers
    • Healthcare facilities
    • Residential care settings
    • Schools and educational institutions
    • Social services agencies
    • Transitional housing programs
    • Youth development programs.

    Industry trends

    We’re living longer than ever before. In fact, by 2066, older Australians will make up over 20% of the total population (AIHW, 2024). Likewise, 5.5 million Australians are living with disability (Carers Australia, 2023). These figures, combined with increased government funding and expansion of services in both the aged care and disability sectors, means the demand for qualified human services professionals has never been higher (Hall & Willcox, 2024).

    There is a growing emphasis on personalised and consumer-driven services in both aged care and disability services. A greater prioritisation of individual needs and preferences, and the centring of client voices, is leading to more tailored and specialised service offerings. For clients of age care, this is reflected in the Australian Government’s Aged Care Act – which assists Australians who are older to regain and maintain their independence by accessing services at home. For people living with disability, there has been an increase in funding and services available through the NDIS (Hall & Willcox, 2024).

    At Adelaide University, you’ll learn to deliver evidence-based, high-quality services and start your leadership journey in these growing sectors.

    Accreditation

    This program is accredited by Community Work Australia (CWA).

    Graduates are eligible for membership of CWA.

    Fee Information

    Tuition Fee
    31,018 / year(s)
    Bachelor of Social Science majoring in Ageing and Disability
    University of Adelaide
    University of Adelaide
    Australia

    Australia, Adelaide

    Go to Official Website