Complex Communication Needs,GC-COMCN

Overview

The Graduate Certificate in Complex Communication Needs is designed for those passionate about fostering robust communication support systems. This course addresses the nuances of creating person-centred systems that enhance communication for both children and adults who benefit from additional communication supports.

You’ll explore the complexity of how to integrate augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) in systems of support, emphasising the importance of autonomous communication. With a blend of theory and practical insights, learners will be equipped to not just understand but also shape the narrative around complex communication needs.

Whether you're a healthcare professional, an educator, or a policymaker, with the Graduate Certificate in Complex Communication Needs, you are primed to make a significant difference in the lives of those with communication support needs.

Boost your career

With the rising demand in the disability sector, this course positions you to lead the way in ensuring communication accessibility.

Transition to specialised roles

If you're looking to specialise in complex communication needs, this course provides a comprehensive foundation to develop your expertise and skills.

What you'll learn

• critically analyse and evaluate contemporary understanding of the concepts and principles supporting quality of life utilising human rights frameworks and a biopsychosocial model, with a focus on enhanced wellbeing, co-regulation and proactive supports that meet underlying needs.
• identify, analyse and discriminate the range of individual, social and environmental factors that contribute to the experiences and underlying needs of people with communication support needs or behaviour that can be seen to be of concern.
• understand and apply skills in a practice leadership role, coaching the support networks of people who have communication support needs, to develop multimodal communication strategies that are meaningful and accessible.
• assess and facilitate implementation of evidenced based supports that are person centred and build the capability of support networks and environments.
• understand and develop practical skills in addressing the complexity of accessing language and autonomous communication via AAC for children and adults who experience multiple barriers to typical language and communication development.
• recognise potential or current aversive, abusive or restrictive practices within the field of Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) and communication support.
• demonstrate advanced knowledge and critical appreciation of the impact of values, system culture, beliefs, attitudes and ethical principles on the understanding of people’s underlying needs, neurodiversity, human rights, behaviour and communication support needs.
• apply skills in developing the capability of support networks to build and implement communication and literacy accessible environments to enhance quality of life through informed decision making, consent, self-advocacy and relationships.

Entry requirements

English requirements

Curtin requires all applicants to demonstrate proficiency in English. Specific English requirements for this course are outlined in the IELTS table below.

You may demonstrate English proficiency using the following tests and qualifications.

Have your supporting documents to hand, and ensure they meet our guidelines. The documents may include certified copies of your qualifications, English language proficiency documents and supplementary forms for certain courses.

If your documents are not issued in English, an official translation from a recognised translation service must be provided.

Recognised translation services

• National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters (NAATI) accredited translator in Australia
• The Awarding institution
• A Notary Public Office
• The official Government body
• An official and accredited translator*

*Official translations are subject to review.

If you have undertaken previous study or work that matches the content of some of your Curtin course units, you may be able to obtain credit for recognised learning, which exempts you from studying those units.

You can apply direct online through our Applicant Portal. You can access the Applicant Portal by:

1. Navigating to the relevant course page
2. Click ‘Apply now’
3. When the pop-up window appears, select “Apply directly to Curtin University”.

If you want to package your course with a Curtin English course, you can submit your application with your course application documents to streamline the process.

If your application is successful, you will receive an offer that you will need to accept or reject.

If you accept your offer, you will receive a Confirmation of Enrolment ­– a document from Curtin that details your course, how long you will be studying the course, and the tuition fees. This document can be used for acquiring a student visa.

Apply to the Australian government for your student visa. Gaining a student visa will allow you to participate in full-time study in Australia and work up to 40 hours in a fortnight. If you’re under 18 years of age, you must have approved accommodation and welfare arrangements in place before a visa can be issued.

See our pre-departure resources for helpful information regarding your move to Perth.