Up to 156 weeks
On Campus
Domestic Students
International Students
Yes
24
Current
Yes
Jan/May/Sept
The Bachelor of Human Services is a professional, integrated and comprehensive human services course that offers comprehensive up to date knowledge and experience discipline-specific, practical and applied training. From core learning and the development of critical skills and thinking, through to the development of ethical practice and professionalism, you’ll emerge as a competent practitioner.
You will expand and practice applying your knowledge through latest case studies, unique problem solving, group collaboration, essays, practical exercises, unique professional placements, action research, and quizzes.
You will become a ‘work-ready’ graduate with acquired knowledge and experience in all aspects of contemporary human services. You’ll gain both depth and breadth in human services as well as study more specialised options.
As a graduate of EQUALS you will:
The Bachelor of Human Services is recognised by the *Australian Community Workers Association.
The Bachelor of Human Services includes two shorter award courses, or nested courses:
Diploma in Human Services– Students who have successfully completed the first 8 units of the Bachelor of Human Services may enrol in or exit with the Diploma.
Human services play a critical role in society. It is an expanding field that serves people of all cultures and contexts and so it looks to employ qualified staff from all cultures and contexts. When you have finished your studies, you will be qualified to join the Australian Community Workers Association (ACWA) and to work as a Human Services practitioner within this expanding sector.
The EQUALS Bachelor of Human Services has been provisionally accredited by ACWA. ACWA course accreditation standards have been set by a panel of educationalists, employers and practitioners who have worked with ACWA to determine the specific training and education needs of community workers and students. This recognition by the ACWA is the mark of educational quality in Australia’s community services sector (ACWA 2022).
The Bachelor of Human Services provides you with a broad and cohesive knowledge of key theories and practice relevant to the human services for application in a range of professional contexts and to instil a commitment to sustainable practice and ongoing professional development and learning.
Graduates of the Bachelor of Human Services will be able to:
The human services sector is a vital part of any vibrant community and offers a wide variety of opportunity and career pathways both in Australia and internationally. People seeking a career in the human services sector seek to create positive change through better access to health and wellbeing services. They have a curiosity to learn and to adapt to our changing world. Most importantly, they demonstrate a commitment to serve others.
A number of factors in Australia are contributing to a need for more Bachelor of Human Services graduates:
Job opportunities are strong with growing demand for human service graduates in a range of areas. Human Service graduates can consider careers such as:
Types of career advancement jobs when you have 3 or more years of work experience after you graduate:
Types of employers and services where you may work include:
Academic and English language Entry Requirements are available here.
Qualify for Special Entry
Applicants in any category whose study, work or life experiences have been impacted by disability, illness or family disruption will be given special consideration for admission. Each application will be considered on its merit, based on the evidence supplied by the applicant attesting to the circumstances of the applicant.
Applicants for special entry may need to complete written or numerical tasks to assist with assessing eligibility for admission.
Interview
Applicants participate in an admissions interview in person or via a web-based video meeting. This is an important opportunity to meet an Admissions Advisor who will spend time understanding your application and career goals. It is also an ideal opportunity to ask questions and learn more about student life at EQUALS.
Applicants participate in an admissions interview in person or via a web-based video meeting. This is an important opportunity to meet an Admissions Advisor who will spend time understanding your application and career goals. It is also an ideal opportunity to ask questions and learn more about student life at EQUALS.
Regardless of your nominated entry pathway, you are required to support your application by demonstrating your capacity to meet the academic, ethical and participation demands of your program of choice at interview or, where requested by Admissions staff, through a written statement of purpose (SoP).
English Language proficiency requirements are applicable to international students and in addition to academic or special entry requirements noted in the Entry Requirements section. Discover English language Entry Requirements.
On Campus
Graduates of the Bachelor of Human Services course will be professional practitioners who:
As a graduate you will be:
EQUALS is a registered Higher Education Provider under the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Act 2011 and the Bachelor of Human Services is accredited by the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA).
Provider registration number: PRV14279
Course ID: CRS1400640
The Bachelor of Human Services is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework
The Bachelor of Human Services has received provisional accreditation with the Australian Community Workers Association (ACWA).
Each trimester study period has 12 weeks of class time, with 5 weeks between the last class date and the start date of the next trimester. For units with exams, these are held in the week after the study week after classes end.
Intake trimester start and end dates are as per the three year published academic calendar for that year and study period. Classes may be subject to change, subject to student numbers.
Please find the current Academic Calendar here.
Please refer to the Extended Course Information for details on Entry Requirements.
EQUALS adopts a simple approach to tuition fees. This means that most additional incidental costs (other than those specified in the annual Fee Schedule) are covered in the tuition fee. This makes budgeting and paying for your studies simpler.
GST is not applicable for accredited higher education courses.
Tuition fees are subject to annual review and adjustment. Actual tuition fees payable are the fees published prior to the commencement of each academic year for that year.
Access the Fee Schedule (Tuition and Non-Tuition) on the provided link or on the Forms and Downloads page.
The Bachelor of Human Services is FEE-HELP approved for eligible students.
The FEE-HELP Loan scheme is a loan program designed to help eligible students enrol and gain a quality higher level Higher Education and Training at EQUALS who could not otherwise afford to pay fees upfront.
Please feel free to ask us a question to find out more, or if you’re ready, please submit an online Application for enrolment by clicking here.
If you have any questions about this course please feel free to contact an Admissions Advisor at admissions@equals.edu.au providing your preferred contact details and we will get back to you as soon as practicable. Expressions of Interest for a particular course of study can be made at any time.
Applications are typically assessed within a 5 day period however delays may apply in peak periods.
Your application for admission is assessed by an Admissions Advisor.
Applicants who apply to undertake a course of study must submit certified documentary evidence to demonstrate that they meet the published entry requirements of their chosen course. An original or certified copy of documentation must be provided and sighted by the Admissions Advisor.
Qualifications submitted in a language other than English must be accompanied by a certified official translation.
Where there is any doubt about the authenticity of any documentation provided, the Admissions Advisor may correspond with the issuer of the document and make relevant enquiries.
All non-standard (non-typical) applications and their assessment are validated by the Academic Director.
Students may apply to take a leave of absence from a course (defer) for up to 12 months in duration. International students can only access a leave of absence during a course in limited circumstances (compassionate and compelling circumstances) including:
It’s really important for you to be familiar with the policies and procedures so that you can be sure to notify EQUALS within the appropriate time and in the correct way. This helps ensure that you won’t be financially or academically penalised if it can be avoided.
For more details please refer to Enrolment Variation Policy and Procedure.
If you have completed formal studies in a similar area or have work experience you may be eligible for credit through a recognition for prior learning pathway.
Read through the Credit for Prior Learning Policy and Procedure carefully and consider your readiness to apply. When ready, you may submit an Application webform together with your supporting evidence.
If you wish to be granted credit for prior study or learning, please apply for credit for recognition of prior learning on the associated form with your application for enrolment.
If you are made an offer to study at EQUALS, you will receive a Letter of Offer which will include step-by-step details on how to accept your offer. This Letter of Offer is based on the documented evidence provided and subject to the application meeting the published entry criteria. It is important that you carefully read and understand the Letter of Offer. Any conditions of the offer are clearly specified in the Letter of Offer.
If you have any questions, please contact an Admissions Advisor at +61 8 8110 1200 or by email at admissions@equals.edu.au.
Applications are assessed in accordance with the Student Selection and Admissions Policy and Procedure.
Your enrolment may be cancelled if statements made by you in your application for enrolment are proven to be false.
You will be deemed to be no longer enrolled in a course if you have been excluded on academic or disciplinary grounds.
EQUALS has established an appeal process to ensure that academic/non-academic student concerns (or matters) are treated in a transparent, timely and just manner. EQUALS ensures that you have access to a fair and equitable process for dealing with grievances and provides an avenue for you to appeal against decisions that might affect your progress.
An applicant may appeal against a decision to refuse admission to a course. The grounds for appeal are that the decision is inconsistent with EQUALS’ policy. Appeals must be made in writing and lodged with the Academic Director within twenty working days of the applicant receiving written notification of the decision to refuse their application.
The Academic Director responds in writing to the appeal within twenty working days and may confirm or vary the decision. All decisions made by the Academic Director regarding appeals are reviewed by the Board of Directors (Non-Academic grievances) or the Academic Board (Academic grievances).
If an applicant remains dissatisfied with the outcome of their appeal against a decision to refuse admission to a course they may utilise EQUALS’ Student Grievance Handling Policy and Procedure (Academic and Non-Academic).
Following enrolment and prior to commencing the course, you’ll be invited to attend a compulsory, comprehensive Student Orientation program.
The Orientation program will introduce you to EQUALS and orient you to various aspects of life and study with EQUALS, including:
EQUALS staff are available to support you, both before you enrol and following your enrolment. You can chat with us via live web chat or alternatively contact a Student Services Advisor by submitting a Student Services Support Ticket.
Our support services include:
Additional external information can be found at the following websites:
EQUALS makes no claim to ownership of intellectual property created by students in the course of their studies.
The student representative feedback important actions and news monthly to the class managers and the students via the student newsletter and social media.
Student Representation on the Academic Board
Students are represented on EQUALS’ Academic Board and on the Learning and Teaching Committee to provide input about the learning and teaching environment and any other matters that directly, or indirectly, affect students. This provides a mechanism for students to participate in the academic decision-making processes at EQUALS.
Students are advised of how they can nominate to become a member of the Academic Board as part of their Induction and Orientation program.
Student Representatives
Student Representatives are elected by students, for students. They are also an important communication link between student and the management at EQUALS. Student Representatives should be:
Student Representatives participate in regular meetings with key leadership staff and contribute to the overall operations and direction of EQUALS.
Available here.
We also recommend that you familiarise yourself with the documents on the Policies and Procedures page so that you understand your obligations and rights and our obligations to you.
Work Integrated Learning (WIL) placements are a vital and exciting part of your Bachelor of Human Services course. This section contains comprehensive information about your placement.
Please be aware that WIL placements as timetabled every second trimester are a compulsory component of your course.
Your timetable preserves Thursdays and Fridays for you to undertake your practice placement (Prac) study load.
Each Prac A and B are equivalent to a full time unit of study of 10 credit points across 12 weeks and are timetabled together, with some scheduled classes for follow up and direct learning making them a double unit together in one study period or 20 credit points.
This enables flexibility for negotiating actual Prac hours with the Work Integrated Learning (WIL) partner. EQUALS endeavours to arrange required placement hours to fit both your host and your own preferences as best as practicable.
What EQUALS does for you:
| Duration | 528 Professional Practice Placement hours over two 20 credit point units – undertaken at 16 hours per week in every second study period which add up to the total of 720 study hours including scaffolded tutorials and assessments throughout. |
| Timing | Placements are undertaken in every second study period. |
| Academic Prerequisites | See the appropriate Study Guide |
| Other Requirements | Complete the prerequisite subject PRAC 100 (this provides orientation to practicum units overall) |
| Placement settings and fields of practice | o Two placements must be in different fields of practice and with different organizations. o At least one placement must entail direct service delivery |
| Documentation for police and screening checks | https://screening.dcsi.sa.gov.au/screening-process/how-to-apply |
| Conduct while on placement | You are expected to follow: o Policies and procedures in this manual. o EQUALS Student Code of Conduct. o Placement WIL Partner Policies and procedures. o ACWA Code of Ethics. o The EQUALS Student Placement Agreement. |
| Class participation | Integration seminars and tutorials. |
| Supervision | Provided through: o Work Integrated Learning Partner Supervisor-a qualified human service/welfare worker with a minimum of two years’ experience. o Facilitator – a Professional Practice Placement Coordinator. |
| Learning and assessment | o Professional Practice Placement Learning Agreement. o Hours Log. o Mid/Final Placement Assessment Report. Assessment pieces (refer to Study Guide) which may include seminars, tutorial activities, reflective journal, essays, case studies, practice-based plans, exams, client assessment reports, group program development. |
Work Integrated Learning Experience Requirements
Academic
Students must pass the prerequisite units before beginning placement.
Three Professional Practice Placement Units
In order to receive the award of a Bachelor of Human Services degree, students must complete the following units and are directed to the respective Study Guides for unit specific information:
PRAC 100: Professional Practice Placement Introductory
PRAC 200: Professional Practice Placement Intermediate
PRAC 300: Professional Practice Placement Advanced
Placement Duration
In fulfilment of placement requirements, students complete a total of 528 hours which consists of the following:
PRAC 100 120 hours 16 hours per week
PRAC 200 204 hours 16 hours per week
PRAC 300 204 hours 16 hours per week
Hours must be completed during the WIL Partner’s normal working hours provided and to a maximum of 8 hours per day. Any hours worked over this should be taken as time in lieu during the placement period according to the WIL Partner policies.
Placement Timing
Placements are offered in trimester 2, trimester 4 and trimester 6. Placements have to be completed within one teaching period. Small variations including extensions may be approved by the Professional Practice Placement Coordinator.
Placement Setting
The following are essential requirements:
As a general rule, WIL Partners do not accept students who have been former service users and do not accept students who have relatives or partners working in the same office or in senior positions in the WIL Partner.
WIL Partners
EQUALS maintains a range of professional relationships with WIL Partners across the sectors including disability, health, ageing, early childhood education and youth.
Screening Checks
EQUALS requires higher education students to undergo a screening check for five types of screening prior to commencement of placement. These types of screening are: child related employment, disability services employment, aged care sector employment, vulnerable person employment and general employment probity.
Students are required to have a current Screening Check clearance letter prior to the commencement of the Professional Practice Placement. It is the student’s responsibility to ensure that the clearance letter remains current for the duration of the placement. The Placement Coordinator can assist the student with this application process.
Further information can be obtained from the DCSI website at:
http://screening.dcsi.sa.gov.au/screening-process/how-to-apply
Please visit the WIL Hub on EQOnline for further placement related questions and documentation requirements.
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Reach us and let's start talking.
EXTENDED COURSE INFORMATION
On Campus
The Bachelor of Human Services is a professional, integrated and comprehensive human services course that offers comprehensive up to date knowledge and experience discipline-specific, practical and applied training. From core learning and the development of critical skills and thinking, through to the development of ethical practice and professionalism, you’ll emerge as a competent practitioner.
You will expand and practice applying your knowledge through latest case studies, unique problem solving, group collaboration, essays, practical exercises, unique professional placements, action research, and quizzes.
You will become a ‘work-ready’ graduate with acquired knowledge and experience in all aspects of contemporary human services. You’ll gain both depth and breadth in human services as well as study more specialised options.
As a graduate of EQUALS you will:
The Bachelor of Human Services is recognised by the *Australian Community Workers Association.
The Bachelor of Human Services includes two shorter award courses, or nested courses:
Diploma in Human Services– Students who have successfully completed the first 8 units of the Bachelor of Human Services may enrol in or exit with the Diploma.
Human services play a critical role in society. It is an expanding field that serves people of all cultures and contexts and so it looks to employ qualified staff from all cultures and contexts. When you have finished your studies, you will be qualified to join the Australian Community Workers Association (ACWA) and to work as a Human Services practitioner within this expanding sector.
The EQUALS Bachelor of Human Services has been provisionally accredited by ACWA. ACWA course accreditation standards have been set by a panel of educationalists, employers and practitioners who have worked with ACWA to determine the specific training and education needs of community workers and students. This recognition by the ACWA is the mark of educational quality in Australia’s community services sector (ACWA 2022).
The Bachelor of Human Services provides you with a broad and cohesive knowledge of key theories and practice relevant to the human services for application in a range of professional contexts and to instil a commitment to sustainable practice and ongoing professional development and learning.
Graduates of the Bachelor of Human Services will be able to:
Intakes occur in Jan/May/Sept
Important: To be considered for an intake, completed applications should be received no later than 30 days prior to the scheduled course commencement date. Applications that are incomplete or incorrect may not be considered. Course offers for applications received by the due date are not guaranteed and intake capacity may vary. EQUALS reserves the right to accept or decline applications at its total discretion.
Academic and English language Entry Requirements are available here.
Qualify for Special Entry
Applicants in any category whose study, work or life experiences have been impacted by disability, illness or family disruption will be given special consideration for admission. Each application will be considered on its merit, based on the evidence supplied by the applicant attesting to the circumstances of the applicant.
Applicants for special entry may need to complete written or numerical tasks to assist with assessing eligibility for admission.
Interview
Applicants participate in an admissions interview in person or via a web-based video meeting. This is an important opportunity to meet an Admissions Advisor who will spend time understanding your application and career goals. It is also an ideal opportunity to ask questions and learn more about student life at EQUALS.
Applicants participate in an admissions interview in person or via a web-based video meeting. This is an important opportunity to meet an Admissions Advisor who will spend time understanding your application and career goals. It is also an ideal opportunity to ask questions and learn more about student life at EQUALS.
Regardless of your nominated entry pathway, you are required to support your application by demonstrating your capacity to meet the academic, ethical and participation demands of your program of choice at interview or, where requested by Admissions staff, through a written statement of purpose (SoP).
English Language proficiency requirements are applicable to international students and in addition to academic or special entry requirements noted in the Entry Requirements section. Discover English language Entry Requirements.
Location: This course is delivered at the Adelaide campus.
Full time study duration:
The course structure: This course has 14 core units; 4 elective units and 3 trimesters of timetabled professional practice placement, which involves 528 hours of supervised placement across the second and third years of standard study mode. This enables graduates to qualify for ACWA membership at the end of their course. View a copy of the Course Diagram.
Professional practice placements represent the equivalent of one (10 credit point) unit in each of the Study Periods they appear.
In the first year, the course includes the following core, foundational units:
As part of your first-year studies, you will have the opportunity to engage with a broad range of Human Services organisations that are engaged in serving our local community. This exposure to what is a highly diverse sector will prepare you for professional practice industry placements in your second and third year.
Practical placement units occur in the fourth and sixth trimester of the course, or as negotiated, authorised alternative in special circumstances.
A minimum of 400 hours of equivalent practical placements is required to meet the professional experience requirements for registration with the Australian Community Workers Association (ACWA).
Graduates of the Bachelor of Human Services course will be professional practitioners who:
As a graduate you will be:
EQUALS is a registered Higher Education Provider under the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Act 2011 and the Bachelor of Human Services is accredited by the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA).
Provider registration number: PRV14279
Course ID: CRS1400640
The Bachelor of Human Services is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework
The Bachelor of Human Services has received provisional accreditation with the Australian Community Workers Association (ACWA).
The human services sector is a vital part of any vibrant community and offers a wide variety of opportunity and career pathways both in Australia and internationally. People seeking a career in the human services sector seek to create positive change through better access to health and wellbeing services. They have a curiosity to learn and to adapt to our changing world. Most importantly, they demonstrate a commitment to serve others.
A number of factors in Australia are contributing to a need for more Bachelor of Human Services graduates:
Job opportunities are strong with growing demand for human service graduates in a range of areas. Human Service graduates can consider careers such as:
Types of career advancement jobs when you have 3 or more years of work experience after you graduate:
Types of employers and services where you may work include:
Each trimester study period has 12 weeks of class time, with 5 weeks between the last class date and the start date of the next trimester. For units with exams, these are held in the week after the study week after classes end.
Intake trimester start and end dates are as per the three year published academic calendar for that year and study period. Classes may be subject to change, subject to student numbers.
Please find the current Academic Calendar here.
Please refer to the Extended Course Information for details on Entry Requirements.
EQUALS adopts a simple approach to tuition fees. This means that most additional incidental costs (other than those specified in the annual Fee Schedule) are covered in the tuition fee. This makes budgeting and paying for your studies simpler.
GST is not applicable for accredited higher education courses.
Tuition fees are subject to annual review and adjustment. Actual tuition fees payable are the fees published prior to the commencement of each academic year for that year.
Access the Fee Schedule (Tuition and Non-Tuition) on the provided link or on the Forms and Downloads page.
The Bachelor of Human Services is FEE-HELP approved for eligible students.
The FEE-HELP Loan scheme is a loan program designed to help eligible students enrol and gain a quality higher level Higher Education and Training at EQUALS who could not otherwise afford to pay fees upfront.
Please feel free to ask us a question to find out more, or if you’re ready, please submit an online Application for enrolment by clicking here.
If you have any questions about this course please feel free to contact an Admissions Advisor at admissions@equals.edu.au providing your preferred contact details and we will get back to you as soon as practicable. Expressions of Interest for a particular course of study can be made at any time.
Applications are typically assessed within a 5 day period however delays may apply in peak periods.
Your application for admission is assessed by an Admissions Advisor.
Applicants who apply to undertake a course of study must submit certified documentary evidence to demonstrate that they meet the published entry requirements of their chosen course. An original or certified copy of documentation must be provided and sighted by the Admissions Advisor.
Qualifications submitted in a language other than English must be accompanied by a certified official translation.
Where there is any doubt about the authenticity of any documentation provided, the Admissions Advisor may correspond with the issuer of the document and make relevant enquiries.
All non-standard (non-typical) applications and their assessment are validated by the Academic Director.
Students may apply to take a leave of absence from a course (defer) for up to 12 months in duration. International students can only access a leave of absence during a course in limited circumstances (compassionate and compelling circumstances) including:
It’s really important for you to be familiar with the policies and procedures so that you can be sure to notify EQUALS within the appropriate time and in the correct way. This helps ensure that you won’t be financially or academically penalised if it can be avoided.
For more details please refer to Enrolment Variation Policy and Procedure.
If you have completed formal studies in a similar area or have work experience you may be eligible for credit through a recognition for prior learning pathway.
Read through the Credit for Prior Learning Policy and Procedure carefully and consider your readiness to apply. When ready, you may submit an Application webform together with your supporting evidence.
If you wish to be granted credit for prior study or learning, please apply for credit for recognition of prior learning on the associated form with your application for enrolment.
If you are made an offer to study at EQUALS, you will receive a Letter of Offer which will include step-by-step details on how to accept your offer. This Letter of Offer is based on the documented evidence provided and subject to the application meeting the published entry criteria. It is important that you carefully read and understand the Letter of Offer. Any conditions of the offer are clearly specified in the Letter of Offer.
If you have any questions, please contact an Admissions Advisor at +61 8 8110 1200 or by email at admissions@equals.edu.au.
Applications are assessed in accordance with the Student Selection and Admissions Policy and Procedure.
Your enrolment may be cancelled if statements made by you in your application for enrolment are proven to be false.
You will be deemed to be no longer enrolled in a course if you have been excluded on academic or disciplinary grounds.
EQUALS has established an appeal process to ensure that academic/non-academic student concerns (or matters) are treated in a transparent, timely and just manner. EQUALS ensures that you have access to a fair and equitable process for dealing with grievances and provides an avenue for you to appeal against decisions that might affect your progress.
An applicant may appeal against a decision to refuse admission to a course. The grounds for appeal are that the decision is inconsistent with EQUALS’ policy. Appeals must be made in writing and lodged with the Academic Director within twenty working days of the applicant receiving written notification of the decision to refuse their application.
The Academic Director responds in writing to the appeal within twenty working days and may confirm or vary the decision. All decisions made by the Academic Director regarding appeals are reviewed by the Board of Directors (Non-Academic grievances) or the Academic Board (Academic grievances).
If an applicant remains dissatisfied with the outcome of their appeal against a decision to refuse admission to a course they may utilise EQUALS’ Student Grievance Handling Policy and Procedure (Academic and Non-Academic).
Following enrolment and prior to commencing the course, you’ll be invited to attend a compulsory, comprehensive Student Orientation program.
The Orientation program will introduce you to EQUALS and orient you to various aspects of life and study with EQUALS, including:
EQUALS staff are available to support you, both before you enrol and following your enrolment. You can chat with us via live web chat or alternatively contact a Student Services Advisor by submitting a Student Services Support Ticket.
Our support services include:
Additional external information can be found at the following websites:
EQUALS makes no claim to ownership of intellectual property created by students in the course of their studies.
The student representative feedback important actions and news monthly to the class managers and the students via the student newsletter and social media.
Student Representation on the Academic Board
Students are represented on EQUALS’ Academic Board and on the Learning and Teaching Committee to provide input about the learning and teaching environment and any other matters that directly, or indirectly, affect students. This provides a mechanism for students to participate in the academic decision-making processes at EQUALS.
Students are advised of how they can nominate to become a member of the Academic Board as part of their Induction and Orientation program.
Student Representatives
Student Representatives are elected by students, for students. They are also an important communication link between student and the management at EQUALS. Student Representatives should be:
Student Representatives participate in regular meetings with key leadership staff and contribute to the overall operations and direction of EQUALS.
Available here.
We also recommend that you familiarise yourself with the documents on the Policies and Procedures page so that you understand your obligations and rights and our obligations to you.
On Campus
EXTENDED COURSE INFORMATION
On Campus
The Bachelor of Human Services is a professional, integrated and comprehensive human services course that offers comprehensive up to date knowledge and experience discipline-specific, practical and applied training. From core learning and the development of critical skills and thinking, through to the development of ethical practice and professionalism, you’ll emerge as a competent practitioner.
You will expand and practice applying your knowledge through latest case studies, unique problem solving, group collaboration, essays, practical exercises, unique professional placements, action research, and quizzes.
You will become a ‘work-ready’ graduate with acquired knowledge and experience in all aspects of contemporary human services. You’ll gain both depth and breadth in human services as well as study more specialised options.
As a graduate of EQUALS you will:
The Bachelor of Human Services is recognised by the *Australian Community Workers Association.
The Bachelor of Human Services includes two shorter award courses, or nested courses:
Diploma in Human Services– Students who have successfully completed the first 8 units of the Bachelor of Human Services may enrol in or exit with the Diploma.
Human services play a critical role in society. It is an expanding field that serves people of all cultures and contexts and so it looks to employ qualified staff from all cultures and contexts. When you have finished your studies, you will be qualified to join the Australian Community Workers Association (ACWA) and to work as a Human Services practitioner within this expanding sector.
The EQUALS Bachelor of Human Services has been provisionally accredited by ACWA. ACWA course accreditation standards have been set by a panel of educationalists, employers and practitioners who have worked with ACWA to determine the specific training and education needs of community workers and students. This recognition by the ACWA is the mark of educational quality in Australia’s community services sector (ACWA 2022).
The Bachelor of Human Services provides you with a broad and cohesive knowledge of key theories and practice relevant to the human services for application in a range of professional contexts and to instil a commitment to sustainable practice and ongoing professional development and learning.
Graduates of the Bachelor of Human Services will be able to:
Intakes occur in Jan/May/Sept
Important: To be considered for an intake, completed applications should be received no later than 30 days prior to the scheduled course commencement date. Applications that are incomplete or incorrect may not be considered. Course offers for applications received by the due date are not guaranteed and intake capacity may vary. EQUALS reserves the right to accept or decline applications at its total discretion.
Academic and English language Entry Requirements are available here.
Qualify for Special Entry
Applicants in any category whose study, work or life experiences have been impacted by disability, illness or family disruption will be given special consideration for admission. Each application will be considered on its merit, based on the evidence supplied by the applicant attesting to the circumstances of the applicant.
Applicants for special entry may need to complete written or numerical tasks to assist with assessing eligibility for admission.
Interview
Applicants participate in an admissions interview in person or via a web-based video meeting. This is an important opportunity to meet an Admissions Advisor who will spend time understanding your application and career goals. It is also an ideal opportunity to ask questions and learn more about student life at EQUALS.
Applicants participate in an admissions interview in person or via a web-based video meeting. This is an important opportunity to meet an Admissions Advisor who will spend time understanding your application and career goals. It is also an ideal opportunity to ask questions and learn more about student life at EQUALS.
Regardless of your nominated entry pathway, you are required to support your application by demonstrating your capacity to meet the academic, ethical and participation demands of your program of choice at interview or, where requested by Admissions staff, through a written statement of purpose (SoP).
English Language proficiency requirements are applicable to international students and in addition to academic or special entry requirements noted in the Entry Requirements section. Discover English language Entry Requirements.
Location: This course is delivered at the Adelaide campus.
Full time study duration:
The course structure: This course has 14 core units; 4 elective units and 3 trimesters of timetabled professional practice placement, which involves 528 hours of supervised placement across the second and third years of standard study mode. This enables graduates to qualify for ACWA membership at the end of their course. View a copy of the Course Diagram.
Professional practice placements represent the equivalent of one (10 credit point) unit in each of the Study Periods they appear.
In the first year, the course includes the following core, foundational units:
As part of your first-year studies, you will have the opportunity to engage with a broad range of Human Services organisations that are engaged in serving our local community. This exposure to what is a highly diverse sector will prepare you for professional practice industry placements in your second and third year.
Practical placement units occur in the fourth and sixth trimester of the course, or as negotiated, authorised alternative in special circumstances.
A minimum of 400 hours of equivalent practical placements is required to meet the professional experience requirements for registration with the Australian Community Workers Association (ACWA).
Graduates of the Bachelor of Human Services course will be professional practitioners who:
As a graduate you will be:
The human services sector is a vital part of any vibrant community and offers a wide variety of opportunity and career pathways both in Australia and internationally. People seeking a career in the human services sector seek to create positive change through better access to health and wellbeing services. They have a curiosity to learn and to adapt to our changing world. Most importantly, they demonstrate a commitment to serve others.
A number of factors in Australia are contributing to a need for more Bachelor of Human Services graduates:
Job opportunities are strong with growing demand for human service graduates in a range of areas. Human Service graduates can consider careers such as:
Types of career advancement jobs when you have 3 or more years of work experience after you graduate:
Types of employers and services where you may work include:
Each trimester study period has 12 weeks of class time, with 5 weeks between the last class date and the start date of the next trimester. For units with exams, these are held in the week after the study week after classes end.
Intake trimester start and end dates are as per the three year published academic calendar for that year and study period. Classes may be subject to change, subject to student numbers.
Please find the current Academic Calendar here.
Please refer to the Extended Course Information for details on Entry Requirements.
EQUALS adopts a simple approach to tuition fees. This means that most additional incidental costs (other than those specified in the annual Fee Schedule) are covered in the tuition fee. This makes budgeting and paying for your studies simpler.
GST is not applicable for accredited higher education courses.
Tuition fees are subject to annual review and adjustment. Actual tuition fees payable are the fees published prior to the commencement of each academic year for that year.
Access the Fee Schedule (Tuition and Non-Tuition) on the provided link or on the Forms and Downloads page.
The Bachelor of Human Services is FEE-HELP approved for eligible students.
The FEE-HELP Loan scheme is a loan program designed to help eligible students enrol and gain a quality higher level Higher Education and Training at EQUALS who could not otherwise afford to pay fees upfront.
Please feel free to ask us a question to find out more, or if you’re ready, please submit an online Application for enrolment by clicking here.
If you have any questions about this course please feel free to contact an Admissions Advisor at admissions@equals.edu.au providing your preferred contact details and we will get back to you as soon as practicable. Expressions of Interest for a particular course of study can be made at any time.
Applications are typically assessed within a 5 day period however delays may apply in peak periods.
Your application for admission is assessed by an Admissions Advisor.
Applicants who apply to undertake a course of study must submit certified documentary evidence to demonstrate that they meet the published entry requirements of their chosen course. An original or certified copy of documentation must be provided and sighted by the Admissions Advisor.
Qualifications submitted in a language other than English must be accompanied by a certified official translation.
Where there is any doubt about the authenticity of any documentation provided, the Admissions Advisor may correspond with the issuer of the document and make relevant enquiries.
All non-standard (non-typical) applications and their assessment are validated by the Academic Director.
Students may apply to take a leave of absence from a course (defer) for up to 12 months in duration. International students can only access a leave of absence during a course in limited circumstances (compassionate and compelling circumstances) including:
It’s really important for you to be familiar with the policies and procedures so that you can be sure to notify EQUALS within the appropriate time and in the correct way. This helps ensure that you won’t be financially or academically penalised if it can be avoided.
For more details please refer to Enrolment Variation Policy and Procedure.
If you have completed formal studies in a similar area or have work experience you may be eligible for credit through a recognition for prior learning pathway.
Read through the Credit for Prior Learning Policy and Procedure carefully and consider your readiness to apply. When ready, you may submit an Application webform together with your supporting evidence.
If you wish to be granted credit for prior study or learning, please apply for credit for recognition of prior learning on the associated form with your application for enrolment.
If you are made an offer to study at EQUALS, you will receive a Letter of Offer which will include step-by-step details on how to accept your offer. This Letter of Offer is based on the documented evidence provided and subject to the application meeting the published entry criteria. It is important that you carefully read and understand the Letter of Offer. Any conditions of the offer are clearly specified in the Letter of Offer.
If you have any questions, please contact an Admissions Advisor at +61 8 8110 1200 or by email at admissions@equals.edu.au.
Applications are assessed in accordance with the Student Selection and Admissions Policy and Procedure.
Your enrolment may be cancelled if statements made by you in your application for enrolment are proven to be false.
You will be deemed to be no longer enrolled in a course if you have been excluded on academic or disciplinary grounds.
EQUALS has established an appeal process to ensure that academic/non-academic student concerns (or matters) are treated in a transparent, timely and just manner. EQUALS ensures that you have access to a fair and equitable process for dealing with grievances and provides an avenue for you to appeal against decisions that might affect your progress.
An applicant may appeal against a decision to refuse admission to a course. The grounds for appeal are that the decision is inconsistent with EQUALS’ policy. Appeals must be made in writing and lodged with the Academic Director within twenty working days of the applicant receiving written notification of the decision to refuse their application.
The Academic Director responds in writing to the appeal within twenty working days and may confirm or vary the decision. All decisions made by the Academic Director regarding appeals are reviewed by the Board of Directors (Non-Academic grievances) or the Academic Board (Academic grievances).
If an applicant remains dissatisfied with the outcome of their appeal against a decision to refuse admission to a course they may utilise EQUALS’ Student Grievance Handling Policy and Procedure (Academic and Non-Academic).
Following enrolment and prior to commencing the course, you’ll be invited to attend a compulsory, comprehensive Student Orientation program.
The Orientation program will introduce you to EQUALS and orient you to various aspects of life and study with EQUALS, including:
EQUALS staff are available to support you, both before you enrol and following your enrolment. You can chat with us via live web chat or alternatively contact a Student Services Advisor by submitting a Student Services Support Ticket.
Our support services include:
Additional external information can be found at the following websites:
EQUALS makes no claim to ownership of intellectual property created by students in the course of their studies.
The student representative feedback important actions and news monthly to the class managers and the students via the student newsletter and social media.
Student Representation on the Academic Board
Students are represented on EQUALS’ Academic Board and on the Learning and Teaching Committee to provide input about the learning and teaching environment and any other matters that directly, or indirectly, affect students. This provides a mechanism for students to participate in the academic decision-making processes at EQUALS.
Students are advised of how they can nominate to become a member of the Academic Board as part of their Induction and Orientation program.
Student Representatives
Student Representatives are elected by students, for students. They are also an important communication link between student and the management at EQUALS. Student Representatives should be:
Student Representatives participate in regular meetings with key leadership staff and contribute to the overall operations and direction of EQUALS.
Available here.
