You're viewing degree information for Australian students
You're an Australian student if you are any of the following:
- Australian or New Zealand citizen
- Australian Permanent Resident (including Permanent Humanitarian Visa holders)
Please remember your residency (the country you are currently in) has no impact on whether you are an Australian or International student.
Bachelor of Psychological Science and Sociology
Degree Level Undergraduate
Year 2024
Start Date
January, April, June, September
Duration
3 year(s) full-time
Mode
Online
Time Commitment
10 - 15 hours per week per course
-
View full entry requirements Hide full entry requirements
Entry requirements
Admission criteria
The admission criteria have been grouped to assist you to easily find the information most relevant to your circumstances. However, you may fit into more than one and the university will consider applicants against each of the relevant criteria.
Certain conditions apply. For more information refer to Appendix 4 of the University's Selection and Entry policy.
Applicants are required to meet one of the following criteria with a competitive result:
Higher education study
- Successfully completed equivalent to a minimum of half a year of full-time study of a higher education program at a recognised higher education provider
OR
Vocational Education and Training (VET)- Complete an award from a registered training organisation at Certificate IV or above
OR
Work and life experience (for domestic students only)- Passed a UniSA Online literacy and numeracy test and have relevant work experience, or
- Completed a 12-month UniSA Foundation Studies program or equivalent, or
- Qualify for Special Entry
OR
Recent secondary education- Completed a secondary education qualification equivalent to SACE, such as an interstate year 12 or international qualification
Essential requirements for admission
Prerequisites
NoneAssumed Knowledge
None
Degree overview
- Study the only degree in Australia that formally combines two powerful perspectives on how we live as social beings.
-
Examine connections between human behaviour, social structures and social policy, and discover how these relationships shape individuals, families, communities and organisations.
-
Choose a minor in ageing and disability, and/or criminology.
- Graduate with the skills needed to work as a human services professional in both the government and community sectors.
-
Explore a range of issues like gender and identity, marginalised young people, social divisions and the significance of popular culture in modern society.
-
Prepare yourself for opportunities created by the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
- Study with a university ranked in the Top 10 in Australia for graduate skills in psychology.1
1Ranked #7, ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2021-22, Skills Development Indicator (Undergraduate). Public universities.
Snapshot
Study On Demand – a 100% online psychological science and sociology degree designed specifically for online learning. Take full control over your study - access support seven days a week, plan your study around your life, view learning resources 24/7, and log into the interactive online environment anywhere, any time and on any device.
UniSA’s Bachelor of Psychological Science and Sociology is the only degree of its kind in Australia, formally bringing together two powerful disciplinary perspectives on how we live as social beings.
As a student, you'll be challenged to think deeply about the world we live in as you explore the way individuals, groups and communities behave, think, react and interact. Studying sociology and psychology enables students to consider how these dimensions come together in everyday life.
As a graduate, you'll come out with a complementary skill set that the industry is telling us they need.
The implementation of the National Disability Insurance Scheme, Australia's ageing population and increasing demand for childcare and home-based care services has contributed to a booming sector, which is predicted to show the highest rate of employment opportunities of any industry over the next five years.1
1 2016 employment projections, Dept of Employment
What you'll learn
The Bachelor of Psychological Science and Sociology will give you a solid foundation in the underlying principles and concepts of sociology, social policy and psychology. Professionals who can apply their knowledge from two powerful perspectives in psychological science and sociology can more readily tackle practical problems to support individuals and communities in leading happier, healthier, and more independent lives. In this degree, you will:
- develop specialised knowledge in either ageing and disability and/or criminal justice;
- explore topics such as sociological theory, counselling, social policy analysis and community-based and participatory research methods; and
- solve real-world case studies relevant to the industry.
You'll complete a minor in Ageing and Disability or Criminology; you can also tailor your degree to your interests and broaden your career prospects by choosing from a range of electives. You can select four electives from any of the UniSA Online degrees.
Study hours
Studying 100% online means you can engage with course materials at your own pace, whenever it suits you – there is no need to be online at a particular time. It’s flexible around your life so you can control your study schedule week by week. As a general rule, we recommend 10 to 15 hours of study a week for each course.
Assessment
All assessments, including exams (if required) are 100% online, meaning you’ll never need to travel to submit an assignment or find an exam venue.
Some of your assessments may include:
- an industry-relevant project
- an online presentation
- essays and reports.
Please note, courses may not be displayed in order of study.
, Rule(s): 2
, Rule(s): 1
, Rule(s): 2
, Rule(s): 1
, Rule(s): 2
, Rule(s): 1
, Rule(s): 2
, Rule(s): 1
, Rule(s): 2
-
Electives
Course name Area and cat no. Units Ageing and Disability Minor - refer Rules 1 & 2 UO (Dis)abling Societies: The Sociologies of Ageing and Disability SOCU 2018 4.5 UO Case Management for Consumer Directed Care in Disability and Aged Care WELF 3024 4.5 UO Ageing and Disability Friendly Environments WELF 2021 4.5 UO Disability and Ageing: Diversity and Discrimination WELF 3025 4.5 Criminology Minor - refer Rules 1 & 2 UO Aboriginal Australians, Policing and the Criminal Justice System SOCU 2019 4.5 UO The Psychology of Crime and Violence JUST 3007 4.5 UO Understanding Crime and Criminology BEHL 1035 4.5 UO Human Rights, Crime & Social Justice LAWS 2043 4.5 -
Rules & notes
Rules
Go here to the see the complete UniSA Online electives list.
1. Students must complete four consecutive courses from one of the two Minors of Ageing and Disability or Criminology. Speak to the Student Advisor regarding the sequencing of courses within your chosen minor.
2. Students may use four of the five elective courses to complete the remaining Minor in sequence, OR may choose all five from the UniSA Online electives list subject to pre-requisite requirements and availability. Speak to the Student Advisor regarding the sequencing of courses within your chosen minor.
3. Assessment requirements for this degree include at least one online exam. The online exam software has system compatibility requirements, specifically that tablets, hybrid devices and mobile devices are not supported. Please refer to the online exam requirements prior to conducting your exam to ensure your computer and software is compatible to undertake the exam.
Notes
1. This course is recommended for students who are new to university studies or require development in academic and research skills.
Study Psychological Science and Sociology on Demand
Associate Professor Harry Savelsberg, Discipline Head: Program Development and Innovation, and Richard McInnes, Online Educational Designer: UniSA Online give an insight into what the Psychological Science and Sociology degree is about, and how the degree has been designed to suit busy adults on the go.
Why Bachelor of Psychological Science and Sociology
With an ageing population, and the introduction of new systems like the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), professionals need the skills to adapt to a changing environment.
Informed by the latest developments in the sector, you’ll learn course content that is relevant and up-to-date. As a graduate, you'll come out with a complementary skill needed by government and not-for-profit organisations in human services, psychology, social work, healthcare, and social assistance.
Students have a choice of specialisations in either ageing and disability and/or criminal justice. You’ll have the opportunity to explore topics such as sociological theory, counselling, social policy analysis, as well as community-based and participatory research methods.
You'll learn from award-winning researchers in their field, at a university recognised for its world-class research in psychology, cognitive sciences, and social work1.
1 2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA)
Your career
Professionals in these sectors can expect to work one-on-one with individuals or families, as well as with small to medium community groups such as neighbourhoods, schools and support groups. You may also work at a larger scale, advocating for policy changes on behalf of clients, organisations, or governments.
A UniSA Online Psychological Science and Sociology degree can help you pursue the following careers:
- Disability support coordinator:
Assist people with intellectual and physical disabilities in accessing NDIS services; liaise with a range of stakeholders in order to secure suitable support, including requesting and arranging quotes from service providers; manage and coordinate participant support plans to enable independence in the home and community; consult with carers, family, external services and other key stakeholders to help provide the most well-rounded support available. - Aged care coordinator:
Employ best practice, evidence-based tools in health promotion, person-centred care, and healthy ageing to manage lifestyle programs and activities for the elderly. Provide strong customer service, undertake regular consultation with residents and families, and tailor programs to suit identified client needs. - Community development officer:
Deliver and support a variety of community development and wellbeing initiatives aimed at improving the lives of people from diverse community groups. Work collaboratively with key groups and agencies to develop sustainable partnerships. - Crime prevention officer:
Develop, coordinate and implement a variety of crime prevention, safety and community development programs to reduce local crime. Develop information resources to educate citizens and the general public about crime prevention. - Drug/alcohol caseworker:
Provide support services to people in the community living with drug and alcohol issues. Work with clients to provide specialised support including assessment, intervention and counselling. Contribute to community development initiatives that promote awareness of drug and alcohol services, healthcare and education. - Policy development officer and analyst:
Develop and support the implementation of best practice policies, programs, projects and activities to support overall health and wellbeing at a local, state and national level. Compile qualitative and quantitative data to assess the effectiveness of current policies and regulations, and identify the expected impact of policy changes. Undertake cost-benefit analysis, impact assessments and evaluate projects to address current and emerging issues in the community.
Learn more about your career in Psychological Science >
Industry facts
Enquire now to study with UniSA Online
Control how and when you study with our 100% online degrees.
Your study experience and support
Study On Demand
Our online career-focused degrees give you full control and ultimate flexibility over your study. It’s Study On Demand, on your schedule, on your terms.
- Study 100% online - no need to come onto campus
- Choose from four start dates in January, April, June and September
- Learn in 10-week blocks
- Get support seven days a week - including on weeknights
- Access learning resources 24/7
- View course content before your term starts
- Work while you study
- Plan your study schedule ahead of time
- Fast-track your studies and receive credit for past study and/or work experience.
Why UniSA Online?
Our graduates get jobs
UniSA is ranked as the number one university in Australia for graduate employability.1 Join a university known for its employment outcomes. Your UniSA Online degree is more than just a piece of paper – it will prepare you to start your career or take it to the next level.
Specifically designed for online learning
Our team of academic and online experts have created interactive and media-rich course material using innovative digital technology and state-of-the-art teaching and learning resources. Every degree has been specifically designed for online learning to ensure you graduate with the skills and knowledge for your future career.
Backed by industry
Every UniSA Online degree is overseen by an experienced industry advisory board. We've also consulted with industry experts with a wealth of experience to design course content that reflects the most cutting-edge developments in your field. Our industry connections will enrich your online study experience - you'll be presented with industry problems that real organisations face. You'll also gain the skills and knowledge that industry are telling us they need in graduates.
Expand your professional network from wherever you are
Online study doesn’t mean studying on your own. You’ll connect with a community of other like-minded students – you’ll be able to share, debate and collaborate ideas through virtual classrooms, online chat, video conferencing, and online communication tools.
1 QILT Employer Satisfaction Survey, 2020-22 – Employability Skills Indicator. Public universities.
Student support
Studying can be challenging, especially when you’re also juggling work and other life commitments. You’re not studying 9-5, Monday to Friday, which is why we provide personalised, extended hour support services – including on weekends – so you can get help when you need it.
Dedicated Student Adviser support
Our Student Advisers will be an important part of your student journey – they’ll help you enrol, discuss your study goals, communication preferences, and will be your first point of call for all your general study questions. They’ll link you to an extensive range of support services and resources across the University and will help schedule appointments with specialised services if required.
Online academic support seven days a week
You’ll be supported by our highly experienced academic team of Online Course Facilitators and Online Tutors. Our academics will guide you through your learning and ensure you have an outstanding, high-quality education.
They can help you with your course materials and assessments, provide feedback on your work, assist you with referencing as well as answer any other course-specific queries. You’ll be able to contact your academics via email, online discussion forums and live messages in the online learning environment. You can also communicate in real-time and chat face-to-face with your academics online.
24/7 tech support
Our IT Help Desk is available 24/7 to provide assistance with your computer set up, student email, software requirements and other UniSA apps and student applications. You’ll be able to get support no matter what time it is.
24/7 digital environment
Our interactive online environment is a one-stop shop for all your study needs. You’ll be able to track your progress through the student dashboard, plan your study schedule, receive reminders on due dates for tasks and assessments, as well as collaborate and network with a community of other like-minded students.
Using innovative technology in online education, your study experience will be highly personalised based on your learning activities throughout your degree. Just like your own personal study coach, you’ll get tailored feedback to enhance your learning outcomes and ensure you’re successful in your studies.
What others are saying
I chose UniSA Online because of the flexibility it offers. I can work when I need to, fit in study when I can, and the best part is I can do it from anywhere. If I run into any problems or need help with my course work there is support instantly. It’s made progressing through my degree so much easier.
Joe Denman
Bachelor of Psychological Science and Sociology
.jpg)
IT Requirements
As a general rule of thumb, any desktop or laptop computer purchased in the past three years should be capable of meeting your online learning needs. While mobile devices such as tablets and smartphones will be able to access most of your online course content, there are likely to be elements of most courses where we recommend you use a desktop or laptop computer. Your computer should be able to:
- run a modern browser (Microsoft Edge, Firefox 24, Safari 5, or Chrome 32 or later versions)
- run Java
- run programs to create documents, spreadsheets and presentations
- use a web camera and headset (or ear pods with microphone)
- Some UniSA Online degrees require an online exam. The online exam software – Remote Proctor Now – has specific capability requirements. Please refer to the system requirements prior to conducting your exam to ensure your computer is compatible.
Access free IT software and resources
As a UniSA Online student, you'll:
- Get free access to the full Office 365 ProPlus suite, which includes full versions of Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook, OneNote, Publisher, Access and Lync software. Install the full suite on up to five different devices (PC and Mac compatible).
- Get 1Tb of personal storage that syncs with your PC or mobile device through OneDrive - it's like an extra hard drive that allows you to open any of your files from any of your devices, whenever you need them.
- Get free access to LinkedIn Learning - Access more than 5000 video courses on a broad range of topics such as: the Microsoft Office suite, time management and study skills, health and wellbeing, communication and presentation skills, photography, film making and designing your own games or mobile apps.
- Be able to connect with others using Microsoft Teams, Yammer and the Outlook Web App.
There are some degrees that have specialised software requirements. We've made this software available to students to access for free - you'll be able to download and install any of the required programs on your own device anywhere and anytime. See if your degree requires specialised software.
Check your device
Our computer system test will determine if your device has the base system resources and software required to study online. It'll also check the speed of your internet connection.
See if your computer, laptop or device is all set up and ready to go – it takes just a few seconds.
The application process is easy – just follow these simple steps:
-
Check your eligibility
Take our eligibility checker and answer a few short questions to see if you’re eligible. You’ll be given an option to continue your application, save it for later or request a call back from a Degree Adviser if you have any questions. -
Gather your relevant documents
If you're eligible, you'll receive an email outlining the entry requirements and the relevant documentation you need in order to be considered.
In order to verify your academic qualifications, you'll need to upload relevant documents like your official parchment, certificates or transcripts. If you have work experience, you will need to upload your CV as well as any other documents like work references, professional recognition or accreditation or your training certification.
Your email will contain information on the specific documents you need to provide as well as a link to log in to your application. You'll be asked to create an account and set your own password. -
Complete your application and send through your documents
In order to proceed with your conditional offer, you’ll need to complete your application and provide required evidence of your previous study or work experience.
Alternative Pathways
Australian
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including:
- UniSA College Diploma in Social Sciences (Psychology)
- UniSA College Undergraduate Certificate in University Studies (Social Sciences)
Online Course Facilitator
I hold a degree in Psychology and a Masters of International Studies from UniSA and have been a practicing academic for over five years. I have found that online students are better engaged, and develop a more complex understanding of content as well as establish networks that will go beyond their education.
-
When should I apply?
UniSA Online degrees start four times a year in January, April, June and September. There are key application dates for each term. If you're looking to apply for credit, there are different closing dates you need to be aware of, so it's always best to double check. Key dates can be found at unisaonline.edu.au/key-dates.
-
Do I have to be online at set times?
All of our courses are asynchronous, meaning you choose when to study, whenever it suits you. However, if your degree has online exams, you will need to sit these at a designated date and time. Some courses may also require you to speak to your academics via phone or online communication channels at a mutually agreed time as part of your assessment.
-
What academic support is available?
Our academics are available seven days a week, including weeknights. Throughout your degree, you’ll be supported by our highly experienced academic team of Online Course Facilitators and Online Tutors. Our academics will guide you through your learning and ensure you have an outstanding, high-quality education.
They can help you with your course materials and assessments, provide feedback on your work, assist you with referencing, and can answer any other course-specific queries.
You’ll be able to contact your academics via email, online discussion forums and live messages in the online learning environment. You can also communicate in real-time and chat face-to-face with your academics online.
If you need after-hours learning support, Studiosity is a great resource that can help you with your writing, academic language, grammar and referencing. You’ll also be able to chat online with a Studiosity online adviser.
-
How is my degree structured?
Full-time students study two courses each term. It makes earning a degree completely achievable, especially if you’re working. Your degree is delivered over four terms each year. Each term runs for ten weeks with two-week breaks in between each term.
You’ll also have the option to go part-time, or switch between the two. If you need to take a break in your study, that’s an option too. We recommend speaking to your Student Adviser who can help you update your study plan and check when your courses are offered.
-
What career prospects do I have with my university qualification?
Our degrees are designed in conjunction with industry experts, employers and professional associations, and informed by the latest developments in your field. You will graduate with in demand skills and up-to-date knowledge required by industry.
You will be studying with a university known for its employment outcomes. Your UniSA degree is more than just a piece of paper – it will prepare you to start your career, or take it to the next level. UniSA's online students have graduate employment rates well above the national average.*
UniSA Online qualifications follow the same Government Higher Education Standards Framework as our on-campus degrees. The parchment you receive at the end of your degree will be the same as any other University of South Australia student.
*UniSA External UG full-time employment rate 83% Graduate Outcomes Survey 2018
-
What are the main differences between online, on-campus and distance education?
The knowledge you gain from each mode of study is the same – it's how you get there that's different. When you study online, everything from your course material to weekly activities and assessments are fully online. You'll communicate with academic staff and students via live messages, online discussion forums and email.
Studying on campus requires students to physically come on to campus at specific times to attend lectures, tutorials and practicals. On-campus students have face-to-face contact with academics and fellow students and also communicate via email and online discussion boards.
Distance Education involves physical course material packages being sent to students, usually print based but occasionally audio or video. Communication is usually via telephone, mail and email. In today’s digital era, distance education has been superseded by online education.