This degree is only available to Australian students
You're considered an Australian student if you are any of the following:
- Australian or New Zealand Citizen
- Australian Permanent Resident (including Humanitarian Visa holders)
Bachelor of Psychological Science and Sociology
Degree Level Undergraduate
Year 2019
Start Date
January, April, July, September
Duration
3 year(s) full-time
Mode
Online
Time Commitment
10 - 15 hours per week per course
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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- Passed a UniSA Online literacy and numeracy test and have relevant work experience, or
- Completed a UniSA Foundations 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
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Examine connections between human behaviour, social structures and social policy, and understand how these relationships shape organisations, communities, families and individuals.
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Choose to focus your studies on ageing and disability, and/or criminology; and graduate with a broad skill set in demand by employers in the growing area of human services.
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Explore a range of issues like gender and identity, marginalised young people, social divisions and the significance of popular culture in modern society.
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Gain a unique qualification that combines the study of psychology and sociology – it’s the only degree of its kind in Australia.
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Be prepared for opportunities created by the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
- Top 10 in Australia for Psychology1
12019 THE Subject Rankings.
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 can tailor your degree to your interests and broaden your career prospects with the choice 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.
We have some great tools that will help you organise your study schedule. Your personalised learning planner allows you to keep on top of assessments and study workload while managing work and personal commitments.
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.
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Electives
Course name Area and cat no. Units Ageing and Disability Minor - refer Rules 2 & 3 UO Age and Disability Friendly Environments WELF 2021 4.5 UO Disability and Ageing: Diversity and Discrimination WELF 3025 4.5 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 Criminology Minor - refer Rules 2 & 3 UO Aboriginal Australians, Policing and the Criminal Justice System SOCU 2019 4.5 UO Sociology of Crime and Deviance SOCU 2020 4.5 UO Criminology and Public Policy LAWS 2036 4.5 UO Human Services Workers and the Law JUST 3004 4.5 -
Rules & notes
Rules
Go here to the see the complete UniSA Online electives list.
1. This course is common to all UniSA Online degrees and will be offered multiple times each year to enable students to commence their program of study at any time. Students who are studying part-time must take this course first before they study any other courses in their chosen degree. Students who are studying full time may take this course and one other course in the same study period.
2. 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.
3. Students may take four courses from the remaining Minor in sequence, OR may choose four courses 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
4. 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. Recognition for prior learning (RPL) may be granted for this course to students who have completed relevant work experience as per the UniSA Online RPL framework. Further credit will be assessed in line with the UniSA RPL policy.
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 and social work1.
1 2015 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA)
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 >
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.
- 100% online - no need to come onto campus
- Four start dates in January, April, July and September
- Learn in 10-week blocks
- 24/7 access to learning resources
- Online student support services seven days a week
- All content available from the start of your course
- Flexible around your life
- Plan your study schedule ahead of time
- Online credit check
Why UniSA Online?
Our graduates get jobs
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. In fact, UniSA undergraduates studying online have graduate employment rates well above the national average1.
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.
1Graduate Outcomes Survey 2017
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 tutor support seven days a week
Our tutors provide highly personalised support tailored to your needs. Along with guidance on assignments, they’ll provide advice on writing and referencing. If you have a question related to your course, you can expect to receive a response within 24 hours. Tutors are available seven days a week, including weeknights.
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
"This degree really appealed to me as it offered a wide subject base around the disciplines of psychology and sociology. I’m excited about where this degree will take me – it will open us so many doors in different directions – I just have to choose which one!"
Kate Lingard
Bachelor of Psychological Science and Sociology
Industry facts
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 (Internet Explorer 10, Firefox 24, Safari 5, or Chrome 32 or later versions)
- run Java, and in some cases Flash (devices running on Apple's iOS operating system, such as iPads, iPhones, do not run Flash)
- 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 Lynda.com - 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 Skype for Business, 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.
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.
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. - Receive your conditional offer
Once you complete the eligibility checker, you’ll receive an email with your conditional offer to start studying with UniSA Online. It will have all the information you need to complete your application. - 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
- complete the UniSA College Foundation Studies
- complete the UniSA College Diploma in Arts
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When should I apply?
UniSA Online degrees start four times a year in January, April, June and September and admissions are open all year round. You can apply immediately or at least a few weeks before the Study Period you wish to start in.
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Are there set times where I'll have to be online?
All of our courses are asynchronous, meaning you choose when to study, whenever it suits you. However, if your degree has exams, you will need to sit these at a designated date and time. Some courses will also have a requirements to speak to your tutor via phone/skype at a mutually agreed time as part of your assessment.
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Does studying online mean studying on my own?
A common myth about studying online is that you are on your own. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Our 24/7 interactive learning environment will connect you with a community of other like-minded students and provide forums for you to share, debate and collaborate ideas with your peers and tutors.
You’ll have access to a number of online communication tools that facilitate student-to-student interactions and online ‘study groups’:
- Chat to Online Course Facilitators through interactive forums
- Interact in real time with other students in your degree
- Hold virtual study groups with students who live interstate
- Access chat facilities within the online learning platform
Just because you are studying online, doesn’t mean you miss out on face-to-face interaction – our staff use video calls and online communication tools to communicate with students. Our team of Student Advisers offer live online webinars for enrolment, orientation and tips for online study.
You’ll also be connected to our team of student advisers, tutors and support staff who will help you stay on course, providing personalised one-to-one assistance all the way from enrolment to graduation. Help is just a call or click away.
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How flexible is my degree?
You’ll be able to dial up and down your studies to fit study into your life. You can choose to study 1 or 2 courses each term, or take a term off if you’re busy with work and personal commitments. If there are times when you can’t meet assessment due dates because of other commitments, we’ll work with you individually, on a case by case basis to assess your requirements and make alternative arrangements.
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What sort of career prospects do I have with an online 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. In fact, we’re ranked in the top ten in Australia for external student full time employment.
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.
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What are the main differences between online, on-campus and distance education?
The knowledge you will gain from each type of education method will be the same, it's just how you get there that's different. Online means that your course material will be delivered via the internet and you will communicate with tutors and fellow students via this method as well as over the phone/skype. You can also study in your own time at your own pace.
On Campus teaching requires you to come on campus at specific times to attend lectures, tutorials and practicals. You will also have additional reading to do from home. You will have face to face contact with your tutor and fellow students but might also use email and online discussion boards for communication.
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.