Arts - Ageing and Pastoral Studies

The Bachelor of Arts in Ageing and Pastoral Studies at Charles Sturt University offers a comprehensive education designed to prepare students for meaningful careers supporting aging populations within diverse community and care settings. This program combines disciplines such as social sciences, pastoral care, health, and community work to equip graduates with the skills necessary to address the complex needs of older adults, their families, and the wider community. Through a curriculum that emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application, students explore topics including the sociology of ageing, ethical considerations in aged care, spiritual and pastoral support, and community engagement strategies. The program aims to foster critical thinking, intercultural awareness, and compassionate communication skills essential for working effectively in aged care, hospice services, community chaplaincy, and related sectors. Students have opportunities to participate in field placements, internships, and community projects, allowing them to gain real-world experience and build professional networks during their studies. Additionally, the program encourages an interdisciplinary approach, integrating insights from psychology, health sciences, and theology to develop well-rounded practitioners. Graduates from this program will be prepared to support older adults holistically, respecting their dignity and diversity while promoting well-being and social inclusion. The Bachelor of Arts in Ageing and Pastoral Studies also prepares students for further postgraduate studies, careers in pastoral ministry, community development, healthcare, and aged care administration. With a strong focus on ethical practice and social justice, this program aligns with the university’s mission to serve community needs and advance knowledge in the fields of ageing and pastoral care.

The Bachelor of Arts in Ageing and Pastoral Studies at Charles Sturt University is designed to prepare students for meaningful careers supporting older adults and their communities. This comprehensive program offers a multidisciplinary approach, integrating knowledge from arts, social sciences, health, and pastoral care to equip graduates with the skills necessary to address the complex needs of aging populations. Throughout the course, students explore topics such as the social, psychological, and spiritual aspects of aging, as well as ethical considerations, policy development, and practical interventions.

The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application. Students engage in coursework covering topics like lifespan development, aged care practices, community engagement, and pastoral counseling techniques. The program also includes opportunities for hands-on experience through internships, community projects, and field placements, allowing students to apply their learning in real-world settings. Emphasis is placed on person-centered care, cultural sensitivity, and supporting diverse communities.

Throughout their studies, students will develop essential skills in communication, empathy, and ethical decision-making. They will learn to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams and provide pastoral and emotional support to older adults. The program also prepares graduates for roles in aged care facilities, community organizations, healthcare settings, pastoral ministries, and policy agencies.

By the end of the program, students will be equipped to advocate for the wellbeing of aging populations, contribute to the development of age-friendly communities, and implement best practices in pastoral care and social support. The Bachelor of Arts in Ageing and Pastoral Studies combines academic theory, practical skills, and compassionate understanding to foster professionals capable of making a positive difference in the lives of older individuals and their families.

• Undergraduate Level in Theology, Social Work, Psychology or equivalent
• Or Charles Sturt's Graduate Diploma of Ageing and Pastoral Studies (or equivalent)

The Arts - Ageing and Pastoral Studies program at Charles Sturt University offers a range of financing options to support students throughout their academic journey. Tuition fees vary depending on factors such as residency status, mode of study (full-time or part-time), and specific course choices. Domestic students may be eligible for government-supported programs like HECS-HELP, which allows for deferred payment of tuition fees through income-contingent loans, making higher education more accessible financially. International students are required to pay tuition fees upfront or through approved payment plans; fees are generally higher for international students compared to domestic students, reflecting the university’s policy to support equitable access.

In addition to tuition fees, students should consider additional costs associated with their studies, including textbooks, learning materials, student services and amenities, and personal living expenses if studying on campus or relocating. The university’s website provides detailed fee structures annually, and prospective students can access fee calculators to estimate their total costs.

Financial aid options extend beyond government loans. Scholarships are available based on academic merit, financial need, or specific demographic criteria such as Indigenous status, rural or remote location, or particular fields of interest like pastoral caregiving and ageing. Applicants are encouraged to explore external scholarship opportunities provided by government bodies, charitable foundations, and industry organizations relevant to health, pastoral care, and social services sectors.

Charles Sturt University offers payment plans to help students manage their tuition fees more flexibly, including installment options that spread payments across the academic year. For students facing financial hardship, the university provides access to financial counselling and support services to explore options such as emergency grants, work-study opportunities, and long-term financial planning.

Work-integrated learning components of the program, such as placements and internships, might also be subsidized or supported through funding arrangements or stipends in certain circumstances, further aiding students financially. Overall, students are encouraged to contact the university’s financial aid office early in their application process to receive tailored advice and assistance in navigating the available financing options.

The Bachelor of Arts in Ageing and Pastoral Studies at Charles Sturt University is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for meaningful careers in aged care, pastoral ministry, community services, and related fields. This degree combines core studies in arts and humanities with specialized coursework focused on aging, pastoral care, counselling, ethics, and community engagement. The program aims to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and compassionate understanding necessary to support older adults and their families, as well as to provide spiritual and emotional support within diverse communities.

Throughout the course, students explore topics such as the social aspects of aging, psychological considerations, health promotion, and spiritual well-being, preparing them to work effectively with aging populations. The program emphasizes practical experience, with opportunities for internships, community placements, and hands-on learning. This ensures that graduates are not only theoretically knowledgeable but also practically equipped to handle real-world challenges in their professional roles.

The curriculum also covers pastoral studies, equipping students with essential skills in pastoral care, counselling, religious studies, and community engagement. These components prepare graduates to work in various settings, including churches, aged care facilities, community organizations, and health services. The program promotes an understanding of ethical issues and cultural sensitivities associated with caring for diverse populations.

The degree is flexible, with part-time and online study options available to accommodate working professionals or those with other commitments. It is suitable for individuals interested in making a positive impact in the lives of older adults and fostering community well-being through spiritual and pastoral support. Graduates of this program are prepared for roles such as pastoral carers, aged care coordinators, community development workers, and spiritual support providers.

Overall, the Bachelor of Arts in Ageing and Pastoral Studies is a valuable qualification for those passionate about the well-being of older generations and committed to providing compassionate, holistic care rooted in ethical and pastoral principles. It reflects Charles Sturt University's commitment to community service, ethics, and comprehensive education in areas vital to societal health and well-being.