Child and Adolescent Welfare

The Master of Child and Adolescent Welfare is made for those wishing to progress their professional training and their knowledge within the area of welfare of adolescents or children.

The Bachelor of Child and Adolescent Welfare at Charles Sturt University is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience necessary to support the well-being of children and adolescents across various settings. Throughout the course, students explore a wide range of topics including child development, family dynamics, social policies, mental health, and welfare practices, gaining a deep understanding of the complex factors that influence young people's lives. The curriculum combines theoretical learning with practical applied skills, enabling students to work effectively with children, young people, families, and communities. Students undertake supervised field placements to apply their knowledge in real-world environments, fostering confidence and competence in areas such as child protection, youth services, and community development. Emphasis is placed on promoting positive outcomes for children and adolescents by addressing issues such as mental health challenges, behavioral difficulties, and socio-economic disadvantages. The program also covers topics related to ethics, diversity, and legal frameworks governing child welfare, preparing students to navigate complex situations responsibly and professionally. Graduates of this program are prepared to pursue careers in child and youth services, social work, community health, education, and government agencies involved in child welfare programs. With a strong foundation in both theory and practice, the Bachelor of Child and Adolescent Welfare aims to develop reflective practitioners committed to making a positive impact on the lives of young people and their families. The program is delivered through a combination of online and on-campus learning, providing flexibility for students balancing study with work and personal responsibilities. Upon completion, students will be equipped to contribute meaningfully to the diverse fields serving children and adolescents, advocating for their rights, safety, and well-being in a range of professional contexts.

A Bachelor degree (or AQF equivalent) in human services, child and adolescent wellbeing, social work, social wellbeing,social sciences, education health or related subjects or perhaps a Graduate Certificate in Human Services.

The Bachelor of Child and Adolescent Welfare at Charles Sturt University offers a range of flexible study options to accommodate diverse student needs and financial circumstances. Tuition fees vary depending on whether students are enrolled as domestic or international students, with domestic students benefiting from government subsidies and eligible support programs. For Australian residents, the tuition fee per year is approximately AUD 10,500 to AUD 11,500, with the total program cost ranging from AUD 42,000 to AUD 46,000. International students can expect higher fees, typically around AUD 29,000 to AUD 30,000 per year, leading to a total program cost of approximately AUD 116,000 to AUD 120,000.

Students are encouraged to explore government funding options such as Commonwealth-supported places, which significantly reduce tuition costs for eligible domestic students. The Higher Education Loan Program (HELP) is available for Australian students, allowing them to defer a portion of their tuition fees until they are earning a sufficient income. This loan scheme includes HECS-HELP and FEE-HELP, making higher education more accessible by easing upfront financial burdens.

In addition to tuition fees, students should consider other expenses such as textbooks, learning materials, and living costs. Many students access part-time employment opportunities during their studies, both on and off-campus, to support their financial needs. Charles Sturt University offers various scholarship programs for eligible students, including scholarships based on academic achievement, financial need, or community involvement, which can assist with overall study-related costs.

International students are required to pay full tuition fees upfront or as per their payment plan arrangements, with some scholarships available for outstanding applicants. For students seeking financial assistance, private funding options and education loans from banks or financial institutions are also accessible, although students are advised to explore all available scholarship and support programs first.

Overall, studying Child and Adolescent Welfare at Charles Sturt University can be financed through a combination of government support, scholarships, student loans, and personal or family contributions. The university provides comprehensive guidance on managing study expenses and accessing financial aid, ensuring that students can focus on their academic and practical training without undue financial stress.

The Child and Adolescent Welfare program at Charles Sturt University is designed to prepare students for a variety of professional roles in the field of child and adolescent support services. This undergraduate degree program offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers key areas such as child development, family dynamics, mental health, social policy, and intervention strategies. Throughout the course, students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to work effectively with children, adolescents, and their families in diverse settings, including community organizations, educational institutions, health services, and government agencies.

The program emphasizes the importance of ethical practice, cultural competence, and evidence-based approaches to child and adolescent welfare. Students benefit from a blend of classroom learning, online modules, and supervised placements within real-world environments. These placements enable students to apply their knowledge in practice, develop professional networks, and enhance their employability upon graduation. The university's partnerships with various child and community services facilitate meaningful industry engagement and job readiness.

Faculty members involved in the program are experienced practitioners and researchers committed to mentoring students and fostering innovative approaches to child welfare. The degree also encourages critical thinking about current policies and practices affecting children and young people, aiming to prepare graduates who can contribute positively to policy development and service delivery.

Graduates of the Child and Adolescent Welfare program are equipped to work in roles such as case managers, children’s services coordinators, youth workers, or policy advisors. They may find employment in government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and private service providers focused on child protection, family support, mental health, and developmental services. The program aligns with industry standards and aims to develop capable professionals capable of making a meaningful difference in the lives of children and adolescents.

Furthermore, the program may provide pathways for further study, including postgraduate qualifications in social work, psychology, or other related disciplines. Students interested in advancing their careers or pursuing specialization in specific areas of child and adolescent welfare are encouraged to take advantage of the university’s support services and continued professional development opportunities.

Overall, the Child and Adolescent Welfare program at Charles Sturt University seeks to nurture compassionate, skilled, and ethical professionals committed to promoting the well-being and development of young people and their families in a constantly evolving social landscape.