Gerontology and Rehabilitation Studies

The Bachelor of Gerontology and Rehabilitation Studies at the University of Wollongong is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for meaningful careers in the health and community sectors, focusing on aging, disability, and rehabilitation. This degree combines core principles of gerontology—the study of aging processes and the societal implications of an aging population—with rehabilitation sciences that emphasize restoring functional ability and improving quality of life for individuals experiencing health challenges. The program aims to equip students with a deep understanding of the physical, psychological, social, and environmental factors affecting aging and disability, along with practical skills to develop and implement effective intervention strategies.

Throughout the course, students will engage with multidisciplinary topics, including healthcare systems, policy development, ethical considerations, and research methodologies relevant to aging and disability issues. The curriculum integrates theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience through community placements, internships, and applied projects, ensuring graduates are job-ready with real-world skills. Students will learn to work collaboratively across a range of professional settings such as hospitals, aged care facilities, community health organizations, and rehabilitation centers.

The degree emphasizes critical thinking, cultural competence, and ethical practice to prepare graduates for diverse populations and complex situations. Graduates of this program can pursue careers as gerontology researchers, allied health professionals, rehabilitation coordinators, policy advisors, or community service managers. The University of Wollongong is committed to fostering innovation and leadership in the field of aging and rehabilitation, providing students access to state-of-the-art facilities, experienced faculty, and strong industry connections. This program is ideal for students passionate about improving the lives of older adults and individuals with disabilities, and who aspire to make a positive impact on society through compassionate and evidence-based practices.

The Bachelor of Gerontology and Rehabilitation Studies at the University of Wollongong is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for impactful careers in supporting and improving the quality of life for aging populations and individuals requiring rehabilitation services. This interdisciplinary course combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, emphasizing a holistic understanding of the biological, psychological, social, and environmental factors that influence aging and recovery processes. Throughout the program, students explore core topics such as human development across the lifespan, health promotion, disability studies, aging policy, and healthcare systems. They gain insight into the biological and psychological aspects of aging, as well as the social implications and ethical considerations involved in caring for older adults and rehabilitation clients.

The curriculum includes both foundational coursework and specialized electives, allowing students to tailor their studies towards particular interests such as community health, aged care, disability support, or rehabilitation techniques. Practical experience is a key component of the program, with opportunities for placements in community organizations, healthcare facilities, and aged care settings. This hands-on training enables students to develop essential skills in client assessment, care planning, and interdisciplinary teamwork. The program also focuses on developing strong communication and advocacy skills, vital for working effectively with diverse client populations and multidisciplinary teams.

Graduates from the Bachelor of Gerontology and Rehabilitation Studies are well-equipped to pursue careers in a variety of settings, including aged care services, community health organizations, rehabilitation centers, and policy development agencies. They can work as aged care coordinators, rehabilitation officers, community support workers, or policy advisors, contributing to improving health outcomes and promoting independence among older adults and individuals with disabilities. The program emphasizes current best practices and promotes lifelong learning to adapt to evolving healthcare environments. With a solid foundation in both gerontology and rehabilitation principles, graduates are prepared to make meaningful contributions to enhancing well-being, fostering inclusion, and addressing the complex needs of aging populations and those undergoing rehabilitation.

• A 3-year Bachelors degree from a Recognized tertiary institution or equivalent
• Or successful completion of a Graduate Certificate in a related Area is required for Entrance

The University of Wollongong offers various financing options for students enrolled in the Gerontology and Rehabilitation Studies program. Domestic students can access a range of financial support through government-funded schemes such as Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP), which subsidize tuition fees, making higher education more affordable. Additionally, students may be eligible for HECS-HELP loans, allowing them to defer their student contributions until after graduation. There are also scholarships and grants available specifically for students pursuing health and social sciences, awarded based on academic merit, financial need, or specific criteria related to the field of study. International students enrolling in the program are required to pay full tuition fees, but they can explore scholarship opportunities provided by the university, some of which are merit-based and others need-based, to offset costs. The university also offers payment plans, enabling students to spread the cost of tuition fees over manageable installments. Outside of university-specific funding, students may seek external financial aid, including government grants, private scholarships, and sponsorships from health organizations or community groups. The university provides comprehensive financial counseling services to assist students in navigating available options, understanding their obligations, and planning their finances throughout the duration of their studies. Furthermore, work placement components embedded within the program can provide students with opportunities for practical employment, which can help offset expenses and gain relevant experience. It is recommended that prospective students consult the official university website and financial aid office for the most current information on available support, application procedures, and deadlines, as these can vary each academic year. Overall, educational financing for the Gerontology and Rehabilitation Studies program at the University of Wollongong is designed to be accessible, with multiple pathways to support student success and reduce financial barriers to achieving their academic and career goals.

The Bachelor of Social Sciences (Honours) in Gerontology and Rehabilitation Studies at the University of Wollongong is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for careers in aging services, rehabilitation, and community support sectors. This degree offers an interdisciplinary approach, integrating principles from social sciences, health sciences, and rehabilitation to address the diverse needs of aging populations and individuals requiring rehabilitation services. Throughout the course, students engage with core topics such as aging processes, social policies affecting older adults, rehabilitation techniques, mental health, disability support, and community engagement. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through practical placements, allowing students to gain real-world experience by working with older adults and individuals with disabilities within various settings, including hospitals, community health organizations, and aged care facilities.

Students are encouraged to develop critical thinking skills, ethical awareness, and cultural competence, which are essential for providing sensitive and effective services. The curriculum is aligned with national and international standards in health and social care, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for employment opportunities domestically and abroad. In addition to subject-specific content, the program fosters skills in communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, which are crucial in multidisciplinary environments. The honors component provides opportunities for research projects, enabling students to explore specific interests within gerontology and rehabilitation, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in these fields. Graduates of this program are well-positioned for careers as rehabilitation specialists, aged care coordinators, community development officers, policy advisors, and researchers. The University of Wollongong uniquely combines research-informed teaching with strong industry connections, supporting students' transitions into the workforce.