Human Services and Public Health

The Bachelor of Human Services and Public Health at Queensland University of Technology is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for impactful careers in community support, health promotion, and public well-being. This degree offers students a multidisciplinary education that combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, enabling them to address complex social and health issues faced by diverse populations. Throughout the course, students explore topics such as mental health, substance abuse, social justice, policy development, and community development, gaining a deep understanding of the social determinants of health and well-being.

The program emphasizes experiential learning through placements, community engagement projects, and real-world case studies, allowing students to apply their learning in diverse settings including healthcare facilities, NGOs, government agencies, and community organizations. By integrating theory with practice, graduates are equipped to design, implement, and evaluate programs aimed at improving quality of life and reducing health disparities across different communities. The curriculum also develops essential skills such as critical thinking, advocacy, cultural competence, communication, and teamwork, which are vital for effective service delivery and policy formulation.

Students in this program benefit from QUT’s strong industry connections and state-of-the-art facilities, ensuring they are prepared for the dynamic landscape of human services and public health sectors. The program is suitable for individuals passionate about making a positive difference in individuals’ lives and society as a whole. Upon graduation, graduates are qualified to pursue careers in community services, health promotion, policy analysis, program management, and research. The Bachelor of Human Services and Public Health at QUT is committed to fostering socially responsible professionals who can contribute meaningfully to the health and well-being of communities locally and globally.

Graduates are eligible for membership of the Australian Community Workers Association, the Public Health Association of Australia and the Australian Health Promotion Association.

• Year 12 or equivalent
• Assumed knowledge: English, or Literature, or English and Literature, or English as Another Language (Units 3 & 4, C).

The Queensland University of Technology (QUT) offers a range of options for financing studies in its Human Services and Public Health programs. Students can access various scholarships, grants, and financial aid opportunities designed to support both domestic and international students. For domestic students, government-supported financial assistance includes government loans such as HECS-HELP, which enables eligible students to defer their tuition fees. There are also departmental and university-specific scholarships available based on academic merit, financial need, or specific criteria such as community involvement or Indigenous heritage. International students can explore scholarships such as the QUT International Scholarships, which provide tuition fee discounts for high-achieving students. Additionally, students are encouraged to seek external funding sources, including industry-sponsored scholarships, private grants, and sponsorship programs relevant to their field of study. Part-time work opportunities are available on and off-campus, allowing students to gain practical experience while earning income to support their studies. QUT provides financial planning resources and counseling services to help students effectively manage their budgets and expenses throughout their academic journey. Payment plans may also be available to help manage tuition payments over time. Overall, students enrolled in Human Services and Public Health at QUT have multiple avenues to finance their education, ensuring access and affordability are prioritized to support their academic and professional goals.

The Bachelor of Human Services and Public Health at Queensland University of Technology (QUT) offers students a comprehensive education aimed at preparing them for dynamic careers in community services, health promotion, social policy, and public health practice. The program integrates theoretical knowledge with practical skills, emphasizing the development of a deep understanding of the social determinants of health, social justice issues, and effective intervention strategies. It is designed to equip students with the ability to work effectively in diverse community settings, addressing complex social and health challenges faced by populations. Throughout their studies, students engage with a variety of disciplines including sociology, psychology, health sciences, and policy analysis to foster a multidisciplinary approach to human services and public health.

Students in this program will have the opportunity to participate in real-world placements, enabling them to apply their learning in practical settings such as community organizations, health agencies, or government departments. These placements are integral to the curriculum, providing valuable hands-on experience and networking opportunities that enhance employability upon graduation. The curriculum also emphasizes contemporary issues such as mental health, substance abuse, Indigenous health, aging, and disability, preparing graduates to meet the needs of diverse communities and work collaboratively with clients, families, and other health and social service professionals.

Furthermore, the program encourages critical thinking, ethical practice, and cultural competence, which are essential qualities for professionals in the human services and public health sectors. Graduates of this program are well-equipped to pursue careers in policy development, advocacy, community development, program management, and public health initiatives. They can work in various settings including non-profit organizations, government agencies, healthcare facilities, and research institutions.

The university maintains strong connections with industry and community partners, ensuring the curriculum remains relevant and responsive to current issues and workforce demands. Students are supported by experienced faculty members who bring academic expertise and practical insights into their teaching. The program also offers pathways for further study, including honours or postgraduate qualifications in related fields. Overall, the Bachelor of Human Services and Public Health at QUT aims to develop graduates who are committed to improving health outcomes and social well-being within communities, embodying values of compassion, integrity, and social responsibility.