Human Services (Child and Family)

The Bachelor of Human Services (Child and Family) at the University of Southern Queensland is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience necessary to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children, families, and communities. This degree prepares graduates for diverse roles within social services, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and community organizations that support vulnerable populations. Throughout the program, students will explore key topics such as child development, family dynamics, community engagement, counseling techniques, and ethical practice in social service settings. The curriculum combines theoretical foundations with practical applications, including field placements that allow students to gain real-world experience under the supervision of experienced practitioners. Emphasizing a student-centered approach, the program encourages critical thinking, cultural awareness, and personal reflection to foster professional growth and empathy. Graduates of this program will be qualified to work as youth workers, family support workers, child protection officers, community development officers, and other related roles that require a strong understanding of human development and social support systems. The University of Southern Queensland is committed to providing a supportive learning environment that promotes inclusive education, research excellence, and community engagement. Upon completion, students will be prepared not only for immediate employment but also for further study or specialization within the human services field. With a focus on practical skills and professional ethics, this degree aims to develop compassionate and competent professionals dedicated to enhancing the well-being of children and families in diverse and dynamic settings.

Program structure

Courses to be studiedUnits

Core courses8

plus 8 -unit major8

plus second 8-unit major8

or 2 x 4-unit minors

or 1 x 4-unit minor plus 4 x electives   

Total24

Course codeCourse name

Core Courses:

CMS1000Communication and Scholarship1

CDS1000Introduction to Community Welfare and Development

PSY1010Foundation Psychology A

CDS1001Human Relations and Communications

EDC2200Indigenous Perspectives

CDS2001Sustainability Concepts and Issues

CDS2000 Ethical Issues and Human Rights in the Human Services

CDS2002Field Placement A2

Child and Family major: 

CDS3001 Assessment and Report Writing in Counselling

CDS3002 Counselling Theory and Practice

EDO2104 Families and Society

EDU5325 Child Abuse and Neglect: Intervention, Protection and Prevention

EDU5335 Emotional and Behavioural Problems of Children and Adolescents

PSY1020 Foundation Psychology B

PSY1030 Cross-Cultural and Indigenous Psychology

EDC1100 Lifespan Development and Learning

 OR

PSY2030 Developmental Psychology

Footnotes

1 Students who have completed CMS1009 Communication in Academic and Professional Contexts cannot enrol in CMS1000.

2 Students cannot study both CDS2000 and HMT2000 within the one degree.

Entry requirements

• Year 12 English (4 SA) of equivalent

English Language Requirements

Domestic and international students from a non-English speaking background are required to satisfy English Language requirements. This program requires a minimum of IELTS 6.0 or equivalent.

If you do not meet the English language requirements you may apply to study a University-approved English language program.

OP/Rank

The 2015 OP/Rank for this program is: 15/67

International entry requirements

English Language Requirements

Domestic and international students from a non-English speaking background are required to satisfy English Language requirements. This program requires a minimum of IELTS 6.0 or equivalent.

If you do not meet the English language requirements you may apply to study a University-approved English language program.

Pre-requisites

Year 12 Senior Certificate or equivalent from a recognised institution. Find your country's level of qualificationand minimum entry requirements for this program.

The Human Services (Child and Family) program at the University of Southern Queensland offers a range of flexible and accessible study options to accommodate diverse student needs and financial situations. The program is designed to be affordable and provides various pathways for students to finance their education. Students can access government assistance programs such as Commonwealth supported places (CSP), which significantly reduce the tuition fees for eligible domestic students. These subsidies are part of the Australian Government’s commitment to making higher education more accessible and affordable. International students enrolling in the program are required to pay full tuition fees, but there are scholarships and financial aid opportunities available to assist with these costs.

The university provides a range of scholarship options aimed at supporting students financially throughout their studies. Scholarships can be based on academic merit, financial need, or specific criteria such as Indigenous status or regional location. These scholarships help reduce the overall cost of tuition and associated expenses, making a qualification in Human Services (Child and Family) more attainable. Additionally, students can explore external scholarship opportunities offered by government bodies, private organizations, and industry partners, which often provide substantial financial support.

Students may also choose to finance their studies through various payment plans. The University of Southern Queensland offers flexible payment options, including upfront payments, payment plans, and loans. Payment plans allow students to spread the cost of tuition over manageable installments, easing financial pressure. For those eligible, student loans such as the Higher Education Loan Program (HELP) are available, providing financial relief by allowing students to defer part or all of their tuition fees until after graduation, when they begin earning a regular income.

Part-time study options are also available for students who need to work while studying, enabling them to maintain employment and earn an income to support their education expenses. The university's online learning platform offers the convenience of studying from anywhere, reducing additional costs related to commuting and accommodation. This flexibility not only helps students access education more affordably but also allows them to balance work and study commitments effectively.

In summary, the financing of the Human Services (Child and Family) program at the University of Southern Queensland is supported through a combination of government subsidies, scholarships, flexible payment options, and student loans. These measures are designed to make higher education more accessible and to alleviate the financial barriers faced by prospective students, ensuring that a career in human services is within reach for a broader range of applicants.

The Bachelor of Human Services (Child and Family) at the University of Southern Queensland is designed to prepare students for a rewarding career supporting children, families, and communities. This program emphasizes practical skills, theoretical knowledge, and ethical practices necessary for effective service delivery in human services. It covers a broad range of topics, including child development, family dynamics, community engagement, mental health, and social policy. Through a combination of classroom learning, field placements, and hands-on projects, students gain real-world experience and develop essential skills such as communication, problem-solving, and cultural sensitivity. The program also highlights the importance of diversity, inclusion, and social justice, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to work with diverse populations and in various settings, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and community services. The curriculum is regularly updated to align with current industry standards and practices, providing students with relevant and contemporary knowledge. Students have access to experienced faculty members who are experts in their fields, as well as state-of-the-art facilities and resources. Upon graduation, students are prepared to pursue careers in child and family support services, community development, advocacy, and policy analysis, making a positive impact on individuals and society as a whole. The program also offers pathways for further study, including postgraduate qualifications in related fields. Overall, the Bachelor of Human Services (Child and Family) at USQ is committed to fostering a compassionate, competent, and ethical workforce dedicated to creating healthier, more supportive communities.