Graduate Certificate in Social Change and Development

at University of Newcastle

The University of Newcastle’s Certificate in Social Change and Development is designed to propel students towards success in the global industry. Ideally suited to those who have completed undergraduate degrees in social sciences, human resources, politics, health, environmental studies, indigenous studies or agriculture - you will build on your prior learnings studying a range of progressive subjects.

The core courses to support your drive and direction are:
 

• Project Design and Evaluation
• Development and Social Change
• Social Science Research Methods

Upon completion of the above courses you will be equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to understand the processes of social change and development, and be able to apply this knowledge in the professional environment.

Admission Requirements

The Graduate Certificate in Social Change and Development is a 40-unit postgraduate qualification, with entry available for applicants who have one of the following qualifications or equivalent:
 

• Bachelor Honours Degree; or
• Bachelor Degree; or
• Diploma, Advanced Diploma or Associate Degree in a related field plus two years’ relevant work experience;
• At least five years’ relevant work experience.

Students who complete the Graduate Certificate in Social Change and Development will be eligible for 40 units of credit towards the Master of Social Change and Development award.

Relevant work experience includes administration, research, development planner, local officer, educator, or manager.

Work experience can be identified through: certified copies of all relevant qualifications, a detailed CV, and a statement of service or signed letters from employers confirming your role, duties and period of employment.

Related fields include sociology, geography, anthropology and development studies, agriculture, environmental studies, education, municipal community or social work/welfare, Indigenous studies and economics.

Minimum English Language Proficiency Requirements
 

• All Applicants must demonstrate that they meet the University’s English proficiency requirement. 
• Applicants for this program must satisfy a minimum English Language Proficiency Standard equivalent to an IELTS overall minimum of 6.5 with no subtest result below 6.0.

Fees

AUD 14,565 (indicative annual fee)
Indicative annual fees are based on a full year full time load (80 units).

As Australia engages more and more with developing countries, there is a growing need for qualified professionals to undertake roles in the community development and policy analysis of funded development projects and aid organisations. At the completion of your Graduate Certificate in Social Change and Development, you will have the fundamental theoretical and practical knowledge to take on these roles within government agencies, non-government organisations and private firms.

Once armed with these skills you can embark on some of the following career pathways:
 

• administrator
• field officer
• researcher
• development planner
• educator or manager
• overseas aid
• community development
• ministry of finance in developing countries
• sustainable land care

You can also take your postgraduate qualification to the next level, opening up further career opportunities with the Master of Social Change and Development at the University of Newcastle.