Indicative annual fees are based on a full year full time load (40 units). Find out more about feesAUD 15,450 (indicative annual fee, 2024)
Indicative annual fees are based on a full year full time load (40 units). Find out more about fees
Program handbook
Description
The program is designed to provide students who wish to pursue a career with government agencies, non-government organisations (NGO's) and private firms, with the knowledge and skills to understand the processes of social change and development and to improve their effectiveness as administrators, researchers, development planners, educators, or managers. As Australia engages more with developing countries in the region, there is a growing need for qualified professionals to work in the community development and policy analysis sectors of funded development projects and aid organisations.
While a base undergraduate degree in an area of relevant specialisation is useful for this kind of work, professionals in the field of international development need an understanding of the implications of wider social and political changes at a global level which affect local conditions and capacities. The program aims to equip professionals with advanced theoretical and applied knowledge which can meet the challenges of development work in a rapidly changing global environment.
Program learning outcomes
On successful completion of the program students will have:
- Knowledge and skills in writing about competing development paradigms and their associated problems and issues
- Highly skilled critical thinking and reasoning to demonstrate an understanding of recent development projects oriented towards social change
- The ability to solve a range of social change and development problems using an evidence based approach by investigating, analysing and synthesising complex information and available resources
- The capacity to interpret, justify and communicate development and social change projects, and apply critical thinking and reasoning to social change and development issues
Details
| Information correct as at | Apr 26, 2024 3:57 am |
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| Program code | 12376 |
| AQF level | Level 8 Graduate Certificate |
| Locations and UAC codes | |
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| Duration |
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| Term type | Semesters |
| Fees |
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| Relevant University rules and policies |
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| CRICOS Code | 084166E |
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Admission information
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.
English Language Requirements
All Applicants must demonstrate that they meet the University’s English proficiency requirement. Further information regarding English language proficiency requirements can be found at the English Language Proficiency for Admission Policy here.
- IELTS Overall Minimum: 6.5
- IELTS Sub Test Minimum: 6
Credit transfer
If you wish to apply for credit for studies completed at another institution, or if you are changing programs within the University and wish to transfer your credit to the new program, visit the University's credit website for more information on applying for credit.
Students who have completed relevant postgraduate studies may apply for up to 20 units credit towards the Graduate Certificate in Social Change and Development.
Academic requirements for program completion
Total units required
40 units
Program duration
0.5 years full-time or part-time equivalent up to 3 years maximum.
International students studying this program on campus are required to enrol full time to comply with their student visa requirements and complete their study in the standard minimum program duration. International students requiring enrolment advice should review the program plan corresponding to the semester and year of commencement and can contact their Program Advisor at ProgramAdvice@newcastle.edu.au
Program requirements
Qualification for the Graduate Certificate in Social Change and Development award requires the successful completion of 40 units.
On successful completion of the Graduate Certificate, graduates will be eligible for entry into the Master of Social Change and Development program with 40 units of credit in that award. The Master of Social Change and Development is an 120 unit program.
Program planner
Current students program planner
Current students can plan their program using Program Planner.
Prospective student degree planner
If you're a prospective student considering studying this degree take a look at My Degree Planner to see what your study journey will look like.
Program structure
Students can plan their program using Program Planner. It is recommended students review the program handbook in conjunction with using Program Planner.
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Core Courses
Complete the following core courses to fulfil the requirements of this program. | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Code | Title | Term / Location | Units |
| SOCA6240 | Project Design and Evaluation |
| 10 units |
| SOCA6571 | Development and Social Change |
| 20 units |
| SOCA6640 | Social Science Research Methods |
| 10 units |
Additional information
Through the Pathways and Academic Learning Support Centre, students can access a free suite of NUPrep preparation courses as well as Academic Learning Support.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students can draw on the assistance and support provided by the Indigenous Student Support and Development service through the Wollotuka Institute.
International students
All International Students enrolled in the program will be provided with an orientation to familiarise them with the rules, expectations, facilities and services offered by the University. Please visit our International Students website to find out more about the support services available to international students.
Additional support
AccessAbility provides advice and reasonable adjustments to Students with a medical or health condition or disability. If you require adjustments to undertake your program, contact the Student Support Advisors - AccessAbility before semester or early in the semester. They will work with the College or School to ensure that this happens in a timely manner.
Please note: All students must fulfil the inherent requirements of the programs and courses they are undertaking. While reasonable adjustments can be made, these adjustments cannot compromise academic integrity. It is the student's responsibility to check all the requirements of courses, and consider the effects of any medical condition or disability on their ability to complete course requirements. More information is available online.
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