$81,500 median starting salary.
(Graduate Outcomes Survey 2021-2023 – Humanities, Culture and Social Sciences)
Degree overview
Make a significant contribution to social change locally and internationally
The global environment is rapidly changing. This program will teach you how to undertake projects in collaboration with community members. You will graduate equipped with the skills to influence positive outcomes through theoretical and applied knowledge. You will make immediate impact through our hands-on learning opportunities.
This program provides an opportunity to create your own research work as part of your studies, and shape your career around an area of interest. This program is flexible with full-time and part-time study modes available. You can also study online allowing you to balance work, life and study.
You will graduate highly employable within government agencies, non-government organisations and private firms. This program is recognised nationally and internationally, allowing you to apply your knowledge globally within the professional environment. A Graduate Certificate in Social Change and Development is also available to study and can be used as a pathway into the masters program.
World top 300
?
for Social Sciences
World top 250
?
for Sociology
Career opportunities
There is a continuously 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 Masters 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.
This program will open up new opportunities and see you possess the potential to embark on some of the following career pathways:
- policy analyst
- community and social developer
- advocacy and public policy coordinators
- overseas aid officer
- ministry of finance in a developing country
- stakeholder engagement and evaluation
You will graduate with the ability to apply your social change and development expertise in real-world settings and position yourself at the forefront of advocacy and industry.
84.2% employed within four months of graduating.
(Graduate Outcomes Survey 2021-2023)
What you will study
This program will enhance your existing knowledge and open up career opportunities in the global environment. You will study progressive courses that build on your prior learnings.
All students must complete:
- 60 units of core courses and 20 units of directed courses from Group A
- Optional 40 units of directed courses from Group A and Group B.
Core courses to support your drive and direction include:
- Project Design and Evaluation
- Development and Social Change
- Social Science Research Methods
- Social Change and Development Research Project.
In addition to the core courses, directed courses include, but are not limited to:
- Policy and Social Considerations in Disaster Management
- Environmental Justice
- Comparative Education: Debates and Dilemmas
- Managing Human Resources in International Organisations
- International Health: Cross-Cultural and Critical Social Science Perspectives
- Shaping Organisations and Communities: Advocacy and Change.
Student experience
Student experience
Meet Victoria, Master of Social Change and Development student 1:18
Meet Victoria and find out why she chose to study a Master of Social Change and Development at the University of Newcastle.
How to apply
How to apply
Apply as a domestic student
Before you get started
To ensure a smooth application process, please complete the following steps before applying:
- Review the Program Handbook.
- Review the Admission Requirements.
- Review the Program fees and costs.
- Decide on your preferred commencement date.
Note: Applicants must demonstrate that they meet the University of Newcastle’s English Language Proficiency requirements.
You are a domestic student if you are:
- An Australian or New Zealand citizen (including dual citizens)
- A permanent resident of Australia
- A holder of a permanent Australian visa.
Apply as an international student
Before you get started
To ensure a smooth application process, please complete the following steps before applying:
- Review the Program Handbook.
- Review the Admission Requirements.
- Review the Program fees and costs.
- Decide on your preferred commencement date.
Note: Applicants must demonstrate that they meet the University of Newcastle’s English Language Proficiency requirements.
English proficiency requirements
Applicants who do not speak English as a first language 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.
- IELTS overall minimum - 6.5
- IELTS section minimum - 6.0
- About English Language Pathways
Apply to the University via our online application portal.
In the application portal, you can enter the program you wish to study and upload relevant documents needed as part of your application. It is recommended you submit your application a minimum of 12 weeks before your intended semester of trimester start date.
If you are applying through an education agent, they can also apply through the application portal. Ensure your agent is contracted to the University to avoid delays with your application.
Once you have started your application you will be provided with a reference number. You or your education agent will be able to track your application as it progresses.
Scholarships
Scholarships
If you are a current student, or planning to study with us, we encourage you to apply for all scholarships you meet the criteria for.
Scholarships are available for current, future and international students, Asylum seekers, Graduate research, abroad and exchange study and opportunities with external providers.
Similar degrees
Master of Public Health / Master of Social Change and Development
Learn more
Graduate Certificate in Social Change and Development
Learn more
1 Indicative annual fees are based on a full year full time load (80 units). Learn more.
Looking for more information?
Ask a question
Call 1300 275 866
Sign up for updates
Looking for more information?
Ask a question
Call +61 2 4913 8300
Sign up for updates
The Master of Social Change and Development is CIFAL certified.
Disclaimer Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information on this website. However, changes to courses and programs may occur. The University accepts no responsibility for any information supplied on this web site or any actions taken on the basis of the information. Users are advised to seek confirmation of the information from the relevant area of the University.
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.