Psychological Science and Sociology

Overview

University of South Australia’s Bachelor of Psychological Science and Sociology is the only degree of its kind in Australia, formally bringing together two powerful disciplinary perspectives on how we live as social beings. 

As a student, you'll be challenged to think deeply about the world we live in as you explore the way individuals, groups and communities behave, think, react and interact. Studying sociology and psychology enables students to consider how these dimensions come together in everyday life. 

As a graduate, you'll come out with a complementary skill set that the industry is telling us they need.

What you'll learn

The Bachelor of Psychological Science and Sociology will give you a solid foundation in the underlying principles and concepts of sociology, social policy and psychology. Professionals who can apply their knowledge from two powerful perspectives in psychological science and sociology can more readily tackle practical problems to support individuals and communities in leading happier, healthier, and more independent lives. In this degree, you will:

• develop specialised knowledge in either ageing and disability and/or criminal justice;
• explore topics such as sociological theory, counselling, social policy analysis and community-based and participatory research methods; and
• solve real-world case studies relevant to the industry.

You can tailor your degree to your interests and broaden your career prospects with the choice of electives. You can select four electives from any of the UniSA Online degrees.

Your career

Professionals in these sectors can expect to work one-on-one with individuals or families, as well as with small to medium community groups such as neighbourhoods, schools and support groups. You may also work at a larger scale, advocating for policy changes on behalf of clients, organisations, or governments.

A UniSA Online Psychological Science and Sociology degree can help you pursue the following careers:

• Disability support coordinator: Assist people with intellectual and physical disabilities in accessing NDIS services; liaise with a range of stakeholders in order to secure suitable support, including requesting and arranging quotes from service providers; manage and coordinate participant support plans to enable independence in the home and community; consult with carers, family, external services and other key stakeholders to help provide the most well-rounded support available.
• Aged care coordinator: Employ best practice, evidence-based tools in health promotion, person-centred care, and healthy ageing to manage lifestyle programs and activities for the elderly. Provide strong customer service, undertake regular consultation with residents and families, and tailor programs to suit identified client needs.
• Community development officer: Deliver and support a variety of community development and wellbeing initiatives aimed at improving the lives of people from diverse community groups. Work collaboratively with key groups and agencies to develop sustainable partnerships.
• Crime prevention officer: Develop, coordinate and implement a variety of crime prevention, safety and community development programs to reduce local crime. Develop information resources to educate citizens and the general public about crime prevention.
• Drug/alcohol caseworker: Provide support services to people in the community living with drug and alcohol issues. Work with clients to provide specialised support including assessment, intervention and counselling. Contribute to community development initiatives that promote awareness of drug and alcohol services, healthcare and education.
• Policy development officer and analyst: Develop and support the implementation of best practice policies, programs, projects and activities to support overall health and wellbeing at a local, state and national level. Compile qualitative and quantitative data to assess the effectiveness of current policies and regulations, and identify the expected impact of policy changes. Undertake cost-benefit analysis, impact assessments and evaluate projects to address current and emerging issues in the community.