Key facts
Domestic students course information.
Guaranteed ATAR: 65.00
Entry is based on recent secondary (ATAR), higher education (GPA), VET study, or work experience.
Entry is based on Australian Year 12 equivalence. English language requirements must also be met.
- 3 years full-time
- Up to 10 years part-time
- 016050C
| Start Dates and Campus | Trimester 1 – February 2026 | Trimester 2 – June 2026 | Trimester 3 – October 2026 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online | Offered | Offered | Offered |
| Armidale Campus | Offered | Offered | Not Offered |
| Sydney Campus | Not Offered | Not Offered | Not Offered |
| Online | Offered | Offered | Offered |
| Armidale Campus | Offered | Offered | Not Offered |
| Sydney Campus | Not Offered | Not Offered | Not Offered |
Course information
Download course brochure
By studying UNE’s Bachelor of Social Science degree you will develop a comprehensive and valuable understanding of human societies and social thought, behaviour and relationships in their varied social, psychological and political manifestations, with potential for a rewarding career in social science related areas. You will get a thorough grounding in sociology and psychology, plus you can choose from a broad range of majors to graduate with specialised knowledge. With skills in research, critical analysis and evaluation that are transferable across a range of employment opportunities, you can ensure your career is future fit for life.
Why study the Bachelor of Social Science with UNE?
UNE's Bachelor of Social Science offers the opportunity to analyse contemporary social issues and challenges, and to learn the skills to implement creative, real-world solutions. You will learn the foundations of sociology and psychology with the opportunity to major in specific areas. Your analytical skills as a social science graduate, along with your capacity to understand and unpack complex social problems and offer innovative solutions, will make a real difference in the rapidly changing world.
UNE is an industry leader in the provision of online, lifelong learning for aspiring and qualified social scientists. In fact, students consistently award UNE the maximum 5-star ratings for Overall Experience and Student Support in The Good Universities Guide.
What makes our course different?
At UNE, we offer a broad range of areas to specialise in, including social justice and human rights, social change, gender equality, community welfare, counselling, sustainability and cultural diversity. When you study the Bachelor of Social Science at UNE, you will be able to:
- Develop vocational and scholarly skills from world-class social researchers. Learn how to conduct social research using a range of methods, techniques and technologies.
- Take advantage of our flexible course structure, which includes a diverse range of majors, and includes opportunities for on-the-job training.
- Set yourself up for further study. The Bachelor of Social Science with Honours will progress your career towards leadership and/or research positions, honing your critical thinking and research abilities.
- Fit study in with your existing priorities. With UNE, you can choose to study on campus or online, and you can change your study mode each Trimester to fit changes to your circumstances. You can also scale up or down the number of units you enrol in (between 1 and 4) – enrol in more when you have more time on your hands, and decrease your load when life is busy.
Majors
- Community Services
- Counselling
- Criminology
- Linguistics
- Organisational Management
- Politics and Peace Studies
- Studies in Settler Colonialism
- Psychology
- Social Philosophy
- Sociology
- Urban and Regional Studies
Study online
Most of our students choose to study online across three study periods with 24/7 tutor support* and fit study around work and family commitments. Uniquely, our online students are mostly over 30 and bring valuable experience with them. They form a community of adults juggling the same challenges and priorities and who bring their life and work experience together at UNE in order to become future-fit and better respond to a rapidly changing world.
Study on campus
Many of our students choose to take advantage of the on-campus lifestyle in Armidale, in the beautiful New England region, with access to unparalleled support, accommodation and sporting facilities. These students are often starting their first degree and have left school recently. Through access to academic and career support they get a fantastic start to their careers.
* 24/7 tutor support includes: essay feedback (within 24 hours); live chat 24/7 for generic feedback on academic writing; and subject-specific help at a foundation or first-year level for subjects including mathematics, chemistry, biology, physics, business, accounting, microeconomics, macroeconomics and statistics. There are also a wide range of workshops, resources and courses available in academic skills support to assist you and help you to succeed.
Entry requirements
Select the option that best describes you.
If you are an international applicant who wants to study on campus in Australia:
You will need to meet both the Academic and English Language Requirements to gain admission into this course. Meeting academic requirements means we review what you have already studied to see if you have the results needed for admission to your preferred course.
To meet the entry requirements for this course you must have completed, at minimum, an Australian Year 12 qualification or overseas equivalent.
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under standard entry. Please see the Course Structure (Program of Study).
Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.
You can check your overseas qualifications in our Admission Country List and Qualifications table. If you can't find your qualifications in this list, simply submit your application and UNE's International Admissions team will assess them for you.
When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.
International applicants, please note: You may also need to show evidence of your English language proficiency to the Department of Home Affairs if you are applying for a Student Visa.
These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.
By applying for this course, we assume that you have sound knowledge of any 2 units of English studied at a Year 12 level (or overseas equivalent).
> Learn more about Assumed Knowledge
If you are intending to undertake the Psychology major, we recommend you have a sound understanding of any 2 units of Mathematics studied at a Year 12 level (or overseas equivalent) before starting this course.
> Learn more about Recommended Studies
Mandatory intensive schools on campus may be a requirement of some of the units in this course. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit. Some units within the Counselling Major have mandatory intensive schools.
On-Campus study
If you would like to study full-time in Australia at one of UNE's campuses, you will need to have a visa that allows you to study. For most international students this visa will need to be a Student Visa. The Australian Department of Home Affairs has further information about visa eligibility and conditions.
If you are an international applicant who wants to study online (overseas or in Australia):
You will need to meet both the Academic and English Language Requirements to gain admission into this course. Meeting academic requirements means we review what you have already studied to see if you have the results needed for admission to your preferred course.
To meet the entry requirements for this course you must have completed, at minimum, an Australian Year 12 qualification or overseas equivalent.
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under standard entry. Please see the Course Structure (Program of Study).
Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.
You can check your overseas qualifications in our Admission Country List and Qualifications table. If you can't find your qualifications in this list, simply submit your application and UNE's International Admissions team will assess them for you.
When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.
International applicants, please note: You may also need to show evidence of your English language proficiency to the Department of Home Affairs if you are applying for a Student Visa.
These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.
By applying for this course, we assume that you have sound knowledge of any 2 units of English studied at a Year 12 level (or overseas equivalent).
> Learn more about Assumed Knowledge
If you are intending to undertake the Psychology major, we recommend you have a sound understanding of any 2 units of Mathematics studied at a Year 12 level (or overseas equivalent) before starting this course.
> Learn more about Recommended Studies
Mandatory intensive schools on campus may be a requirement of some of the units in this course. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit. Some units within the Counselling Major have mandatory intensive schools.
Online study in your own country
If you would like to study online with UNE while you reside outside of Australia you do not need a Student Visa. If your course requires you to visit Australia to attend any mandatory study requirements, you would need to explore Visitor Visa options for a short-term stay.
Online study in Australia
If you would like to study online with UNE while you are residing in Australia, you will need to hold a visa (other than a Student Visa) that allows you to study. If you are unsure if your visa allows you to study, you can check with UNE's International Admissions team. If you hold a Student Visa you cannot study completely online; you must be enrolled as an on-campus student (although you can study a limited number of online units).
Some courses require you to provide documentary evidence, or interviews to support your application. The following documents are required to support your application:
- Any supporting documents related to your admission pathway. For example, if you apply based on previous study, upload evidence of your study so we can assess eligibility.
- Proof of identity and citizenship. This can be a certified/notarised copy of the photo page of your passport, or another form of official photo identification that lists your full personal details including name and date of birth; for example, a foreign government identity card.
- Evidence of English Language Requirements satisfied. If you have completed a UNE-approved formal English test within the last two years, you must provide a copy of the test results with your application. Please see UNE’s English Language Requirements above for further information.
Advanced Standing is credit or recognition of your previous study, work and/or life experience. This can reduce the cost and length of your studies.
Individual Unit Advanced Standing
If you are admitted into this course and believe you have already completed the equivalent of one or more of the units in your Course Structure (Program of Study) within the last ten years, you can apply for Individual Unit Advanced Standing.
> Learn how to apply for Individual Unit Advanced Standing
Select the option that best describes your experience.
You are currently studying Year 12 (school or TAFE) or have done so within the past 2 years.
If you are admitted on the basis of your ATAR, you will be eligible for admission under standard entry. Please see the Course Structure (Program of Study).
Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.
There are ATAR-related adjustments that can be applied to increase your rank when applying for this course.
UNE ATAR Adjustment Scheme
UNE can automatically award additional points as adjustment factors to the ATAR of eligible applicants for this course without the need for an additional application.
> Learn more about the UNE ATAR Adjustment Scheme
Education Adjustment Scheme (EAS)
UNE acknowledges and provides consideration for applicants who have experienced an educational disadvantage. If you are planning to study on campus you can seek consideration for this scheme when applying for this course.
> Learn more about EAS
UNE Early Entry Program
Early Entry is open to all Year 12 applicants and relies on your school’s assessment of your attributes and suitability for study. You can apply early, receive an offer and secure a place with UNE, even before your scores are released.
> Learn more about the UNE Early Entry Program
UAC Schools Recommendation Scheme (SRS)
This scheme provides eligible Year 12 applicants who have applied via the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC) the opportunity to receive early offers of undergraduate admission to UNE based on their school ratings and Year 11 results.
> Learn more about SRS
These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.
When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.
By applying for this course, we assume that you have sound knowledge of any 2 units of English studied at a Year 12 level (or overseas equivalent).
> Learn more about Assumed Knowledge
If you are intending to undertake the Psychology major, we recommend you have a sound understanding of any 2 units of Mathematics studied at a Year 12 level (or overseas equivalent) before starting this course.
> Learn more about Recommended Studies
Mandatory intensive schools on campus may be a requirement of some of the units in this course. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit. Some units within the Counselling Major have mandatory intensive schools.
You have studied at UNE or other higher education institutions, completed or otherwise.
You can apply for this course if you have undertaken any of the following qualifications with an appropriate Grade Point Average (GPA):
- Undergraduate Certificates
- Diplomas
- Advanced Diplomas/Associate degrees
- Bachelor degrees
- Postgraduate degrees
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under standard entry. Please see the Course Structure (Program of Study).
Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.
These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.
When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.
By applying for this course, we assume that you have sound knowledge of any 2 units of English studied at a Year 12 level (or overseas equivalent).
> Learn more about Assumed Knowledge
If you are intending to undertake the Psychology major, we recommend you have a sound understanding of any 2 units of Mathematics studied at a Year 12 level (or overseas equivalent) before starting this course.
> Learn more about Recommended Studies
Mandatory intensive schools on campus may be a requirement of some of the units in this course. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit. Some units within the Counselling Major have mandatory intensive schools.
You have undertaken VET study through a Registered Training Organisation (RTO), e.g. TAFE.
You can apply for this course if you have undertaken VET studies. When assessing your application, we will look at the following factors:
- Level and type of qualification (Certificate III or above)
- Graded or ungraded (competency-based)
- Complete or incomplete.
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under standard entry. Please see the Course Structure (Program of Study).
Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.
These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.
When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.
By applying for this course, we assume that you have sound knowledge of any 2 units of English studied at a Year 12 level (or overseas equivalent).
> Learn more about Assumed Knowledge
If you are intending to undertake the Psychology major, we recommend you have a sound understanding of any 2 units of Mathematics studied at a Year 12 level (or overseas equivalent) before starting this course.
> Learn more about Recommended Studies
Mandatory intensive schools on campus may be a requirement of some of the units in this course. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit. Some units within the Counselling Major have mandatory intensive schools.
You left high school more than two years ago or did not finish Year 12.
You can apply for this course on the basis of work and/or life experience via at least one of the following methods:
Professional Experience
If you have completed at least one year of paid professional experience, we can assess you for admission on this basis. Simply provide a resume and a Statement of Service from your employer/s in your application.
> Find out more about applying based on professional experience
> Learn about our Statement of Service requirements
Mature Age Special Entry
Tell us more about your work and life experience, demonstrating why you believe you will be successful in the course you are applying for. Simply complete the form and upload it in your application.
> Download the Mature Age Special Entry form (PDF)
Skills for Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT)
The STAT is a test that assesses a range of competencies considered important for successful tertiary study. UNE accepts the multiple-choice component provided you have completed it within the three years prior to course commencement.
> Visit ACER for more information
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under standard entry. Please see the Course Structure (Program of Study).
Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.
Foundation Program
This is a free (fees exempt) and 100% online program designed to help you prepare for university. It will provide you with all the skills needed to undertake undergraduate study.
> Learn more about the Foundation Program
TRACKS Indigenous Foundation Program (Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander applicants)
TRACKS is a foundation program run by the UNE Oorala Aboriginal Centre. Over two trimesters you will experience what university study is about and learn in a supported environment. Be part of a community of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples who share your goals and interests.
> Learn more about TRACKS
Internal Selection Program (Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander applicants)
This program is designed for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples who have professional work or community experience, or any formal VET qualifications, e.g. TAFE study.
> Learn more about the Internal Selection Program
These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.
When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.
By applying for this course, we assume that you have sound knowledge of any 2 units of English studied at a Year 12 level (or overseas equivalent).
> Learn more about Assumed Knowledge
If you are intending to undertake the Psychology major, we recommend you have a sound understanding of any 2 units of Mathematics studied at a Year 12 level (or overseas equivalent) before starting this course.
> Learn more about Recommended Studies
Mandatory intensive schools on campus may be a requirement of some of the units in this course. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit. Some units within the Counselling Major have mandatory intensive schools.
Some courses require you to provide documentary evidence, or interviews to support your application. The following documents are required to support your application:
- Any supporting documents related to your admission pathway. For example, if you apply based on previous study, upload evidence of your study so we can assess eligibility.
- If you are applying through Mature Age Special Entry, you will need to include a completed Mature Age Special Entry form in your online application. Learn more about Mature Age Special Entry.
- If you are applying based on professional experience you will need to provide a resume and a Statement of Service from your employer/s on company letterhead. Learn about our Statement of Service requirements.
Advanced Standing is credit or recognition of your previous study, work and/or life experience. This can reduce the cost and length of your studies.
Individual Unit Advanced Standing
If you are admitted into this course and believe you have already completed the equivalent of one or more of the units in your Course Structure (Program of Study) within the last ten years, you can apply for Individual Unit Advanced Standing.
> Learn how to apply for Individual Unit Advanced Standing
Course structure
To qualify for the award a candidate must pass units to the value of 144 credit points with not more than 60 credit points at 100-level and at least 36 credit points at 300-level.
42 credit points
Complete the following Groups:30 credit points
Complete the following units:- Introductory Psychology I (PSYC101) – 6 credit points
- Introductory Psychology II (PSYC102) – 6 credit points
- Introduction to Sociology (SOCY100) – 6 credit points
- Thinking Sociologically (SOCY110) – 6 credit points
- Social Research Methods (SPI345) – 6 credit points
- Critical Thinking (PHIL102) – 6 credit points
- Speaking in Public (THEA234) – 6 credit points
- Work Integrated Learning - Professional Skills Development (WORK300) – 6 credit points
- Writing for Research (WRIT303) – 6 credit points
- Writing for Work: Styles and Contexts (WRIT306) – 6 credit points
48 credit points
Complete ONE of the following Approved Majors:48 credit points
Complete the following units: NOTE: A 150-hour fieldwork placement is required in HLTH201 (which includes 6 weekly mandatory 1 hour and 1 full day mandatory online workshop) AND a 250-hour fieldwork placement is required in HLTH301 (which includes a mandatory 1 day online workshop) Students are encouraged to enrol in their placement units as soon as possible to ensure sufficient time to arrange each placement. A call for placement interest will occur each Trimester. To ensure students meet placement requirements, they must review the Unit Notes for HLTH201 and HLTH301 in the UNE Course Handbook. If you have prior professional experience in the field of community services, you can apply for Advanced Standing for some academic units and HLTH201. Applications must be received in the trimester prior to enrolling in the first field placement unit in accordance with guidelines. Information on how to apply can be found at the Field Education Placement MyLearn: https://mylearn.une.edu.au/enrol/index.php?id=15875 Students must ensure there is a trimester of study between HLTH201 and HLTH301.- Introductory Client Centered Casework (HDCW114) – 6 credit points
- Foundations of Community Work (HDCW125) – 6 credit points
- Children and Young People at Risk (HDCW126) – 6 credit points
- Case Management in Community Services (HDCW213) – 6 credit points
- Community Services Fieldwork 1 (HLTH201) – 6 credit points
- Community Services Fieldwork 2 (HLTH301) – 12 credit points
- Working with Aboriginal People (OORA200) – 6 credit points
48 credit points
Complete the following units:- Assessment and Management of Issues with Substance Use and Dependence (HLTH325) – 6 credit points
- The Contemporary Counsellor (HSCS100) – 6 credit points
- Culturally Responsive Counselling (HSCS200) – 6 credit points
- Lifespan Development (HSCS202) – 6 credit points
- Ethics, Law and Professional Practice (HSCS204) – 6 credit points
- The Skilled Counsellor (HSCS435) – 6 credit points
- Applied Counselling Theories (HSCS452) – 6 credit points
- Suicide Prevention, Intervention and Postvention (HSSW307) – 6 credit points
24 credit points
Complete the following units:- Understanding Crime (CRIM100) – 6 credit points
- The Criminal Justice System (CRIM101) – 6 credit points
- Professional Practice in Criminology (CRIM312) – 6 credit points
- Criminological Perspectives (CRIM345) – 6 credit points
- Deviance (CRIM104) – 6 credit points
- Digital Futures: Crime, AI and Emerging Technologies (CRIM200) – 6 credit points
- Drugs, Alcohol and Society (CRIM208) – 6 credit points
- Crime and Popular Culture (CRIM303) – 6 credit points
- Policing and Social Control (CRIM314) – 6 credit points
- Prisons and Punishment (CRIM324) – 6 credit points
- Domestic and Family Violence (SOCY306) – 6 credit points
12 credit points
Complete the following units:- Introduction to Linguistics (LING101) – 6 credit points
- Foundations of Linguistics (LING102) – 6 credit points
- Meaning in Language (LING305) – 6 credit points
- Phonetics and Phonology (LING365) – 6 credit points
- Morphology and Syntax (LING369) – 6 credit points
- Australia's Indigenous Languages (LING366) – 6 credit points
- Sociolinguistics and Language Ecology (LING371) – 6 credit points
- Writing Systems of the World (LING381) – 6 credit points
- Language and the Law (LING244) – 6 credit points
- Language Acquisition (LING304) – 6 credit points
- Meaning in Language (LING305) – 6 credit points
- Communicating in Culturally Diverse Contexts (LING350) – 6 credit points
- The English Language (LING353) – 6 credit points
- Phonetics and Phonology (LING365) – 6 credit points
- Australia's Indigenous Languages (LING366) – 6 credit points
- Morphology and Syntax (LING369) – 6 credit points
- Sociolinguistics and Language Ecology (LING371) – 6 credit points
- Writing Systems of the World (LING381) – 6 credit points
30 credit points
Complete the following units:- Communication for Business (MM105) – 6 credit points
- Fundamentals of Marketing (MM110) – 6 credit points
- Fundamentals of Management (MM123) – 6 credit points
- Management Practices in Responsible Organisations (MM203) – 6 credit points
- Strategic Planning and Sustainability (MM403) – 6 credit points
- Small Business Management (AFM324) – 6 credit points
- Economics for Management (ECON123) – 6 credit points
- Employment Relations (MM353) – 6 credit points
- Human Resource Management (MM221) – 6 credit points
- Managing Change (MM320) – 6 credit points
- Business Ethics (MM322) – 6 credit points
- Organisational Leadership (MM324) – 6 credit points
6 credit points
Choose 0-6 credit points from the following units:- Work Integrated Learning - Professional Skills Development (WORK300) – 6 credit points
- Overseas Study Experience (OSSE300) – 6 credit points
48 credit points
Complete the following units:- Introduction to Politics (PAIS101) – 6 credit points
- Environmental Peace (PEAC102) – 6 credit points
- Political Thinkers (PAIS302) – 6 credit points
- 21st Century International Relations (PAIS314) – 6 credit points
- Contemporary Political Issues (PAIS370) – 6 credit points
- Active Resistance: Contemporary Nonviolence (PEAC303) – 6 credit points
- Democracy in Danger? Comparative Populism in Question (SOCY303) – 6 credit points
- Australian Social and Public Policy (SOCY313) – 6 credit points
48 credit points
Major - Complete the following units: NOTE: this major is unavailable in 2026. Any units done in this major will count as elective component.- Introduction to Indigenous Australia (PAIS104) – 6 credit points
- Global Indigenous Experiences (PAIS105) – 6 credit points
- Indigenous Politics and Public Policy (PAIS322) – 6 credit points
- Indigenous Business and Community Development (PAIS323) – 6 credit points
- Indigenous Peoples and Colonisation: Land and Nature (PAIS324) – 6 credit points
- Australia's Indigenous Languages (LING366) – 6 credit points
- Aboriginal Resilience and Community (OORA300) – 6 credit points
- Contemporary Political Issues (PAIS370) – 6 credit points
48 credit points
Complete the following units:- Social Psychology (PSYC200) – 6 credit points
- Research Methods and Statistics (PSYC202) – 6 credit points
- Cognitive Psychology (PSYC206) – 6 credit points
- Lifespan Developmental Psychology (PSYC213) – 6 credit points
- Psychopathology (PSYC363) – 6 credit points
- Biopsychology (PSYC366) – 6 credit points
- Individual Differences and Assessment (PSYC371) – 6 credit points
- Advanced Research Methods and Statistics (PSYC372) – 6 credit points
12 credit points
Complete 12 credit points from the following units:- Critical Thinking (PHIL102) – 6 credit points
- Introduction to Philosophy B: Metaphysics and Theory of Knowledge (PHIL150) – 6 credit points
- Introduction to Philosophy A: The Examined Life (PHIL151) – 6 credit points
36 credit points
Complete 36 credit points from the following units: Note: Listed units are offered on a two-year rotation cycle ie every second year.- Political Thinkers (PAIS302) – 6 credit points
- Epistemology: The Enlightenment and Beyond (PHIL303) – 6 credit points
- Philosophy of Science (PHIL304) – 6 credit points
- European Philosophy: The 20th and 21st Centuries (PHIL307) – 6 credit points
- Friendship, Love and Sex (PHIL308) – 6 credit points
- Ethical Theory (PHIL342) – 6 credit points
- The Ethics of Environmentalism (PHIL366) – 6 credit points
- Social Philosophy: Issues in Applied Ethics (PHIL375) – 6 credit points
- Understanding the Modern World (SOCY340) – 6 credit points
48 credit points
Complete 48 credit points from the following units: Note: Listed units are offered on a two-year rotation cycle ie every second year.- Democracy in Danger? Comparative Populism in Question (SOCY303) – 6 credit points
- Australian Social and Public Policy (SOCY313) – 6 credit points
- Health in Social Perspective (SOCY321) – 6 credit points
- Post-War Popular Culture, Social Change and the Rise of Consumer Society (SOCY332) – 6 credit points
- Sociology of the Modern Family (SOCY336) – 6 credit points
- Understanding the Modern World (SOCY340) – 6 credit points
- The State, Power and Violence (SOCY356) – 6 credit points
- Social Inequality (SOCY360) – 6 credit points
- Sex, Gender and Social Change (SOCY382) – 6 credit points
- Domestic and Family Violence (SOCY306) – 6 credit points
48 credit points
Complete the following units:- Where in the World? Australia's Human Geography (GEPL112) – 6 credit points
- Economic Change and Urban Development (GEPL301) – 6 credit points
- Architecture and Urban Design (GEPL302) – 6 credit points
- Disaster Resilience (GEPL309) – 6 credit points
- Urban Living (GEPL316) – 6 credit points
- Cradle to Grave: Population Geography (GEPL322) – 6 credit points
- Understanding Research (GEPL338) – 6 credit points
- Regional Development: Processes and Policies (GEPL345) – 6 credit points
54 credit points
Complete 54 credit points of Elective Units with a minimum of 24 credit points at 300-level: Elective Units can be selected from any unit offered by the University subject to candidates meeting overall course requirements and prerequisite and timetabling requirements for individual units.See UNE Handbook for more details. The Handbook contains detailed course information designed for enrolled students, including course plans, exit awards, intensive schools, and work placement requirements.
Fees and scholarships
Understanding Your Course Fees
Your total course fees are based on the number of units you complete, not the length of time you study. This gives you flexibility to tailor your study journey to suit your circumstances.
Here's how it works:
- Unit-based pricing - Each unit has its own fee. Visit our Fees and Costs section for detailed unit pricing information
- Advanced standing - If you're eligible for credit for previous study, you'll complete fewer units and pay less overall
- Study pace - Choose part-time or full-time study to fit your schedule without affecting unit costs
- Trimester 3 option - Students who choose to accelerate their progress by studying during Trimester 3 can do so without increasing overall costs
The table below shows estimated fees for a typical full-time year of study (48 credit points which typically equates to 8 units)
How much will it cost?
Estimated fees for your first year of study in this course are:
| Fee type | Cost |
|---|---|
| International | $32,016* |
| Commonwealth Supported Place | $16,369* |
| Estimated amenities fee per year if studying full-time | $373 |
* Annual course fees only cover the cost of tuition. They do not include other expenses associated with university study such as text books, accommodation and living expenses. If you are successful in gaining admission to study at UNE, the Offer of Admission will list the exact tuition fees you need to pay for your course. Fees quoted cover full-time tuition for two full-time trimesters only. For more information, please see fees and costs.
What are the course fee payment options?
A Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) is a government subsidised place in a university course. The government pays part of your tuition fees, and you pay the remainder.
If you have a CSP in either an undergraduate or postgraduate (coursework) degree, you may be eligible for a HECS-HELP Loan, which allows you to defer payment of your fees until you are earning above the threshold.
UNE scholarships are open for all to apply and offer financial help while you are studying. There are scholarships for students with high academic achievement, from rural areas, studying specific degrees, in disadvantaged groups, experiencing financial hardship, who excel at sport or want to live in a UNE residential college.
UNE offers bursaries and scholarships that can help you with the costs of studying and living in Australia.
The UNE International Bursary reduces the published annual tuition fees for international students by up to 20%. These bursaries are available for international students commencing coursework studies at UNE in 2025. View detailed Bursary information.
UNE also offers a number of substantial research scholarships to postgraduate students studying research-based degrees.
Your career
By completing UNE’s Bachelor of Social Science, you will be well placed for positions in the public and private sectors. Some of the areas employing social science graduates include:
- federal, state and local government departments and agencies that focus on family, community and health services
- market and social research
- non-governmental organisations including aid agencies, and advocacy groups
- human resource management
- media and journalism
- academic research.
Students majoring in Psychology will graduate with a 3-year sequence in Psychology accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council.
Course outcomes
- apply quantitative research techniques to real-world empirical data through statistical analysis and/or survey methodology and will judge the suitability of given methods to given applications;
- apply qualitative research techniques to real-world empirical data through a grounding in a range of qualitative methods and will judge the suitabiity of given methods to given applications;
- research and present a clear, coherent and independent exposition of knowledge and ideas concerning the social world from the points of view of both either the individual and/or the group;
- display the more specific skills characteristic of particular majors, such as the ability to analyse and demonstrate an understanding of Aboriginal, business, development, health, marketing, political, psychological, security and social issues; and
- apply advanced writing skills and communicate findings in an appropriate form to diverse audiences.
- Knowledge of a Discipline
Graduates will possess a demonstrable knowledge of research methods common to a range of social science disciplines, and will be able to prove a clear in-depth knowledge of the theoretical, methodological and empirical content and appropriate practices of two discipline areas. This knowledge will be taught in lectures, unit materials and online activities and will be assessed throughout the degree through a range of different activities. Graduates will be made aware of the intrinsic global nature of most social science disciplines as they are taught that the more abstract thinking and methodological skills are portable across many countries and cultures and that the fundamental ideas and approaches of social science have emerged through contributions from many areas across the globe. Individual disciplines put different levels of stress on the balance between knowledge of local and trans-local social formations as appropriate to their concerns and graduates will be assessed partly on how they can demonstrate understanding of local and global specificities in the context of their work.
- Communication Skills
Graduates are trained to communicate in workplace situations through units devoted to developing skills in writing and public presentation, and will be able to articulate complex theoretical arguments through specific training in units on thinking and theory. They will have high-level skills in communicating research results in the contexts of their specialised disciplines. These skills will be taught and practised in lectures, tutorials and online activities. Students will recognise the importance of continuing to develop their oral, visual, and written communication skills, and to be able to use appropriate communication technologies.
- Problem Solving
Graduates will be taught how to apply logical, critical and creative thinking to a range of discipline-specific problems and how to choose the appropriate research method for the problem at hand. They will be able to conceptualise problems at a high level of abstraction through training in theoretical thinking. They will be assessed on their ability to understand assignment tasks and to integrate relevant theory and literature into their own analysis.
- Information Literacy
Graduates will be taught how to recognise relevant information and to use appropriate media, tools and methodologies to locate, access and use information. Through assessment tasks, they will learn how to critically evaluate the sources, values and validity of information, and to use information in critical and creative thinking.
- Ethical Conduct and Social Responsibility
Graduates will be taught to be directly familiar with the ethical issues involved in research and will be able to apply reasoning on these issues in concrete situations they may encounter in their working lives. Attention to issues such as inequality and social justice are embedded in the concerns of a number of individual majors. Assessment tasks ensure that these skills are attained at a suitable level.
- Lifelong Learning
The methodological and conceptualising skills graduates will possess particularly through training in the core units are highly transportable across space and time and may be ongoingly practised and perfected in work and personal situations long after graduates have left formal education. Assessment tasks ensure that these skills are attained at a suitable level.
- Independence and Collaboration
The development of collaboration and group participation skills will be developed through on-campus and online interactive teaching. Graduates will learn the importance of participating in discussions in a professional, respectful and ethical manner.
Excellence in experience, equity and employability
Five Stars,
20 Years in a Row
UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 20 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience.
Good Universities Guide 2007-2026
Five Stars for
Social Equity
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities nationally and is #1 in NSW for Social Equity.
Good Universities Guide 2026
Five Stars for
Graduate Employment
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities for Graduate Full-Time Employment and Starting Salary.
Good Universities Guide 2026 (Undergraduate)
Diamond-Rated Digital Learning
UNE’s leadership in digital learning earned the highest ‘Diamond’ rating in a peer review.
ASCILITE TELAS 2025
Studying online
At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian university.
We understand the challenges faced by busy adults studying at home. We know that a vital part of online study is your engagement with the learning community. Communication with your classmates, teaching staff and university support staff will enhance your study experience and ensure that your skills extend beyond the subject matter. UNE’s teaching staff are experts in their field which is why UNE consistently receives five stars from students for teaching quality, support and overall experience.*
*The Good Universities Guide
Excellence in experience, equity and employability
Five Stars,
20 Years in a Row
UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 20 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience.
Good Universities Guide 2007-2026 Five Stars for
Social Equity
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities nationally and is #1 in NSW for Social Equity.
Good Universities Guide 2026 Five Stars for
Graduate Employment
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities for Graduate Full-Time Employment and Starting Salary.
Good Universities Guide 2026 (Undergraduate) Diamond-Rated Digital Learning
UNE’s leadership in digital learning earned the highest ‘Diamond’ rating in a peer review.
ASCILITE TELAS 2025 Studying online
At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian University.
As an international student you can take advantage of flexible online study from overseas or while you are studying in Australia on a visa other than a student visa. You can’t study fully online on a Student Visa.
To study online from overseas you need to consider that you may need to travel to Australia to attend a UNE campus for some mandatory intensive schools.
Studying on Campus
Whether you are an undergraduate student coming to study in Australia for the first time, a PhD student coming to live here with your family, or you only need short-stay accommodation whilst in Armidale for Intensive Schools, we have the perfect accommodation option for you.
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Why study with us?
The most rewarding experience has been noticing my critical thinking and problem-solving skills rapidly improve. Skills that I have been able to apply in every aspect of my life.
Why study with us?
UNE offers plenty of degrees to choose your preferred future path which will be taught by high quality and innovative teaching staff who are leaders in their fields.
How to apply
Preparing to apply
You should always provide the details of past or current studies in your application. You may also need to include documents to support your application.
The kind of documents you need will depend on:
- Your preferred course/s
- Your personal circumstances
Preparing to apply
You should always provide the details of past or current studies in your application. You may also need to include documents to support your application.
The kind of documents you need will depend on:
- Your preferred course/s
- Your personal circumstances
Important Dates
Different application methods and courses can have different closing dates. To find your correct application method click the Apply Now button below. Please check the appropriate application website for opening and closing dates.
If you are applying online direct to UNE please see below for application dates.
| Intake | Application Closing Date | Trimester Start Date |
|---|---|---|
| Trimester 1 | 24 February 2026 | 23 February 2026 |
| Trimester 2 | 23 June 2026 | 22 June 2026 |
| Trimester 3 | 9 October 2026 | 19 October 2026 |
