Bachelor of Social Science, Bachelor of Psychology

This four-year double degree brings together a Bachelor of Social Science and a Bachelor of Psychology at Adelaide University. You graduate with two qualifications, which matters if you want to work in social policy, community services or psychology-related roles where an understanding of both people and systems is useful. The social science side covers sociology, politics, Indigenous studies and social policy. The psychology side covers human development, cognition, research methods and the biological bases of behaviour. You will write essays, run statistical analyses, and learn how to design and interpret research.

How the degree is structured

Australian bachelor degrees normally run three years full time; a double degree adds a fourth. Adelaide University teaches across semesters, and you enrol in units of study, each worth a set number of credit points. You need to complete the required credit points for both awards, including core units, electives and a capstone. The capstone is usually a research project or a substantial piece of applied work in your final year. Some psychology units include lab work and supervised research experience. Check the official course page for the exact unit list and credit point rules, because they can change.

Work-integrated learning and professional recognition

Social science and psychology degrees in Australia often include work-integrated learning, such as a placement with a community organisation, government department or research team. This gives you direct experience and counts towards your degree. If you are aiming for registration as a psychologist, you should confirm the pathway with the university and the Psychology Board of Australia, because registration normally requires an accredited sequence of study plus further supervised practice or postgraduate study. The double degree may not by itself lead to registration; it depends on the units you choose.

Who it suits and what you gain

This course suits students who want to understand social issues and human behaviour, and who are comfortable with both qualitative and quantitative research. You will build skills in critical analysis, data interpretation, communication and project work. Graduates work in community services, government policy, youth work, human resources, market research and support roles in health. If you are an international student, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session, and you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) after you finish. English requirements are higher for social work and psychology than for many other courses, so check the official page for the exact IELTS or equivalent score you need. Tuition is published on the CRICOS register under course code 117888E.

• Community services officer or case worker in not-for-profit organisations
• Policy or research assistant in state and federal government departments
• Youth support worker or family services coordinator
• Human resources or recruitment officer
• Market and social research analyst
• Program officer in international development or aid organisations
• Support worker in mental health or disability services
• Further study in psychology, social work or public policy for registration or specialisation