Campuses and locations
The University of Newcastle is a multi-campus institution offering programs in a number of locations.
If you are looking to pursue a career in not-for-profit or government aid contributing to social change and development and have the desire and passion to work in the professional service of others, then the Graduate Certificate in Social Change and Development will provide you with the foundational knowledge to begin that journey.
This program will introduce you to key areas of social change delivered through a balance of theoretical and practical coursework. You will graduate with a high-level understanding of the implications of wider social and political changes at a global level, which affect local conditions and capacities. You will be prepared to meet the challenges of development work in a rapidly changing global environment.
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The University of Newcastle’s Certificate in Social Change and Development is designed to propel students towards success in the global industry. Ideally suited to those who have completed undergraduate degrees in social sciences, human resources, politics, health, environmental studies, indigenous studies or agriculture - you will build on your prior learnings studying a range of progressive subjects. The core courses to support your drive and direction are:
Upon completion of the above courses you will be equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to understand the processes of social change and development, and be able to apply this knowledge in the professional environment.
As Australia engages more and more with developing countries, there is a 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 Graduate Certificate 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.
Once armed with these skills you can embark on some of the following career pathways:
You can also take your postgraduate qualification to the next level, opening up further career opportunities with the Master of Social Change and Development at the University of Newcastle.
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Applications to study are now open. Submit your application now.
Important: If you are applying for recognition of prior learning for this program, you will need to provide a statement detailing how your professional experience prepares you to undertake postgraduate study.
Applications to study are now open. Submit your application now.
Important: If you are applying for recognition of prior learning for this program, you will need to provide a statement detailing how your professional experience prepares you to undertake postgraduate study.
This program is open to online international students. Applications to study online are now open.
To ensure that the process goes smoothly for you, you should complete the following steps before applying:
You will be considered for entry based on criteria such as your undergraduate studies and/or equivalent prior learning and/or relevant work experience.
Make sure you double check the special entry requirements, assumed knowledge or recommended studies for the degree:
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:
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.
You can look at Uni prep for options to brush up on knowledge before you start.
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.