Otago Polytechnic

Course Details

Bachelor of Social Services

Course Description

Embrace the opportunity to meet the professional competency standards that are increasingly essential in social services roles during this applied degree programme. Choose from a wide range of social services careers and focus on helping people improve their quality of life. The demand for qualified individuals in the community services industries will remain strong as the world faces a growing and ageing population and a general increase in social problems. Consider employment as a mental health advocate/support worker, disability support advocate/worker, community/social services worker, counsellor or career practitioner. Alternatively, you could continue with further study and pursue a career in academia or policy development. Gain a solid foundation in various aspects of the field during year one before choosing to specialise in career practice, counselling, mental health or disability support. You must indicate which specialty area(s) you are most interested in at the time of application but you will not be required to formally choose your specialty until the end of your first year. Mental health and disability have the option of an exit diploma at the end of the second year, or can progress into the year three social services specialty. Build on the concepts and knowledge acquired in the foundation courses, enabling you to develop a sound knowledge base before undertaking valuable work placements. Working with clients is a core component of this programme and will give you the opportunity to gain mastery in professional practice and theory and increase your work-readiness. Benefit from the chance to network with other services and to forge important industry contacts and relationships.

Course Duration

NumberDuration
3year

Career outcomes

Related field jobs.

Bachelor of Social Services Otago Polytechnic