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Duration
Full Time: 6 Months (Available Part Time)*
Next Start Date
01 March 2027
19 July 2027
Closing Date
Indicative annual fee from $11,885
Additional Information
Program Code: 1952
CRICOS Code: 120236D
This program introduces contemporary human services practice, including social policy, community engagement, advocacy, ethics and person-centred support. Students develop an understanding of the social, cultural and economic factors that influence wellbeing, while gaining the communication and critical thinking skills needed to work effectively with diverse populations.
The program is ideal for those seeking career entry into the human services sector, career progression within community and social services, or a pathway into further postgraduate study. Graduates may pursue opportunities across community organisations, government agencies, not-for-profit services, youth and family support, disability services, housing, mental health and related sectors.
Flexible study options allow students to balance study with professional and personal commitments while gaining industry-relevant knowledge aligned to the evolving needs of the human services sector.
Applicants must have successfully completed an undergraduate degree or higher in any area. This program is specifically tailored for students without a background in Health, Education, Society and Culture, or related disciplines. Qualification for this award requires the successful completion of 40 credit points (4 subjects), typically completed across one semester.
Discover postgraduate study options that can help you build your expertise, progress your career or explore a new direction. Explore your options now and bring your questions to our Postgraduate Expo at our Parramatta City campus, where our experts can help you take your next step with confidence.
The program structure is outlined in our handbook. Here you can view all of the subjects you will be studying.
As a graduate of this degree, you gain a recognised postgraduate award that can support career development within the broader human services sector.
The program provides you entry into the human services sector or career progression within community and social services across:
On successful completion, the program also provides a pathway to further postgraduate study into the Master of Social Work (Qualifying) at Western Sydney University.
Please consult the handbook for more information regarding entry requirements for this course.
You can read more about special requirements here.
**Please note, if this course lists a part-time option, this is not available to International Students on a Student Visa.
Please consult the handbook for more information regarding entry requirements for this course.
You can read more about international academic entry requirements here.
The fee estimates provided are indicative only and subject to change. These estimates are based on the current fee structures for a normal full time study load. However, the final fees may vary depending on several factors, including the specific subjects chosen, the duration and timing of study, and annual fee adjustments (subject to Commonwealth student contribution band rates). Please note that these estimates do not include the Student Services and Amenities Fee. We encourage all prospective and current students to consult with our Student Services Hub for the most current fee information.
As a multi-campus institution, Western Sydney University and its entities reserves the right to alter the location of its programs between campuses and other locations as necessary.
If you are a domestic student, you can apply through our Western Application system which is free of charge.
Domestic students are:
Western Sydney University recognises and rewards students who demonstrate community engagement, outstanding academic ability and superior leadership skills. Donor-funded scholarships are also available, providing support for students based on both academic achievements and equity considerations. There are also scholarships available for specific degrees.
The fee estimates provided are indicative only and subject to change. These estimates are based on the current fee structures for a normal full time study load. However, the final fees may vary depending on several factors, including the specific subjects chosen, the duration and timing of study, and annual fee adjustments (subject to Commonwealth student contribution band rates). Please note that these estimates do not include the Student Services and Amenities Fee. We encourage all prospective and current students to consult with our Student Services Hub for the most current fee information.
As a multi-campus institution, Western Sydney University and its entities reserves the right to alter the location of its programs between campuses and other locations as necessary.
If you are an international student, you can apply for free through our international student application system or through an agent representative.
International students are:
Admission to Western Sydney University is on the basis of meeting minimum academic and English language requirements. For more information about tuition fees and other costs, visit the Fees and Costs page.
When you apply to Western, you’re automatically assessed for a Scholarship, no additional application required! We’re offering multi-year scholarships (for up to 3 years) valued at $6,000 or $3,000 and even 50% off tuition fees. Scholarships are awarded on academic merit.
We've gathered common questions to provide you with quick, clear answers about this program. Whether you're exploring admission requirements, details about the degree or career prospects, you'll find valuable insights here. If you need more information, our support team is ready to assist you on your journey to Western. You can find their details below.
Admission into the Graduate Certificate in Human Services is based on prior successful completion of an undergraduate degree or higher in any discipline relevant to the following study areas, such as social and behavioural sciences, health and human services, humanities and cultural studies, policy and applied social sciences, or professional fields such as law, business or arts.
Designed for professionals looking to enter or progress within the human services sector, or for those seeking a pathway into further postgraduate study in social work or related disciplines. This program introduces contemporary human services practice and is designed to build foundational knowledge and practical skills to support individuals, families and communities across a range of settings. It explores areas such as social policy, community engagement, advocacy, ethics and person-centred support.
Yes, this program provides a pathway to further postgraduate study into the Master of Social Work (Qualifying).
This program focuses on building foundational knowledge and practical skills for work in the human services sector. While it does not include internships or placements, you develop applied capabilities relevant to community, government and not-for-profit settings. However, if you continue your postgraduate study into the Master of Social Work (Qualifying), you will undertake 1,000 hours of professional placement and field education as part of that program.
This program is a recognised Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) Level 8 postgraduate qualification. While it is not a professionally accredited qualification, it provides a strong foundation for career development in the human services sector and supports progression to further postgraduate study into the Master of Social Work (Qualifying).
Graduates of this degree may pursue roles across community organisations, government agencies and not-for-profit services, including roles in youth and family support, disability services, housing, mental health and broader community services.
We're here to provide clarity.
If you're uncertain about your study journey, enquire about our program today and gain the confidence to move forward.
Australian students
1300 668 370
International students
+61 2 9852 5499
The fee estimates provided are indicative only and subject to change. These estimates are based on the current fee structures for a normal full time study load. However, the final fees may vary depending on several factors, including the specific subjects chosen, the duration and timing of study, and annual fee adjustments (subject to Commonwealth student contribution band rates). Please note that these estimates do not include the Student Services and Amenities Fee. We encourage all prospective and current students to consult with our Student Services Hub for the most current fee information.
As a multi-campus institution, Western Sydney University and its entities reserves the right to alter the location of its programs between campuses and other locations as necessary.
