Psychology & Social Work: 2013 Undergraduate courses

Psychology & Social Work

Human Services

Psychology

Social Work

Undergraduate courses2013

Simin KashiStudying Bachelor of Psychology

This course teaches you how to be a critical thinker, to have your own opinion and, most of all, not to be judgemental. There are 45 specialisations in the psychology profession including clinical, forensic and youth – so there are many choices.The mystery of the human mind has always interested me. I have wanted to become a psychologist since I was a teenager.

I come from Iran. Two years before I graduated from high school in 1981, my country had a revolution and the university closed. When it was finally re-opened, thousands of people wanted to study. Entry was by exam and an interview requiring strict religious beliefs. I passed the exam but my interview was unsuccessful. I gave up on university, got married and had a daughter. I thought my dream to be a psychologist was over.

Having been away from study, I needed to do a preparation course. JCU’s Uni Prep was very helpful. I learnt to do assignments, write essays, use computers and research. After one semester I passed the Uni Prep exam, applied for the Bachelor of Psychology and was accepted.

At first I wasn’t sure if I could do it. I thought I was too old or my English wasn’t good enough. Some days I wanted to quit, but JCU’s Learning Centre supported me. They assisted me with assignment work and were very encouraging. After two-and-a-half

years I am much more confident. I now ask questions, share my thoughts, and I can see myself as a psychologist talking to a patient. I am so grateful to have had this opportunity.

Going to JCU has been a beautiful experience. I made friends and we study and socialise together. I am building towards my future. If I can do it – anyone can.

JCU has been great for me.

ContentsAbout James Cook University 2

James Cook University campuses 4

Accommodation 5

What to expect at university 6

Study Psychology or Social Work at James Cook University 7

The student experience 8

How our degrees can prepare you for a dynamic future 9

Academic courses

Human Services (Bachelor of Arts) 10

Psychology (3-year Bachelor of Arts) 11

Psychology (4-year Bachelor of Psychology) 12

Social Work 14

Alternative entry pathways 16

Diploma of Arts 16

Joint degrees 17

Psychology & Social Work – courses summary 17

Psychology & Social Work Undergraduate courses 2013

Enquiries 1800 246 446 ~ www.jcu.edu.au 1

Cairns

Thursday Island

TownsvilleMackay

Mount Isa

Brisbane

Singapore

Strong foundationsJAMES COOK UNIVERSITY (JCU) is the second oldest university in Queensland and a high-ranking teaching and research institution, with around 19,000 students. Our main campuses are located in the tropical cities of Cairns, Singapore and Townsville. Singapore is a thriving business hub for Asia, and the Cairns and Townsville campuses in Australia are close to two World Heritage sites: the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and the rainforests of the Wet Tropics Region. Our distinctive character is linked to our location in the tropics and many courses include tropical, rural, remote and global perspectives. We also have study centres located in Mackay, Mount Isa and Thursday Island, and there is a Russo Higher Education operated campus located in Brisbane delivering undergraduate degrees to international students on behalf and in co-operation with JCU.

We offered our first courses in Townsville in 1961 as an annex of the University of Queensland. JCU became a university in its own right on 20 April 1970 when Queen Elizabeth signed the proclamation in Townsville.

Internationally recognisedA JCU qualification is internationally recognised for excellence.

The Institute of Higher Education, which compiles the Academic Ranking of World Universities, ranks JCU as one of the world’s leading academic and research institutions. In 2011, JCU was placed in the top 301-400 grouping of more than 14,000 universities in the world.* In Asia and the Pacific, we are placed in the top 100.**

Teaching excellenceStudy with us and you will learn from expert teachers. Over the past five years, JCU academics have been awarded 36 national awards for teaching excellence from the Australian Teaching and Learning Council and in 2012, Professor Jim Burnell, Professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at JCU, was named Australia’s Lecturer of the Year. With degrees accredited by leading professional organisations, the University received five stars in The Good Universities Guide 2012 for success in getting a job results.

Practical focusJCU courses will give you opportunities for hands-on experience – from internships,

vacation placements and real-world projects with business, industry and government organisations, to field trips in the natural environments of northern Queensland, Asia Pacific and beyond. JCU works with employers and industry groups to make sure our courses reflect best industry practice.

Our courses will give you the key skills essential to all successful careers – effective writing and communication, how to research a topic effectively and the ability to use the latest technology.

Helping you succeedJCU gives you the support you need to succeed. This starts with our friendly and approachable teaching staff and continues through to all of our services for students.

Our Student Mentor Program links new students with second or third year students in the same course for advice and support. We also offer free workshops to help you improve your study and research skills.

All of our students have access to the latest online study resources, 24-hour computer laboratories and free technology skills workshops. The JCU library, with its main hub at the Eddie Koiki Mabo Library on the Townsville campus, forms a

network with the campus libraries in Cairns and Singapore, and provides virtual access to all of our students. It is one of the best resourced libraries in Queensland.

A brighter futureJCU focusses on creating a brighter future for life in the tropics world-wide, through graduates and discoveries that make a difference.

Our world-class research generates new knowledge and understanding to meet the challenges facing the peoples of the tropics.

Sustainability is of paramount importance. We focus on ensuring that our actions today do not limit the range of social, cultural, environmental and economic options open to future generations.

JCU is also committed to achieving genuine and sustainable reconciliation between the Indigenous peoples and the wider community.

About James Cook University

* Institute of Higher Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Academic Ranking of World Universities 2011. This ranking system is widely acknowledged as a leading global indicator of university status.

** International Handbook of Universities, International Union of Universities 2010.

Psychology & Social Work2

A JCU qualification is internationally recognised for excellence.


Support Services for studentsJCU Townsville CampusJCU Cairns Campus JCU Singapore Campus

James Cook University campusesJCU’s main campuses are in Cairns, Singapore and Townsville. We also have a campus in Brisbane focussing on international students.

CairnsCairns’ idyllic location has seen it evolve from a small seaport, servicing busy industries inland, to a popular tropical destination for visitors from around the world. Cairns lies 350 kilometres north of Townsville, and its population of more than 170,000 people enjoy life in a cosmopolitan coastal city, uniquely positioned between two World Heritage-listed natural icons – the coral reefs of the Great Barrier Reef and the rainforests of the Wet Tropics Region. So accessible are these regions from Cairns, visitors can enjoy both in one day.

Cairns campus

The Cairns campus is located at the foot of rainforest-covered mountains, 15 kilometres north

of the city centre and adjacent to Cairns’ northern beaches. Officially opened in 1995, this growing campus of some 4,000 students has modern and innovative teaching facilities, and specialist research hubs. New developments include a $30 million, state-of-the-art teaching facility for dentistry and a similar signature facility for the Cairns Institute.

SingaporeSingapore is the commercial, technological, financial and academic global hub of Southeast Asia. It is an island city of five million people, with per capita income nearly the same as Australia’s. Singapore is the perfect setting for JCU’s third tropical campus.

Singapore campus

JCU Singapore has two campuses which provide students with access to a full range of facilities and services to support their learning in psychology, business, marketing, tourism, information technology and guidance and counselling. The facilities include lecture and seminar rooms, a fully-equipped library, computer laboratories, an on-site bistro and sporting facilities.

TownsvilleTownsville is Queensland’s second largest city with a population of more than 180,000 people. A thriving industrial city on Queensland’s northern coastline, Townsville is also an administrative and service centre for north-eastern Australia. It is uniquely located

within easy reach of two World Heritage-listed natural wonders – the coral reefs of the Great Barrier Reef and the rainforests of the Wet Tropics Region. To the west are the savannahs and gulf country of the outback.

Townsville campus

Located on 386 hectares of natural parkland in the suburb of Douglas, the Townsville campus supports approximately 12,000 students. On-campus colleges and halls of residence provide accommodation for around 1,250 students, and there are excellent fitness and sporting facilities.

For more information about JCU campuses and study centres visit: www.jcu.edu.au/about/campuses

Learn more about the many support services available to JCU students at: www.jcu.edu.au/student

Accommodation service

Apply for on-campus accommodation in Townsville, or search our online accommodation database: www.jcu.edu.au/accommodation

Careers and employment service

Search for casual work at our online jobs database and get careers advice from trained employment officers: www.jcu.edu.au/careers

Indigenous students at JCU

Find out about study support and scholarships for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students: www.jcu.edu.au/study/indigenous-students

Disability support

AccessAbility is a confidential service for all students with a temporary or permanent disability, injury, illness or health condition. Contact the service if you have study-support needs: www.jcu.edu.au/disability

Student mentor program

Team up with a student mentor who is in the same course as you: www.jcu.edu.au/learningskills/mentor

Language and learning services

Learning advisers offer free short courses, on campus and online, to help you manage your time and study better: www.jcu.edu.au/learningskills

Library

Whether it’s locating information, needing help with assignments, developing study skills or just checking out the new book display, the library staff are here to help: www.jcu.edu.au/libcomp


AccommodationFinding a place to stay while studying at uni is an important decision to make and can strongly influence your university experience. JCU offers access to a wide range of accommodation types to cater for a variety of individual needs and budgets. We can help you find the kind of accommodation that best suits you. Perhaps you would like to live on campus and have all your meals provided, or even on campus with self-catering facilities. You might prefer off-campus live-in share accommodation or boarding with a family. There are many options available and you can find out about these through JCU’s Accommodation Service.

JCU’s Accommodation ServiceJCU provides an accommodation service and the friendly staff can help you find accommodation best suited to you. Availability of some accommodation options are limited, so it is important to start organising your accommodation as soon as you can. You can apply online for options through the accommodation service’s website.

Townsville accommodationWant to live on campus?

JCU’s Townsville campus has seven colleges and student halls on the campus grounds that can

cater for approximately 1,250 students. College life provides a great atmosphere for you to meet and make lifetime friendships and connections with fellow students from around the world and outside your academic circles. An added advantage of living on the campus grounds is easy access to uni facilities such as ovals, swimming pools, a gymnasium and tennis and basketball courts.

Most colleges offer full-board accommodation, providing three meals a day while some have self-catering options, where you cook for yourself.

The halls and colleges are listed below and you can contact them directly or visit the Accommodation Service website for links.

Saints Catholic CollegeTel: (07) 4727 7200 or <[email protected]>www.cathcollegesjcu.edu.au/

The John Flynn CollegeTel: (07) 4727 7500 or <[email protected]>www.johnflynn.org

JCU Halls of ResidenceTel: (07) 4781 5777 or <[email protected]> www.jcu.edu.au/jcuhalls/halls

St Mark’s CollegeTel: (07) 4779 5044 or <[email protected]>www.stmarks.jcu.edu.au/

Want to live off campus?

Off-campus options include 2-bedroom units, share accommodation or private boarding. Whatever you are interested in, JCU’s Accommodation Service can help. They can even help with short-term stays for block-mode study.

Cairns accommodationCairns is a popular tourist destination with a large number of commercial accommodation providers offering short and long-term accommodation. JCU’s Accommodation Service can provide further information about these options.

Want to live at the Cairns Student Lodge?

Situated opposite the campus and providing fully-catered accommodation for 225 students.

Tel: (07) 4057 1111 or <[email protected]> www.studentlodge.com.au/

Want to live in a share house in Cairns?

Cairns Sharehouse is a service that professionally manages share facilities for students and backpackers in houses, units and apartments around Cairns.

Tel: (07) 4041 1875 <[email protected]> www.cairns-sharehouse.com

Mount Isa accommodationJCU’s Mount Isa Centre for Rural and Remote Health (MICRRH) provides self-catered accommodation in the city for 36 students on professional placements. Contact MICRRH for information.

Tel: (07) 4745 4500 or <[email protected]>

What can accommodation cost?Student halls and colleges on the Townsville campus offer full-board, single room and share options, with a range of prices. An average price per week for a student room in a hall or college with full-board (all meals provided) in 2011 ranged from $270 to $350.

Rental and share accommodation in Cairns and Townsville can cost around $120 to $180 per week for a room in a share apartment or house.

Help with accommodation costs

On-campus halls and colleges offer discounts for up-front payments or if you have a brother or sister staying there.

If you have to move away from home to study and are from a disadvantaged background, Commonwealth government scholarships can assist with relocation and accommodation costs.

Further infoJCU Accommodation Service

Tel: (07) 4781 4148 (Monday to Friday, 8.30am – 4.30pm) or <[email protected]> www.jcu.edu.au/accommodation/


What to expect at universityUniversity is an independent learning environment that will develop your confidence as well as your knowledge and skills.

How is university different from school?Study at university is self-directed. You are responsible for keeping up to date with your study material, weekly reading, practical tasks and submitting assignments on time. You will be immersed in your study area and encouraged to express your thoughts and opinions. If you make the most of your studies, it can be one of the most stimulating and exciting times of your life.

Although it’s an independent learning environment, this doesn’t mean you won’t have help when you need it. For example, student mentors are available to answer your questions and to give advice on what to expect in your classes. Free study skills classes in, for example, time management and essay writing will help you stay on top of your study commitments.

Returning to study?Going to university as a mature-age student can be daunting, but more and more people are discovering that with the stimulation and confidence that university study brings, you gain far more than just a degree. To help you find your feet before you begin studying, JCU offers a five-day orientation course called Uniprep.

Full time or part time – what’s involved?For full-time students taking eight subjects (or 24 credit points) a year, the combination of lectures, tutorials, practical sessions plus reading and preparation time at home, will add up to around 40 hours per week. This is the equivalent of a full-time job. Part-time options are available for most JCU courses, giving flexibility for students with work or family commitments.

How often will I have to go?Each subject has its own amount of contact hours, which are the number of hours you are required to be on campus each week. It depends on your course and your subjects. Usually you can arrange your timetable so that you can have at least one day when you have no scheduled contact hours.

Lectures and tutorials – what’s the difference?Lectures involve a lecturer presenting information to many students in a lecture theatre. In this situation there is limited interaction between the lecturer and the students. Tutorials, however, are small groups of students, led by a

tutor, in which you cover the unit material and interact with the tutor and other students. The tutors are there to help you to understand the material and to expand on it. Some courses also include regular laboratory and practical sessions, field trips or work placements. Some subjects combine lectures and tutorials into lectorials.

Flexible optionsYou can usually design your study timetable to fit around the rest of your life. At JCU the majority of subjects are delivered on campus by face-to-face teaching. A growing number of subjects are also available online (flexible delivery mode), which allows you to fit your study around other commitments. Some subjects will be available in short blocks, known as ‘intensives’ and held during vacations.

In addition, our online services for students mean you can complete many tasks from your home computer.

AssessmentAssessment methods vary between subjects. Generally a subject will have written assignments and examinations. Other assessment could include: tutorial presentations, participation in lectures and

tutorials, contribution to discussions, and the completion of practical, field or laboratory work. Familiarise yourself with the assessment needs early in your subject so you can be well prepared.

Work placementsJCU believes in offering students practical opportunities throughout their studies. That’s why many courses include field trips and work placement components. Placements can occur during study or vacation periods, and could take place throughout northern Queensland, into Asia Pacific or further afield. Many of our graduates progress to full-time careers with their work placement employers.


Why study at James Cook University?JCU connects you with the most dynamic 21st-century region in the world, and the one that is most shaping Australia’s future – the Asia Pacific.

JCU Psychology and Social Work courses:

• Offer you the opportunity to study or undertake fieldwork and placements in Asia Pacific, as well as other parts of the world.

• Are taught from three tropical campuses in Cairns, Singapore and Townsville, and online. Social Work is also offered at Mackay and is offered as distance education, which incorporates online but involves more, such as on-campus workshops. Opportunities may exist for you to move across campuses for different learning experiences.

• Not only help you to make sense of our world, but also provide you with skills to adapt to rapidly changing employment markets.

The skills you’ll develop

Through classroom discussions, individual projects and assignments, and teamwork, you will acquire a whole set of skills that are relevant to a career in a dynamic environment:

• Creativity and flexibility (thinking outside the box)

• Appreciation of diversity in culture and ideas

• Research skills (identifying issues, problems and resources, gathering and extracting information)

• Problem solving (including critical thinking, analysis, synthesising, decision making)

• Communication skills (listening, effective presentations and public speaking, good interpersonal skills, concise writing and reporting, editing)

• Organisational skills (multi-tasking, time management, ability to work under stress, coordinating tasks, managing groups, managing conflict, promoting change)

• Leadership skills (including taking the initiative, facilitating discussion, project managing, negotiating, listening, being sensitive and supportive, cooperating and delegating, making decisions with others)

• Teamwork

• Personal work skills (including punctuality, time management, cooperativeness, ability to attend to detail, meet goals and deadlines, seek assistance and organise).

Some professions also require specific postgraduate qualifications. Our bachelor degrees are prerequisites for Level 4 (fourth year) study, the stepping-stone to a Masters and PhD.

Indigenous student supportIf you are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander student, the Faculty is committed to helping you find successful and productive career pathways, and employs Indigenous Support Officers to assist you with academic, financial and mentoring support if you need it.

Scholarships and Bursaries are available, while other resources include the Indigenous Tutorial Assistance Scheme (TAS) and the national Indigenous Cadetship Support (ICS) program, which provides supplementary wages and work experience.

Study Psychology or Social Work at James Cook University

JCU students in Thailand


As a student studying Psychology or Social Work at JCU, you will experience a learning environment that encourages debate and discussion. Graduate Experience Surveys regularly tell us that larger universities provide a lower level of service in terms of contact and support, and a more anonymous and homogenised intellectual atmosphere.

You will study with highly-qualified and dedicated staff, many of whom are leaders in their fields. Innovation and flexibility in teaching styles and technologies are fundamental to teaching. Programs offer flexible, online, and conventional classroom delivery.

While we look at the world from tropical and Asia-Pacific perspectives, you will gain skills that

are valued universally. Opportunities for real-world experience, including work placements and industry projects, will prepare you for your professional life.

The Bachelor of Psychology and the Bachelor of Social Work programs build more focussed, sequential, and skills-based outcomes, and are accredited by the related professional organisations.

Travel and studyIf you think you have to finish studying before you start travelling, think again. Both the Bachelor of Psychology and the Bachelor of Social Work offer students varied and multiple opportunities for international cultural and /or study exchanges. As a JCU student, you may be eligible to spend a

semester or two studying at one of more than 30 exchange partner universities around the world. You can study subjects relevant to your course while overseas, and receive credits towards your JCU degree when you return.

It may be possible for Australian psychology students to spend time on the Singapore campus while undertaking their study. Being a student in a foreign country will give an international edge to your degree and can broaden your employment opportunities even further. Participation in the Student Exchange program is subject to Faculty approval, and is not available for all courses. Please contact [email protected] for more details, or visit: www.jcu.edu.au/student/exchange

Bachelor of Social Work students also have the opportunity to participate in international study opportunities at partner institutions, or may undertake short cultural exchanges in Thailand or India, where the Department has established specific social work-focussed links and partnerships. Social Work students are required to undertake two 14-week field placements, at least one of which may be international. In the past, students have undertaken their final placement in Vietnam, India, Britain and Fiji.

The student experience


Bachelor of Psychology & Bachelor of Social Work These are 4-year professional degrees that provide accredited training if you want to pursue a career as a Social Worker or as a Psychologist.

These professional programs help you to develop a set of portable and adaptable skills highly valued in the workplace:

• Strong professional communication skills

• The ability to work cooperatively and effectively

• The ability to think and solve problems

• The ability to manage a workload

• The ability to network.

These skills should help prepare you to meet the challenges you will confront with a rapidly changing world during the course of your lifetime. In other words, they are lifelong skills. Add to that the advantage of studying in a university situated in the dynamic Asia Pacific, and you have the potential for a winning formula.

As a graduate of these courses, you can use your new skills to make a difference to life in northern Queensland, Australia, Singapore and other parts of the world. Your career choices span across a wide range of areas including social work, psychology, counselling, administration, government, health, welfare, social and public policy, and local and international community development.

When in the workforce, JCU offers a comprehensive range of postgraduate degrees for you to

further develop your professional and research expertise.

Bachelor of ArtsWithin the Bachelor of Arts (BA) you can major in Psychology or Human Services. The BA is a 3-year degree and is not as prescriptive as the professionally-accredited 4-year Bachelor of Psychology or the Bachelor of Social Work.

Future-proofing

A BA majoring in either Psychology or Human Services is designed to be flexible. Neither require you to undertake professional field placements. Instead they offer a broad range of elective subjects and provide opportunities for you to combine your interests as double majors or joint degrees. The BA prepares you to adapt to changing work requirements and conditions, and these skills are in high demand in a range of social welfare and human service organisations.

Why?

This set of portable and adaptable skills are highly valued in the workplace, as they lead to:

• Strong professional communication skills

• The ability to work cooperatively and effectively

• The ability to think and solve problems

• The ability to manage a workload

• The ability to network.

Career optionsAs a graduate you can make a difference in northern Queensland, Australia, Singapore and around

the world. You can enjoy a stimulating career across a wide range of areas including:

• Professional Social Work practice

• Professional Psychology practice

• Counselling

• Administration

• Government health

• Social welfare and community services

• Social and public policy

• Local and international community planning, development and disaster relief

• Organisational practice and social responsibility

• Education and capacity building

• Social services

• Human resources, management and administration

• Marketing

• Government (local, state, federal – for example, defence, justice, treasury, foreign affairs and trade, education)

• Media, journalism, television, radio, film

• Public relations, advertising, marketing, philanthropy.

Many employers seek students who can demonstrate the kind of skills listed above. Good results also help. Some of the above professions may require postgraduate qualifications.

JCU offers a comprehensive range of postgraduate courses to further develop professional and research expertise.

Many joint degree opportunities

Joint degrees allow you to complete two degrees in just slightly more time than you would take to

complete one. As such, they greatly enhance your university experience and your employability.

You can combine the BA with six other degrees at JCU, leading to many career opportunities. Joint degrees can allow you the depth and breadth of a humanities focus, with the practical application of a vocational degree. See page 17 for joint degree information.

Humanities & Social Sciences, Journalism & Languages at James Cook UniversityIn addition to the courses listed in this book, the Faculty of Arts, Education & Social Sciences also offers a range of courses in humanities, languages, journalism and social sciences. For more information on these programs, pick up a copy of our Humanities & Social Sciences, Journalism & Languages brochure or visit www.jcu.edu.au

How our degrees can prepare you for a dynamic future


Academic courses

What is Human Services?

Human Services is a professional field that deals with individual and social problems in a community environment, and the implementation of the processes and strategies to manage those problems.

It involves assisting and supporting individuals and groups within a community to overcome difficulties and life changes. Areas of specialisation include aged services, community work, child and family studies, disabilities studies, mental health services,

rehabilitation counselling, youth services, and corrective services.

Course overview

The Bachelor of Arts is a flexible degree that can be studied on campus or online, and enables you to tailor a study program to suit your interests for a broad variety of career options. This degree is recognised by employers as providing a broad education that produces graduates with the communication, research, analytical and problem-solving skills that are essential in today’s workforce.

Human Services Bachelor of Arts (Human Services)Campus: Townsville; Cairns; Flexible delivery Mode: on campus; full time or part time Duration: 3 years full time Prerequisites: English Mid-year entry: yes QTAC code: Townsville 311031; Cairns 321031; Flex 311039

Course highlights

This course aims to provide students with practical skills, in addition to theoretical knowledge. Field trips, individual and group projects, and subjects in practical skills are taught by highly-qualified professionals with many years’ experience in professional practice. Human Services students benefit from James Cook University’s close research and working relationships with government agencies and local community organisations.

Career opportunities

Human Services graduates are employed in government and non-government agencies and large corporations in areas including:

• Social policy

• Organisational practice and social responsibility

• Community planning, development and disaster relief

• Social welfare and community services

• Education and capacity building.

Study program at a glance*Level Core subjects Primary major Secondary major (optional) Elective subjects

Level 1 Time, Truth & the Human Condition

Our Space: Networks, Narrative, & the Making of Place

Australian People: Indigenous and Anthropological Perspectives

Or any Indigenous Australian Studies Level 1, 2 or 3 subject

Recommended:

Human Rights and Social Issues

Self in Professional Helping

Select four subjects from:

Any Level 1 Arts and Social Sciences subjects - may include the recommended one from a possible second major.

Select as necessary to complete eight subjects at Level 1

Level 2 and 3 Arts Edge

Interpersonal Practice

Professional Values and Ethics

Select at least one subject from:

Australian Women’s Studies

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Skills and Frameworks for Practice

Organisational Practice

Community Work

Plus at least three from:

Group Work

Working in Child and Family Welfare

Rural Welfare

Developmental Approaches to Eco-Social Justice

Select either:

Six subjects as necessary to complete a major in the Bachelor of Arts

Or

Six subjects from Level 2 and 3 Arts and Social Sciences subjects

Select as necessary to complete the degree

* Study Program at-a-glance information is included as an indicator of course content only and is subject to change. Subject selections for individual student Study Plans are finalised following admission to their course.

Honours: An Honours program is available to students demonstrating high academic performance. Honours consists of an extra year of study and the development of a personal research project and thesis.

Joint degree opportunities: Joint degrees give students expertise in a complementary discipline in a reduced time, and can enhance career prospects. At JCU, the Bachelor of Arts (Human Services) can be combined with Business, Law, Science. See page 17 for more information.


What is Psychology?

Psychologists are interested in how people think, feel and behave. They study this at an individual, group, organisational and community level. Psychologists apply this knowledge to assess, diagnose, prevent, and treat problems. Psychologists use scientific methods to study the human mind and behaviour. They develop theories and test them, which provides new information that adds to the body of established knowledge.

Course overview

This major is designed to give students a deeper understanding of the biological, social, and

cultural factors that influence how humans think, feel, and behave within the flexibility of the Bachelor of Arts framework.

Course highlights

JCU’s Bachelor of Arts (Psychology) places a strong emphasis on students being actively engaged in current research. Psychology also hosts a series of seminars each year that are presented by national and international experts, who provide the most current knowledge and research activity in various fields of Psychology.

This major is offered to students who want an understanding of psychology to combine

Psychology(Bachelor of Arts)

Bachelor of Arts (Psychology)Campus: Townsville; Cairns; Singapore Mode: on campus; full time or part time Duration: 3 years full time Prerequisites: English Mid-year entry: yes QTAC code: Townsville 311031; Cairns 321031

Study program at a glance*Level Core subjects Major 2nd Major (optional) Elective subjects

Level 1 Time, Truth & the Human Condition

Our Space: Networks, Narrative, & the Making of Place

Plus either:Australian People: Indigenous and Anthropological Perspectives

Or any Indigenous Australian Studies Level 1, 2 or 3 subject

Plus either:Exploring Psychology 1 Or

Exploring Psychology 2

Recommended:


Or


Please note, it is recommended to complete both subjects.


Any Level 1 Arts and Social Sciences subjects – may include one from a possible second major

Select as necessary to complete eight subjects at Level 1**

Level 2 and 3 Peoples of the Coast and Sea

Arts Edge

Select at least two subjects from:

Brain&Behaviour•Describing&AnalysingBehaviour•HealthPsychology•HumanDevelopmentAcrosstheLifespan•ExperimentalInvestigation&AnalysisofBehaviour•EvolutionofBehaviour•ForensicPsychology•Learning&Behaviour•Memory&Cognition.

Plus at least four subjects from:

AdvancedBehavioural•ResearchDesign&Analysis•SocialPsychology•Psychopathology• PrinciplesofCounselling•TheoreticalFoundationsofModernPsychology•IntroductoryPsychometrics,Assessment&Ethics•Personality&IndividualPsychology•CognitiveNeuroscience:TheBiologyofMind•AdvancedHealthPsychology.

Select either:

Six subjects as necessary to complete a major in the Bachelor of Arts

Or

Six subjects from Level 2 and 3 Arts and Social Sciences subjects

Select as necessary to complete the degree


** Students wishing to complete an APS accredited sequence must complete additional psychology subjects within their program. Please consult the Faculty of Arts, Education and Social Sciences for advice on the required subjects.

Joint degree opportunities: Joint degrees give students expertise in a complementary discipline in a reduced time, and can enhance career prospects. At JCU, the Bachelor of Arts can be combined with Business, Law, Science, and Social Work. See page 17 for more information.

with another area of study. Students wishing to register as psychologists should instead take the Australian Psychological Accreditation Council’s (APAC) 4-year Bachelor of Psychology.


Graduates of the non-accredited BA (Psychology) major (over three years) can pursue a diverse range of careers in government and human services organisations, business corporations, and the health sector. Psychology and arts qualifications are valuable in, for example, media, market research, advertising, public relations and human resources.


What is Psychology?

Psychologists are interested in how people think, feel and behave. They study this at an individual, group, organisational and community level. Psychologists apply this knowledge to assess, diagnose, prevent, and treat problems. Psychologists use scientific methods to study the human mind and behaviour. They develop theories and test them, which provides new information that adds to the body of established knowledge.

Course overview

This course is designed to give students a deeper understanding of the biological, social, and cultural

factors which influence how humans think, feel, and behave.

Course highlights

James Cook University’s Bachelor of Psychology places a strong emphasis on students being actively engaged in current research. Students are encouraged to participate in research projects during their fourth year (Level 4) with postgraduate students and staff. In addition, the Psychology Department hosts a series of seminars each year that are presented by national and international experts, who provide the most current knowledge and research activity in various fields of psychology.

Professional recognition

Students who complete the 4-year Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC) accredited sequence in psychology are eligible to apply for provisional registration as psychologists with the Psychology Board of Australia.


Graduates who have completed the APAC-accredited, 4-year Bachelor of Psychology program are eligible for provisional registration with the Psychology Board of Australia. To progress your career as a professional psychologist requires an additional two years of postgraduate study.

Professional psychologists work in private practice, government policy development, health and allied health, education, human resource management, research institutions, or the criminal justice system and correctional facilities.

Psychology (Bachelor of Psychology)

Bachelor of PsychologyCampus: Townsville; Cairns; Singapore Mode: on campus; full time or part time Duration: 4 years full time Prerequisites: English Mid-year entry: yes QTAC code: Townsville 311081; Cairns 321081

Study program at a glance*Level Core subjects Options Elective subjects

Level 1 Exploring Psychology 1 & 2

Australian People: Indigenous & Anthropological Perspectives

Australian Story: An Introduction to Sociology

Select four elective subjects

Level 2 and 3 Describing & Analysing Behaviour*

Experimental Investigation & Analysis of Behaviour*

Advanced Behavioural Research Design & Analysis*

* these subjects must be completed in this order

At least three Level 2 subjects from:

Brain&Behaviour•HealthPsychology•HumanDevelopmentAcrosstheLifespan•EvolutionofBehaviour•ForensicPsychology•Learning&Behaviour•Memory&Cognition.

Plus at least four Level 3 subjects from:

SocialPsychology•Psychopathology•PrinciplesofCounselling•BehaviourinOrganisations•TheoreticalFoundationsofModernPsychology•IntroductoryPsychometrics,Assessment&Ethics• Personality&IndividualPsychology•CognitiveNeuroscience:TheBiologyofMind•AdvancedHealth Psychology.

Select Level 2 and 3 subjects as necessary

Level 4 Group Project Part 1 of 2Group Project Part 2 of 2Advanced Topics in Psychology 1Advanced Topics in Psychology 2

Or students can apply to do Honours as listed below


Honours: Honours consists of the fourth year of study with the development of a personal research project and thesis.

Joint degree opportunities: Joint degrees give students expertise in a complementary discipline in a reduced time, and can enhance career prospects. At JCU, the Bachelor of Psychology can be combined with the Bachelor of Business. See page 17 for more information.


Emanuele TimponeBachelor of Psychology, Graduated 2009

Psychologist, Queensland Corrective Services

The quality of the teaching and student support was excellent. The lecturers were always available, and I made some wonderful, long-lasting friendships.

What I like about my job is that it’s great to be able to do what I am passionate about and work directly with others.

Psychology is all around us, and I have always been interested in the mind and human behaviour. I grew up in Mareeba, so after finishing high school it was a natural progression to enrol in a Bachelor of Psychology at JCU Cairns. The proximity of the Cairns campus was an asset, plus there aren’t too many universities so close to a World-Heritage-listed rainforest.

Student life is busy and sometimes stressful, but you’re constantly learning which is both interesting and enjoyable. Completing my thesis in fourth year was a highlight. It gave me a real sense of achievement and self-belief.

An important function of my current job as a psychologist with Queensland Corrective Services is to provide case management for individuals while they are involved with the criminal justice system. This serves to facilitate their transition from a correctional centre into the community. That also has a flow-on effect to other community sectors.

A psychology degree teaches you to critically analyse and evaluate, and that was really important for me. I also developed my presentation skills and had the opportunity to speak with professionals and experts in the different psychology areas. If you are interested in human behaviour and mental health, a psychology degree may appeal to you.

Studying psychology at JCU was thoroughly enjoyable. Knowing you can make a difference is really appealing.


What is Social Work?

The social work profession is committed to the pursuit of social justice, the enhancement of the quality of life, and the development of the full potential of each individual, group and community in society.

Social workers address the barriers, inequities and injustices that exist in society, and are actively involved in situations of personal distress and crisis. Social workers are also involved in research, policy development and analysis and consultancy. Social workers promote respect for traditions, cultures, ideologies, beliefs and religions amongst different ethnic groups and societies.

Social workers:

• Work with individuals groups and communities to shape

and change the conditions in which they live

• Advocate for disadvantaged members of society

• Work towards the elimination of social inequalities in society to facilitate a more equitable distribution of resources

• Engage in research to build our understanding of society

• Analyse, challenge and develop social policies.

Course overview

In studying social work at James Cook University, students will learn about the society in which they live and about human and social behaviour. Students will learn about themselves and their values, and develop their knowledge and skills in a human services and social policy environment. In particular, students will develop

Social Work Bachelor of Social WorkCampus: Townsville; Cairns; Mackay; Flexible Mode: on campus or flexible; full time or part time Duration: 4 years full time Prerequisites: English Mid-year entry: yes QTAC code: Townsville 311091; Cairns 321091; Mackay 331091; Flex 311099

an understanding of human rights and social justice, and how these concepts impact in Australian society and internationally.

Course highlights

JCU’s Bachelor of Social Work places a strong emphasis on professional practice experience. Supervised field placements with social welfare agencies during the third and fourth years of study ensure that students have substantial opportunity for developing professional skills in the field.

Professional recognition

The Bachelor of Social Work is a professional degree accredited by the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW). Graduates are eligible for membership.


Career prospects for social workers are strong. They can pursue careers in either human services or social policy research and development. They work for government and non-government agencies and communities, or work in private practice, providing counselling, advocacy and support services.

Graduates may specialise in particular service areas including the elderly, public housing, drug addiction, child abuse, domestic violence, youth, and mental illness.

Study program at a glance*Level Social Work options Elective subjects

Level 1 SelfinProfessionalHelping•ThePoliticalWorld:AnIntroductiontoPoliticalScience•AustralianSociety:AnIntroductiontoSociologyOr Deviance, Crime andSociety•HumanRights&SocialIssues•AnIntroductiontoSocialSciencesResearch Practices.

Plus one of the following:

ExploringPsychology1•ExploringPsychology2•PsychologyforSocialWelfarePractice

Select two elective subjects

Level 2 and 3 InterpersonalPractice•ProfessionalValues&Ethics•OrganisationalPractice•CommunityWork•AboriginalandTorresStraitIslanderSkillsandFrameworkforPractice•GroupWork•DevelopmentalApproachestoEco-SocialJustice•FieldEducation1•SocialWorkandWelfarePractice.

Plus one subject from Indigenous Australian Studies area of study

Plus one from:

Women’sStudies•SociologyLevel2•CriminologyLevel2.

Plus one of the following:

AustralianIndigenousPolitics•PolicyAnalysis&Management.

Select three elective subjects

Level 4 SocialWork&MentalHealth•TheoriesforSocialWorkPractice•SocialInquiryAnalysis•ProfessionalDevelopmentforSocialWorkPractice•FieldEducationII.

Or students can apply to do Honours as listed below


Honours: An Honours program is available for those students who demonstrate high academic performance. Students who demonstrate a strong performance and have completed a research proposal in third year may qualify for entry into the Honours program that combines thesis research with coursework at Level 3 and 4. For entry to research higher degrees, an Honours degree may be essential. The Department of Social Work and Human Services offers a range of postgraduate study opportunities at Post Graduate Certificate, Masters and Doctoral level.



Colin McPhersonBachelor of Social Work, Graduated 2008

Service Leader, Youth Services, Community Solutions, Mackay

As a mature-age student I had to juggle full-time work and family responsibilities, which was a bit of a challenge. The support from the JCU staff helped a lot. I managed to do my degree and still go on family holidays – I just took my laptop with me!Finishing school in Year 10, I never thought I’d go to university. However, 12 years ago I met a social worker in a Brisbane hospital. She had organised support-group meetings for parents whose children were in intensive care. As well as attending the meetings, I convinced other fathers to support their partners, which resulted in record attendances. Following that, I was asked to consider going into the social-work field.

Two years later I passed the JCU entrance exam and enrolled in a

Bachelor of Social Work. I’m from Mackay, so it was great to be able to study in my hometown. The course covered a wide variety of topics from policy development to counselling and direct psychology. During my studies, I started a project with the Department of Families, and have remained in the social work field ever since.

My previous work was in sales and marketing. Currently I work with youth, and my prior knowledge of sales, marketing and social work have all come together. I love it. I manage a team that get to know

the young people first, and then create an individual approach to suit them. I also share my social work knowledge to positively influence their professional development.

The study of social work can help ground people. You may not be able to fix the world, but you can certainly assist in some way. If you have a passion to work with disadvantaged people, then this is a great course to pursue.

It was such a good experience for me at JCU.


Who is this course for?

Prospective Arts, Humanities, Psychology, Social Science and Social Work degree students wanting to gain prerequisite requirements, while sampling study options in Arts, Humanities and the Social Sciences.

Course overview

This is a 1-year program of study for those seeking entry to university, but who may not have the prerequisite for entry to their chosen course. It is also suitable for those who

would like to examine their personal suitability for university study before committing to a full degree.

The program of study includes subjects that build generic skills in areas such as effective writing, critical reading and the analysis of social and cultural issues. These will prepare you for further study in a range of fields, particularly in the humanities and social sciences.

Successful completion of the Diploma of Arts guarantees entry to a wide

Diploma of Arts Diploma of ArtsCampus: Townsville; Cairns Mode: on campus; full time or part time Duration: 1 year full time Prerequisites: None Mid-year entry: Yes QTAC codes: Townsville 311451; Cairns 321451

Course structure*Core subjects Other subjects

Effective WritingCritical ReadingAustralian Society: An Introduction to Sociology

Plus either:Communication, Information and SocietyOr Preparatory Mathematics



range of degree programs at JCU, along with transfer of academic credit. If you wish to progress into a degree program, consultation with the Faculty office is advised before you enrol, to design an appropriate study program.

Course highlights

With so many fascinating JCU Arts subjects to choose from, this course lets you sample before you commit to full degree studies.

Psychology & Social Work Undergraduate Courses 2013Directorate of Marketing and Engagement, James Cook University, April 2012.Design: Cameron LeBherz.Editorial production: Anna Truman, Angus McColl.Printing: Geon.Photography: Andrew Rankin, Through the Looking Glass Photography, iStock, Romy Siegmann, Steve Rutherford, Jim Cullen.© James Cook University; CRICOS Provider Number 00117J.

Disclaimer:This publication is intended as a general guide and does not bind James Cook University (‘the University’) or any state or federal government department. Information is correct at the time of printing and the University reserves the right to alter, amend or delete any course or admission requirement, mode of delivery, fee or other arrangement without prior notice. Scholarships and grants are subject to change and are awarded in accordance with conditions imposed by the University from time to time. All costs quoted are in Australian dollars ($AUD). The University accepts no liability for any loss or damage a person suffers because that person has relied on any information within this guide.

Anthropology: Cultural Diversity in Global Perspective

The World of Archaeology

Communication, Information & Society

Deviance, Crime & Society

Foundation French 1 and 2

Foundation German 1 and 2 (Townsville)

Foundation Italian 1 and 2 (Cairns)

Foundation Japanese 1 and 2

World History Since 1900

Linking Indigenousness 1

Indigenous Australian World

Views 1: Survival, Identity & Cultural Diversity

The Journalist & Society (Townsville)

News Writing & Style (Townsville)

Preparatory Mathematics

The Political World: An Introduction to Political Science

Exploring Psychology 1 and 2

Australian People: Indigenous & Anthropological Perspectives.

James Cook University has a commitment to make university education accessible and achievable for a wider range of people in our region. If it has been a while since you finished school, or if you do not have the academic entry requirements for the course you want to study, there are other entry options available to you. Below is a brief overview of some of the alternative entry pathways available at JCU – please contact the Student Enquiry Centre for further information.

JCU Pathway CollegeJames Cook University, The Barrier Reef Institute of TAFE and Tropical North Queensland Institute of TAFE have entered into an exciting partnership to provide students who: did not get the results they needed for University entry; did not complete school and would like to pursue further study; are mature-aged and wish to return to study but are unsure of their skills or; have taken some study at TAFE but would like to undertake further study at university.

JCU Pathway College has a variety of pathways, which confidently lead students into their chosen university degree and career, providing them with the extra support they require to achieve this. The JCU Pathway College offers a 6-month intensive Foundation Program, and from 2013 will offer a range of diplomas, which will provide guaranteed entry into the second year of the relevant JCU undergraduate degree.

Alternative entry pathwaysBridging subjectsCan help you gain prerequisite subjects required for entry into specific courses.

Six-month Tertiary Access Course (TAC)This preparatory course is for students who have not completed high school, or who do not have the academic entry requirements to enrol in some undergraduate courses at JCU.

Diploma coursesDiploma courses are 1-year study programs (or longer if taken part time) designed for students who may not meet the academic entry requirements for their preferred degree.

Alternative entry with QTACThe Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre (QTAC) offers alternative entry options, to show that non-school leaver applicants can have reasonable prospects of success in a course. Visit the QTAC website for further information on Alternative Entry: www.qtac.edu.au/Applying-NonYear12/AlternativeEntry.html


BACHELOR Majors

Prerequisite information Years (full time)

Campuses and QTAC codes Mid-year entry

2010 OP/RANK

Page #

Townsville Cairns Others

ARTS English 3 311031 321031 see major yes 19/62 see major

Human Services English 3 311031 321031 311039 (Flex) yes 19/62 10

Psychology English 3 311031 321031 - yes 19/62 11

PSYCHOLOGY English 4 311081 321081 - yes 14/71 12

SOCIAL WORK English 4 311091 321091 331091 (M) 311099 (Flex)

yes 15/69 14

JOINT BACHELOR Prerequisite information Years (full time)


2010 OP/RANK

Townsville Cairns

ARTS-BUSINESS English; plus extra requirements for Business major chosen

4 311031 321031 yes 19/62

ARTS-LAWS English 5 311061 321061 yes 15/69

ARTS-SCIENCE English; plus extra requirements for Science major chosen

4 311031 321031 yes 19/62

ARTS-SOCIAL WORK English 5 311091 321091 yes 15/69

BUSINESS-PSYCHOLOGY English 5 311081 321081 yes 14/71

EDUCATION (Middle School)- ARTS

English 4.5 313211 323211 yes 16/67

EDUCATION (Secondary)-ARTS English 4.5 313111 323111 yes 16/67

Please note, campus availability of joint degrees with majors depends on the major chosen.

DIPLOMA Prerequisite information Years (full time)


2010 OP/RANK

Page #

Townsville Cairns

ARTS none 1 311451 321451 yes 20/60 16

Psychology & Social Work courses summary

(Flex) = Flexible delivery (M) = Mackay

Why combine Arts and Social Work?

This degree will give you a professional accredited Social Work qualification with complementary humanities and social science skills in reduced time. You could, for example, combine an Arts major in Politics or Sociology to move into a career in social policy with government departments or non-government organisations. Or combine an Arts major in Indigenous Australian Studies for a career with Indigenous communities and organisations.

Bachelor of Arts*-Bachelor of Social Work

Bachelor of Arts-Bachelor of Social WorkCampus†: Townsville; Cairns Mode: on campus; full time or part time Duration: 5 years full time Prerequisites: English Mid-year entry: yes QTAC codes: Townsville 311091; Cairns 321091

Why combine Business and Psychology?

This joint degree will give you expertise in understanding human behaviour and how this impacts on organisations and business. Career areas could include management, human resources, marketing and market research, training and development. With further study you could practice as a psychologist for a career in counselling, or industrial and organisational psychology.

Bachelor of Business- Bachelor of Psychology

Bachelor of Business-Bachelor of PsychologyCampus†: Townsville; Cairns Mode: on campus; full time or part time Duration: 5 years full time Prerequisites: English Mid-year entry: yes QTAC codes: Townsville 311081; Cairns 321081

Joint Degrees

* The Bachelor of Arts is also available as a joint degree with Business, Law, Science and Education. Further information can be found in the ‘Humanities & Social Sciences, Journalism & Languages’ course booklet.† Campus availability for the Bachelor of Arts and the Bachelor of Business is dependent on the major chosen. Please contact JCU’s Student Enquiry Centre for more information (see back cover).


Course and admission enquiries

JCU Student Enquiry Centre Freecall (from within Australia) 1800 246 446

[email protected] www.jcu.edu.au/study

Course information www.jcu.edu.au/courses

International students

James Cook University International

Townsville campus (07) 4781 5601 [email protected]

Cairns campus (07) 4042 1558 [email protected] www.jcu.edu.au/international

QTAC (Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre)

PO Box 1331 Level 2, 33 Park Road Milton QLD 4072 1300 467 822 or (07) 3858 1222 www.qtac.edu.au

Scholarships

Search for scholarships, bursaries and grants online: www.jcu.edu.au/scholarships

JCU publications

Undergraduate courses 2013 Business & Information Technology Creative Arts Education Engineering Humanities & Social Sciences, Journalism & Languages Law Medicine, Health & Veterinary Sciences Psychology & Social Work Science

Courses & Careers: JCU Undergraduate Study Guide 2013

Postgraduate Study Guides Arts, Education & Social Sciences Law, Business & the Creative Arts Medicine, Health & Molecular Sciences Science & Engineeringwww.jcu.edu.au/study/publications

Key dates

JCU Open Day Cairns Sunday 19 August 2012

JCU Open Day Townsville Sunday 26 August 2012

Tertiary Studies Expo (TSXPO) 21-22 July 2012 RNA Showgrounds, Brisbane

QTAC closing date (for on-time applications) Late September 2012

Teaching Period 1, 2013 Classes commence Monday, 25 February 2013

For JCU events and career market information, visit www.jcu.edu.au/events

Further Information

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Psychology & Social Work: 2013 Undergraduate courses