Bachelor of Social Science
Swinburne Online - online delivery only
Exploring topics such as human behaviour, social issues, ethical dilemmas and international relations, students will develop a rounded understanding of sociocultural and socioeconomic environments. Critical thinking skills will be honed through the analysis of theoretical principles and the reviewal of research, and graduates will display confidence in communicating ideas and arguments in their chosen disciplines.
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Duration
3 years full-time or equivalent part-time
Intakes
Online (March, July, November) - View application and start dates
Study mode
- Online

Study with Swinburne Online
With Swinburne Online, the learning experience is 100% online and studied at your own pace. Our courses are built for the jobs of the future with a focus on collaboration and our flexible learning environment empowers you to study on your own terms. They are developed by leaders in the field and taught by professionals with industry experience.
Course information in detail
- Course detail, course structure and units of study.
Course description
Counter Terrorism major focuses on human rights and the ethical issues surrounding security and counter terrorism policy. Students examine the changing nature of warfare and its justification in the context of the post-9/11 security environment. The Behavioural Studies major provides students with a foundation understanding of human behaviour and mental well-being, and how these can be applied to issues in health and community sectors.
Course structure
- 4 Social Science Core units of study (50 credit points)
- 8 Major units of study from Criminology, Behavioural Studies, Security and International Relations*, or Security and Counter Terrorism* (100 credit points)
- 12 units of study (150 credit points) comprising a co-major, advanced minor, minor and/or electives
- Accelerated study: 12 units of study per academic year
- Full-time study: eight units of study per academic year
- Part-time study: four units of study per academic year
- Recommended study: six units of study per academic year
Maximum Academic Credit
The maximum level of credit that can be granted for the Bachelor of Social Science is 150 credit points (normally 12 units)
Units of study
Matched exemptions are generally not granted for higher education outcome units.
Careers and graduate outcomes
- Career opportunities, course aims and objectives and graduate skills.
Career opportunities
Future career areas include roles that: implement strategies and policies for correction programs and crime prevention; investigate victim support, community safety, and rehabilitation; provide guidance and support within child protection, human resources, community health support teams; and examine the role of technology in crime, terrorism and warfare in culturally diverse global environments.
Career opportunities for graduates include child protection officer, community health worker, human resources support. Among other opportunities, graduates may find employment in government departments including the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Department of Defence, the Australian Border Force, and the Attorney-General’s office.
Alternatively, graduates may pursue research and further studies in international studies, security studies or the social sciences as part of one of several graduate awards available at Swinburne, including Masters and Doctoral degrees.
Aims and objectives
- systematically review and critically evaluate research from a variety of sources to inform their knowledge and conceptual understandings in the social sciences
- formulate arguments that are fit for purpose and demonstrate an understanding of the relevant theories and evidence in their areas of disciplinary expertise
- critically analyse information to generate creative solutions to solve complex problems in the social sciences
- define and integrate theoretical principles and apply these in their disciplinary areas of expertise
- apply knowledge and skills with responsibility and accountability for their own learning and practice, individually and in collaboration with others
- interpret and communicate ideas, problems and arguments in modes suitable to a range of audiences using a range of media
- coherently articulate a line of reasoning demonstrating cultural sensitivity and apply a framework to analyse and offer solutions to ethical dilemmas in local and international contexts.

Graduate skills
- capable in their chosen professional, vocational or study areas
- entrepreneurial in contributing to innovation and development within their business, workplace or community
- effective and ethical in work and community situations
- adaptable and able to manage change
- aware of local and international environments in which they will be contributing (such as sociocultural, economic, natural).
Pathways and scholarships
- Pathways, credit transfer, recognition of prior learning and scholarships.
Course fees and requirements
- Entry requirements and non-year 12 entry.
Course fees
Students who participate in a six- or 12-month professional placement will be subject to an increase in total course fees.
2023 rate* | Estimated total cost of the course | Estimated cost of the course per year if studying full-time* | Amenities fee per year if studying full-time* |
---|---|---|---|
Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) |
$45,426 | $15,142 | See how your SSAF is calculated |
How do I pay my fees?
HECS-HELP is a loan and discount scheme available to eligible students enrolled in a Commonwealth supported place. A HECS-HELP loan can cover all or part of the student contribution amount.
Find out more about fees.
Entry requirements
- successful completion of the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) or its equivalent, such as an interstate or international Year 12 qualification.
- completion or partial completion of an approved tertiary qualification (including Certificates IV (completed), Diplomas, Advanced Diplomas, Associate Degrees and Degrees)
- applicants without a formal qualification may be considered for entry if they have significant and relevant work experience and/or upon completion of the STAT test.
VCE Units 3 and 4 – a minimum study score of 25 in any English (except EAL) or 30 in English as Alternate Language (EAL) or equivalent
Meeting the minimum entry requirements for the course does not guarantee offer of a place. See Admissions at Swinburne, for general information about the admission process.
How to apply
The full Course Admission Information and Whole of Institution Set are available for reference.
View the Course Admission Information, which includes the ATAR and Student profiles for this course. Swinburne’s general admissions information is also available here.
Find out more
Email: enquiries@swinburneonline.com