Bachelor's Degree Sociology Full Time

Bachelor of Development Studies

at University of Newcastle · Newcastle, New South Wales

CRICOS course code

031290F

CRICOS provider code

00109J

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

3 years

Tuition (whole course)

A$148,058 total

Per year

A$49,353/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

The Bachelor of Development Studies at the University of Newcastle explores the complex challenges facing communities and environments in Australia and around the world. This three-year undergraduate degree provides a strong foundation in social sciences, with a particular focus on understanding globalisation, equity, environmental sustainability, and the dynamics of economic and human development. Students will develop interdisciplinary skills by examining issues such as poverty, injustice, gender, urbanisation, and Indigenous perspectives.

Australian bachelor degrees are structured around semesters, and students complete a set number of units of study, each earning credit points towards the qualification. The Bachelor of Development Studies typically includes core and elective units that cover areas such as sociology, human geography, environmental studies, and international relations. The course also emphasises research and analytical skills, policy analysis, and community engagement, with opportunities for practical learning and project work relevant to real-world development challenges.

Students gain valuable experience through practical assignments and, where available, work-integrated learning placements with Australian and international organisations. These experiences are designed to build communication, critical thinking, community consultation, and project management skills. The programme suits those interested in social change, sustainable development, or working with non-governmental organisations, government bodies, and consultancy firms in Australia and globally.

International students must meet English proficiency requirements (commonly IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall or equivalent). While studying, international students in Australia may work up to 48 hours per fortnight and could be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) upon course completion. Prospective students should always confirm course details and eligibility on the University of Newcastle’s official page.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.

International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

Community development worker in local councils and Australian government agencies
Project officer in international aid and humanitarian organisations
Policy analyst in think tanks or consultancy firms
Research assistant for academic or environmental research institutes
Advisor in sustainable development, resource management, or social justice initiatives

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Bachelor of Development Studies at University of Newcastle?

It typically takes 3 years, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$148,058 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Community development worker in local councils and Australian government agenciesProject officer in international aid and humanitarian organisationsPolicy analyst in think tanks or consultancy firmsResearch assistant for academic or environmental research institutesAdvisor in sus...

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