Bachelor of Social Science at UNSW Sydney

Bachelor's Degree Social Sciences & Psychology Full Time

Bachelor of Social Science

at University of New South Wales · Sydney, New South Wales

CRICOS course code

001917B

CRICOS provider code

00098G

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

3.5 years

Tuition (whole course)

A$155,000 total

Per year

A$46,322/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Bachelor of Social Science at the University of New South Wales is a dynamic programme designed to provide students with a strong foundation in understanding and analysing complex social issues. Spanning 3.5 years in duration, this undergraduate degree explores the intersections of human behaviour, social structures, policy, and research within the Australian context. Students gain a broad perspective across sociological, political, and economic disciplines, with the flexibility to specialise in areas of particular interest within the social sciences.

The course structure typically involves a progression through core units of study and electives, each carrying a set number of credit points that contribute to your overall qualification. Students experience a blend of theoretical learning and practical application, which may include opportunities for work-integrated learning or professional placement, reflecting UNSW's strong industry and research connections in Sydney and across Australia. Academic progression is based on completing required units and credit points, culminating in advanced study or a capstone project that fosters independent research and practical problem-solving abilities.

Throughout the programme, you will develop skills in critical thinking, qualitative and quantitative research methods, policy analysis, and effective communication. These competencies are essential for those seeking to engage with and address contemporary social challenges in Australia and beyond. The programme is ideal for students looking to pursue diverse careers connected to social impact, public policy, community development, or those considering postgraduate study.

International students are required to demonstrate English proficiency, usually through tests such as IELTS or TOEFL, with details available on the official university site. As is standard under Australian law, students on a Student visa can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during teaching periods and may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) after graduation, offering practical pathways to employment within Australia.

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

Social policy analyst in government agencies
Community development officer in not-for-profit organisations
Market or social researcher for consultancy firms
Project officer in health, welfare, or education sectors
Public service roles in federal, state, or local government
Advocacy or communication specialist in advocacy groups
Further study or research positions within Australian universities

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Bachelor of Social Science at University of New South Wales?

It typically takes 3.5 years, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$155,000 total. Fees change yearly, confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Social policy analyst in government agenciesCommunity development officer in not-for-profit organisationsMarket or social researcher for consultancy firmsProject officer in health, welfare, or education sectorsPublic service roles in federal, state, or local governmentAdvocacy or...

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