Counselling & Social Science

Undergraduate Certificate in Community Services

CRICOS: 105897C

Imagine transforming lives through compassionate care and support when people need it most. The Undergraduate Certificate in Community Services at Alphacrucis University College is your first step to a fulfilling career in community service, equipping you with foundational skills in psychology, counselling, and social work.

Course Duration
1 Semester, up to 1.5 years part time
Study Modes
Online Recorded, Online Live, Mixed Mode, Face to Face, Online Intensive
Study Locations
Online, Sydney
Start Dates
March (S1), Aug (S2), November (Summer)
Fees
$2,850 per subject
FEE-HELP
Subjects/Units
4

What is the Undergraduate Certificate in Community Services?

The Undergraduate Certificate in Community Services is a four-subject program designed to introduce you to key concepts in psychology, counselling, and social work. This short course includes two core subjects: the Psychology of Emotion and Skills for Counselling, and offers elective subjects in areas such as Community Work, Case Management, Chaplaincy, and Pastoral Care. In just one semester, you will gain a solid foundation in community services, preparing you for various roles in this rewarding field. This certificate also offers flexibility for those who may wish to start with a short course before committing to a full Bachelor program.

Who is this for?

Are you looking to begin a career in community services, counselling or social work and need foundational knowledge and skills?

Do you want to enhance your existing skills and gain formal recognition through an accredited program?

Are you passionate about integrating your Christian values with a vocation that makes the lives of people better?

Do you seek to explore the fields of psychology, counselling, and social work through a short, flexible program?

Outcomes

Pathways to further study: Use this course to open up opportunities to gain the qualifications you need for your dream job.

Ministry or Church-Based Organisations: Lead and support faith-based community initiatives.

Not-for-Profit Organisations: Drive mission-driven initiatives and support teams in non-profit environments.

Underpinned by a Christian worldview and presented in a dynamic learning environment, it will help you gain skills, strategies, and confidence, and enrich the lives of others.

Paul Bartlett, National Leader - ACC Community Engagement

Accreditation

The Diploma of Community Services is endorsed by the ACC NSW President Pastor Paul Bartlett, and is based on the TGIM Community Engagement Model, outlining the latest best practice in community engagement. It is specifically designed for experienced community workers and those who have experience in church based community services work.

Course Structure

Subjects & Units

Core
2 Subjects
20 Credit Points
Psychology of Emotion and Wellbeing SSC110
This is a core subject that introduces students to the fields of psychology, social science and the importance of emotions in human identity. It forms the basis for other more advanced psychology subjects. This subject will allow students to develop a better understanding and management of their emotions. This knowledge is then applied to a professional context, enhancing students' abilities to identify and work appropriately with the emotions of clients in an empathetic and professional manner.
Electives
2 Subjects
20 Credit Points
Choose 2 of the following subjects
Case Management SSC111
Dive into a comprehensive overview of human services and its theoretical frameworks. This subject prepares students for diverse roles within case management, counselling, and support services, focusing on effective service delivery and client care. Students will learn the fundamentals of the case management process, explore various professional roles, and apply reflective practices to improve their proficiency and understanding of good practice.
Group and Community Work SSC215
Understanding group dynamics and community leadership is essential for supporting effective change in group settings. This unit equips students with the skills to lead and develop communities while integrating both sociological and Christian perspectives. Through hands-on experiences, students will learn to manage ethical issues and apply professional standards, preparing them to positively impact community and group work settings.
Chaplaincy and Pastoral Care SSC334
Effective chaplaincy and pastoral care requires an understanding of the diverse settings in which care may be required, as well as the pillars of best practice. By learning the foundational theories and skills needed for chaplaincy and pastoral care, students will develop competence in providing care across a range of circumstances and within a variety of social, cultural and spiritual or religious contexts.

More Information

For more information and details of previous course structures see Student Handbook.
*You can also use the Subject & Unit Search to explore the subjects (including electives) available to enrol in for this course and can filter by subject area and level.
For a full list of course dates for new and continuing students, please see our Timetables.

What people say

  • Learning Outcomes

    Knowledge

    • Knowledge of fundamental issues and practices within the discipline area of community services from a Christian worldview.
    • Technical and theoretical knowledge of the foundational concepts and methods used in the discipline area of community services.

    Skills

    • Acquire thinking skills to identify and critically evaluate approaches to solving problems and meet practice requirements in the discipline area of community services.
    • Acquire personal and people skills necessary for communicating effectively ideas and proposing solutions to peers and general audiences in diverse contexts.

    Ability

    • Apply fundamental concepts and thinking skills to a range of situations in the discipline area of community services from a Christian worldview.
    • Apply the knowledge and skills gained within the discipline area of community services to develop appropriate solutions to a range of issues;
    • Apply personal and people skills to work independently, responsibly and with the level of professionalism expected in the discipline area of community services.

    Admission Criteria

    Entry Requirements

    Recent Secondary Education (with the past 2 years)

    Completion of NSW Higher School Certificate (HSC) (or the completion of an International Baccalaureate or the interstate or overseas equivalent qualification).

    Vocational Education and Training (VET)

    Completion of a Certificate III or higher by an authorised institution or registered training organisation.

    Higher Education Study

    Completion of an AQF Level 5 Higher Education Diploma (or higher) by an authorised institution.

    Work and Life Experience – Applicants over 21 who do not meet academic requirements

    If you are over 21: apply for admission and complete the provisional entry qualifying period to become a full candidate of the course.

    This is an alternate pathway for applicants who do not meet other academic requirements.

    International Students – Language Requirements

    IELTS (or equivalent) Score of 6.0 (with no score below 5.5 in any of the four skills areas)

    How to Apply

    • Get Started

      Read through the admissions criteria and ensure you meet the entry requirements.

    • Apply

      It’s easy! Apply online below or contact us and we can help on 1300 228 355.

    • Offer

      We’ll contact you shortly after to confirm your details and help you through the rest of the process.

    Key Dates
    Semester 1
    Term 1
    February / March
    Term 2
    April
    Semester 2
    Term 3
    July / August
    Term 4
    November