Bachelor of Community Welfare (CRICOS course code 102202H) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by Southern Cross University (SCU) over 3 years. This course is designed for international students who want to make a real difference in people's lives through community welfare and human services. As a CRICOS-registered qualification (provider code 01241G), it meets Australian Government standards for overseas students. SCU is a public university with campuses in Coffs Harbour and the Gold Coast, offering a blend of theoretical and practical learning. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000+ courses in Australia, this program stands out for its strong industry connections and work-integrated learning component. Whether you aim to work in community development, disability support, or social policy, this degree provides a solid foundation. All data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, ensuring accuracy and reliability for your study planning.
Bachelor of Community Welfare (CRICOS course code 102202H) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by Southern Cross University (SCU) over 3 years. This course is classified under the field of Society and Culture (09), specifically Human Welfare Studies and Services (0905), with a focus on Welfare Studies (090515). Graduates typically gain skills in case management, community advocacy, policy analysis, and client support. The program is designed to prepare students for roles in government agencies, non-profit organisations, and community health settings. As a CRICOS-registered provider, SCU is bound by the ESOS Act, ensuring your rights as an international student are protected.
The Bachelor of Community Welfare covers key areas such as social policy, human development, counselling skills, community development, and research methods. Students learn to assess client needs, design intervention strategies, and work with diverse populations. The curriculum integrates theoretical frameworks with practical case studies, preparing graduates for the challenges of the welfare sector. While specific subjects vary, typical topics include ethics in welfare practice, working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, and mental health support. This degree equips you with the competencies needed for professional accreditation and employment in Australia and internationally.
The course duration is 3 years (156 weeks on the CRICOS register) of full-time study. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include foundation studies. Students are expected to attend classes on campus, though some online components may be offered. The standard study load is four subjects per trimester, with typically three trimesters per year. SCU's trimester system allows for accelerated completion if needed. Always check with the university for the most current study mode options.
Indicative tuition fees are A$78,000 for the entire program. Non-tuition fees (such as materials, library access, and student services) total A$6,000, bringing the estimated total to A$84,000. Please note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (rent, food, transport), and the visa application charge are NOT included in this estimate. For current and exact fees, always refer to Southern Cross University's official website. Fees are set by the institution and subject to change. As a free resource, HeadStart Academy provides these figures from the CRICOS register to assist your budgeting.
International applicants typically require an IELTS score of 6.0–6.5 overall (with no band below 5.5–6.0) or equivalent English language test. You are expected to have completed Australian Year 12 or an equivalent secondary qualification. Specific prerequisite subjects may apply, such as English. Foundation or pathway programs may be available if you do not meet direct entry requirements — contact SCU for details. All admission decisions are made by the university. HeadStart Academy does not assess qualifications; we recommend checking the provider's website for precise entry criteria.
Yes, this course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component of 20 weeks, requiring 20 hours per week (approximately 400 total hours). This can take the form of community welfare placements, internships, or industry projects in settings such as community centres, correctional services, or youth organisations. This practical experience is designed to apply classroom learning in real-world environments, enhancing your employability and professional network. Placements are typically supervised and may require a Working with Children Check or police clearance. SCU's dedicated placements team will assist you in securing a suitable host organisation.
This course is delivered at two locations: Coffs Harbour, NSW, and Gold Coast Airport Development Park - Bilinga, QLD. Coffs Harbour is a coastal city on the Mid North Coast of NSW, known for its vibrant university community and lower cost of living compared to major capitals. Typical weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around A$350–A$450. The Gold Coast Bilinga campus is adjacent to the Gold Coast Airport, offering easy access to beaches, public transport, and a large international student population (over 30,000 students across the city). Living expenses on the Gold Coast are higher? (weekly rent ~A$400–A$550). Both campuses are well-connected by local bus services. SCU provides modern facilities including libraries, computer labs, and student support centres. Choosing between them depends on your preference for a smaller regional city (Coffs) versus a larger coastal hub (Gold Coast).
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. This visa allows up to 48 hours of work per fortnight during term and unlimited work during scheduled course breaks, subject to visa conditions. You must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire stay, and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and dependents. The Department of Home Affairs website provides full details. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agency — we recommend consulting a registered MARA agent for personalised visa advice. Remember that CRICOS registration is a prerequisite for enrolling international students, and SCU is fully registered.
Follow these three steps to apply for Bachelor of Community Welfare at Southern Cross University (SCU):
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Bachelor Degree), field (Welfare Studies), and location (NSW or QLD). Confirm SCU's CRICOS 01241G status.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit SCU's website, review entry requirements, submit academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS), and any other required documents. Deadlines vary by trimester.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once SCU issues your CoE, apply for your visa through the Department of Home Affairs. Prepare for GTE, OSHC, and financial evidence.
HeadStart Academy provides this guide free of charge — no referral fees. For specific application support, contact SCU's international admissions team.
Community welfare is a rewarding field but demands resilience and cultural competence. Australia's welfare sector offers strong job prospects, particularly in regional areas like Coffs Harbour. However, you must be prepared for emotionally challenging work and possibly shift work. Registration or accreditation may be required for certain roles. Consider your language skills — effective communication is crucial. Also, think about location: studying in a smaller city like Coffs Harbour may offer a closer-knit community, while the Gold Coast provides a larger student scene. Both have public transport access to campus. Living costs vary: estimate A$20,000–A$25,000 per year for living expenses including rent, food, and transport. Always have a financial buffer. Finally, check if your home country recognises Australian welfare qualifications if you plan to return.
Ready to take the next step? Use our 3-step application guide above to begin your journey towards a Bachelor of Community Welfare at Southern Cross University. For personalised advice, reach out to SCU's international team.
Bachelor of Community Welfare is a CRICOS-registered programme at Southern Cross University (SCU). Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.