Bachelor of Social Science

Study overview

The Bachelor of Social Science is made up of 24 subjects (240 credit points). Studying a full-time load of four subjects per semester, you can complete the qualification in 2 years, with Bond’s accelerated three-semester-per-year timetable.

Your study schedule

Your study schedule will be determined by the areas of specialisation you choose, which include psychology, criminology, and counselling interventions.

Each student is required to select one of the following double major combinations, encompassing two study areas (a total of twelve subjects):

• Psychology and Criminology,
• Psychology and Counselling Interventions, or
• Criminology and Counselling Interventions.

Psychology

Psychology focusses on understanding, describing, predicting, and controlling the causes of behaviour and thought. Our program gives you a scientific grounding in the study of normal psychological processes (perception, memory, learning, motivation, psychobiology, personality, emotion, developmental psychology, and social relationships) as well as abnormal psychology. Our psychology staff are known for their expertise and are recognised nationally and internationally for their research.

Criminology

Criminology is the scientific study of offences, offenders, and victims of crime, drawing upon disciplines such as psychology, philosophy, sociology, political science, and law. It involves the study of crime patterns and analysis of the criminal justice system - its policies, programs, police, courts, and corrections. Bond is renowned for its criminology programs, led by experts who are regularly called on by the media for perspective and commentary.

Counselling interventions

Our increased awareness of mental health issues has accelerated demand for practitioners who specialise in evidence-based methods for assessing, understanding, and remediating the behavioural challenges. You develop skills in working with people who have special needs and developmental disabilities, and capacity to work in a multidisciplinary team with other professionals. You will help your clients achieve their life goals through a range of tailored therapies and strategies.

Electives & core subjects

The remaining nine electives can be chosen from any undergraduate subjects offered by any faculty of the University. You may use six of those subjects to complete a third major, subject to faculty approval.  You will also complete the three University core subjects that ensure every Bond student develops strong leadership skills in critical thinking, communication, teamwork, and ethics.