Develop work-integrated knowledge and skills that can be applied in a range of disability and related health and human services environments. On completion, you can be employed as a developmental educator and are qualified to provide services for people of all ages with diverse needs, including developmental and acquired disabilities.

What you will study

First year

A typical first year may include:

core topics in perspectives on disability and rehabilitation, lifespan development, health issues and disability, human diversity, interpersonal and group skills, communication and language, introduction to neurological rehabilitation, and principles of learning.

Second year

A typical second year may include:

• core topics in mentoring and advocacy for people with diverse learning needs, augmentative and alternative communication, direct instruction, professional ethics for disability practitioners, employment and disability, and family and professional partnerships
• two 80-hour practical field placements in the disability sector.

Third year

A typical third year may include:

• core topics in community development, funding and tendering in human services; positive behaviour support; counselling; and case management
• a 225-hour practical field placement in the disability sector
• topics in qualitative and quantitative methods in social health research.

Honours year

A typical honours year may include:

• a placement specialisation
• independent study topics
• coursework topics
• an honours thesis for students who complete the first three years to a sufficiently high standard.
• You may be able to transfer into honours or the rehabilitation counselling major for completion of fourth year (conditions apply).

Your career

Potential occupations include:

• developmental educator
• NDIS professional planner/coordinator
• case manager
• disability employment consultant
• family/behavioural support coordinator.

Potential employers include:

• disability support services
• schools or educational facilities
• allied health facilities
• government and non-government agencies