Bachelor of Community Development

To attain the Bachelor of Community Development, students are required to complete 288 credit points in total, consisting of 96 credit points of First Year Core units, 168 credit points of Professional Core studies, and 24 credit points of Capstone studies.

Yes, during your study you'll benefit from valuable work placements — you'll undertake several hundred hours of work in relevant organisations, including non-government organisations (NGOs), community groups, and government. This gives you the practical experience needed to confidently begin your career when you graduate. You may also contribute to real campaigns and learn the different ways in which community organisations operate.

The course is available as a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) for eligible students (Australian citizens, permanent residents and New Zealand citizens). The indicative fee for a full-time student in 2026 is AU$17,399 per year. This fee is a guide only, based on a typical full-time study load, and does not include materials such as textbooks, or the Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF).

Yes, at VU you can spend part of your degree studying overseas while gaining credits towards your course. VU has a number of university partners which enable study abroad, providing you with excellent opportunities to broaden your world view, build your capacity as a community worker, and learn to work in diverse communities.

Yes, if you don't meet the entry requirements there are pathway options available. For example, completing the Diploma of Community Services guarantees entry with 96 credit points recognised, and completing the Diploma of Youth Work guarantees entry with 48 credit points recognised. Foundations at VU and International Foundations at VU also provide guaranteed entry pathways.