Course Overview

About This Course

Social scientists work in diverse social environments to identify issues and develop strategies for solutions to social problems and injustice. Social Science promotes social justice by exploring how practices, policies and structures contribute to social disadvantage and injustice. Nationally and globally, there is a demand for social scientists who are able to understand the complex and changing needs of societies in the face of technological, economic and social changes. The social science degree equips students to become the change-makers of tomorrow. To do this, the Bachelor of Social Science embeds Indigenous knowledge and content, and subjects covering social inequalities impacting the health and well-being of individuals, families and communities. You will also be provided with career-ready experiences throughout the degree to prepare you for a changing world of work. From 2027, this degree provides the opportunity to complete both a discipline major and a second major from the General Schedule of Majors.

Eligibility

Entry Requirements

Requirements

Assumed Knowledge: Any two units of English
Recent Secondary Education: Admission based on Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank (ATAR) or International Baccalaureate admissions score (IBAS); other qualifications considered include GCE A-Levels, New Zealand NCEA Level 3, and overseas senior secondary qualifications comparable to Australian qualifications
Minimum Selection Rank of 70 (ATAR or IB Combined Rank plus any eligible adjustments) for guaranteed entry
Students may be admitted via Early Admission
Higher Education Study: Must have completed at least half a year of full-time study (or part-time equivalent) at a Bachelor's degree level or higher; grades converted to a selection rank
Work and life experience: Admission primarily based on academic qualifications; work or life experience generally not considered
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people: Alternative pathway available through UOW's Woolyungah Indigenous Centre's Indigenous Admissions Program (IAP) for Indigenous Australians aged 17 and over
Domestic applicants with overseas qualifications: Must provide academic records; course must be at least one-sixth complete; non-English documents must include an official English translation
English language proficiency: All UOW courses are taught in English; accepted international test results include IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, Cambridge, and OET for specific health-related courses; requirement can also be fulfilled by completing an English course at UOW College

Career & Study Pathways

Where this takes you

Career Opportunities

Advocacy, Business Development and Administration, Community and Social Services, Environmental Officer, Health Care Management and Policy, Local and International Community Development, Market Research, Policy Analysis and Evaluation, Social Policy Development

Quality & Recognition

Accreditation & Migration

Accreditation Details

Academic Regulator

TEQSA

Accreditation Status

Accredited

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What majors are available in the Bachelor of Social Science?

The Bachelor of Social Science offers the following majors: Criminology, Environment and Society, Human Services, Public Health, and Sociology. From 2027, students will also have the opportunity to complete both a discipline major and a second major from the General Schedule of Majors.

Are there any double degree options available with the Bachelor of Social Science?

Yes, two double degree options are available: the Bachelor of Social Science (Criminology) combined with a Bachelor of Laws, and the Bachelor of Psychological Science combined with the Bachelor of Social Science.

Is there a pathway to teaching through this degree?

Yes, students may take a Foundations in Teaching minor and complete the Bachelor of Social Science (Pathway to Primary Education) (UAC: 755305). This pathway involves completing a social science major of your choice while adding an education element to your degree. It offers priority entry to the Master of Teaching (Primary) and a reduced study load during the master's degree, ultimately qualifying graduates to teach children aged 5–12 years.

What is the minimum ATAR required to gain entry into the Bachelor of Social Science?

The minimum score for guaranteed entry is a Selection Rank of 70. Your Selection Rank is your ATAR or IB Combined Rank plus any adjustments you are eligible to receive, such as adjustments based on the subjects you are studying, the location of your school, or your eligibility for equity and access schemes.

When can I apply and what are the key intake dates for 2026?

For Autumn Session 2026, the session starts on 2 March 2026, with domestic UAC Early Bird applications due by 30 September 2025, international applications by 9 December 2025, and domestic direct applications by 31 December 2025. For Spring Session 2026, the session starts on 27 July 2026, with international applications due by 5 May 2026 and domestic direct applications by 31 May 2026.

Application

How to Apply

Three simple steps to get enrolled

Step 01

Enquire

Click "Enquire Now" and tell us a little about yourself. It's free and takes 2 minutes.

Step 02

Submit Documents

Our team will guide you on exactly which documents to prepare and submit.

Step 03

Get Enrolled

Receive your offer letter and confirm your enrolment. Welcome to the course!

Processing time: Offer letter issued within approximately 1 business days.

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