University of Adelaide

What you'll study

This program combines core social science theory with applied practice focused on ageing and disability. You will study foundational subjects such as sociology, psychology and research methods alongside specialised units in gerontology, disability studies, inclusive practice and the policy and service frameworks that shape aged care and disability support.

• Foundations: social theory, human development, communication and research methods for social sciences.
• Ageing-focused units: sociology of ageing, biological and social aspects of later life, age-friendly service design, and ethical issues in aged care.
• Disability-focused units: models of disability, inclusive practice, rehabilitation and assistive technologies, and supported decision‑making.
• Practice and policy: disability and aged care policy frameworks, law and ethics, program planning and evaluation, and advocacy.
• Professional experience: supervised fieldwork/placement in community organisations, residential aged care, disability service providers or policy agencies, and a capstone or research project integrating theory and practice.

The curriculum emphasises interdisciplinary collaboration, evidence‑based practice and the development of practical skills such as assessment, care planning, case coordination and communication with diverse populations. Electives allow you to tailor study towards policy, clinical supports, community development or research.

Entry requirements

Entrance is available to applicants with a recognised secondary school qualification at a competitive selection rank. The program also admits mature‑age applicants and those with relevant vocational or work experience through alternative entry pathways. International applicants must demonstrate appropriate English language proficiency through a recognised test or qualification.

Because the degree includes professional placements, offers are conditional on meeting health and safety requirements such as immunisation checks and a satisfactory criminal history check where relevant. Specific selection criteria and pathway options are published by the University and can include prior study or relevant work experience for non‑school leavers.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of roles across the aged care and disability sectors in government, non‑government and private organisations. Typical career paths include:

• Support worker and allied roles in community and residential aged care
• Disability support practitioner, case manager or support coordinator
• Community development officer or program coordinator for services supporting older people and people with disability
• Policy officer, advocacy worker or roles in planning and quality improvement within service systems
• Research assistant or pathway into postgraduate study in gerontology, public health, social work, disability studies or policy

Employers include local and state health services, aged care providers, disability organisations, advocacy groups, community services and government departments responsible for ageing and disability policy and program delivery.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide offers a research‑led environment with strong links to health and community service providers across South Australia, giving students opportunities for supervised placements and collaborative projects. The program benefits from interdisciplinary teaching and access to research expertise in ageing, disability and health policy.

Students gain practical experience through workplace placements and industry engagement, supported by academic staff with applied experience in aged care, disability practice and policy. The University’s campus facilities and student support services are designed to help you develop professional skills and readiness for employment or further study in a sector with growing demand for skilled practitioners.