Associate Degree in Applied Health and Community Support (Z2H)

The Associate Degree in Applied Health and Community Support aims to draw upon the established principles and values of primary health care, human rights frameworks and community advancement. Using strength-based approaches such as reablement, recovery, community engagement and codesign, applied through case management and care coordination models, graduates will be able to work with individuals, families and communities to optimise and advocate for supportive partnerships and quality, evidence-based outcomes.

Furthermore, the course will bring together the vocational streams of health, community and social services, equipping graduates with the capacity to relate biological, sociological, cultural, environmental and lifestyle factors to health and wellbeing.

Year 1

Students are exposed to authentic and engaged learning experiences designed to develop their understanding of work and the workplace. In the first year of study, students are introduced to:

• Different methods of and approaches to practice;
• How issues such as values, ethics, empathy and leadership are reflected in the workplace;
• The role of reflection and deliberative thinking in developing workplace-based knowledge, skills, attitudes and aspirations.

Students develop personal responsibility for and autonomy in developing their portfolio of practice (known as a Practice Manual). This is reflected in educational plans developed in consultation with their Academic Coaches and based on a method or approach to practice from, for example projects, data-driven decision making, case studies, field work, simulated environments, design thinking etc.

Year 2

The second year of study builds on concepts of learning through practice from the diploma by introducing students to more complex learning experiences. Students will be introduced to discipline-based skills and knowledge in dynamic practice situations, including:

• Authentic and purposeful, industry-related experiences
• Concepts of managing effective relationships and communicating with others
• The development and use of adaptive leadership skills and how these skills relate to innovative and entrepreneurial practice
• The nature of responsible, accountable and reflective workplace skills
• Creative and critical thinking relevant to para-professional practice.

Students will exercise self-awareness, initiative and judgement to manage yourself and professional relationships effectively. The application of tacit knowledge and capabilities will be reflected in a Practice Manual.

Become a Student Ambassador

Improve your communication, teamwork and leadership skills, meet new people, inspire and help others, and developing lasting friendships and networks as a student ambassador. Our ambassadors proudly represent the University throughout Tasmania in schools, at University and community events, and support a range of recruitment and engagement activities. Though the Student Ambassador Program or STEM Outreach Team you will have many opportunities for training and professional development, experience in real-world community engagement and outreach, networking, and public speaking, plus end up with a key point of distinction on your CV.

This course has an applied learning focus including engagement with sector leaders, service consumers, organisation, individuals and communities. Throughout this course, you will have the opportunity to take part in a variety of applied learning experiences, including work-integrated learning, simulated work conditions and case studies. In doing so, you will develop work-ready skills, as well as an e-portfolio for future career planning.