Overview 2021
Location
Commonwealth Supported places available
This course may not be available to international students. Please see the International Online Course Guide (PDF 809KB) for courses that are offered to international students
This course has been designed to help you start or accelerate your career in the health and community services sector. You will learn the knowledge and skills required to support the delivery of quality health and community services. You’ll also learn essential skills for career advancement such as leadership, management and communication. Developed in consultation with the health and community service sectors, this course will address significant changes in service models and consumer expectation. This course has also been developed to meet the projected increases in role complexity and workforce demands in these sectors.
This course is suited to school leavers pursuing a career in the health, social or community service sectors or those seeking an alternative career choice in health and community services. Individuals with vocational qualifications or relevant experience may undertake the course to upskill into roles with additional functional requirements and higher levels of responsibility, and/or to acquire a formal University qualification.
The Associate Degree in Applied Health and Community Support has a focus on applied learning opportunities including working with sector leaders, service consumers, organisations, individuals and communities.
Delivered through on-line learning, flexible tutorials, face-to-face workshops, authentic case studies, individual and community projects, the program is available for full-time and part-time students across all campuses in Tasmania. Sector experts and service consumers will be actively involved in the development and delivery of the program to ensure that it remains relevant and up-to-date. The development of a professional portfolio over the duration of the course will enable graduates to reflect upon their learning and provide evidence of their capabilities for potential career opportunities.
On completion of an Associate Degree in Applied Health and Community Support, graduates are provided with:
- an entry point to a career in the health, social and community service sectors;
- an opportunity to accelerate progression within a current job;
- an opportunity for promotion to a new role;
- an opportunity to open up a new career path; or
- articulation into further study at the University of Tasmania.
Course objectives
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.
Learning outcomes
On completion of the Associate Degree in Applied Health and Community Support, graduates will be able to:
- Engage in strength-based collaborations with individuals, families, service providers and communities to promote positive health and wellbeing outcomes
- Explain and apply health, wellbeing and cultural awareness principles and practices when working with diverse groups, organisations and contexts
- Evaluate and communicate evidence and data to inform service planning, delivery and improvement
- Use reflection, communication, leadership and problem-solving skills to guide planning and decision-making
- Analyse and apply service structures, standards, innovations and technologies for sustainability and continuous quality improvement
Practical experience
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.
Work placement
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.
Career outcomes
Graduation from the Associate Degree in Applied Health and Community Support can provide an entry opportunity for those who are interested in a career in the health and community service sectors with or without prior experience. It will also provide an opportunity to accelerate progression and/or promotion within a graduate’s current organisation, or open up new career paths and opportunities.
Potential career opportunities exist in the voluntary, private, not-for-profit, non-government and/or government sectors in health and community services. Roles include team leaders, coordinators, supervisors, service managers, coaches, service navigators and community development/engagement officers.
Opportunities also exist for graduates to work in direct service roles such as physical health workers, rural health workers and mental health workers or to become service brokers, service planners, project managers, project officers, consultants and administrators, or to pursue roles in occupational, corporate or community health and wellbeing.
Electives offered within this degree provide opportunities for further knowledge expansion and skills development in health, business and/or community development.
Course structure
Completion of the Associate Degree in Applied Health and Community Support requires 200 credit points including:
- A core (100 credit points)
- A Stream (50 credit points)
- Electives (50 credit points)
For assistance with the enrolment requirements for this course, please refer to the Course Planner (PDF 100KB).
If you are a new student needing help with your initial enrolment, please contact the Future Students team. If you are a continuing student, please contact U Connect.
Core
Year 1 Core
This unit will situate ‘the individual’ in the context of person, family and their extended network of support. You will be encouraged to reflect upon your own values, beliefs and self-care needs, and that of others, in order to broaden…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 1 | ||||
| Launceston | Semester 1 | ||||
| Cradle Coast | Semester 1 | ||||
View all details for ZAC101 Respecting the Individual and Their Context
In this unit you will consider how individuals, families and communities understand and experience health and wellbeing. Barriers and enablers of health and wellbeing will be explored, with emphasis placed on vulnerable, marginalised and isolated population groups. You will examine…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 1 | ||||
| Launceston | Semester 1 | ||||
| Cradle Coast | Semester 1 | ||||
In this unit, you will explore and compare different models of service design articulation and delivery and how they influence health and wellbeing outcomes for diverse population groups. With a focus on rights, self-determination and strengths-based approaches, you will investigate…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 1 | ||||
| Launceston | Semester 1 | ||||
| Cradle Coast | Semester 1 | ||||
View all details for ZAC103 Principles of Individualised Support
In this unit, you will be introduced to the principles of primary health, preventative health and health promotion and how they inform the design and delivery of support. You will develop an understanding of case management, care coordination, service navigation…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 1 | ||||
| Launceston | Semester 1 | ||||
| Cradle Coast | Semester 1 | ||||
View all details for ZAC104 Applying Health and Wellbeing in Practice
Year 2 Core
Improvements in health and wellbeing are achieved through strengthening the capacity ofindividuals, families and communities to actively participate, contribute and engage in everyday life. This unit will build the knowledge and skills needed to coordinate services, projects and activities that…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 1 | ||||
| Launceston | Semester 1 | ||||
| Cradle Coast | Semester 1 | ||||
View all details for ZAC201 Engaging Communities in Health and Wellbeing
This unit focuses on building both personal and professional capability for change and sustainability. Maintaining sustainable services and supports for individuals, families and communities requires people and organisations to adapt and respond to changes and increasing complexity. This unit will…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 1 | ||||
| Launceston | Semester 1 | ||||
| Cradle Coast | Semester 1 | ||||
View all details for ZAC202 Organising for Change and Sustainability
In this unit, you will draw from the knowledge, skills and attributes that you have developed over the duration of the course to respond to simulated practice scenarios and contexts. You will reflect upon your personal and professional strengths and…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 2 | ||||
| Launceston | Semester 2 | ||||
| Cradle Coast | Semester 2 | ||||
View all details for ZAC204 Empowering Your Career in Health and Community Services
This unit will explore how different cultural understandings and models influence and shape how we interpret the world around us, perceive ourselves and relate to other people. You will build your cultural capability (knowledge, skills and attitudes) in health and…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 1 | ||||
| Launceston | Semester 1 | ||||
| Cradle Coast | Semester 1 | ||||
View all details for ZAC209 Building Cultural Capability in Health and Community Services
Stream
Business
In this unit you will be introduced to principles, practices and processes that influence businessoperations in health and community services, with particular emphasis on balancing consumer focus with commercial business decisions. The foundations of managing financial and human resources, as…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 2 | ||||
| Launceston | Semester 2 | ||||
| Cradle Coast | Semester 2 | ||||
View all details for ZAC107 Business Principles and Practices in Health and Community Services
This unit will introduce you to the principles and practices of leading and managing people toachieve positive workplace cultures and consumer outcomes. Through an examination of yourself as a team member and leader, you will build capability in managing and…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 2 | ||||
| Launceston | Semester 2 | ||||
| Cradle Coast | Semester 2 | ||||
View all details for ZAC108 Leading and Managing People and Teams
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to develop a project in response to an identified industry need in health and community services. You will apply research, analysis, evaluation and problem-solving skills to design and deliver solutions and plans…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 2 | ||||
| Launceston | Semester 2 | ||||
| Cradle Coast | Semester 2 | ||||
View all details for ZAC203 Applied Health and Community Support Project
This unit focuses on the principles and tools associated with contemporary Lean Thinking and practice. Lean Thinking or ‘lean’ is a systematic method of continuous improvement through minimising waste without sacrificing productivity, creating more value for customers. It has been…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 2 | ||||
| Launceston | Semester 2 | ||||
| Cradle Coast | Semester 2 | ||||
In this unit you will investigate approaches to design and delivery of projects in industry contexts. This will include identifying and analysing relevant concepts, tools and processes used in the formulation, delivery and management of projects. Investigations will focus on…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 2 | ||||
| Launceston | Semester 2 | ||||
| Cradle Coast | Semester 2 | ||||
Support Systems and Services
This unit will introduce you to the way in which health, social and community services are organised, integrated, funded and governed in Australia. This unit is contextualised to the Australian healthcare reform agenda, emphasising a shift in focus from institutional…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 2 | ||||
| Launceston | Semester 2 | ||||
| Cradle Coast | Semester 2 | ||||
View all details for ZAC105 Health and Community Services in Australia
This unit will introduce you to the quality and regulatory systems that govern service delivery, reporting and accreditation. Principles, policies, standards and guidelines will be considered in the context of the individual, the consumer and the organisation. A cycle of…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 2 | ||||
| Launceston | Semester 2 | ||||
| Cradle Coast | Semester 2 | ||||
View all details for ZAC106 Quality Systems and Practice in Health and Community Services
This unit will examine the foundations of mental health for individuals, families and communities. It will use a bio-psycho-social approach, to critically examine the personal experiences of, and service responses to, mental health challenges. Practice outcomes will emphasise active engagement…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 1 | ||||
| Launceston | Semester 1 | ||||
| Cradle Coast | Semester 1 | ||||
Support services, both mainstream and specialised, are adopting contemporary disability practices to enable self-determination, choice and control by people with disability. This unit examines these concepts in both a historical context and in relation to the Disability Royal Commission and…
Credit Points: 12.5
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 2 | ||||
| Launceston | Semester 2 | ||||
| Cradle Coast | Semester 2 | ||||
View all details for ZAC208 Contemporary Disability Practice
Electives
Need help choosing your first year units? Try the Unit Selection Guide.
Entry requirements
Eligibility
DOMESTIC APPLICANTS
Domestic Applicants who have recently completed secondary education
- Completed the TCE (or equivalent)
Domestic Applicants with higher education study
- Completed at least one undergraduate unit (equivalent to 12.5 UTAS credit points).
Domestic Applicants with VET / TAFE study
- A completed VET Certificate III or higher,
Domestic Applicants with work and life experience
If you have not successfully completed senior secondary, tertiary or TAFE/VET study, but have relevant work and life experience you can complete a personal competency statement. You may be eligible for an offer if you have work and life experiences that demonstrate a capacity to succeed in this course.
Prerequisites
Nil
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION
If your ability to access or participate in education has been affected by circumstances beyond your control, you can apply for special consideration as part of your application. We will consider a range of factors for special consideration, including economic hardship, a serious medical condition or disability.
We can only approve applications for special consideration where we are confident that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in your studies. If your application is not approved, the admissions team will work with you to find the best alternative pathway to your chosen course. Special consideration is not available for international applicants.
INTERNATIONAL APPLICANTS
This course is currently not offered to international students
Credit transfer
You may be eligible for advanced standing (i.e. credit points) in this associate degree if you:
- Have completed an award such as a Diploma or Advanced Diploma at the University, from TAFE or another institution;
- Are currently studying another associate degree at the University or at another institution;
- Have completed studies towards a Bachelor degree at the University or from another institution.
How to apply for a credit transfer
Applications for credit can be made in your course application. Find out more information about how to apply for a credit transfer/advanced standing at Recognition of Prior Learning.
Talk to us on 1300 363 864 or enquire online about your credit transfer.
Articulation from
Students articulating into the Associate Degree in Applied Health and Community Support from a completed Undergraduate Certificate in Applied Health will receive 50 credit points of advanced standing. Articulation from other courses will be in line with the University’s standard application for credit process
Refer to Credit Transfer above.
Articulation to
Students wishing to articulate from the Associate Degree in Applied Health and Community Support into a Bachelor course will gain credit subject to the receiving College's discretion.
Detailed Admissions Information
Detailed admissions information and advice for all undergraduate courses, including comprehensive, course-level student profiles, is available from UTAS Admissions.
Fees & scholarships
Domestic students
Domestic students enrolled in a full fee paying place are charged the Student Services and Amenities Fee but this fee is incorporated in the fees you pay for each unit you enrol in. Full fee paying domestic students do not have to make any additional SSAF payments.
Detailed tuition fee information for domestic students is available at the Domestic Student Fees website, including additional information in relation to a compulsory Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF).
International students
International students should refer to the International Students course fees page to get an indicative course cost.
Scholarships
For information on general scholarships available at the University of Tasmania, please visit the scholarships website.
How can we help?
Do you have any questions about choosing a course or applying? Get in touch.
- Domestic
- 1300 363 864
- International
- +61 3 6226 6200
- Course.Info@utas.edu.au
- Online
- Online enquiries