The Master of Social Science program by coursework provides graduates with a flexible way of broadening and deepening their knowledge of the social sciences and related areas. The topics available cover a range of special interest areas, enabling students to select courses according to their particular interests or to pursue a broad program of study in social science courses.

Suggested special interest areas include:

• Aboriginal Studies
• Creative Writing
• Human Service Management
• Philosophy

Students are not confined to courses within these suggested specialisations but may choose from the broad range of courses on offer within the program.

The degree introduces critical analysis and skills associated with the critical questioning and synthesis of knowledge. Students will also develop skills in planning, implementing and managing social research, social policy and social programs. The program is available in specialisations or a student may undertake a more generic program.

Career opportunities are available in government and non-government areas in keeping with the specialisations undertaken in the program.

Admission to this program is available to Australian students, residents and international students. Please visit http://www.newcastle.edu.au/campaigns/postgrad/how-to-apply.html for information on how to gain entry.

Bachelor of Social Work or Bachelor of Social Science at the University of Newcastle, or any other program approved by Faculty Board. In exceptional circumstances it may be possible for the applicant to produce evidence of possessing other qualifications together with appropriate high-level work experience for recognition of prior learning as may be approved by the Faculty Board.

If you wish to apply for credit for studies completed at another institution or if you are changing programs within the University and wish to transfer your credit to the new program go to https://intraweb.newcastle.edu.au/catso/pages/credittransferhome.aspx to apply online.

Applicants who have completed relevant Postgraduate studies may apply for up to 40 units of credit towards the Master of Social Science, including those who have completed the Graduate Certificate in Social Science.

Graduates who have completed the 80 unit Master of Social Science may in addition apply for entry into the Honours program. These students will complete a 40 unit minor thesis (SOCA6500) to qualify for the 120 unit Master of Social Science (Honours) award in accordance with the Schedule provisions. For further information please contact the Program Convenor.

International students must comply with the University of Newcastle's English language proficiency requirements. All International Students enrolled in the program will be provided with an orientation to familiarise them with the rules, expectations, facilities and services offered by the University. Please visit http://www.newcastle.edu.au/students/international/student-support/ to find out more about the support services available to international students.

Students with disabilities who require reasonable adjustments to undertake their program should contact the Disability Support Service before semester or early in the semester. Some adjustments need up to 4 weeks lead time to organise, so it is imperative that early contact is made. The Disability Support Service and relevant Faculty and School officers will work together to ensure reasonably adjustments are provided in a timely manner.

Please note: All students must fulfil the inherent requirements of the programs and courses they are undertaking. While reasonable adjustments can be made, these adjustments cannot compromise academic integrity. It is the student's responsibility to check all the requirements of courses, and consider the effects of any medical condition or disability on their ability to complete course requirements. Please visit http://www.newcastle.edu.au/service/disability/ for more information.

All students can access additional learning development mechanisms provided by the Centre for Teaching and Learning at http://www.newcastle.edu.au/unit/ctl/lsp/

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students can draw on the assistance and support provided by the Indigenous Student Support and Development service through the Wollotuka Institute.

The Master of Social Science requires the successful completion of 80 units of study. 40 units or more in one area will provide a specialisation.

The program is delivered through on campus and distance learning. Please check timetable information for the availability of individual courses and their location of offer. Please note that not all courses are offered each semester.