Master of Community Services
The Master of Community Services (MCS) program prepares students for leadership roles in the community services sector by combining theoretical knowledge with practical experience. It equips graduates with the skills to manage organizations, develop policies, and address complex community challenges. Through academic coursework, hands-on training, and research, students gain the expertise to make a meaningful impact in diverse communities.
The Master of Community Services (MCS) program is designed to prepare students for advanced roles in the community services sector. This program combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience to equip graduates with the skills needed to effectively manage and lead community service organizations, develop and implement policies, and provide high-quality services to diverse communities.
The Master of Community Services course aims to produce graduates who are well-equipped to address the complex challenges faced by communities today. Through a combination of rigorous academic coursework, practical experience, and research opportunities, students will be prepared to make a meaningful impact in the field of community services.
Course Duration: Two Years
Course Details
- Total Units: 16 units
- Total Credit Points: 96
- Graduate Certificate in Community Services (4 Units from Foundation and core) – 24
- Graduate Diploma of Community Services (8 Units – Foundation and Core combined) – 48
- Master of Community Services – Cognate Entry (12 Units – Four credit unit of Foundation Core, Core and Advance and Project) – 96
- Master of Community Services - Non-Cognate Entry (16 Units – Foundation, Core and Advance and Project) – 96
Graduates will be prepared for a variety of roles within social services, community organizations, non-profits, and government agencies, working directly with individuals, families, and communities to improve their well-being and advocate for social change
Units Structure
- Foundation Units – Four (4)
- Core Units – Four (4)
- Advance Units –Six (6)
- Capstone Project Units – Two (2)
Foundation Units
| Year / Trimester 1/2/3 | Unit Code | Unit Title | Prerequisite Yes/No | Prerequisite Unit/s OR Corequisite Unit/s |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | ACS101 | Foundations of Community Services | No | NA |
| Year 1 | ACS102 | Human Behavior and Social Environment | No | NA |
| Year 1 | ACS103 | Leadership in Community Services | No | NA |
| Year 1 | ACS104 | Community Development Theory and Practice | No | NA |
Core Units
| Year / Trimester 1/2/3 | Unit Code | Unit Title | Prerequisite Yes/No | Prerequisite Unit/s OR Corequisite Unit/s |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | ACS105 | Mental Health and Community Services | No | NA |
| Year 1 | ACS106 | Policy Analysis and Development | No | NA |
| Year 1 | ACS107 | Advanced Social Work Practice | No | NA |
| Year 1 | ACS108 | Research Methods in Community Services | No | NA |
Advance Units
| Year / Trimester 1/2/3 | Unit Code | Unit Title | Prerequisite Yes/No | Prerequisite Unit/s OR Corequisite Unit/s |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year 2 | ACS201 | Ethics and Professional Practice | Yes | All Core Units |
| Year 2 | ACS202 | Evaluation and Quality Improvement | Yes | All Core Units |
| Year 2 | ACS203 | Disability Services | Yes | All Core Units |
| Year 2 | ACS204 | Aged Care Services | Yes | All Core Units |
| Year 2 | ACP401 | Capstone Project/Thesis | Yes | Prerequisite - All Core Units Corequisite – Year two Units |
| Year 2 | AFP601 | Final Placement / Internship | Yes | Prerequisite - All Core Units Corequisite – Year two Units |
Practical Training with Community Setup
Students are prepared for practice through a combination of on-campus theory and the latest simulation activities that are delivered in AISC’s state-of-the-art simulation lab. With a focus on inter-professional learning, students will develop valuable skills to operate as part of a community services team.
Student supported work in a variety of community settings throughout South Australia. Students will be exposed to work practice early in the course, with the range of possible placements including community flied placement.
All academic staff in the Master of Community Services have relevant industry/professional experience and higher education teaching experience. AISC has invested significantly in its campus to create the highest standard of training equipment and facilities.