Bachelor of Health Science in Indigenous Health Studies

Overview

The Bachelor of Health Science in Indigenous Health Studies is a flexibly delivered degree offered in partnership with the Illawarra Institute of Technology (TAFE NSW) Shellharbour campus. The course can also be done entirely through the University. The degree provides students with the knowledge and skills to effectively address Indigenous health issues.

Areas covered include: community health, community development and cultural issues. This course also complements study in related areas, for example Aboriginal Studies, Population Health, Psychology and Sociology.

Entry Requirements / Assumed Knowledge

Domestic school leavers are recommended to have completed 2 units of Aboriginal Studies at HSC level. Alternative pathways exist for mature age domestic students. Even if you have not completed the current NSW HSC (or equivalent) in full, or you did not receive the required entry mark, you may still qualify for admission.

Course Requirements

During the program students who complete the Advanced Diploma in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health offered by TAFE NSW, receive 72 credit points' of advanced standing towards the degree. This is followed by 1.5 years full-time study (or part-time equivalent) in the Indigenous Health program at the University to complete a further 72 credit points of approved subjects. These may include complementary subjects from population health, Aboriginal studies and nursing.

This is a fully articulated multidisciplinary program with multiple entry and exit points, and Recognised Prior Learning criteria. A significant placement component is included to provide practical, as well as theoretical knowledge and skills in Indigenous culture, health and community development.

The TAFE component of the course is offered in flexible delivery mode. Students completing the course will be concurrently enrolled at both the University of Wollongong and the Illawarra Institute of Technology. Students should be aware that the TAFE component of the program begins in February, earlier than normal session start.

Students should seek advice from an academic adviser at the University or at TAFE before enrolling in this program. Students wishing to undertake part-time study in the TAFE component must discuss this with the TAFE coordinator:

Ms Sandra Bolack

Head Teacher, Nursing Unit

The Illawarra Institute of Technology (TAFE NSW)

Shellharbour Campus

Phone: 4295 2289 / Fax: 4295 2114

Email: Sandra.bolack@det.nsw.edu.au

or

Faye McMillan

Lecturer, Indigenous Health program, School of Nursing, Midwifery and Indigenous Health, University of Wollongong

+61 2 4221 3453 or fayemc@uow.edu.au

Course Program

TAFE Advanced Diploma in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health

Plus at least 12 credit points to be selected from:

With other subjects approved by the Head of Department.

Professional Recognition

Completion of the TAFE Advanced Diploma is linked to the Aboriginal Health Worker Award.

Last reviewed: 30 January, 2007