Orientation 2016 - Course Induction Booklet

WELCOME TO CSU 2016
COURSE INDUCTION BOOKLET
SCHOOL OF HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES
Charles Sturt University | School of Humanities and Social Sciences |Course Induction Booklet 2012
CONTENTS
WELCOME TO CSU 2016 .................................................................................................................................. 1
COURSE INDUCTION BOOKLET ..................................................................................................................... 1
CSU ONLINE ORIENTATION ............................................................................................................................. 3
COMMUNICATION AND GENERAL INFORMATION ...................................................................................... 4
Student Portal ......................................................................................................................................... 4
Message Centre ..................................................................................................................................... 4
Student Central....................................................................................................................................... 4
Terminology ............................................................................................................................................ 4
CSU Card ............................................................................................................................................... 5
Maintaining Your Personal Details ........................................................................................................ 5
HECS/FEE HELP ................................................................................................................................... 5
Campus Maps ........................................................................................................................................ 5
Online Enrolment.................................................................................................................................... 6
My Degree Planner ................................................................................................................................ 6
Principal Dates........................................................................................................................................ 6
CSU Library Services ............................................................................................................................. 6
ONLINE LEARNING AND SUBJECT INFORMATION ..................................................................................... 6
Interact2 .................................................................................................................................................. 7
Online Learning Student Support .......................................................................................................... 7
Subject Outlines ..................................................................................................................................... 7
Subject and Course Discussion Boards................................................................................................ 7
Timetable for on Campus Students....................................................................................................... 8
ACADEMIC SUPPORT ....................................................................................................................................... 9
ALLaN (Academic Literacy, Learning and Numeracy) ......................................................................... 9
Academic Regulations ........................................................................................................................... 9
Academic Advice .................................................................................................................................... 9
Avoiding Plagiarism ................................................................................................................................ 9
WELCOME TO THE FACULTY OF ARTS ...................................................................................................... 10
SCHOLARSHIPS, AWARDS AND PRIZES..................................................................................................... 14
CSU Scholarships ................................................................................................................................ 14
Faculty and School Awards and Prizes .............................................................................................. 14
THE FACULTY ................................................................................................................................................... 16
Structure of the Faculty ........................................................................................................................ 16
THE SCHOOL .................................................................................................................................................... 18
Structure of the School......................................................................................................................... 18
GRADUATE TESTIMONIALS ........................................................................................................................... 18
COURSE STRUCTURES.................................................................................................................................. 21
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS .............................................................................................................. 23
IMPORTANT WEBSITE ADDRESSES ............................................................................................................ 25
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CSU ONLINE ORIENTATION
The CSU Orientation Website is your first stop for finding your way around CSU. If you haven’t already
logged on to our Orientation Website, go there now to and work your way through the information. This may
take time, but is worth it in the long run for understanding your way around the CSU web, understanding the
academic rules and regulations, and knowing where to go to find help.
Information about your Faculty can be found at http://www.csu.edu.au/faculty/arts
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COMMUNICATION AND GENERAL INFORMATION
Student Portal
The Student Portal is your personalised home page to the full range of online services and facilities for
CSU students. It has general information and access to your online learning environment called Interact2.
Visit the Student Portal and be sure to mark this page on your favourites.
You will need your username and password to access the Student Portal and all other secure CSU online
services. Take your time to explore the Student Portal and click on the various links. You can customise the
Student Portal to display widgets in the order you like.
Message Centre
Your Message Centre is the CSU communications system for sending and tracking official university
messages. Check your messages regularly. Message Centre can also be access from the Student Portal
by clicking on the envelope icon.
Student Central
Student Central is the first point of contact for students to access all non-teaching services at CSU. Please
submit an email or search Student Central online (AskCSU).
Many of your questions can be answered by the information maintained in AskCSU. This information is
updated weekly by experts across CSU. You can also call Student Central on 1800 Ask CSU (1800 275
278). Internal calls: 37507 Fax: 02 63386599. Calls from outside Australia can be made to +61 2 69337508.
Types of enquiries that students can make at Student Central include:
help accessing your personal records or changing your details
assistance changing your enrolment
HECS/FEE Help
making counseling and learning skills appointments
problems accessing your CSU websites
applications for leave of absence, grade reviews, withdrawals
accommodation information
questions on your financial balances
assistance when DE packages have not been received
guidance when you don’t know where to go or who to speak with
Terminology
University can be quite daunting, and made even more so because to the terminology used to describe
courses etc. See the Glossary page to help you out with navigating your to definitions.
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CSU Card
All students are required to hold a CSU Card which is your official university Identity Card. CSU Cards are
used for a variety of purposes:
Identification on CSU campuses including entrance to examinations;
NSW Travel Concessions;
Dining Hall meals for students staying in on campus accommodation;
Access to buildings, including 24 hour computer labs;
Borrowing materials from the library;
Access to Printing Copying and Scanning service;
Purchase of goods in most on campus retail food outlets
To obtain your CSU Card you must submit a photo online through the CSU Student Self Service Portal.
Select Enter Secure Area to apply for your card. Photos must be in JPEG format and no larger than 200kB
in size. Internal students can collect their CSU cards from Student Central during Orientation and Distance
Education students will receive their CSU Cards via the post.
For more information visit the CSU Card website.
Maintaining Your Personal Details
It is the responsibility of all students to maintain their personal details on their student record.
These may include contact address (including out of session and mailing addresses), telephone number,
family name, etc. You can change your personal details at the Online Administration site.
HECS/FEE HELP
HECS-HELP refers to the Higher Education Contribution Scheme and is for students studying in a
Commonwealth supported place. The HECS-HELP scheme is both a student loan and a student discount.
Eligible students may access a HECS-HELP loan to pay their student contribution amounts. Alternatively,
eligible students can access the HECS-HELP discount by receiving a 10% discount on any upfront payment
of $500 or more.
You can verify that you are in a Commonwealth supported course on your Offer. All students in a
Commonwealth supported course must submit a Commonwealth Assistance Form (eCAF) whether they are
deferring their payments, or paying up front. This electronic form can be accessed and submitted via the link
on the CSU Apply for Commonwealth Assistance pages.
If you are not a Commonwealth Supported student, you are known as a fee-paying student, which means
that you are required to pay your tuition fees up front to the University with no discount. Eligible students can
apply for FEE-HELP meaning they can ‘defer’ payments.
For further information go to the CSU HECS-HELP and FEE-HELP pages.
Campus Maps
CSU Campus Maps and room locations can be found through FMCentral.
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Online Enrolment
Each session you are required to complete your Enrolment. This is confirming the subjects you will be
studying each session. Most students are pre enrolled in subjects for their first session of study and you can
check these subjects online. Go to How to enrol for further information on checking and updating your
enrolment details.
Some courses require students to enrol themselves in elective subjects in first session. Consult with your
Course Director/Coordinator for advice about which electives to enrol in.
Be aware that there are stict enrolment deadlines. Frequently asked questions regarding Enrolment can be
found at AskCSU.
My Degree Planner
My Degree Planner is meant to allow you to compare your student record against the course requirements
and identified what you have completed and what is yet to be studied to meet the course requirements.
For more information and access, go to the My Degree Planner web pages.
The School of Humanities and Social Sciences suggests you only use degree planner as a guide as degree
patterns do change. Accurate information is best obtained from your Course Director.
Principal Dates
Students should check their Interact2 subject sites for each subject they are studying for the due dates of
assignments. Access Interact2 via the Student Portal.
A comprehensive list of Principal Dates for the academic year is located in the Student Calendar/Importand
Dates listing. Check the grey tabs at the top of the calendar to further filter the calendar information.
CSU Library Services
Students have access to CSU Library both online and on campus which includes:
A huge collection of online eBooks and eJournals
Personal assistance through the Ask-a-Librarian service: live chat, phone, web-form or in person
Access to books and library material, including home delivery or digitization for eligible students
Self help resources such as videos and interactive tutorials
Specialised support for students with a disability
Keep up to date with CSU Social, FaceBook, Twitter and Library blogs
Plus, visit the 24-hour Learning Commons at Albury-Wodonga, Bathurst, Orange and Wagga Wagga. These
spaces provide group and quiet study areas, Wi-Fi, assistive technology rooms, comfortable seating, food
and drink, computers, printing and multimedia facilities.
Visit the CSU Library website to see what we can offer you.
ONLINE LEARNING AND SUBJECT INFORMATION
As a leader in educational technology, and in an effort to support environmental sustainability, CSU
embraces and uses online learning to deliver all of its subject matter. Subject information is delivered within
the Online Learning Environment for both internal and distance education students.
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Face to face learning occurs through lectures, tutorials, practicals, workplace learning and residential
schools. Many face to face lectures are also streamed online to support students studying from a distance.
These lectures are also recorded for the benefit of all students.
Interact2
Your online learning environment is called Interact2. Here you will find all of the information and tools you
need to complete your subjects each session. Your new subjects can be found in Interact2 a few weeks
prior to the beginning of each session.
Access Interact2 from the Student Portal.
Online Learning Student Support
Whether you're studying on campus or by distance education you need to learn how to use CSU's online
environment. Learning Online Support provides the information and guidance that you may be looking for to
function and learn effectively within the University's online environment.
Go to the CSU Learning Online Support page for further information.
Subject Outlines
By the first week of every session you will be provided with a Subject Outline for each subject which is
available online through your subject Interact2 sites. The Subject Outline will give you details about
your:
Subject Coordinator
academic contact details
subject lesson plan
assessment information
assessment marking criteria
text book information
This is an important document, which you should read thoroughly and refer to about the formal requirements
in eachsubject. Access Interact2 from your Student Portal homepage. Further information on Subject
Outlines can be found at AskCSU.
Subject and Course Discussion Boards
As a student you have access to Subject and Course Discussion Boards which you can connect to
through the relevant Interact2 sites. Discussion boards are available for each subject in which you are
enrolled. Discussion Boards have forums where you can communicate with other students in your subject
and with the Subject Co-ordinator.
Course Discussion Boards are available for some courses. These forums are for communication with other
students in the same course, as well as your Course Director/Manager/Coordinator.
Discussion Boards are a great way to form networks whether you are studying totally as an online student
or on campus, and to obtain useful information about what is happening in your course or subject. Messages
in regard to subject availability, workshops and career opportunities may be posted here. Students often use
discussion boards to discuss assignment tasks, or to plan attendance at workshops.
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Timetable for on Campus Students
The on campus students’ Subject Timetable is published each session, and is available through the
Timetable website.
Information on how to use the timetabling facility is available on the Class Timetable page.
You will be given a campus specific timetable for your course based on the normal enrolment pattern for first
year students. Whilst every effort is made to ensure students do not experience clashes of times for lectures,
workshops and tutorials, no guarantees can be given for students who are out of sequence (not undertaking
the normal course pattern), nor with elective subjects. If you experience a clash of lecture times, you should
contact [email protected] for assistance with alternative times for a subject. If you need to have an
alternative subject suggested to take, you should contact [email protected]
It is advisable to familiarise yourself with the locations of buildings and rooms prior to attending classes and
residential schools. FM Central has access to campus maps and room locations.
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ACADEMIC SUPPORT
ALLaN (Academic Literacy, Learning and Numeracy)
CSU offers academic learning support to all enrolled students to enable them to acquire or enhance the skills
they need to succeed in university studies. During workshop tutorials, drop-in sessions and study centres, or
through individual consultations, students can learn strategies and techniques to assist with academic
activities.
The CSU ALLaN (Academic Literacy, Learning, and Numeracy) Team provides free support services 7 days
per week, online and on campus, for all CSU students. Access the ALLaN website and take a good look
around. You will find a wealth of resources including their Study Guide and Tips page.
Academic Regulations
The basic philosophy of CSU is that students are mature individuals capable of assuming some responsibility
for management of their study programs. It is, therefore, each student’s responsibility to be acquainted with
and comply with relevant academic regulations.
Regulations range from Admission through to Graduation and everything in between. If you are having
difficulties through illness or personal problems you are strongly urged to read these Regulations and
Policies in their entirety, especially Academic Progress and Assessment Regulations.
If you are still unsure of the procedures to follow use AskCSU to search for articles on these regulations, or
contact Student Central directly.
Academic Advice
Your Course or Program Director provides academic advice regarding your course/degree. Their details
are on page 2 of your Course Offer. Course/Program Directors provide assistance on topics such as
electives, credits, subject order and prerequisites.
Subject Coordinators are your first point of contact for subject related issues.
Further assistance to students is available from the Office for Students, Student Liaison Officers.
Avoiding Plagiarism
Charles Sturt University expects that the work of its students and staff will uphold the values of academic
honesty and integrity. The Guide to Avoiding Plagiarism is an important resource to help you understand
these values and apply them in practice.
Plagiarism is contrary to the values of academic integrity and honesty. The practice of plagiarism within the
University could undermine the University's reputation and also that of students and staff who have acted
with integrity and honesty. It is important that we all take our share of responsibility for maintaining the best
standards and values in the work of our University.
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WELCOME TO THE FACULTY OF ARTS
Executive Dean – Professor Tracey Green
I would like to welcome all new students and send my congratulations on having chosen to study a course
offered by the Faculty of Arts at Charles Sturt University.
You are joining a large and diverse Faculty with 10,000 students and over 300 academic and general staff.
We offer a wide range of courses in humanities and social sciences, communication and creative industries,
policing and security, psychology, theology and Islamic studies.
Our graduates are prepared for employment across Australia and beyond, and we take pride in the quality of
their preparation and their success.
I hope you will make the most of every opportunity that University study provides in your course, in the CSU
online learning environment and in the range of additional social and community activities that you will find
on our teaching campuses.
I wish you every success in your studies at Charles Sturt University.
Head of School – Jonathon Howard
Welcome. Our school is one of the largest in the university and is certainly one of the leading schools of its
kind in Australia. Our focus is on providing student centred, challenging learning experiences that enable
you to fulfil your career aspirations.
I hope you enjoy your experience with us and complete your studies with a world class ‘professionally’
focused degree. Perhaps, most importantly, being in the School of Humanities I hope you complete your
studies with ‘the wisdom of respectfully knowing how to live well in a world worth living in’
Should you encounter any problems or hurdles during your study, please feel free to contact
me me I look forward to seeing you soon.
A/Professor Jonathon Howard
Head of School, Humanities and Social Sciences
[email protected]
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Course Director – Cate Thomas
Welcome to CSU and to the Social Work and Human Services discipline. Our School is the largest Social
Work education provider in Australia.
The courses in Social Work and Human Services offer high quality and authentic learning that prepares our
graduates for future careers in the field with skills that are applicable to a broad range of human services
areas. The discipline of Social Work and Human Services provides a framework for thinking, doing and being
as a practitioner, and encourages critical thinking and inquiry.
I encourage you all to get the most out of your academic studies and the opportunities that CSU provides
along your learning path. Again welcome to CSU and all the best for your studies.
Responsible for the following Courses:Master of Social Work (Advanced Practice)
Master of Social Work (Professional Qualifying)
Graduate Certificate in Integrated Chronic and Terminal Care
Bachelor of Social Work (Honours)
Bachelor of Social Work
Course Director – Fredrik Velander
Welcome to CSU and to the Social Work and Human Services discipline.
The courses in Human Services and Social Sciences offer high quality and authentic learning that prepares
our graduates for future careers in the field with skills that are applicable to a broad range of human services.
The discipline of Human Services and Social Sciences provides a framework for thinking, doing and being as
a practitioner and encourages critical thinking and inquiry.
I would like to encourage you all to get the most out of your academic studies and the opportunities that CSU
provides along your learning path. Again, welcome to CSU and I wish you all the very best with your studies.
Responsible for the following courses:
Master of Child and Adolescent Welfare
Master of Human Services Management and Policy
Graduate Certificate in Human Services
Bachelor of Social Science (Social Welfare)
Bachelor of Social Science (Child and Adolescent Welfare)
Bachelor of Social Science (Gerontology)
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Course Director – Robin Harvey
Welcome to CSU and to the arts/humanities/gerontology/ leisure and health fields of study.
By enrolling in a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Liberal Studies (Arts) degree you have chosen to study from
a wide range of “classic” disciplines that have shaped the development of knowledge and civilisation through
the ages and in contemporary society provide a strong foundation of knowledge and skills applicable to
many professional careers and enterprises.
Subjects can be chosen from many disciplines that have a common theme of understanding how individuals
and societies interact, communicate, structure themselves and change. These discipline areas offer diversity
and flexibility of subjects so that you can shape your learning to your own particular interests and career
pathways while developing important skills in research, critical thinking, communication, analysis and
interpretation of evidence.
For those of you who are enrolling in the graduate Gerontology course and the Leisure and Health field of
study we aim to offer you an enriching experience of study via distance education that extends your
knowledge of ageing, disability, community development and health promotion. In these courses your study
will link strongly with work experiences in these fields so that you can create the changes necessary to
improve health and care opportunities for older people and those with vulnerabilities in our community.
I hope that you will jump in and take advantage of all the opportunities that studying at CSU offers you and
will enjoy your studies with us.
I am responsible for the following courses:
Bachelor of Arts
Bachelor of Liberal Studies (Arts)
Bachelor of Arts (Hons.)
Master of Gerontology (including Graduate Certificate in Gerontology)
Bachelor of Health Science (Leisure & Health)
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Course Director – Jonathon Howard (Acting)
Welcome to CSU. Justice Studies is comprised of several complementary disciplines
accordingly throughout your studies you will be exposed to a wide range of topics and ideas.
and
Justice Studies is an academic discipline that can change the way you understand the world and will
cast new light on many of the things you see happening around you every day. Accordingly, it is a
discipline that you will get the most from by approaching it with an open and inquiring mind, which I
encourage you to do. I would like to wish you good luck with your studies and I look forward to seeing
you around campus and in class.
Responsible for the following Courses:Master of Ethics and Legal Studies
Graduate Certificate in Ethics and Legal Studies
Justice) Graduate Certificate in Criminology
Graduate Diploma in Ethics and Legal Studies
Bachelor of Social Science (Justice Studies) (Honours)
Bachelor of Justice Studies (Policing)
Bachelor of Social Science (Criminal
Bachelor of Criminal Justice
Bachelor of Laws
Note: these courses will be transferred in the Australian Gardaute School of Policing in mid 2016
Other Courses
Law- Kim Browne
Doctor of Social Work (DSW) – Manohar Pawar
Diploma of Language and Culture – Russell Daylight
For all course related enquiries please contact [email protected]
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SCHOLARSHIPS, AWARDS AND PRIZES
CSU Scholarships
For information about the full range of scholarships available to Charles Sturt University students please visit
the Scholarships webpage.
Faculty and School Awards and Prizes
Scholarships
For further details click on the following links –
Fee-Waiver Scholarships for Part-time RHD Students
Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Human Services/Social Work Student Scholarship
The Lila Kirilik Human Services/Social Work Scholarship
St Martins College – Residents Only
Awards
Student Awards In Social Justice
Prizes
http://www.csu.edu.au/handbook/handbook16/prizes/
Australian Association of Gerontology (NSW Division) Prize
The prize will be awarded annually to the graduating student with the most outstanding academic
performance upon completing the Master of Health Science (Gerontology) course.
Diversional Therapy Association of Australia Prize Bachelor of Health Science (Leisure and Health)
The prize will be awarded each year to a graduand who is a diversional therapist and who has achieved the
best performance in the Bachelor of health Science (Leisure and Health) course.
School of Humanities and Social Sciences Prize
The prize will be awarded annually to the student with the most meritorious performance in subjects
undertaken through the School of Humanities and Social Sciences.
Lila Kirilik Social Action Memorial Prize
The Prize will be awarded to a student on the basis of demonstrated merit in a professional field education
subject and in particular, achieving a social action outcome of benefit to a disadvantaged individual, group or
community.
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Dubbo City Councillors' Prize for Academic Achievement - First Year of the Bachelor of Social Work
The best overall results obtained by a student completing their first year of the Bachelor of Social Work.
Dubbo City Councillors' Prize for Academic Achievement - Second Year of the Bachelor of Social
Work
The best overall results obtained by a student completing their first year of the Bachelor of Social Work.
Anglicare Regional Alliance Prize
The prize will be awarded to a student on the basis of demonstrated merit and commitment to selflessness
and altruism in the Social Work course that has particular benefit to a disadvantaged individual, group or
community.
Western District, Family and Community Services (FACS) and Charles Sturt University (CSU) Social
Work Prize
The prize will be awarded to the highest achieving student who has undertaken their final Social Work
practicum in a regional/remote location in NSW with FACS or with a funded community partner in the nongovernment sector working with children, adults, families and communities to improve lives and realise
potential.
Groups
Refugee Action Support (RAS) – CURRENTLY INACTIVE
For the last two years Social Work students have been participating voluntarily in the Refugee Action
Support Programme. RAS is a successful literacy tutoring initiative in which volunteer pre-service teachers
and pre-service social workers are recruited and trained to provide weekly one-to-one or small group support
for young refugee students enrolled in high schools and primary schools. The volunteer tutors provide this
support and allow the students to scaffold language and learning requirements. Run in conjunction with the
Australian Literacy and Numeracy Foundation and the NSW Department of Education and Communities, this
programme offers a great opportunity to learn new skill while assisting refugee children and young people.
Your participation in this most worthwhile activity would be very welcome. Your University contact initially is
Dr Cate Thomas at [email protected] or 69332398.
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THE FACULTY
Structure of the Faculty
The Faculty of Arts was founded in 1990 following the formation of Charles Sturt University. It is one of four
Faculties of the University.
The Faculty offers a wide range of courses at undergraduate and postgraduate levels on campus and by
distance education. Central to the life of the Faculty and its programs is interaction between the disciplines
traditionally associated with an arts faculty and the professional fields for which the Faculty is responsible.
The Faculty of Arts consists of the following Schools:
Australian Centre for Christianity and Culture
Canberra
Australian Graduate School of Policing and Security
Manly, Bathurst and Canberra
Centre for Customs and Excise Studies
Canberra
Centre for Islamic Sciences and Civilisation
Islamic Sciences and Research Academy, Auburn
School of Communication and Creative Industries
Bathurst and Wagga Wagga
School of Humanities and Social Sciences
Wagga Wagga, Albury, Bathurst, Dubbo and Port Macquarie
School of Policing Studies
NSW Police Academy, Goulburn
School of Psychology
Bathurst, Albury and Wagga Wagga and Port Macquarie
School of Theology
St Mark’s National Theological Centre, Canberra and the United Theological College, Parramatta
Schools are responsible for teaching subjects which make up courses offered by the Faculty and also for
subjects in courses offered by other Faculties. Each member of the academic staff of the Faculty is
appointed to a School of the Faculty. Schools are responsible for quality assurance and development in
teaching and research.
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THE SCHOOL
Structure of the School
Head and Associate Heads of School
Academic Staff
Administration Staff
School Website
GRADUATE TESTIMONIALS
After finishing year 12 in 2004 I, like many others in the same situation, did not have a firm plan of what
I would do after school. I decided to take a GAP year during which I worked in a boarding school in
England assisting with classes and in the boarding house. During this year I made the decision to study
Social Work at Charles Sturt University in Wagga Wagga. I chose Charles Sturt because of the rural
lifestyle, small and personalized classes and proximity to Canberra and Melbourne. When I returned
from England I moved to Wagga to start my four-year degree. I lived on campus for three years which
gave me the opportunity to meet many friends whom I remain close to today. Third year brought with it
the first compulsory practicum subject which required 500 hours of work experience in a social work
setting. I chose to undertake this placement in Wagga. I completed a research project which looked at
the services available for young people in Wagga. By my final year, I had developed a tight knit and
supportive network amongst my classmates and lecturers. As forth years, we developed the idea of touring
western New South Wales to experience social work in rural and remote areas. With the assistance of an
incredible course coordinator 20 first, second, third and fourth year social work students were able to
spend five days touring Broken Hill, Silverton, Wilcannia, and White Cliffs. The ‘Simply the West’ trip was
even more successful than we had hoped giving students the chance to learn about work opportunities in
places they might never have otherwise thought to work. We also got to see some beautiful Australian
countryside and attractions. It looks as though this trip will be an annual event that has introduced the
opportunity for an international trip.
Following the ‘Simply the West’ trip I travelled to Alice Springs in the Northern Territory to undertake my
second and last practicum. I chose to undertake my practicum in Alice because I saw it as a good
opportunity to spend three months away from home in a town with a high Indigenous population – a
culture which I had developed a strong interest in. My time in Alice was life changing. I spent three
months working in child protection during which time I was able to travel to many surrounding
communities and experience life in remote areas of the Northern Territory. As a result of my time in NT,
I to returned home and enrolled in postgraduate primary school teaching in Melbourne where I am a
quarter of the way through my Masters. I plan to return to NT to either practice social work or to teach in
Alice or on a remote community. I see my social work degree as an invaluable ticket to travel, live and work
in different places and fields in Australia and around the world. I will be forever grateful for the lecturers at
Charles Sturt who were able to share their passion for social work and allow me to enjoy learning so much.
CSU has given me so many opportunities. I have been involved in the CSU social work club which has
allowed me to liaise with students and lecturers with the hope of developing a solid relationship. The
social work club has also been a good tool to bring students of all years together for work and play.
My second placement (which I am still on) has been one of the best experiences of my life. Travelling so
far from home and uni to undertake this placement was somewhat challenging but I always had the support
of the university and was constantly reassured that it would be a great experience which it has.
Georgie Van Meegan
Charles Sturt University | School of Humanities and Social Sciences |Course Induction Booklet 2012
At the Dubbo campus, you are treated as a person, not a number. There is a great relationship
between the student and the lecturers and the whole experience is individualised. I have found
lecturer’s open to taking on the concerns of the students and very genuine in their efforts to help each one
of us graduate. The opportunity to form genuine friendship with your peers and networks within your field
of study is far greater then at a metropolitan university.
Jill Morris
The macro and micro skills I learnt in Social Work regarding establishing rapport with your client,
active listening, non-judgmental and impartial attendance, displaying empathy and so on, are very
critical ingredients of the legal service Lawyers provide to their clients. How a practitioner displays
open body language, reflecting, paraphrasing etc to engage the client and open the field of enquiry to get
their story; which Lawyers call the client’s instructions is also imperative. Comprehensive instructions are
necessary. Without their full story it is impossible to represent them properly. Representation of
clients is what Lawyers and Social Workers do very well. It is also known as advocacy.
Jenny Matthews
Res schools were fantastic for practically putting theory into practice, meeting staff and students and
particularly developing own support network. They helped to confirm that you are on the right track with
the readings and work you are doing at home by yourself and the learnings you have had. Also to
understand that other students are having similar or even more difficulties than you (normalisation)
helps.
Basically that the sky is the limit in terms of Social Work and that a lot of great work can be done in
many different areas to assist our most disadvantaged in society. I have learnt that I have a great deal of
will-power, particularly when it matters most, and am driven if I set my heart to finishing something. I have
also learnt never to underestimate the power of networking.
Kylie Read
I am still working in tenant advocacy for the moment, and teaching at TAFE when I can fit it in. I’ll
teach Advocacy again this year – it will help pay for the new bathroom and the daughter’s graduation!
An exciting professional opportunity that has recently occurred is the chance to contribute to AASW
policy recommendations on housing and homelessness issues. I do value the chance I've had to think
about
social policy.
Cecilia Lenagh
The Master of Gerontology has provided me with a broader perspective on many aspects of Gerontology
whilst allowing me the flexibility to work at my own pace and maintain my life balance. “Through my learning,
I obtained further knowledge and skills to provide optimal service and better understand the current
gerontological health environment. This has greatly assisted my workplace and my clients in allowing me to
further enhance the knowledge and skills of other health professionals. Additionally, the knowledge acquired
through this course was a great foundation to obtaining recognition through the Australian Physiotherapy
Association as a Titled Gerontological Physiotherapist.
Peter Sirr
Master of Gerontology
Graduate Certificate in Gerontology
I have found the entire program to be valuable and worthwhile. Because I work in the dementia area, I came
into the course thinking it would be easy as I had background ‘knowledge’. I quickly learned that I had a very
limited, biomedical perspective of dementia and ageing, and this wonderful program has given me
opportunities to extend not only my knowledge base but also to challenge the prejudices about aging you
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tend to develop when working in a hospital environment. It has given me a ‘credentialed’ and informed voice
with which I hope to make a difference.
Susan Foy, Graduate Certificate in Gerontology
This course will provide you with the skills and knowledge required to make a positive change to the lives of
many including youth at risk, women with eating disorders and the older population. For me these skills
included leadership and management skills, being research minded and reflective in my practice and critical
and analytical thinking skills. These combined with my own passion of enabling and enriching the lives of
older people has given me opportunities and career choices I never thought possible.
Toni Wallwork
Working my way through the Charles Sturt University B. Health Sci (Leisure & Health) course was a fantastic
experience – particularly as I was wording in the industry while completing my studies. I highly recommend
this course to any leisure professional looking to further their education and broaden the scope of potential
career pathways. High quality education for leisure professionals has never been more important and the
Charles Sturt course is designed to support practitioners as they navigate the rapidly changing professional
landscape.
Daniella Greenwood
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COURSE STRUCTURES
UNDERGRADUATE
Bachelor of Arts
Bachelor of Criminal Justice
Bachelor of Health Science (Leisure and Health)
Associate Degree in Health Science (Leisure and Health) [exit point only]
Bachelor of Liberal Studies (Arts)
Associate Degree in Liberal Studies (Arts) [exit point only]
University Certificate in Liberal Studies (Arts) [exit point only]
Bachelor of Social Science (Gerontology and Healthy Ageing)
Bachelor of Social Science (Social Welfare)
Bachelor of Social Work [Dubbo] TAFE Integrated Program
Bachelor of Social Work [Port Macquarie] TAFE Articulated Program
Bachelor of Social Work [Port Macquarie] TAFE Integrated Program
Bachelor of Social Work [Wagga Wagga]
Bachelor of Laws
Diploma of Language and Culture
HONOURS
Bachelor of Arts (Honours)
Bachelor of Social Work (Honours)
Bachelor of Social Science (Justice Studies) (Honours)
POSTGRADUATE
Graduate Certificate in Human Services
Graduate Certificate in Integrated Chronic and Terminal Care
Master of Child and Adolescent Welfare
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Master of Ethics and Legal Studies (with specialisations)
Graduate Diploma of Ethics and Legal Studies (with specialisations)
Graduate Certificate in Ethics and Legal Studies
Master of Gerontology
Graduate Certificate in Gerontology
Master of Human Service
Master of Social Work (Advanced Practice)
Master of Social Work (Professional Qualifying)
HIGHER DEGREE BY RESEARCH
Doctor of Philosophy – Faculty of Arts
Doctor of Social Work
Master of Arts (Honours)
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the difference between a course and a subject?
A course is the full three or four year program you are undertaking, for example Bachelor of Social Work
(Wagga Wagga). Your course is made up of subjects that must be completed to gain your degree. Each
subject has a code and name, e.g. HCS102 Communication and Human Services. The first number (i.e.
HCS 102) indicates the level of the subject.
How do I work out my timetable? (Internal students only)
If you are an internal student you will be advised during O Week of the timetable for students in each course.
However, timetables are available online via http://student.csu.edu.au/study/study-essentials/timetable and a
copy is situated on the notice boards in the foyer of the School Building. You should know what subjects you
are to undertake in the first session. Find each of those subjects and write down the lecture days and times.
Practical sessions will also be timetabled for some of these subjects. You are generally only required to
undertake one practical session per subject, even though in some instances a subject may have more than
one practical session timetabled to cater for the number of students enrolled in the particular subject. You
may be directed as to which practical session you are to attend. Some subjects also have multiple tutorial
sessions associated with them. You do not have to attend all of these sessions and you will be directed by
your lecturer as to which tutorial session you are to attend. In most cases you will have a lecture prior to any
tutorial or practical sessions, to enable your Subject Coordinator to explain and identify the particular
sessions you are to attend. If you need to change practical classes you must contact the Subject Coordinator
beforehand.
How to add and delete subjects?
On the Student Admin Online page click on the online tutorial videos which explains how to use the online
system. The deadline for adding subjects to your enrolment is the Friday of the first week of session.
https://online.csu.edu.au/Inter/Action?type=B&cmd=Check_PIN&system=Enrolment_Menu
Subjects can be deleted from your enrolment up until HECS census date without penalty. This can be done
through Student Admin Online
https://online.csu.edu.au/Inter/Action?type=B&cmd=Check_PIN&system=Enrolment_Menu
What are practical sessions?
Practical sessions enable you to experience the “hands-on” side of what you are learning. Students have
the opportunity to practise professional skills, apply theoretical understanding and to integrate theory and
practice settings. Not all subjects involve practical sessions so do not be alarmed if practical sessions are
not listed in the timetable.
What if I fall behind in assessment items?
First of all do not panic, but don't ignore it either. See your Subject Coordinator who will be only too willing
to give good advice.
What if I am having difficulties coping?
Again – do not panic. As University study is so different to studying at school, this is a common problem in
the first year of studies. It often helps to talk about it with your friends and you will be quite surprised to find
that you are not the only one who feels they are having problems. There are many avenues for you to follow.
Seek out your lecturer or Subject Coordinator. Student Services offers help in the form of counselling, time
management and study skills sessions. You should also feel free to make an appointment to see the Head
of School at any time.
Do I have to have assignments typed?
There is generally no requirement for assessment items to be typed but it is in your own best interests to
present your assessment items in a neat and appropriate format. Check your subject outline for information
on the presentation style and format required for your assessments.
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What if I don't have the textbook?
Copies of the textbook should be available and can be purchased from the Co-op Bookshop. If sold out and
in the process of being reordered, please bring this to the attention of the Subject Coordinator. The Library
also has copies of prescribed textbooks.
Where can I find or contact my lecturer?
As detailed earlier in this booklet, staff contact details are provided above (include page number). All
academic staff have consultation times and usually these are posted outside their offices. Some staff
request that you make an appointment and you will therefore need to speak to your lecturer possibly after a
lecture or practical session to discuss a suitable time or contact them via e-mail.
What if I fail a subject?
If you fail a subject, see your Subject Coordinator as you may not be able to continue with some subjects in
the next session if you have failed any prerequisites subjects.
Can I buy second-hand textbooks?
You may be able to buy them directly from other students - use your course contacts. Check noticeboards
throughout the campus and your course forums. There is also a website called
https://studentvip.com.au/textbooks where students from across Australia can buy and sell second-hand
textbooks. Please exercise caution when buying something online.
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IMPORTANT WEBSITE ADDRESSES
CSU Orientation
http://www.csu.edu.au/oncampus/events/o-week
Student Central
http://student.csu.edu.au/services-support/student-central
Library Services
http://student.csu.edu.au/library
Examinations
http://student.csu.edu.au/study/exams
Application Forms
http://student.csu.edu.au/administration/forms
CSU Handbook
http://student.csu.edu.au/administration/enrolment/csu-handbooks
CSU Student Card
http://www.csu.edu.au/csu-card
Scholarships and help with costs
http://futurestudents.csu.edu.au/help-with-costs/scholarships
Subject Availability
https://online.csu.edu.au/Inter/Action?type=B&cmd=Subj_Availability
On campus timetables
http://student.csu.edu.au/study/study-essentials/timetable
eStudent Support
http://student.csu.edu.au/services-support
HECS/HELP & FEE/HELP (going to Uni)
http://studyassist.gov.au/sites/StudyAssist/
Internet charges
http://student.csu.edu.au/finances/current-year-fees-and-charges
Student Administration
http://student.csu.edu.au/administration
Student Support - http://student.csu.edu.au/services-support
Counselling - http://student.csu.edu.au/services-support/health-wellbeing/counselling
Careers - http://student.csu.edu.au/services-support/careers
Disability Services - http://student.csu.edu.au/services-support/disability
Health Promotions - http://student.csu.edu.au/services-support/health-wellbeing/health
Indigenous Student Services - https://indigenous.csu.edu.au/
Learning Support - http://student.csu.edu.au/study/ALLaN
Graduation Frequently Asked Questions
http://student.csu.edu.au/administration/graduations
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NOTES
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