303404 v.3 Bachelor of Applied Science (Indigenous Community Health)

Introduction

This course provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary to empower and strengthen the well-being of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities through an holistic, multi-disciplinary approach that encompasses Indigenous healing traditions. The broad aims of the course are, first, to enable students to facilitate self-determination in health, including the social and emotional well-being of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, families and individuals through the application of Indigenous knowledge, and primary health care and community development concepts and practices, secondly, to enable Indigenous Primary Health Care Practitioners to take leadership roles in the formulation and implementation of programs, in particular, through the development and application of Aboriginal Terms of Reference. At the degree level, students learn to apply the principles and practices of Aboriginal Terms of Reference, Primary Health Care and Community Development to program evaluation.

Course Entry Requirements/Prerequisites

Available only to applicants of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent. Standard University entry requirements, a successful completion of the Curtin Aboriginal Bridging Course, or an Associate Degree in Aboriginal Health.

Specific Requirements

It is preferable that prospective students be working or prepared to undertake voluntary work in an Aboriginal health related position.

Note

Work experience in an area of health is an advantage.

Recognition of Prior Learning

Applications for recognition of prior learning are assessed on an individual basis. Recognition of prior learning may be awarded following completion of the Associate Degree in Aboriginal Health or other relevant qualifications.

Duration and Availability

The course is three years full-time study. Compulsory study block releases, four blocks per year, are conducted at Bentley campus and-or regional learning centres located within the Carnarvon and Kalgoorlie Aboriginal Medical Services. Study blocks mayalso be held at other locations depending upon student numbers and available funds.

Course Organisation

The course has a competency-based-design with an emphasis on community practice. A block system of education is the mode of delivery. There are three two-week blocks and a one-week block per annum. Attendance at all study blocks is compulsory. For the first two years, students enrol in the same units as the Associate Degree in Aboriginal Health. In second year, students choose either the primary health care action stream or the mental health counselling stream.

Additional Course Expenses

Students may be expected to purchase a number of textbooks, readers and other vital study materials. In addition, students may also need to contribute some of the cost of consumables, which varies depending on the area of study.

Availability

The information displayed above refers to study periods and locations where the course is available for first time entry. Students are normally only offered or admitted to a course once.

*The course itself may not be available either solely internally or externally but individual units may be offered in either or both of those modes. Prospective students should contact the Course Coordinator for further information.