Bachelor of Community Services at Laurus Higher Education: Everything You Need to Know
Build a Meaningful Career in Community Services
Thinking about a career where you can make a real difference in people’s lives?
The Bachelor of Community Services (BCS) at Laurus Higher Education (LHE) prepares you to support individuals, families, and communities through a combination of academic learning and practical industry experience.
Whether you’re comparing study options or getting ready to apply, here’s everything you need to know.
What will I study?
Throughout the degree, you’ll develop the knowledge and practical skills needed to work across Australia’s community services sector.
You’ll study subjects such as:
- Community services and case management
- Counselling and communication
- Human development
- Community development
- Mental health
- Trauma-informed practice
- Social policy
- Leadership and professional practice
- Research and advocacy
More importantly, you’ll learn how to apply these skills in real community settings and build the confidence needed for professional practice.
What careers can this degree lead to?
The Bachelor of Community Services prepares graduates for a wide range of rewarding careers.
Potential roles include:
- Community Services Practitioner
- Caseworker
- Counsellor
- Researcher
- Policy Maker
- Manager in Community Services
Graduates may also work across sectors such as:
- Family and Children’s Services
- Child Protection
- Family Violence
- Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD)
- Youth Work
- Community Development
- Juvenile Justice
How long does the course take?
LHE offers two flexible study pathways.
2-Year Accelerated
Complete your degree in 2 years full-time, studying across three trimesters each year.
3-Year Standard
Prefer a traditional study pace? Complete your degree in 3 years full-time, with two trimesters each year.
Whichever pathway you choose, you’ll complete 192 credit points and graduate with the same qualification.
Gain Real Industry Experience Before You Graduate
One of the biggest advantages of the course is its emphasis on practical learning.
You’ll complete 400 hours of compulsory Work-Integrated Learning (WIL), including:
- 150 hours in Year 2
- 250 hours in Year 3
These placements give you valuable hands-on experience while helping you build professional networks before you graduate.
Where Will I Study?
The Bachelor of Community Services is delivered on campus at Laurus Higher Education in the heart of Melbourne.
Campus
Level 3, 301-311 Flinders Lane
Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
When Is the Next Intake?
The next intake commences on:
📅 28 September 2026, 01 March 2027, 14 June 2027, 27 September 2027
Applications are now open, and places are limited, so early application is recommended.
Up to AUD $12,000 Scholarship
Eligible students may receive an AUD $12,000 Scholarship, reducing the total course fee including tuition, enrolment, and course material fees.
Our Admissions Team can help assess your eligibility and explain how the scholarship is applied.
Is This Course Right for You?
You may be a great fit if you:
- Want a career that creates positive social impact.
- Enjoy working with people from diverse backgrounds.
- Are interested in counselling, advocacy, or community development.
- Want practical experience while studying.
- Are looking for flexible study options with accelerated and standard pathways.
Why Choose Laurus Higher Education?
- Choose between a 2-year accelerated or 3-year standard pathway.
- Complete 400 hours of Work-Integrated Learning.
- Study on campus in Melbourne CBD.
- Learn through an industry-focused curriculum aligned with the ACWA Qualification Framework.
- Eligible students can receive up to AUD $12,000 in scholarship support.
Ready to Start a Meaningful Career in Community Services?
If you’re ready to build a meaningful career in community services, now is a great time to begin.
With the next intake on 28 September 2026, you can take the first step toward a profession that supports individuals, families, and communities while creating a lasting social impact. Contact our Admissions Team to discuss your eligibility, scholarship opportunities, and the study pathway that’s right for you.