If you are looking for a versatile community qualification with an array of job opportunities and a possible path to university, then CIT's Community Services qualifications offer a firm foundation in assessing and working with the needs of clients in a variety of settings.

Develop your skills to provide a range of services, community education and interventions to clients at community-based organisations, residential rehabilitation services or outreach services. The diploma allows you to delve further into your knowledge of community welfare, gaining enhanced experience in community engagement, providing advanced interventions to clients as well as learning how to respond to crises.

Industry Placement

Get 200 unpaid hours of industry experience with an industry placement! This will give you the hands-on skills to be ready for employment. CIT staff can assist you in organising your placement.

(Certificate IV: 80 unpaid hours.)

Why Study at CIT?

• Hands-on industry experience
• One of five specialised fields of study to personalise your Community Services Diploma
• Many job opportunities in Canberra and throughout Australia

Course Subject:

Core: Complete all 7 subjects

• CHCDIV001 Work with diverse people
• CHCCOM002 Use communication to build relationships
• CHCPRP001 Develop and maintain networks and collaborative partnerships
• CHCADV001 Facilitate the interests and rights of clients
• CHCLEG001 Work legally and ethically
• CHCCCS004 Assess co-existing needs
• HLTWHS003 Maintain work health and safety

Electives: Complete all 8 subjects

• CHCGRP002 Plan and conduct group activities
• CHCCDE001 Support participative planning processes
• CHCCDE003 Work within a community development framework
• CHCCDE005 Develop and support relevant community resources
• CHCAOD001 Work in an alcohol and other drugs context
• CHCMHS001 Work with people with mental health issues
• CHCCDE004 Implement participation and engagement strategies
• CHCCCS016 Respond to client needs

Job outcome:

On completion of this qualification the worker will be able to design and deliver programs that aim to enhance the wellbeing of individuals and groups. Occupational titles may include:

• Case worker
• Community services worker
• Community support worker
• Domestic violence worker
• Early intervention homelessness worker
• Family support worker
• Health education officer
• Outreach officer
• Support worker
• Welfare support worker

Teaching method and Assessment:

Modes of study include simulated workplaces for students to practice their new skills, work experience or work placement, supervised study time with a teacher and on-line learning and student engagement through e-Learn.

Students must complete class work, assignments, practical components and project work throughout the course. They may then be assessed using a combination of these tasks, continuous assessment and examinations. Assessment outcomes may be based on competency, marks and grades, or a combination of all three assessment methods.