Course Overview
If you’re searching for an entrance into a career where you can support individuals, groups or communities, the Certificate IV in Community Services will get you there. Learn how to provide support, advocacy or interventions across a range of services including community service, case work or case management. You will develop skills in accordance with Commonwealth and State or Territory legislation, Australian standards and industry codes of practice. Graduate ready to join a rapidly growing industry and know you can make a difference in someone’s life.
Job Outcomes
Potential career outcomes could include:
- Case worker
- Community support worker
- Child safety officer
- Domestic and family violence case worker
Recognition
Study Method
- OnlineOnline delivery - online course content with the exception of assessments and work placement
- BlendedBlended delivery - both online course content and partial face to face requirements
- In-classIn class delivery - predominately face to face course content conducted at a specific location
- VirtualVirtual Delivery - Live and interactive classroom-style learning conducted completely online
Duration Study Load
The course duration is up to 18 months. As a guide for self-paced learning, a minimum of 15 hours per week is recommended to complete the course in this timeframe. The actual completion time will depend on your level of skill and knowledge.
If needed, extensions of up to 6 months (3 months per extension) can be applied for.
Delivery
This course is delivered entirely online. You can access the learning platform on a desktop, tablet or mobile, and fit study around your busy life.
Online modules are broken down into topics and subtopics. Each module contains a range of learning styles including written text, diagrams, instructional videos and formative activities that provide instant feedback. Trainer support is available through the course messaging system, with one-on-one video calls available if needed. A Monthly Course Spotlight video is also provided.
Through the learning platform you will:
- Access your learning materials and assessments
- Undertake and upload assessments
- Engage and interact with your trainer
- View monthly Course Spotlight videos recorded by your trainer
- Participate in student forums
- Access your assessment grades and feedback
- Access student support services
Entry Requirements
There are no academic entry requirements for this course. However, students should be aware that the course may explore sensitive topics related to addiction, mental health and emotional wellbeing.
Students must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be an Australian or New Zealand citizen or resident
Computer skills requirements: Intermediate computer skills are required, including the ability to:
- Create, save and edit Microsoft Office documents
- Access and search the internet
- Download and save documents from websites
- Upload documents through websites
- Create videos
IT requirements:
- Desktop or laptop: Latest version of Chrome or Safari, Microsoft Office (2010 or higher), Adobe PDF Reader
- Mobile or tablet: Latest version of Chrome or Safari, latest version of Android or iOS (note: documents must be uploaded from a laptop/PC or via a Dropbox account)
Professional Recognition
NRT – Nationally Recognised Training. Upon successful completion, students receive the nationally recognised qualification CHC42021 Certificate IV in Community Services, awarded by Swinburne University of Technology (RTO 3059).
Assessment
Your course will be assessed online through the learning management platform. A specialist assessor is assigned for each module. Assessment tasks include:
- Short answer questions
- Projects
- Reflection report
- Reflective questions
- Case studies
- Video role plays
Materials
Learning materials are accessed through the online learning portal and include:
- Learning activities
- Rich media including video resources and web links
Additional equipment required for HLTWHS002 assessment (role play in a simulated home environment):
- Empty boxes
- PPE and closed shoes
- Safety signage
- Hand soap
- Biohazard clinical waste disposal bags
- Cleaning equipment such as alcohol-based disinfectant, antibacterial wipes and disposable gloves
Additional Information
Role playing assessments: Some assessments require role plays to demonstrate communication and problem-solving skills. These are recorded via video on your device and uploaded to the online platform for review. Each module provides clear instructions on recording and submission.
First Aid unit (HLTAID011): Students are required to complete this unit externally and submit the awarded transcript to obtain credit transfer (CT). The First Aid certificate is valid for 3 years from completion; however, the CPR component expires after one year. It is the student's responsibility to maintain the currency of their First Aid Certificate.
Support services available:
Academic support: Experienced trainers and assessors are available to answer questions regarding learning materials or assessments.
Student services: The student services team can assist with administrative queries including enrolment, change of contact details, support with the online learning system, assessment results and certification.
Subjects
About Swinburne Open Education
We are focused on helping more and more Australians achieve their career aspirations and ensuring they’re prepared for future workforce needs. We support you to achieve your career goals, from work-integrated learning, to work placement. We’ve partnered with industry experts that need people like you, now.
Swinburne Open Education courses are delivered and assessed by UP Education, one of the largest private education groups in the Asia-Pacific. All qualifications are nationally recognised in Australia and are awarded by Swinburne University of Technology.
Together, UP Education and Swinburne University of Technology have established Swinburne Open Education – a world-class, online native learning platform, to help you reach your career goals, anytime, anywhere.
Swinburne University of Technology is a registered training organisation (RTO 3059)
