acap

What to Study: Career Paths After School with an ACAP Degree

school leavers at a computer deciding what to study

Feeling the pressure to decide on a degree after finishing school? Don’t worry – we’re here to help you work out what to study. Choosing the right course is a big decision, but the best place to start is thinking about where it can take you. 

Whether your passion lies in criminology, social work, psychology or counselling, a degree from ACAP University College will equip you with the skills and experience you need to land a meaningful people-focused career. With ACAP, you’ll graduate ready to step into the job you’ve always dreamed of. 

Build a Career in Criminology That Drives Change 

Dreaming of a career that’s equal parts intriguing and impactful? If you’re wondering what to study to make a difference in the justice system, criminology could be the choice for you. At ACAP, we go beyond the textbooks, teaching you how to analyse crime trends, understand the justice system and even get inside the mind of offenders.  

Here’s where a criminology degree could take you: 

The career path for criminologists in Australia is varied and rewarding. If you’re asking what to study to explore issues like drug policy, human rights and organised crime, a criminology degree is perfect. Along the way, you’ll gain insight into key criminal justice institutions – like the police force, court systems and prisons – and their effects on society. 

Entry-level roles often include research assistants, policy analysts or crime prevention officers. These positions give you invaluable experience and a firsthand look at how the justice system operates. As you gain experience, you could progress to roles such as senior researcher, criminal profiler or forensic specialist. Prefer academia? You could even teach or conduct groundbreaking research at university. 

Criminologists can work in many sectors: 
  • Government organisations like the Australian Institute of Criminology, shaping national policies and crime prevention strategies. 
  • Law enforcement agencies: contributing to evidence-based practices to reduce crime. 
  • Private sector roles in security consulting, risk management or corporate investigations. 
  • Non-profits: tackling issues like prison reform or victim support. 

Here’s the cherry on top – criminology is in demand! Job growth is projected at 18.9 per cent over the next five years (Labour Market Insights). Whether it’s combatting cybercrime or improving community safety, there’s never been a better time to step into this field. 

Explore ACAP’s criminology courses today. 

Create Meaningful Impact Through Social Work 

Love the idea of helping people and creating a fairer world? If you’re asking yourself, “What should I study at uni to make a lasting impact?”, social work might just be your calling. At ACAP, we prepare you to take on meaningful roles in areas like mental health, child protection and community development. 

Here’s where a social work degree could take you: 

Social workers are vital members of the community, stepping in to support people in challenging situations. Whether it’s advocating for vulnerable children, helping families in crisis or driving social change, social workers create lasting impact. If you’re wondering what to study to address systemic issues like poverty and inequality, social work could be a great fit for you. 

Your future career options could include: 
  • Child Protection: Ensure the safety and wellbeing of children in need. 
  • Aged Care: Assist older adults and their families with navigating healthcare and social services. 
  • Mental Health: Provide therapy, crisis intervention and support for those facing mental health challenges. 
  • Substance Abuse: Help individuals overcome addiction and develop healthier coping strategies. 
  • Community Development: Address systemic issues like poverty and inequality at the grassroots level. 
  • Disability Services: Empower people with disabilities to lead independent and fulfilling lives. 

Social work is as rewarding as it is diverse. The skills you’ll gain – empathy, resilience and cultural competence – are in high demand across many sectors. Plus, with Australia’s growing focus on mental health, the need for qualified social workers is on the rise. Job growth in the field is projected at 15.9 per cent through to 2028 (Labour Market Insights) and the demand is even higher in regional and remote areas, where employers often offer added incentives like relocation assistance and additional leave.

Explore ACAP’s social work courses today. 

Unlock Opportunities in Psychology and Mental Health 

Are you fascinated by the complexities of human behaviour and the power of the mind? Thinking, “What should I study to explore this field?”. A career in psychology might be your perfect next step. 

At ACAP, we equip you with the tools to understand and transform human thoughts, emotions and behaviours, setting you up for a fulfilling, impactful career. 

Here’s where a psychology degree could take you: 

Psychologists work across a diverse range of areas, from mental health to criminal justice, offering endless opportunities to make a difference. Whether you’re passionate about helping individuals overcome challenges, enhancing team performance or influencing societal change, psychology offers a career path for you. 

If you’ve been asking yourself what to study to be able to work in areas like forensic or clinical psychology, ACAP’s psychology degrees provide the foundation you need to succeed. 

Your future career options might include: 
  • Forensic Psychology: Apply psychological principles to the justice system, assisting with criminal investigations, rehabilitation and policy reform. 
  • Child Psychology: Support children and adolescents in navigating personal, educational and mental health challenges. 
  • Sports Psychology: Help athletes and teams reach their full potential by improving focus, motivation and stress management. 
  • Clinical Psychology: Diagnose and treat mental health disorders, fostering long-term positive change in individuals’ lives. 
  • Organisational Psychology: Optimise workplace dynamics by improving team performance, employee satisfaction and leadership effectiveness. 

ACAP’s psychology degrees blend scientific theory with practical application, providing a strong foundation for registration as a psychologist in Australia. With a projected 13.3 per cent increase in job opportunities by 2026 (Labour Market Insights) and high workplace satisfaction, psychology is a career that promises growth, reward and the chance to make a meaningful impact. 

Explore ACAP’s psychology courses today. 

Support Others and Build a Career in Counselling 

Are you the go-to person when your friends need someone to listen? Do you find purpose in helping others navigate life’s ups and downs? If you’re pondering, “What should I study at uni to build a career in mental health?”, counselling could be the profession for you.  

At ACAP, we equip you with the skills to guide people through life’s challenges, creating meaningful change, one conversation at a time. 

Here’s where a counselling degree could take you: 

Counsellors play a vital role in supporting mental health and emotional wellbeing. Whether you’re helping individuals overcome personal obstacles, working with families in crisis or guiding students through tough times, your impact is profound. 

Your future career options might include: 
  • School Counselling: Help students manage stress, navigate personal challenges and thrive academically. 
  • Grief and Loss Counselling: Support individuals coping with the loss of loved ones, fostering healing and resilience. 
  • Marriage and Family Therapy: Strengthen relationships and help families build healthier dynamics. 
  • Mental Health Counselling: Work with individuals to address anxiety, depression and other mental health concerns. 
  • Career Counselling: Guide clients in identifying their strengths and finding fulfilling career paths. 
  • Community Services: Advocate for vulnerable populations, offering guidance and resources. 

Our counselling degrees combine practical experience with evidence-based theory, giving you the confidence to step into a variety of professional settings. With Australia’s increasing focus on mental health support, the demand for qualified counsellors is rising. Job growth in the field is projected at 14.7 per cent by 2026 (Labour Market Insights), making it a career with both purpose and potential.

Explore ACAP’s counselling courses today. 

Why Choose ACAP?

At ACAP, we do things a little differently. No matter your choice of what to study after high school, our degrees are practical, hands-on and designed to prepare you for the real world. From industry placements to learning from experienced professionals, we’ve got everything you need to succeed.

Plus, our flexible study options mean you can learn your way – whether it’s online, on-campus or a mix of both. And did we mention our small class sizes? They ensure you receive the dedicated support and mentorship you deserve, so you’ll never feel like a face in the crowd. 

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you’re ready to turn your passion into a profession but still wondering what to study to get there, ACAP is here to help you every step of the way. 

Want to know more? Book a call back with one of our Course Advisors today! 

Be the difference

Change your life and the lives of others. Book a call or call a course adviser today about course starting times, fee funding options - or anything else.
Apply Now
I'm applying as a

Domestic Student

I'm applying as an

International Student