Explore Youth Work

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Dianne MacKay:  Hi, my name is Dianne MacKay, and I'm the program coordinator of the Certificate IV and Diploma of Youth Work here at RMIT. I've been program coordinator of these programs for five and a half years, and I'm actively involved in developing youth work programs which meet industry requirements. 

Today, I'm going to tell you a bit about RMIT's VE Youth Work programs. I'll explain some of the key learning outcomes of the Certificate IV and Diploma of Youth Work core structure, and each program, and the kinds of projects you can expect to work on as students. It's my privilege to be part of the VE Social Futures Community at RMIT. And I'd love to welcome you to one of our programs. 

Wominjeka. Before I start, I'd like to acknowledge the people of the Woiwurrung and Bunurong language groups of the Eastern Kulin nations. On whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the university. RMIT respectfully acknowledges their ancestors and elders past, present and emerging. And while we conduct our work remotely, I want to pay my respects to the wider unceded lands of this nation. 

The Certificate IV in Youth Work is a one year program, and the course is designed in consultation with experts in the youth work sector to ensure students' learning is comprehensive and applicable to the current youth work sector. You'll have the opportunity to study units, such as culture diversity, engaging with young people, alcohol and other drugs, mental health and trauma issues and reflecting on your own practice. These units will give you the skills and knowledge to facilitate and support young people aged between the ages of 10 and 25 through a range of community based youth work programs to address social, behavioral, health, welfare, developmental, and protectional needs of young people. Students attend three days of classes and also complete 80 hours of placement, which is integrated within the core structure. 

The Diploma of Youth Work is ideal for students who have completed a Certificate IV in Youth Work or a related community service course. And or for those who have worked in the youth work sector and want to formalize their knowledge through education. Diploma students learn skills and knowledge by undertaking units in counseling, case management, advocacy, as well as program and activity planning. Students also learn how to identify young people at risk and how to address legal and ethical issues. Students complete 160 hours of placement, which is integrated in the course while attending three days of classes. Students are also supported to find placements by their RMIT teachers. All youth work teachers are dedicated and currently work as youth workers and community workers in the sector as well as teach at RMIT. 

We also offer pathways for graduates of the Diploma course into the Bachelor of Youth Studies, Youth Work here at RMIT. Students are supported to find appropriate placement opportunities, which in some cases develop into employment. RMIT offer a wide range of RMIT opportunities, which include CONCERN Australia, Scouts Australia, Yarra Youth Services, People Outdoors and arrange of secondary colleges. On completion on the Certificate IV in Youth Work, students are able to be employed as residential workers, support workers, caseworkers, and youth workers. 

Let me end by saying thank you for taking time to hear about our fantastic youth work programs at RMIT. For more information about youth work studies at RMIT, check out our website or call study at RMIT on 9925-2260. Take care and have a lovely day.

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