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Social Work Courses

Find the best Social Work Courses

Masters (Coursework)

Perth
This course prepares beginning social work practitioners for employment in local, State and international human services agencies.
Study Mode
In person
Graduate Satisfaction
83.90%

Masters (Coursework)

Kensington
The Master of Counselling Social Work is a two-year part-time degree designed for those already employed in the social work field. You will undertake in-depth analysis of your own social work practice and be encouraged to participate in interactive theory seminars.
Duration
2 years part-time
Study Mode
In person

Doctorate (PhD)

Melbourne, Albury-Wodonga
If you are an experienced practitioner in social work and human services, this degree gives you an opportunity to enrich and extend your professional practice and undertake research in professional or community settings.Areas of study include: social work practice, social policy, program evaluation,...
Duration
4 years full-time
Study Mode
In person
Graduate Satisfaction
87.00%

Graduate Certificate

Perth
Passionate about finding creative solutions to bring communities together? A Graduate Certificate in Community Development is for those wanting to make a positive difference and establish projects to make their neighbourhoods better places.
Entry Requirements
Entry requirements

Select which option best describes your path to university :

Means of admission Minimum academic requirement Minimum English requirement
Murdoch Institute of Technology (MIT) courses Successful completion of one of the following:Murdoch University Preparation Course with a minimum of 50% in every subjectMUPC (1 Trimester)Foundation Studies Course with a minimum of 50% in every subject. Successful completion of one of the following:Murdoch University Preparation CourseIntroduction to Academic Communication unitFoundation Studies Course with a minimum of 50% in every subject.
University study Successful completion of 2 units at an Australian University or Open Universities Australia (OUA). Successful completion of 2 units at an Australian University or Open Universities Australia (OUA).
Enabling courses (after Year 12)
Successful completion of one of the following:
  • OnTrack Flex, OnTrack Sprint or K-Track at Murdoch University.
  • Murdoch FlexiTrack High program in Year 12.
  • TLC - Learning for Tomorrow in Year 12.
  • An enabling or bridging course at another Australian University.
Successful completion of the course.
Murdoch Institute of Technology (MIT) courses
Minimum academic requirement Successful completion of one of the following:Murdoch University Preparation Course with a minimum of 50% in every subjectMUPC (1 Trimester)Foundation Studies Course with a minimum of 50% in every subject.
Minimum English requirement Successful completion of one of the following:Murdoch University Preparation CourseIntroduction to Academic Communication unitFoundation Studies Course with a minimum of 50% in every subject.
University study
Minimum academic requirement Successful completion of 2 units at an Australian University or Open Universities Australia (OUA).
Minimum English requirement Successful completion of 2 units at an Australian University or Open Universities Australia (OUA).
Enabling courses (after Year 12)
Minimum academic requirement
Successful completion of one of the following:
  • OnTrack Flex, OnTrack Sprint or K-Track at Murdoch University.
  • Murdoch FlexiTrack High program in Year 12.
  • TLC - Learning for Tomorrow in Year 12.
  • An enabling or bridging course at another Australian University.
Minimum English requirement
Successful completion of the course.
Means of admission Minimum academic requirement Minimum English requirement
International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Total score of 24 or higher. Higher level (HL): 3 or better.

Standard Level (SL): 4 or better.

Evidence of completing year 11 and 12 in Australia at any Level (Domestic Applicants Only)

Evidence of completing a minimum of 2 years of studies at TAFE or an RTO (Domestic Applicants Only).

GCE A Levels

Aggregate of 6 points from:
  • A maximum of the best three A-level subjects; OR
  • A combination of A-level and AS-level subjects

At least two A-level subjects are included in the calculation

AS-level subject attempted at A-level is not eligible to be included

A-level grades (A*=6, A=5, B=4, C=3, D=2, E=1)

AS-level grades (A=2.5, B=2, C=1.5, D=1, E=0.5)
A Levels: D in one of the following:

  • English Language

  • English Literature

  • Knowledge and Inquiry.

AS Level: C in one of the following:

  • English Language

  • English Literature

  • Knowledge and Inquiry

Western Australian Universities Foundation Program (WAUFP) CPS 54 or higher. 50% in English Language and Australian Cultural Studies (ELACS).
VET course studied at school Successful completion of a Certificate IV or higher. Evidence of completing year 11 and 12 in Australia at any Level (Domestic Applicants Only)

Evidence of completing a minimum of 2 years of studies at TAFE or an RTO (Domestic Applicants Only).

Scaled mark of 50 or higher in one of the following:

  • English ATAR
  • Literature ATAR
  • English as an Additional Dialect (EALD) ATAR

or a STAT Written English score of 140 or higher.

Extenuating circumstances We'll consider applications from prospective students whose education has been compromised due to genuine hardship, resulting in them falling short of entry requirements for an undergraduate course.Find out more. Case-by-case assessment.
Overseas Year 12 Please refer to the information under the country of study. Please refer to the information under the country of study.
Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) Overall Position (OP) of 13 or lower. Sound Achievement (4) or better in a Queensland Studies Authority approved subject of one of the following:
  • English
  • English Extension (Literature)
  • English for ESL Learners.

Evidence of completing year 11 and 12 in Australia at any Level (Domestic Applicants Only)

Evidence of completing a minimum of 2 years of studies at TAFE or an RTO (Domestic Applicants Only).
Minimum Selection Rank (WA/ACT/NSW/NT/SA/TAS/VIC) 70

Scaled mark of 50 or higher in one of the following (or interstate equivalent):

  • English ATAR
  • Literature ATAR
  • English as an Additional Dialect (EALD) ATAR

Or a STAT Written English score of 140 or higher.

Or evidence of completing year 11 and 12 in Australia at any Level (Domestic applicants only).

International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma
Minimum academic requirement Total score of 24 or higher.
Minimum English requirement Higher level (HL): 3 or better.

Standard Level (SL): 4 or better.

Evidence of completing year 11 and 12 in Australia at any Level (Domestic Applicants Only)

Evidence of completing a minimum of 2 years of studies at TAFE or an RTO (Domestic Applicants Only).

GCE A Levels
Minimum academic requirement

Aggregate of 6 points from:

  • A maximum of the best three A-level subjects; OR
  • A combination of A-level and AS-level subjects

At least two A-level subjects are included in the calculation

AS-level subject attempted at A-level is not eligible to be included

A-level grades (A*=6, A=5, B=4, C=3, D=2, E=1)

AS-level grades (A=2.5, B=2, C=1.5, D=1, E=0.5)

Minimum English requirement
A Levels: D in one of the following:

  • English Language
  • English Literature
  • Knowledge and Inquiry.

AS Level: C in one of the following:

  • English Language
  • English Literature
  • Knowledge and Inquiry

Western Australian Universities Foundation Program (WAUFP)
Minimum academic requirement CPS 54 or higher.
Minimum English requirement 50% in English Language and Australian Cultural Studies (ELACS).
VET course studied at school
Minimum academic requirement Successful completion of a Certificate IV or higher.
Minimum English requirement Evidence of completing year 11 and 12 in Australia at any Level (Domestic Applicants Only)

Evidence of completing a minimum of 2 years of studies at TAFE or an RTO (Domestic Applicants Only).

Scaled mark of 50 or higher in one of the following:

  • English ATAR
  • Literature ATAR
  • English as an Additional Dialect (EALD) ATAR

or a STAT Written English score of 140 or higher.

Extenuating circumstances
Minimum academic requirement We'll consider applications from prospective students whose education has been compromised due to genuine hardship, resulting in them falling short of entry requirements for an undergraduate course.Find out more.
Minimum English requirement Case-by-case assessment.
Overseas Year 12
Minimum academic requirement Please refer to the information under the country of study.
Minimum English requirement Please refer to the information under the country of study.
Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE)
Minimum academic requirement Overall Position (OP) of 13 or lower.
Minimum English requirement Sound Achievement (4) or better in a Queensland Studies Authority approved subject of one of the following:
  • English
  • English Extension (Literature)
  • English for ESL Learners.

Evidence of completing year 11 and 12 in Australia at any Level (Domestic Applicants Only)

Evidence of completing a minimum of 2 years of studies at TAFE or an RTO (Domestic Applicants Only).
Minimum Selection Rank (WA/ACT/NSW/NT/SA/TAS/VIC)
Minimum academic requirement 70
Minimum English requirement

Scaled mark of 50 or higher in one of the following (or interstate equivalent):

  • English ATAR
  • Literature ATAR
  • English as an Additional Dialect (EALD) ATAR

Or a STAT Written English score of 140 or higher.

Or evidence of completing year 11 and 12 in Australia at any Level (Domestic applicants only).

Means of admission Minimum academic requirement Minimum English requirement
Diploma or Advanced Diploma AQF level 5-6 Successful completion of a Diploma or Advanced Diploma. Successful completion of a Diploma or Advanced Diploma.
Certificate IV AQF level 4 Successful completion of a Certificate IV.
Evidence of completing year 11 and 12 in Australia at any Level (Domestic Applicants Only), OR
Evidence of completing a minimum of 2 years of studies at TAFE or an RTO (Domestic Applicants Only), OR

STAT Written English score of 140 or higher (145 if prior to May 2010).

Diploma or Advanced Diploma AQF level 5-6
Minimum academic requirement Successful completion of a Diploma or Advanced Diploma.
Minimum English requirement Successful completion of a Diploma or Advanced Diploma.
Certificate IV AQF level 4

Minimum academic requirement

Successful completion of a Certificate IV.

Minimum English requirement

Evidence of completing year 11 and 12 in Australia at any Level (Domestic Applicants Only), OR
Evidence of completing a minimum of 2 years of studies at TAFE or an RTO (Domestic Applicants Only), OR

STAT Written English score of 140 or higher (145 if prior to May 2010).

Means of admission Minimum academic requirement Minimum English requirement
Mature Age Pathway (MAP) MAP involves an interview and a portfolio submission to be assessed by the Academic Chair of the course. Admission is based on relevant work and life experience. Applicants must also meet the English Language Competency requirements for the course. Email us for more information. Evidence of completing year 11 and 12 in Australia at any Level (Domestic Applicants Only). Evidence of completing a minimum of 2 years of studies at TAFE or an RTO (Domestic Applicants Only). Must be met according to the respective courses standard ELC requirements, STAT Written English 140, etc.
Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT) Multiple Choice score of 135 (145 if taken prior to May 2010). Evidence of completing year 11 and 12 in Australia at any Level (Domestic Applicants Only). Evidence of completing a minimum of 2 years of studies at TAFE or an RTO (Domestic Applicants Only). Written English Score of 140 (145 if taken prior to May 2010).
Mature Age Pathway (MAP)

Minimum academic requirement

MAP involves an interview and a portfolio submission to be assessed by the Academic Chair of the course. Admission is based on relevant work and life experience. Applicants must also meet the English Language Competency requirements for the course. Email us for more information.

Minimum English requirement

Evidence of completing year 11 and 12 in Australia at any Level (Domestic Applicants Only). Evidence of completing a minimum of 2 years of studies at TAFE or an RTO (Domestic Applicants Only). Must be met according to the respective courses standard ELC requirements, STAT Written English 140, etc.
Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT)

Minimum academic requirement

Multiple Choice score of 135 (145 if taken prior to May 2010).

Minimum English requirement

Evidence of completing year 11 and 12 in Australia at any Level (Domestic Applicants Only). Evidence of completing a minimum of 2 years of studies at TAFE or an RTO (Domestic Applicants Only). Written English Score of 140 (145 if taken prior to May 2010).
Recognised Bachelor's degree or higher, or equivalent training though not necessarily in an area directly related to the proposed course, or satisfactory preparation for the course through previous study or professional experience.
English Requirements

You must meet a minimum standard in English to study at Murdoch, which for most courses can be demonstrated by providing evidence that you have completed Year 11 and 12 in Australia at any level if you are a domestic student, or through either English proficiency tests, university preparation courses, English language courses, previous tertiary study or vocational education.

Other Requirements There may be a reduction in choice of units if completing this course in the external mode.
Advanced Standing

Everyone has a different path to university so if you've already completed formal or informal learning, you could receive advanced standing. Also known as recognition of prior learning, advanced standing can reduce the amount of study needed to complete your degree by giving you credit for certain units.

Formal learning can include previous study in higher education vocational education or adult and community education. Informal learning can include on the job learning, various kinds of work and life experience.

Find out more

This information applies to courses offered at our Australian campuses only. Courses offered at our Dubai and Singapore campuses or delivered by Open Universities Australia may have different requirements.

Advanced Standing

Everyone has a different path to university so if you've already completed formal or informal learning, you could receive advanced standing. Also known as recognition of prior learning, advanced standing can reduce the amount of study needed to complete your degree by giving you credit for certain units.

Formal learning can include previous study in higher education vocational education or adult and community education. Informal learning can include on the job learning, various kinds of work and life experience.

Find out more

This information applies to courses offered at our Australian campuses only. Courses offered at our Dubai and Singapore campuses or delivered by Open Universities Australia may have different requirements.

Progress to fees and scholarships
Duration
1 year full-time
Graduate Satisfaction
85.20%

Masters (Coursework)

Canberra
Social work provides you with a lifelong career in the human services. It is a profession committed to social justice, professional and personal integrity and working collaboratively with people and communities.
Duration
3 years full-time
Graduate Satisfaction
93.30%

Bachelor

City, City campus
With a strong emphasis on creativity and technology, the Bachelor of Design in Interior Architecture is the first university program of its kind in Australia.
Duration
4 years full-time
Study Mode
In person
Graduate Satisfaction
79.00%

Masters (Research)

Parkville
The Master of Advanced Social Work (Research) allows you to combine coursework with extensive independent research in social work. It encourages an advanced practice-oriented and theoretical approach, and supports self-directed, lifelong learning.
Duration
2 years full-time, 4 years part-time
Study Mode
In person
Graduate Satisfaction
86.50%

Graduate Diploma

Perth
The Graduate Diploma in Advanced Social Work enables practising social workers to build on their knowledge of advanced social work theory and practice, and research methods.
Study Mode
In person
Graduate Satisfaction
83.90%

Masters (Research)

Mildura, Melbourne, Albury-Wodonga, Bendigo
This course requires you to complete a research program in social work, to attend research seminars and submit a thesis on an approved subject.
Duration
2 years full-time
Study Mode
In person
Graduate Satisfaction
87.00%

Masters (Research)

Sunshine Coast, Fraser Coast, Caboolture, Moreton Bay, Gympie
Use your research skills to drive social change in a dynamic profession that is constantly evolving to meet the changing needs of society and individuals. This advanced program lets you address the growing need for practice-based research by completing your own original research project.
Entry Requirements

To be eligible for admission to a research Master degree, an applicant must hold:

(a) a Bachelor degree (AQF Level 7) with a Grade Point Average of 5.0 or higher on a seven point scale from a recognised higher education institution; or

(b) a Bachelor Honours degree (AQF Level 8) Class IIB from a recognised higher education institution; or

(c) a record of qualifications and/or professional research experience deemed to be equivalent to the standard of (a) or (b) as may be approved by the Research Degrees Committee, or the Chairperson acting on behalf of the Committee.

The prior study must be in an area of study relevant to the discipline area of the Master degree. If the prior study has not included an appropriate preparation in research methodology, the candidate will be required to undertake an appropriate research methodology course, as specified by the relevant Head of School, as part of their candidature.

The admission requirements for a specific Master degree may include additional requirements, such as a Bachelor degree in the relevant discipline, professional registration, a specified number of years of professional practice, or other requirements indicative of a suitable preparation to undertake a research program at Master level. Additional requirements should be discussed with your proposed supervision team prior to applying.

Refer also to the University's English language requirements.

Admission is subject to availability of appropriate supervision and facilities.

English language requirements

If English is not your first language, you also need to meet the minimum English language requirements for your chosen program. If you do not meet the minimum requirements, you may like to enrol in one of our English Language Programs.

Duration
2 years full-time
Study Mode
In person
Domestic Tuition Fees
$29,000 per year
International Tuition Fees
$58,000 total
Graduate Satisfaction
88.00%

Social Work Courses overview

The Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) define social work profession as “...facilitating social change and development, social cohesion, and the empowerment and liberation of people. Principles of social justice, human rights, collective responsibility and respect for diversities are central to social work. Underpinned by theories of social work, social sciences, humanities and indigenous knowledges, social work engages people and structures to address life challenges and enhance wellbeing”.

As a social worker, your role is often varied, depending on the setting in which you're based; it can involve counselling and family therapy, case management, or assisting clients with social services. Many social work practitioners also work at the research and public policy level, by contributing to research projects, policy development and delivering and implementing education and training programs.

Social work courses cover a wide range of disciplines, giving you the opportunity to diversify into many different sectors.

Is social work for me?

If you have the ability to work well with people from many different cultural and social backgrounds then you would be ideally suited to the role of a social worker. Other skills that are essential to a social worker are good communication, both verbal and written, excellent organisation and an ability to be able to manage multiple priorities.

Graduates of social work can be employed in such diverse fields as child welfare, justice, health, education, and disability services.

Study pathway

The AASW accredits social work courses around Australia on behalf of the Australian Government. Students of both undergraduate and postgraduate courses must complete at least 1,000 hours of work experience with social work agencies and organisations, in order to develop their skills and apply their academic knowledge in the field. The standard of social work education is set by the Australian Social Work Accreditation Standards.

Depending on how far students want to progress in the field of social work or broaden their skills in a specialisation, the postgraduate study pathway begins with a Graduate Certificate or Diploma of Social Work, before progressing to a Masters of Social Work then a Doctor of Social Work. The length of time these take and the study workloads vary, with the Diploma requiring the least amount of study time and having the lightest workload, which makes this a good choice for those interested in having an introduction into this field of study.

Most postgraduate courses will require a bachelor or equivalent degree in social work as a prerequisite for postgraduate study, however, some courses and universities will relax this restriction for students with significant experience in the sector, outstanding grades from a related discipline, or simply a compelling story.

Employment options

Studying social work can open up many employment opportunities for students. Typical roles can have you working as an advocate, a mediator, a researcher, a counsellor, an educator, a case manager, or a facilitator.

The Australian Government Department of Human Services (DHS) is the largest employer of social work graduates, but plenty of other roles exist in other government departments, private organisations and the not-for-profit sector.

Specialisations

There are three main specialisations in social work, namely, a subject matter expert, a project manager or a manager.

Subject matter expert

A social worker who specialises as a subject matter expert will need to complete further study, but will develop in-depth knowledge and skills in this chosen area. For example, a social worker who works in the prison system can identify offending behaviour and determine effective rehabilitation services.

Project manager

Often employed by not-for-profit or government agencies, a project manager has completed study that has equipped them with specialised understanding and skills of social issues enabling them to manage special projects, such as developing and delivering social service programs.

Project manager

With further experience and study, social workers can progress into management roles in different organisations. Tasks involved in management roles often range from staff reporting and training through to recruiting and monitoring team performance.

Some of the roles within these specialisations include:

  • Marriage therapist
  • Healthcare social worker
  • Family therapist
  • Substance abuse counsellor
  • Community program administrator
  • Social work teacher
  • Clinical social worker

Advice for Social Work Courses


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