Bachelor of Social Work (Honours)
    Duration4 year(s)
    Tuition Fee
    AUD 31,018 / year(s)
    Next IntakeJuly 5, 2026
    Bachelor of Social Work (Honours)

    About

    Our Bachelor of Social Work (Honours) provides an advanced level of knowledge in the social and behavioural sciences, with a specific focus on four major areas of study: social work theory, social work practice and skills, social policy and social research.

    Our comprehensive range of core and elective courses enable you to dive deep into a wide-range of theories, principles, and approaches to working with diverse populations – equipping you with the skills needed for social and human services work.

    Additionally, you’ll undertake your own research project under the guidance of an experienced supervisor, with the opportunity to publish post-completion.

    Throughout your studies, you’ll have multiple opportunities to put your learning into practice. Hone your professional skillset with simulated client studios and 2 x 500-hour industry placements.

    These combined experiences guarantee that you will graduate equipped with advanced knowledge, techniques, and professional skills essential for success in your social work career.

    Requirements

    Entry Requirements

    To be eligible, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum entry requirements and demonstrate they fulfil any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission. In cases where there are more eligible applicants than available places, admission will be competitive with ranks based on the entry criteria.

    Secondary education (Year 12)

    • Completion of a secondary education qualification equivalent to the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE).

    Vocational Education and Training (VET)

    • Completion of an award from a registered training organisation (RTO) at Certificate IV (AQF level 4) or higher.

    Higher education study

    • Successful completion of at least 6 months full-time study (or equivalent part-time) in a higher education award program at undergraduate diploma (AQF level 5) or higher.

    English Program Requirements

    IELTS Overall 7 | IELTS Reading 7 | IELTS Listening 7 | IELTS Speaking 7 | IELTS Writing 7

    Career

    Career outcomes

    Social workers with an honours degree hold advanced knowledge and skills. Along with the typical social work activities, they specialise in using evidence-based practise, synthesising ideas and undertake research and advocacy with the ultimate aim of promoting a more fair and inclusive society.  

    The fields and sectors employing social workers are as varied as the populations they assist. You could work in a hospital, providing advocacy support to give patients a voice and ensure they receive appropriate care and resources. Maybe you’ll specialise in services for the elderly, assisting older people to live well and remain independent for as long as possible. Perhaps you’ll become a researcher, exploring important issues within the social work field to inform future practice.   

    You could work in areas like:  

    • Academic and research
    • Aged care facilities
    • Child and family services 
    • Community centres 
    • Disability services 
    • Employee assistance programs 
    • Government agencies 
    • Social policy 
    • Healthcare (hospitals, out-patient clinics, community and allied health settings) 
    • Hospice and end-of-life planning 
    • International and humanitarian organisations 
    • Justice and corrections 
    • Mental health support services 
    • Non-profit organisations 
    • Schools and educational settings 
    • Addiction and substance misuse settings 
    • Veterans’ affairs. 

    Industry trends 

    With an ageing population, increasing demand for mental health services, and government policies focusing on family violence and disability – qualified and dedicated social workers are needed more than ever before (Global Health Education Australia, 2022). 

    Healthcare and social assistance has been the primary provider of new jobs in the Australian labour market since the 1990s. It leads all other industries by a wide margin and is projected to grow by an extra 301,000 jobs by 2026 (Australian Government, 2021). At the same time, employment for Social Workers and Human Service Workers is expected to increase by 25.2% by 2026 (Australian Government, 2021). Join an industry with excellent job prospects and unlimited potential to make a difference.

    Accreditation

    This program is provisionally accredited by the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW).

    Graduates are eligible for membership of the AASW.

    Fee Information

    Tuition Fee
    31,018 / year(s)
    Bachelor of Social Work (Honours)
    University of Adelaide
    University of Adelaide
    Australia

    Australia, Adelaide