Master of Social Work
    Duration2 year(s)
    Tuition Fee
    AUD 43,400 / year(s)
    Master of Social Work

    About

    Our Master of Social Work is suitable for people who have already completed a bachelor’s degree in a relevant or related field and are wanting to upskill for a career in social work.

    You’ll study advanced courses in social work policy, social work practice skills, ethical decision making, human rights-based practice and more.

    Our comprehensive range of courses enable you to dive deep into a wide-range of theories and approaches – giving you the skills needed for social and human services work across diverse populations.

    Throughout your studies, you'll have numerous opportunities to apply your learning in real-world settings. Simulations of professional interactions in purpose-built, state-of-the-art studios and up to 1000 hours of industry placements will allow you to refine your professional social work skills.

    These experiences ensure you graduate with the advanced knowledge, techniques, and professional skills necessary to excel in your social work career.

    Requirements

    Entry Requirements

    To be eligible, an applicant must have achieved the following minimum entry requirement 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.

    • A completed bachelor (AQF level 7) degree or higher from a recognised higher education institution with a minimum of one year full-time (or part-time equivalent) studies in the social and behavioural sciences (including, but not limited to, human services, community services, social science, psychology, Aboriginal studies, public or community health).

    This degree requires a Grade Point Average (GPA) equivalent to an Adelaide University 5.0 on a 7-point scale for entry.

    Applicants holding a completed Australian bachelor or master level qualification in social work are not eligible for entry.

    English Program Requirements

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

    Career

    Career outcomes

    Social workers provide support, counselling and service referrals. They undertake research and advocacy, with the ultimate aim of promoting a fairer, more inclusive society.

    You could work in hospital or healthcare settings, providing advocacy support to patients to ensure they have a say in their care and 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 questions and issues within the social work field to inform future practice.

    The fields and sectors employing social workers are as varied as the populations they assist. Potential areas of work include:

    • Aged care
    • 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
    • Research and academia
    • Schools and educational settings
    • Addiction and substance misuse settings
    • Veterans’ affairs.

    Industry trends

    The demand for qualified and dedicated social workers has never been higher, driven by an aging population, a growing need for mental health services, and government policies focusing on family violence and disability (Global Health Education Australia, 2022).

    Since the 1990s, healthcare and social assistance have been the leading sectors for job creation in the Australian labour market, outpacing all other industries. This trend is set to continue, with an additional 301,000 jobs projected by 2026. At the same time, employment for Welfare Support Workers is expected to grow by 25.2% by 2026 (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2022).

    Accreditation

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

    Graduates are eligible for membership of the AASW.

    Fee Information

    Master of Social Work
    University of Adelaide
    University of Adelaide
    Australia

    Australia, Adelaide