Master of Social Work (Qualifying)

Make a difference - become a social worker

Qualified social workers are in-high demand. This program with provide you with an authentic learning experience and practical skills to prepare you for a meaningful career.

Applicants with four social and behavioural sciences courses in their bachelor's degree are eligible for entry to the Graduate Certificate in Human and Social Services as a pathway to the Master of Social Work (Qualifying). You can complete this intensive graduate certificate in six months, to become eligible to enrol in the Master of Social Work (Qualifying) in the following semester.

This program is designed for students interested in becoming qualified social workers with a bachelor's degree who don't met all the requirements for direct entry.

This program is practice-led and industry engaged, offering embedded fieldwork placements, to best prepare you for your professional career as a social worker. Choose to study full or part-time, with a flexible 'night school' approach to class times to suit your work and care responsibilities at home.

what you will study

This program is experience-based – it integrates theory, practice, research and social work values. Professional placement is integrated throughout the program with a total of 1000 hours of placement.

Our flexible learning model makes it easier for you to balance your work life with study.

Find out when applications close for available intakes

Review the information below and submit your application now.

Both students and education agents can submit applications online. This is our preferred way of application. You can save your application after you have started, and come back to it later.

To ensure a smooth application process, please complete the following steps before applying:

Note: Applicants must demonstrate that they meet the University of Newcastle’s English Language Proficiency requirements.

Applicants who do not speak English as a first language must demonstrate that they meet the University's English proficiency requirement. Further information regarding English language proficiency requirements can be found at the English Language Proficiency for Admission Policy.

In the application portal, you can enter the program you wish to study and upload relevant documents needed as part of your application. It is recommended you submit your application a minimum of 12 weeks before your intended semester of trimester start date.

Social work offers many fields of practice that lead to diverse career pathways.

In Australia, social workers are generally employed in several industries, including:

• Social Worker
• Case manager (Child Protection, Out of Home Care, Housing, Addiction, Disability)
• Community Development Officer
• Policy Adviser
• Counsellor
• Mental Health Clinician.