Course Overview

About This Course

A Bachelor of Social Work from JCU provides you with the practical skills and experience to begin a rewarding career, with a focus on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, International and tropical communities. Learn how to effectively promote positive relationships and champion a just and equitable society. You will study core subjects including social work with families and children, cross-cultural practice, eco-social justice, psychology and mental health. You'll benefit from the expertise of passionate educators, state-of-the-art social research technology and real-world case studies with an emphasis on sustainability and advocacy, as you learn to become a social worker in Queensland, or within rural, remote or metropolitan areas across Australia. Apply your theoretical knowledge to extensive field placements in your third and fourth years. Learn from leading social workers and build effective relationships with diverse cultures, including rural, remote and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. You could also participate in field trips to India and Thailand. JCU Social Work graduates are confident, high-achieving professionals with the skillset to succeed in a rewarding global workforce. Graduates of this course are eligible for full membership with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW).

Eligibility

Entry Requirements

Requirements

ATAR: 62 (minimum adjusted ATAR/rank required for entry)
English (Units 3/4, C) is a required subject prerequisite
Applicants awarded an ATAR of 73 and above are guaranteed entry into most JCU courses but need to meet course subject prerequisites
Applicants with an ATAR of 90 and above are guaranteed entry into most JCU courses with all subject prerequisites waived
The Guaranteed Admissions Plan is open to all domestic and international applicants completing Year 12 in Australia
Non-school leavers can have their qualifications and work experience assessed to obtain an equivalent score
Credit may be granted for a range of Diploma qualifications including Diploma of Community Services, Diploma of Counselling, Diploma of Mental Health, and others (8 subjects or one year full-time equivalent study each)
JCU Prep provides a pathway into this course for those who need to meet entry requirements including subject prerequisites and ATARs

Career & Study Pathways

Where this takes you

Career Opportunities

JCU Social Work graduates are equipped to advocate for social justice and change in a broad range of environments. Graduates pursue careers in Australia and overseas in aged care, public housing, child welfare, government agencies, drug and alcohol support, domestic violence, Indigenous health, not-for-profit groups, education, private and public hospitals, and more. You could find employment as a child protection officer, mental health counsellor, health policy officer, health services manager, social worker, youth worker, or school counsellor. Social workers can be involved in supporting individuals, groups and communities to respond and adapt to a changing climate.

Quality & Recognition

Accreditation & Migration

Accreditation Details

Academic Regulator

TEQSA

Professional Body

Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW)

Accreditation Status

Accredited

Skills Assessor

AASW

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

How many hours of practical placement will I complete during the Bachelor of Social Work?

Students complete over 1,000 hours of hands-on, practical experience through field placements in their third and fourth years, working with diverse communities including rural, remote, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

Is the JCU Bachelor of Social Work accredited by a professional body?

Yes, graduates of this course are eligible for full membership with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW), and the social work degree in Queensland is nationally accredited.

What are the estimated annual fees for the Bachelor of Social Work?

The estimated annual Commonwealth Supported fee is AUD $9,537 for a full-time study load. Please note this estimate is variable and subject to fluctuation depending on choice of elective subjects. Fees are reviewed annually and are subject to change.

Can I receive credit towards the Bachelor of Social Work if I hold a Diploma qualification?

Yes, students may gain credit for a range of Diploma qualifications, including the Diploma of Community Services, Diploma of Counselling, Diploma of Mental Health, Diploma of Youth Work, and several others — each granting 8 subjects (or one year full-time equivalent study).

Where can I study the Bachelor of Social Work at JCU, and when can I start?

The Bachelor of Social Work is available at JCU Townsville, JCU Cairns, and Online, with intakes commencing in January, May, and September each year. Note that some compulsory on-campus attendance is required for online students.

Application

How to Apply

Three simple steps to get enrolled

Step 01

Enquire

Click "Enquire Now" and tell us a little about yourself. It's free and takes 2 minutes.

Step 02

Submit Documents

Our team will guide you on exactly which documents to prepare and submit.

Step 03

Get Enrolled

Receive your offer letter and confirm your enrolment. Welcome to the course!

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