Bachelor of Social Work (Honours)

Yes, this course is an Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) accredited qualification. It is an entry qualification into the social work profession and has been determined to meet the Australian Social Work Education and Accreditation Standards (ASWEAS). Graduates are eligible for membership of this professional association.

Field education forms a large component of the social work degree. You'll undertake 140 days of work placements within human service and community service organisations. In the second semester of the third and fourth years you'll undertake two 70-day placements. Placement in third year focuses on direct practice with individuals, families and small groups. The fourth year placement involves the integration of theory and macro-level practice. Placements may be arranged locally and interstate, and overseas opportunities may be available for the final placement. Organisations include ASRC, Anglicare, Department of Human Services, Oxfam Australia, Brotherhood of St Laurence, and the Salvation Army Crisis Services, among others.

This degree includes the following areas of study: Social sciences (including sociology, politics, social theory, social policy and psychology); Theory and practice (a sequence of subjects spanning 4 years sharing an explicit set of values and theoretical approaches related to social justice); Field education (professional placements that develop practical experience, networks, and career opportunities); Specialisation (opportunities to pursue areas of interest in greater depth); and Policy and research (subjects in research, program evaluation and policy development). Many subjects, particularly in the first year, are taken in common with students from psychology, international studies, youth work and legal studies.

This degree uses a variety of teaching and learning approaches including interactive coursework seminars, online components, case studies, reflective techniques, individual and group presentations, group-based learning, and small-group discussions. All subjects are delivered in English. Assessment methods include written papers, exams, class exercises, oral presentations, workshop and seminar facilitation, and online activities.

Eligible applicants may receive adjustment factors including equity access schemes and/or subject adjustments to a maximum of 28 aggregate aggregate adjustment points. Specific adjustments include: a study score of 35 in English (EAL) equals 2 aggregate points, a study score of 30 in English other than EAL equals 2 aggregate points, regional adjustments for applicants from low socio-economic status areas, the School Network Access Program (SNAP) for eligible Year 12 applicants, the Elite Athlete and Performer Program, and the Indigenous Access Program for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.