Course Overview

About This Course

The Bachelor of Social Work (Honours) / Bachelor of Social Sciences is a five-year double degree when studied full-time. The program prepares you to improve lives by working directly with vulnerable individuals and driving political change. Discover how social workers and social scientists shape genuinely transformative experiences for us all. Build experience across diverse human services such as mental health, social work counselling, community work, sociology, psychology, and working with Indigenous communities. You'll also analyse and understand myriad political, international, social, environmental, and economic challenges using social research skills and real-life experience. Experience practical and theoretical classes under direct guidance from industry professionals and current social workers. In addition to two social work placements, you'll have opportunities for social science projects and internships in Australia and overseas. Graduate with real connections, real experience, and skills accredited by the Australian Association of Social Workers.

Eligibility

Entry Requirements

Requirements

2026 Lowest Selection Rank (domestic): 83.0 (ATAR + adjustment factors)
2026 Lowest ATAR (before adjustments): 73.4
2026 A Levels: 10.0 (based on four Advanced Level A2 subjects; entry scores calculated from best three or four A2 subjects)
2026 IB Diploma: 31.0
International ATAR: 78.0
UNSW Foundation Studies GPA: 7.1
Great Britain GCE A Levels (international): 10.0 (minimum of two A2 subjects required)
International Baccalaureate Diploma (international): 29.0
SAT (after 2016): 1150.0 (total of evidence-based reading and writing and mathematical test scores; must be provided with evidence of successful completion of senior secondary studies)
English language requirements: Evidence of English proficiency required for non-Australian Year 12 qualifications; accepted via English language tests, prior study in English, or other qualifications
Portfolio Entry: UNSW ADA Portfolio Entry submission available to boost chances of admission
Adjustment factors: HSC Plus (up to 5 points), Elite Athletes Performers and Leaders (up to 5 points), Educational Access Scheme (1–10 points)
Admission pathways: Gateway Admission Pathway, Indigenous entry programs, TAFE/VET Pathway, University Preparation Program

Career & Study Pathways

Where this takes you

Career Opportunities

Careers in social work: Caseworker, Counsellor, Policy analyst, Research officer, Project manager, Special care worker, Social policy adviser, Social research officer, Social worker, Welfare worker, Youth worker. Careers in social sciences: Advocate, Campaign manager, Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade official, International business consultant, Local government official, Non-government organisation official, Policy analyst, Political adviser, Political journalist, Project officer, Program manager, Research consultant, Research officer, Tourism and trade adviser, United Nations official.

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

Is this degree accredited by the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW)?

Yes. Upon graduation, you will meet the benchmarks set by the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW), the professional body for social workers, and be eligible for their membership.

What work placements are included in this double degree?

The degree includes two social work field placements, giving you experience working in metropolitan and rural Australia or in one of UNSW's partnering countries overseas. There are also opportunities for social science internships and international projects.

What social sciences majors can I choose from in this double degree?

You can specialise in one of the following social sciences majors: Economics, Environmental humanities, Geographical studies, Global development, Human resource management, Indigenous studies, International business, International studies, Innovation, strategy and entrepreneurship, Marketing, Media, culture & technology, Politics and international relations, or Sociology.

What are the indicative fees for this program in 2026?

For domestic students in a Commonwealth Supported Place, the indicative first year fee is $17,000 and the indicative full fee to complete the degree is $88,000. For international students, the indicative first year fee is $50,000 and the indicative full fee to complete the degree is $276,000. All fees are subject to annual review.

What does the final year of this program involve?

In your final year, you will produce a thesis or advanced professional portfolio based on your independent research. This is designed to equip you with advanced research and analysis skills so your professional development can adapt to future changes in social work practice.

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!

Processing time: Offer letter issued within approximately 1 business days.

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