Master of Social Work (Research)

La Trobe University

CRICOS Institution Code 00115M

Duration

104 weeks

Delivery

Research Training

Study Load

Full-time or part-time

Intakes

—

Course Overview

About This Course

This course requires you to complete a research program in social work, to attend research seminars and submit a thesis on an approved subject. Areas of study include: social work practice, social policy, intellectual disability, ageing, child and family welfare, health, and mental health.

Learning outcomes

Mastery of theoretical knowledge and ability to reflect critically on theory and its application
Ability to analyse and synthesise complex information, problems, concepts and theories and apply to established theories from different bodies of knowledge or practice
Ability to generate and assess complex ideas and concepts at an abstract level
Ability to design, use and evaluate research and research methods
Advanced communication and technical skills to present coherent arguments and disseminate research findings to specialist and non-specialist audiences

Where You Can Study

Available Locations

Melbourne

Plenty Rd, Bundoora, Melbourne, Victoria 3086

Open in Maps ↗

Student Information

Fees & Entry by Student Type

Duration

104 weeks

Intakes

Anytime (2026)

Study Mode

Full-time or part-time

Eligibility

Entry Requirements

General Requirements

All applicants:

The minimum academic requirement for entry to a Master of Social Work (Research) at La Trobe University is a Bachelor's (Honours) degree in a relevant discipline completed within the last ten years with a weighted average mark of 70 (H2A) or above.

Where an applicant does not meet the normal academic entry requirements, an application may be made for admission on equity or alternative entry grounds where the applicant can demonstrate, through discipline-appropriate forms of evidence:

That they have attained the prior research and/or learning outcomes that normally pertain to the minimum academic entry requirements for the degree, and
That they have the capacity to successfully undertake a higher degree by research.

The following conditions must be met in order to gain admission into a Master of Social Work (Research) degree:

you must meet the entry requirements for the degree
the school in which you seek enrolment must be able to provide appropriate facilities, resources and supervision for your chosen area of research.

International students:

English language requirements

6.5 IELTS (Academic) with no individual band less than 6.0.

Career & Study Pathways

Where this takes you

Career Opportunities

This degree will prepare you for a professional career in industry or academic research or higher education. Successful completion of the Master of Social Work (Research) can also serve as a pathway into a PhD.

Quality & Recognition

Accreditation & Migration

Academic Regulator

TEQSA

Professional Body

Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW)

Accreditation Status

Accredited

Skills Assessor

AASW

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Master of Social Work (Research) at La Trobe University?

The Master of Social Work (Research) is a postgraduate research degree offered by La Trobe University, however detailed course overview information was not available on the page content provided.

How do I apply for the Master of Social Work (Research) at La Trobe?

Prospective students can apply through La Trobe University's official application process. The university provides guidance on how to apply via its Study with Us section, and prospective students are encouraged to visit the La Trobe website or contact the university directly for specific application requirements.

Are there scholarships available for the Master of Social Work (Research)?

La Trobe University offers a range of scholarships for students, including for research degrees. Prospective students are encouraged to visit the Scholarships section of the La Trobe University website for detailed and up-to-date information on available funding opportunities.

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.

Course Snapshot

Typical Salary (AUD)

Entry-level (0-2 years)$60,000 – $77,000/yr

Early Career (2-5 years)$77,000 – $90,000/yr

Mid-Level (5-10 years)$90,000 – $105,000/yr

Career Paths

Child Protection Practitioner / Caseworker
Hospital Social Worker
Mental Health Social Worker
Aged Care Social Worker
Disability Support Coordinator (NDIS)

Key Skills

Case management and client assessment
Crisis intervention and risk assessment
Counselling and active listening techniques
Community development and capacity building
Social policy analysis and advocacy

Full course overview

💬

Need guidance?

Free advisor support

Our advisors help international students choose the right course and navigate visa pathways — at no cost.

Hear From the Students

Honestly I was lost when I first started looking at Australian colleges. There are just too many options and every agent gives you different info. A friend told me about FindTheCourses and within a week I had shortlisted 3 programs that actually matched my budget and visa situation. My advisor Sanjay was super helpful — never felt like I was being pushed into anything.

Priya Sharma

India

Master of Nursing · Griffith University

Promote your Institution with Find the Courses