Bachelor of Social Work

The Bachelor of Social Work is an entry-level, professionally accredited qualification to practise as a social worker. This high job growth area offers a variety of careers in client service roles, service management, research, strategy and policy development. The course prepares students to work in a diverse range of fields including health and mental health, child and family welfare, cross-cultural work and work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, youth work, homelessness, domestic and family violence, disability, drug and alcohol, community development, and advocacy. Underpinned by core principles of social justice and human rights, the course engages students in contemporary anti-oppressive, decolonised and trauma-informed approaches to social work practice.  Core units within the course cover essential theories, methods and skills for social work practice with individuals, families, groups and communities. These are complemented by foundational studies in Indigenous world views, sociology, politics, human development and social research. An elective stream provides opportunity for students to pursue their interests and develop knowledge in a range of disciplines, and an optional embedded Honours program is available for eligible students interested in research and pathways to further postgraduate studies.  Note: Eligible students who are interested in undertaking the Honours program should consult the Bachelor of Social Work Course Coordinator prior to enrolling in elective units. Graduates of this course will be prepared to practise as social workers in government and non-government positions in fields such as health, child protection, disability services, housing services, youth work, aged care, alcohol and drug rehabilitation, community development, mental health services, and domestic violence services.