Study Social Work in Australia

Introduction to studying a social work degree in Australia

Studying a social work course in Australia provides students with a comprehensive education in addressing social issues, promoting social justice, and working with diverse populations to enhance well-being. Typically, undergraduate programs in Social Work last for four years. Students engage in various modules covering social work theory, human behaviour, social policy, research methods, and practical skills in working with individuals, families, and communities.

Australian universities often have strong connections with the social work profession, offering students opportunities for field placements, internships, and practical experience in real-world settings. The curriculum is designed to meet the requirements for accreditation by the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW), ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for professional practice.

Types of Social Work Degrees

Diploma of Social Work

A diploma in social work is a one-year program that prepares you for university study while learning and cultivating right-based values, ethics, and perspectives and developing sensitivity towards human issues. During the pathway program, you will build academic skills, university knowledge, and confidence through lectures, assessments, and personal research. 

After graduating with a diploma in social work in Australia, you can study for a Bachelor of Social Work or work as a social worker, social services assistant, or community health worker.

• Course duration: one year
• Course fees: $26,000
• Entry requirements: Australian Year 12 or equivalent with IELTS/TOEFL qualification

Bachelor’s of Social Work

The Bachelor of Social Work in Australia is an undergraduate course that covers an in-depth understanding of community development, policy analysis, family violence, mental health, and social research. During the coursework, you will engage in practice-based learning opportunities essential for developing professional practice under social workers' close supervision and support. 

A Bachelor of Social Work degree in Australia for international students can help you prepare for diverse job opportunities from federal and state government to hospitals and community services. 

• Course duration: four years
• Course fees: $35,400
• Entry requirements: Educational achievements, work experience and IELTS/TOEFL minimum qualifying scores

Master’s of Social Work

A master’s of social work is a qualifying postgraduate course specially designed for graduates with degrees in social and behavioural sciences. The program equips students with knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience for social work practice in social policy and human service contexts. The coursework combines lectures, seminars, tutorials, collaborative learning, and practice simulations. In the final semester, you can undertake any specialist elective in health, aged care, group work, child and family, social policy and mental health. 

After the course, you can work with communities or be employed in critical roles within healthcare, the criminal justice system, and human service design. 

• Course duration: two years
• Course fees: $40,864
• Entry requirements: Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, work experience, and a minimum IELTS score of 7.0

Scholarships

Many Australian universities offer scholarships and financial aid based on merit and other financial considerations.

Jobs and Careers

Social work is a part of the growing human services field and community. Graduates in social work studies can be in various roles, including working with individuals, groups and families, community work, research and planning. According to Labour Market Insights, the job market in social services is expected to reach 49,300 by 2026. 

Social work graduates in Australia can pursue rewarding careers across local, state, federal, government, and private sectors in many specialist areas, such as activism, advocacy, consultancy, therapy, and refugee assistance. Some popular careers include counsellors, human services specialists, and environmental social workers. 

Salary

The average salary of a social work graduate in Australia can range from $85,000 to $100,000 annually. The entry-level positions (with one to three years of experience) can make up to $82,666 annually, while the most experienced workers with more than ten years of experience can make up to $118,880 annually. However, the pay scale can vary depending on skills, educational experience, and job location. 

Top Universities to study Social Work Courses in Australia

To learn more about the best social work universities in Australia, find details on the top ranking Social Work programs in the EduRank Guide 2024 below:

Study Social Work in Australia

If you want to study a social work course at an Australian university, arrange your free consultation with SI-Australia today.

FAQ

Is a master’s in social work worth it in Australia?

Graduates with a master’s degree have often experienced rapid career advancement. A master’s in social work can offer you opportunities in rewarding careers, such as healthcare, government organisations, non-profit communities, and more.

What is better, an MSc or a Graduation in social work?

According to the National Association of Social Workers Statistics, a master’s in social work in Australia can earn around $13,000 more than a bachelor’s degree holder.  

What is the overall study cost for a master’s in social work?

The course fees for a master’s in social work in Australia depend on the university you apply to. The average fees can range from $40,864 to $55,690. 

What are the job opportunities in Australia after a social work degree?

A social work degree offers plenty of opportunities to international students. Depending on the skills and knowledge you gain, you can fit into any job profile. Some popular careers include social worker, community health centre, and policy officer.