COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Social Work (Qualifying) consists of 160 credit points delivered entirely through core units that develop the knowledge, skills and professional capabilities required for contemporary social work practice. Students complete eleven compulsory units designed to build a strong foundation in social work theory, ethics, policy analysis, cultural responsiveness and interpersonal practice. The course includes important skill-based and practice-focused units such as Analysing Social Work Foundations, Social Work Theory for Professional Practice, Loss, Grief and Mental Health, and Leadership in Social Policy. Students also undertake Research for Community Development, enabling them to develop research literacy and the ability to use evidence to inform practice and advocate for social change. A significant emphasis is placed on culturally responsive and culturally safe practice through units such as Skills for Culturally Responsive Practice, a 20-credit-point intensive unit, and Cultural Security in Child Protection Practice, ensuring graduates are well prepared to work respectfully with diverse communities, including First Nations peoples.Practical skill development is further strengthened through two interpersonal skills units delivered via intensive on-campus blocks, where students participate in immersive, practice-oriented learning to build communication, assessment, and engagement skills essential for professional social work. A major component of the course is its focus on real-world application through two substantial field education placements, Field Education A and Field Education B, valued at 30 credit points each. These placements are completed under professional supervision and adhere to requirements set by the Australian Association of Social Workers. Students gain hands-on experience in a variety of social work settings such as community organisations, health services, schools, mental health programs, disability services and child protection. The combination of theoretical study, structured skills training and supervised field education ensures graduates are work-ready and equipped to meet national professional standards. Upon completion of all units, students will have developed a comprehensive professional identity and be prepared to contribute meaningfully to the wellbeing of individuals, families and communities across diverse social work contexts.