COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Social Work program is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience necessary for professional social work practice across diverse settings. In the first year, students are introduced to the foundations of social structures, politics, and welfare systems. Australian Politics (POLT1001) and Introduction to Sociology (SOCI1001) provide insights into governance, society, and social institutions, while Indigenous World-Views (INDG1001) fosters understanding and respect for Indigenous cultures and perspectives. Create: Innovate: Change (CRTV1002) encourages problem-solving and innovation within community contexts. Introduction to Social Welfare (WELF1001) and Social Policy (SOCI1005) explore welfare systems and policy development, and students develop practical skills in Community Development (WELF1002) and Counselling Theory and Practice (WELF1003) to support individuals and communities effectively.The second year focuses on building professional and research competencies. Case Management and Care Planning (WELF2005) and Social Work Practice I - Building Relationships (SWRK2001) provide structured approaches to client engagement. Doing Social Research (SOCI2006) and Health and Indigenous Australian Peoples (INDG2001) strengthen research and cultural awareness, while Trauma Informed Practice (WELF2003) and Issues of Protection (WELF3002) develop skills for working with vulnerable populations. Social Work Practice II - Teams and Groups (SWRK2002) and Social Work Practice III - Mental Health (SWRK3001) expand knowledge of collaborative practice and mental health interventions.In the third year, students undertake intensive field placements and advanced practice studies. Social Work Placement I (SWRK2005) provides hands-on experience in real-world settings, complemented by Social Work Practice IV - Organisational Practice (SWRK3002), Lifespan Psychology (PSYC2004), and Social Work Practice V - Policy and Community Activism (SWRK3003), which integrate theoretical knowledge with applied skills. Social Work Practice VI - Advanced Practice Methods (SWRK3004) prepares students for complex professional challenges.The fourth year continues with advanced practice and placements, including Social Work Practice VII - Social Work in Legal Contexts (SWRK3005) and Social Work Placement II (SWRK3010), alongside electives and Disability and Community Practice (WELF3003), enabling students to consolidate expertise in specialised areas. Graduates are fully prepared for professional accreditation and careers in social work, policy, community development, and advocacy.