COURSE CURRICULUM

Upon completion of this program, graduates will possess a deep and comprehensive understanding of the professional, ethical, and theoretical foundations of social work. They will be equipped to uphold the values and ethical responsibilities outlined in the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) Code of Ethics (2020), ensuring integrity, accountability, and respect in their practice. Graduates will demonstrate a strong commitment to working in partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, grounded in respect for their cultural knowledge, experiences, and wisdom, while acknowledging the continuing impacts of colonisation and institutionalised racism. They will have the skills and confidence to advocate for social justice, collaborate effectively, and lead initiatives that promote equitable access to social, health, economic, environmental, and political resources. The program fosters a respectful and inclusive approach to practice, encouraging cultural safety and the application of an intersectional lens when engaging with individuals and communities from diverse backgrounds. Graduates will develop a framework for reflective practice, integrating critical understandings of contemporary theory and research to inform ethical and effective decision-making. They will also learn to engage with power responsibly and compassionately, recognising the impact of professional actions on the wellbeing and outcomes of clients. Through this process, students will cultivate a nuanced understanding of the role and purpose of social work and develop a strong professional identity as reflective and socially conscious practitioners. Furthermore, they will gain the ability to apply critical reflexivity in practice, maintaining awareness of their own values, beliefs, and behaviours, and taking responsibility for their ongoing professional conduct. Finally, graduates will understand the importance of lifelong learning, actively engaging with emerging knowledge, research, and evidence to continuously strengthen and expand their professional expertise in a dynamic and evolving field.