COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Social Work is a five-year combined degree that blends academic study in the social sciences with professional social work training. In the first three years, students complete a Sociology major alongside foundational units in Social Justice Practice, Human Services, Social Policy, and Social Work, as well as electives and an Open Learning Environment unit. A key feature throughout these early years is the Diversity Studies minor, which helps students understand cultural, social, and structural factors that shape human behaviour and inequality. This phase builds strong theoretical knowledge in sociology and social systems while gradually introducing social work concepts and professional frameworks. In Year 4 and Year 5, students transition into full-time social work study, which is focused on advanced professional training and extensive field education placements in real-world community and welfare settings. This stage develops practical skills in counselling, case management, advocacy, and community engagement, while ensuring students meet the accreditation requirements of the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW). Overall, the program prepares graduates to work as qualified social workers with a strong grounding in sociology and social justice, enabling them to support individuals, families, and communities in a wide range of government, healthcare, and community service roles.