COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Social Work at the University of Wollongong is a 192 credit point undergraduate degree designed to prepare students for professional practice as qualified social workers. The program is completed over four years, with students undertaking 48 credit points in each year, combining academic study with extensive supervised professional experience. In the first year, students are introduced to foundational subjects such as behavioural science, social work practice, Indigenous Australia, sociology, politics, and social determinants of health, helping them understand individuals, communities, and broader social systems. In the second year, students build on this foundation by studying social policy, human development, social justice, law, welfare systems, diversity, and research methods, while also developing core practice skills for working with individuals, families, and groups. In the third year, students focus on advanced social work theory and practice, including ethics, mental health, children and families, disability, ageing, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander practice, alongside their first supervised professional placement. In the fourth year, students complete advanced practice subjects in community work, advocacy, and professional skills, along with a second major supervised placement and international social work perspectives. The degree places strong emphasis on social justice, human rights, and ethical practice, ensuring graduates are prepared to work in complex real-world settings. Overall, it develops highly skilled professionals ready for careers in government, healthcare, child protection, disability services, mental health, and community organisations.