COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Social Work (Qualifying) is a 160-credit-point postgraduate program designed to prepare graduates for professional social work practice through a structured blend of academic learning and supervised field education. The core curriculum develops a strong foundation in social work theory, practice methods, research, and critical analysis, ensuring students gain the knowledge required for ethical and effective engagement with individuals, families, and communities. Key subjects include Social Work Practice Methods 1 and 2, Theories and Knowledges for Social Work, Contextualised Practice, Critical Social Work Practice, Leadership in Organisations, and Research for Social Work Practice. The program places strong emphasis on social justice, cultural awareness, and reflective practice through subjects such as Indigenous Australia: History, Knowledge and Professional Practice, Power and Marginalisation, and Theories of Difference and Diversity. A major feature of the degree is the inclusion of two extensive field education placements through Social Work (Qualifying) Field Education 1 and 2, allowing students to gain practical, supervised experience in real-world social work settings. The program culminates in an Integrated Project that consolidates learning across theory, research, and practice. Overall, this structured curriculum equips graduates with the professional competence, ethical grounding, and practical experience required for social work roles in community services, healthcare, government, and non-government organisations.