Course Curriculum

The Bachelor of Social Work at Charles Sturt University requires completion of 256 credit points, including 25 core subjects, two field education placements, and three restricted electives. Applicants who have completed the Diploma of Community Services may receive 64 credit points upon entry. The course covers foundational knowledge, social work theory and practice, and social policy, politics, and economics.Foundation subjects total 64 credit points and include topics such as First Nations foundations, human rights and law, human services organizations, psychology, social inequality, and community analysis. Social work theory and practice subjects (120 credit points) focus on communication, health and wellbeing, social work foundations, micro to macro-level practice, research methods, ethics, cross-cultural competencies, trauma, mental health, and Indigenous Australian practice.Social policy and social work policy practice make up 16 credit points, providing students with an understanding of policy frameworks. Field education, essential for practical experience, comprises 32 credit points and requires completion of 1,000 hours of supervised placement, meeting Australian Association of Social Workers accreditation standards.Restricted electives (24 credit points) allow students to tailor their studies by choosing from subjects such as child protection, social work and human rights, legal issues in child welfare, health development, young people and crime, community development, political life, psychology of ageing, addiction studies, mental health, grief and loss, case management, and sustainable community building.This comprehensive program prepares students for diverse careers in social work, equipping them with the skills to support individuals, families, and communities. The course integrates theoretical knowledge with practical learning, focusing on social justice, human rights, cultural competence, and professional ethics. Students can expect a dynamic learning experience, with opportunities to develop critical skills essential for making a meaningful impact in social welfare and community services.