Course Curriculum

The Master of Social Work program is structured to provide a comprehensive blend of theory, ethics, and practical experience essential for developing competent social work practitioners. The course spans four teaching periods, combining academic units with extensive supervised fieldwork placements. In the first teaching period, students engage with foundational topics through units such as Building Effective Relationships Alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, Social Work Foundations and Fields of Practice, and Social Work Theory and Ethics. These units emphasize culturally responsive practice, core social work principles, and the ethical frameworks guiding professional conduct.During the second teaching period, students begin their hands-on learning with Social Work Placement 1, a 40-credit-point unit offering real-world experience in social service settings under supervision. Alongside this placement, students study Social Work and Participatory Practice for Structural Change, which explores how social workers can contribute to social justice and systemic change through community engagement and advocacy.In the third teaching period, the focus shifts to specialised areas with units such as Mental Health, Loss, Grief and Trauma, Transdisciplinary Research for Practice, and Social Work, Governance and Social Policy. These units deepen students’ understanding of complex social issues, research methodologies, and the broader policy context influencing social work practice. The curriculum encourages critical analysis and evidence-based approaches to support vulnerable populations.The final teaching period combines another practical placement, Social Work Placement 2, with the unit Addressing Violence and Abuse as Social Workers. The second placement, also 40 credit points, allows students to consolidate and apply their knowledge and skills in professional environments. Addressing Violence and Abuse equips students to respond effectively to some of the most challenging situations faced by social workers.Overall, the course integrates 1000 hours of supervised fieldwork, providing essential opportunities for students to translate theory into practice. This structure ensures graduates are well-prepared to work ethically and effectively in diverse social work roles across Australia and internationally.