Social Work
Bachelor of Social Work
Learning Mode
Full Time
Duration
4 Years
Start date
Session 1 (February)
Qualification
Bachelor of Social Work
Fees
AUD 30,160
Location
Bathurst / Port Macquarie / Wagga Wagga, NSW
About the Course
The Bachelor of Social Work at Charles Sturt University offers a comprehensive and deeply practical education for those passionate about social justice and empowering individuals, families, and communities. This program equips you with the essential knowledge, values, and skills to work effectively with diverse populations facing complex challenges. You will learn about human behavior, social policy, community development, advocacy, and direct practice interventions, preparing you to address issues such as inequality, disadvantage, and social exclusion.
Career prospects
Graduates of the Bachelor of Social Work program are highly sought after across a wide range of government and non-government sectors in Australia, particularly in regional areas, and internationally. The program prepares students for roles as qualified Social Workers in areas such as child protection, mental health, aged care, disability services, community development, corrections, family support, and policy advocacy. Our strong emphasis on practical placements and ethical practice ensures graduates are well-equipped for a meaningful and impactful career.
Why choose Charles Sturt University for a Bachelor of Social Work?
Industry connected
Strong ties with agencies and government provide supervised placements, giving students hands-on experience and valuable professional networks regionally and nationally.
Global opportunities
Internationally recognised degree covering global social work and human rights, preparing students to contribute to social justice across diverse contexts.
Professional accreditation
Accredited by the AASW, ensuring graduates meet national standards for professional practice and eligibility for membership in Australia.
Course Overview
The Bachelor of Social Work program at Charles Sturt University provides a supportive and stimulating learning environment, designed to foster critically reflective and ethically-minded social work professionals. The curriculum is delivered through a blend of theoretical instruction, case studies, skill-based workshops, and extensive supervised professional placements. Students will explore a broad range of social issues, human development theories, social policy analysis, and intervention strategies. The program emphasizes self-reflection, cultural competence, and the application of evidence-informed practice to ensure graduates are prepared for the complexities of modern social work.
Course Duration
4 years full-time.
Course Curriculum
The Bachelor of Social Work curriculum is structured to progressively build foundational knowledge, theoretical understanding, and practical skills for social work practice.
- Year 1: Foundations of Social Work
- Core subjects in sociology, psychology, introduction to social work, communication skills, and understanding human behavior in social contexts.
- Years 2-3: Social Work Theories & Practice
- In-depth study of social work theories, practice methods (e.g., direct practice, group work, community development), social policy, research methods, and initial professional placements.
- Year 4: Advanced Practice & Professional Integration
- Emphasis on advanced practice in specialized fields (e.g., mental health, child protection), ethical decision-making, supervision, and extended, culminating professional placements to prepare for independent practice and professional registration.
Admission Requirements
- Academic qualifications
- Successful completion of a recognized secondary education qualification equivalent to the Australian Year 12, with an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) or equivalent international score that meets program entry requirements.
- Specific prerequisite subjects typically include English.
- Selection Process
- Admission is competitive and primarily based on academic merit. Some programs may consider a personal statement or interview to assess suitability for the profession.
Language Proficiency
- English language requirements (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL)
- For international students, demonstrated English language proficiency is required. Acceptable tests include IELTS (Academic) with a minimum overall score of 7.0 (with no band less than 7.0) in all four components, or equivalent TOEFL iBT scores, as required for professional registration.
Fees and Funding
- AUD 30,160 for 1 yr full-time
Scholarships and Bursaries:
- Charles Sturt University offers a range of scholarships and bursaries for both domestic and international students, including those based on academic merit, equity, and specific program interests in social welfare and community development. These opportunities can significantly assist with tuition fees and living expenses. Prospective students are encouraged to explore the Charles Sturt University scholarships website for detailed information and application processes.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Bachelor of Social Work program are eligible for professional registration and are highly sought after for diverse roles dedicated to social change and individual well-being. Potential job roles include Social Worker, Case Manager, Community Development Worker, Family Support Worker, Counsellor, Policy Advocate, Child Protection Officer, Mental Health Social Worker, Aged Care Social Worker, and Disability Support Coordinator. Industries employing our graduates span government departments (e.g., health, human services, justice), non-government organizations (NGOs), community services, hospitals, schools, private practice, and international aid organizations.
Contact Us
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