This master degree will help to further extend practical skills, as well as provide you with an advanced understanding of:

• social work values
• ethics and identity
• human rights
• current social issues
• mental health
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures
• child protection
• cross cultural practice

A key focus is on the development and application of research processes and methodologies, and you will graduate with the cognitive skills needed to review and analyse information. You will also gain valuable practical experience as part of the field education placement component.

What you'll need

All students studying this degree will be required to complete criminal history screening through the Department of Communities and Social Inclusion prior to being accepted for work placements. The clearance is valid for three years and can take up to eight weeks to be processed.  

You must also hold a current Child Safe Environments Certificate. Some placements may also require a current driver's licence and a recognised First Aid Certificate.

What you'll learn

On completion you will have an advanced knowledge and understanding of current social issues, social work values and ethics.

Building on knowledge and skills already attained through previous study, you will explore topics such as:

• social work values
• ethics and identity
• human rights
• current social issues
• mental health
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures
• child protection
• cross cultural practice 

A portion of this degree will include practicum, with the remaining courses in social policy and social work theory. There is a major focus on leadership, innovation and research driven practice.

Social work requires a strong commitment to and passion for social justice and human rights. If you think you’ve got what it takes the employment opportunities in Australia are excellent and the demand for graduates is high1, with graduating students quickly finding work in a range of fields.

Careers to consider:

• aged care worker: provide personal, physical and emotional support to older people who need assistance with everyday living
• correctional services officer: aid in the rehabilitation and counselling of offenders
• domestic violence victim services officer: counsel, investigate and report on incidences of domestic violence
• disability services officer: provide support for people in the community with intellectual, physical, social and emotional disabilities
• social planner: a pivotal role in creating liveable, sustainable communities; social planners create strategic policy and action that policy in order to meet the needs and wants of the people

1Australian Government Department of Employment, Occupational Employment Projections 2015

Professional accreditation and recognition

Graduates of the Master of Social Work are eligible for membership of the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW)