Start Date
February
July

Duration
4 year(s) full-time

Mode
On-campus

Program Code
MBSW

SATAC Code
474041 (Internal)

Study as
Full-time or part-time

Prerequisites
None

Assumed Knowledge
None

Entry Scores
2025 Guaranteed Entry
Year 12 (ATAR-based): 67.00
Year 12 (Grades-based): B,B,B
TAFE/RTO: DIP
View Guaranteed Entry Info
2024 Cut-Offs
Year 12 (ATAR-based):
- Internal: 67.00
TAFE/RTO: Cert IV
View full entry requirements

Degree overview

  • Study with the No.1 university in South Australia for graduate careers in Social Work1
  • Choose to study this program externally and make the most of a flexible, dynamic online learning environment*.
  • Gain real-world experience in UniSA's Community Outreach Centre.
  • Study a curriculum informed by world-class research in Social Work2.
  • Develop and practice skills learnt in our custom-built Social Work and Human Services Studio.
  • Build pivotal networks and practical experience by completing 1,000 hours of supervised local and rural work placements.
  • Study a program ranked in the Top 10 in Australia for graduate skills in Social Work3.
  • Enjoy smaller class sizes, allowing you more one-on-one time with teachers.
  • As a regional student you may also be eligible to apply for the Cowan Regional Grants.

1ComparED (QILT) Graduate Outcomes Survey 2021-23 – Full-time Employment Indicator (Domestic Postgraduate). SA public universities. 22018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA). 3Ranked #8, ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2021-22, Skills Development Indicator (Undergraduate). Public universities *Students studying this program externally will be required to complete 20 days of on-campus, face-to-face learning across the duration of their degree. This a requirement of the accrediting body, the Australian Association of Social Workers to ensure practical skills competency.

Snapshot

Snapshot

This degree provides you with a sound knowledge of the political, behavioural and social sciences, and equips you with the skills needed to work in a range of fields in social work and human services. It has been developed around the following four major areas of study:

  • social work theory
  • social work practice and skills
  • social policy
  • social research.

You will also get practical experience as part of the degree’s field education placement component. If you have completed a TAFE Diploma in Community Services, you are eligible for 18 units of credit. If you have completed a TAFE Advanced Diploma in Community Services, you are eligible for 36 units of credit.

What you'll need

Students studying this degree will be required to undertake checks through the Department of Human Services (DHS), a National Police Record Check, and complete a one-day Safe Environments for Children and Young People course prior to being accepted for work placements. Most placements may also require students to hold a current driver's licence and/or additional requirements as requested by a specific placement provider.

What you'll learn

What you Learn

This degree focuses on four major areas of study:  

  • Social work theory: you will develop knowledge of various social work approaches as they relate to individuals, families, communities, groups and organisations.
  • Social work practice and skills: you will work in custom-built Social Work and Human Services Studio to develop a range of skills needed to work in social practice. In this dedicated space you will work alongside field practitioners and academic staff in simulated, real-life situations.
  • Social policy: learn how to identify the social policies that affect people’s lives, and the strategic ways that social workers may be able to influence these policies.
  • Social research: learn how to use, evaluate and construct research.

You will also gain valuable professional experience when you complete 1,000 hours of work placements during your third and fourth years. 

You can gain an extra qualification and broaden your career prospects by completing a Diploma in Languages.

Degree structure

Course name Area and cat no. Units Reference  
FIRST YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Human Service Provision WELF 1014 4.5
Communication Skills in Social Work and Human Services WELF 1019 4.5
The Social World SOCU 1003 4.5
Please select one of the below options
Child Development WELF 1020 4.5
OR
MINOR 4.5 Rule(s): 5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Governance and Citizenship in Australia POLI 1008 4.5
Group Work BEHL 2009 4.5
Working with Community WELF 2010 4.5
Applied Psychology BEHL 1005 4.5
SECOND YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Human Service Intervention WELF 2012 4.5
Australian Social Policy POLI 1012 4.5
Social Research Methods HUMS 2047 4.5
Interviewing Skills in Social Work and Human Services WELF 2020 4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Preparation for Field Placement WELF 2009 4.5 Note(s): 3,4
Mental Health and Mental Wellbeing WELF 2019 4.5
Human Service Workers and the Law JUST 2005 4.5
Please select one of the below options
Elective 4.5
OR
MINOR 4.5 Rule(s): 5
THIRD YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Aboriginal Australians and the Human Services WELF 2015 4.5
Social Work Field Education 1 WELF 3011 13.5 Rule(s): 1,2,3,4
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Advanced Social Work Theory and Practice WELF 3030 4.5
Policy Practice POLI 2027 4.5
Working with Human Service Organisations WELF 3023 4.5
Please select one of the below options
Child Centred Practice WELF 4030 4.5
OR
MINOR 4.5 Rule(s): 5
FOURTH YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Leading and Managing in Human Service Organisations WELF 4032 4.5
Trauma Informed Practice WELF 3031 4.5
Social Work with Older People HUMS 4001 4.5
Please select one of the below options
Elective 4.5
OR
MINOR 4.5 Rule(s): 5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Social Work Field Education 2 WELF 4019 13.5 Rule(s): 1,2,3,4
Professional Development WELF 4016 4.5

Study hours

For each course you study, you will need to allocate time for various classes such as lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Plus you will need additional hours to study in your own time to complete assignments, readings and projects, as well as to contribute to online discussion forums (independent study). So as a general rule, if you are studying full-time you would need to allocate 12–26 hours of study when at university and 14–28 hours of independent study per week. 

Assessment

Assessment

Your studies will incorporate practical, professionally focused and research-based learning, so assessment types will vary. There may be essays, assignments and examinations. You can also expect:

  • case studies
  • projects
  • e-portfolios
  • group projects
  • skills assessment
  • interviews.

Global opportunities

Enrich your studies and your life – make overseas study part of your qualification. You may have the option to undertake an exchange, short-term program or study tour overseas while you study. We have links with universities worldwide, as well as a range of travel grants available to make going overseas much more accessible.

You can choose short-term or semester-long study from a range of universities and countries depending on your area of study and cultural interests.

Take a look at the global opportunities available.

Global opportunities

Why Bachelor of Social Work (Mount Gambier)

Why this Degree

Learn from industry experts and world-class researchers, gain practical experience in our on-campus Social Work and Human Services Studio, and build workplace networks during field education placements.  

In our custom-built studios you will work alongside field practitioners and academic staff in simulated, real-life situations. Using recording equipment and cameras, you can review your work, receive feedback and learn from your experiences. Third and fourth year work placements will enable you to apply your knowledge and demonstrate your practical skills in a real-world scenario.  

As part of your placement, you may have the opportunity to take part in UniSA’s South Australian Parliamentary Internship program. 
Students undertaking their second field placement in their final year of study in an undergraduate Social Science or Social Work degree, including double degrees, are eligible to apply for this opportunity. 

Real-world connections

As part of your studies you will complete 1,000 hours of work placement during your third and fourth years. This real-world experience is a major focus of your studies and provides valuable practical experience and the opportunity for you to build important industry relationships. We also host regular university-wide employee master classes and employment expos, and alumni events in Australia and overseas.

This could be you

Are you ready to enhance the wellbeing of others through advocacy, social change, relationship building and empowerment? Explore a degree in social work and discover the meaningful role social workers serve in building communities.

UniSA Video

Career outcomes

Your career

As a social worker, you may provide support, counselling, service referrals, conduct research, and practice advocacy, to improve individual wellbeing and promote a fair, inclusive society. If you have a passion for human rights and a strong commitment to social justice, there are employment opportunities in an array of sectors, including:

  • homelessness
  • correctional services and juvenile justice
  • child protection
  • domestic violence
  • aged care
  • health
  • mental health
  • leadership and management
  • refugees and asylum seekers
  • schools
  • disability
  • policy, project work and research
  • community work.

Professional accreditation and recognition

Graduates are eligible for membership of the Australian Association of Social Workers.

Industry facts

column-chart-growth

Employment for Welfare Support Workers is expected to increase by 25.2 per cent by November 2026.1

1Australian Government National Skills Commission Labour Markets Insight, Employment Projections 2021.

line-graph-growth

By 2020, employment for counsellors in Australia is projected to increase by 23.2 per cent1.

1Australian Government Department of Employment, Occupational Employment Projections 2015

buildings-city

Healthcare and social assistance has been the primary provider of new jobs in the Australian labour market since the 1990s1.

1Australian Government Department of Employment 2017

How to apply

Applying to study with us:

  • go to the top of this page and make note of the SATAC code, then click Apply
  • you will be redirected through to the SATAC website to continue your application

Alternative Pathways

Australian
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including: 

International
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including: 

Deferment

This degree is available for deferment. This option is made available by responding to your offer during the application process via the SATAC website. Applicants who receive an offer into a midyear degree are eligible to defer for six months.

Scholarships

Every year, over 2,500 UniSA students are supported in their studies through scholarships and grants worth millions of dollars. Check out the scholarships below. One of them may be perfect for you. Visit our scholarships page for more.

More scholarships

Your study experience and support

As a student at the University of South Australia you will have unique access to overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events, internships, guest speakers and more.

Our campuses are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, workshops and student lounges. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform.

South Australia has a variety of accommodation options to suit different requirements and budgets. Options include dedicated student accommodation or private rentals. See our long-term accommodation web pages for plenty of options.

Student services

Student services

Our student services provide you with all the support you need at university. We want you to succeed, and if you need help, we're here to assist. You can access a full range of support services, including:

  • academic counselling
  • personal counselling
  • social support services, including family support and nearby childcare
  • common rooms
  • prayer rooms
  • security officers
  • career services and mentoring
  • Wirringka Student Services, offering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students a supportive place to study
  • as well as services offered through our student association, USASA.

When you become a UniSA student, you can also contact Campus Central for help with anything related to your degree. They will help you with your enrolment, ID cards, fees, timetables and more.

24/7 digital environment

Our learnonline facilities include a personal learning environment with virtual classrooms, lecture recordings, emails, learning support, administration, library access and results. The environment is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so you can tailor your learning to your life. We are continually investing in innovative digital technologies for a high-quality student learning experience.

Student services

Your campus

We have six campuses in metropolitan and regional areas, each with modern facilities including lecture theatres, libraries and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments.

Location This degree is delivered at the following campus.

Your study spaces

As a social work student you will have access to state-of-the art Social Work and Human Services studio, which are equipped with recording equipment and cameras so that you can practice your skills with the help of field practitioners and academic staff.

Your study spaces

Your program director

This program will offer you a gateway to a range of exciting and rewarding careers. By studying this program, you will be introduced to a diverse array of knowledge and skills. I place a strong emphasis on explicating the links between research, theory, policy and practice. In addition to undertaking policy development and program planning as an active research focus, I also have professional experience in the field.

Dr Fatin Shabbar

Program Director

Enquire
Portrait image for Dr Fatin Shabbar
Portrait image for Dr Fatin Shabbar

Dr Fatin Shabbar

Program Director

Enquire

Ask UniSA

  • How do I apply? minus-thick plus-thick

    The way you apply for UniSA will depend on the undergraduate or postgraduate coursework degree you're interested in studying.

    The majority of applications are made via the South Australian Tertiary Admissions Centre (SATAC). Check out more information on the SATAC website and follow the appropriate process for your degree of interest.

    There are a small number of degrees that you need to apply for through direct application processes. The process you need to follow will be listed on the 'How to Apply' section of the degree homepage, but you'll also be taken to where you need to go if you hit the 'apply' button.

    If you are interested in studying one of our 100% online degrees you'll need to apply directly to UniSA Online.

    You can find more information about the application processes for UniSA on our How to Apply webpage.

    If you're more interested in applying for a postgraduate degree by research, check out and follow the information in our step by step guide to applying

  • Is there a closing date for applications? minus-thick plus-thick

    Applications for all degrees will close ahead of study commencing, but the timelines may vary for undergraduate and postgraduate degrees.

    Undergraduate

    The deadline to apply to study a degree at UniSA for semester one (commencing late February) and be guaranteed equal consideration is generally in very late November or early December. While you may be able to apply after this date, you are not guaranteed to be considered equally with other applicants and your application may not be assessed in time for the main round of offers. More competitive degrees may not make any offers after the main offer round. Find more information on the Key Dates section of the SATAC website, but you can also call the Future Student Enquiries team for more information on 08 8302 376.

    Postgraduate

    Many postgraduate by coursework degrees do not have set closing dates. The exceptions are highly competitive degrees, so it is best to check – either on the degree homepage on the SATAC website or by checking with our Future Student Enquiries team.

    As most postgraduate applications are assessed as they are submitted and offers are continuous, there are no set closing dates for applications. Degrees can be filled and closed with little notice so it is best to apply as soon as possible to avoid missing out on a place. For more information, please contact our Future Student Enquires team on (08) 8302 2376 or submit an enquiry.

  • What credit can I receive for previous studies? minus-thick plus-thick

    You may be eligible for credit or advanced standing for your chosen UniSA degree based on your previous studies, if they are in a related area and completed within a certain timeframe. Receiving credit or RPL will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree. You can read more about our pre-existing credit agreements through our online Credit Assessor. If you have related industry experience, you may also be eligible to receive recognised prior learning (RPL) for this experience. Credit and RPL is assessed by the Program Director once you've received an offer, and you apply through UniSA's current student experts, Campus Central. 

  • Can I speak to someone regarding my study options? minus-thick plus-thick

    Future Student Enquiries welcomes the opportunity to meet with you to discuss your study options at UniSA. We can discuss degree information, entry requirements and pathways, applications, general career outcomes and student life, so you have the information to make the best study decision for your future. Head to our Book an Appointment webpage to find a date and time to speak with us, and take your next steps on journey to university study.

More FAQs

What others are saying

The thing I like most about my degree is how rewarding it has been. Learning about a topic I am passionate about with like-minded people is a very rewarding experience.  

Georgia Ploenges-Beltchev

Bachelor of Social Work (Mount Gambier)

Georgia Ploenges.jpg

Georgia Ploenges-Beltchev

Bachelor of Social Work (Mount Gambier)