Start date
February
July

Campus
Whyalla

Duration
4 year(s) full-time

Mode
On-campus

Program Code
MBSW

Prerequisites
None

Assumed Knowledge
None

Fees
AUD$ 32,800 per annum (per 1.0 EFTSL) for students enrolled in 2025

English Language Requirements
  • IELTS total [7.0]
  • IELTS reading [7.0]
  • IELTS writing [7.0]
  • IELTS speaking [7.0]
  • IELTS listening [7.0]
Equivalent English qualifications (PDF)

International Admission by Country
See full entry requirements

CRICOS Code
000537M

Degree overview

  • Study with the No.1 university in South Australia for graduate careers in Social Work1.
  • Build pivotal networks and practical experience by completing 1,000 hours of supervised local and rural work placements.
  • Choose to study this program externally and make the most of a flexible, dynamic online learning environment*.
  • Study with the No.1 university in South Australia for student satisfaction in Social Work2.
  • Study a curriculum informed by world-class research in Social Work3.
  • Graduate career-ready with a university ranked in the Top 10 in Australia for graduate skills in Social Work4.
  • Enjoy smaller class sizes, allowing you more one-on-one time with teachers.
  • Develop and practice skills learnt in our custom-built Social Work and Human Services Studio.
  • As a regional student you may also be eligible to apply for the Eddie Hughes Regional Education Grant ($1,000).

1ComparED (QILT) Graduate Outcomes Survey 2021-23 – Full-time Employment Indicator (Domestic Postgraduate). SA public universities.2ComparED (QILT) Course Experience Questionnaire 2021-22 – Overall Satisfaction Indicator (Domestic Undergraduate and Postgraduate). SA Public universities. 32018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA). 4Ranked #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 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 gain valuable practical experience as part of this degree’s field education placement component. This is a valuable learning opportunity where you will build industry networks and further enhance practical skills. 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. Some 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. 

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
Child Development WELF 1020 4.5 Note(s): 8
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
Child Centred Practice WELF 4030 4.5 Note(s): 8
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 (Whyalla)

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

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 and 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 a number of 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 20261.

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

data-presentation

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

job-listings

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

How to apply for international students will give you helpful information about the application process at the University of South Australia. When you are ready, apply through our International Application System. If you would like to talk to someone near you about studying at the University of South Australia, we have agents all over the world who can assist you. Find an Education Agent in your country.

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: 

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 international 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:

  • career advice and mentoring
  • help with student visas and health cover
  • personal counselling
  • academic counselling
  • fees and finance help
  • common rooms
  • prayer rooms
  • security officers
  • accommodation services 
  • as well as services offered through our student association, USASA.

We also offer study support from our Learning Advisers face-to-face or online. They are here to help you develop academically and professionally during your studies, and can offer help with the English language too. 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 our 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

    There are a number of ways to apply to study UniSA's undergraduate and postgraduate coursework degrees.

    You can access our online International Application System through our How to Apply page. The International Application System is an easy and secure online application and acceptance process. You will have visibility of your application through the secure online portal with the ability to download offer documents, submit your acceptance and make a payment.

    Alternatively you can submit an application through one of the University's registered Education Agents.

    If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC http://www.satac.edu.au/.

    If you are applying for the UniSA Study Abroad or Study Abroad Plus program, you can submit your application online here.

    Postgraduate study by research
    For information on applying to do postgraduate study by research, including Masters by Research, PhDs or Doctorates, please visit http://unisa.edu.au/resdegrees.

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

    There is no closing date for submitting your application however the admissions process takes between one and three weeks from the date that we receive your application and all required supporting documentation.

    If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC. Key dates for applications can be found here.

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

    You may be eligible to receive credit or advanced standing for your chosen UniSA degree based on your previous studies, if they are in a related area at an equivalent or higher level. Receiving credit will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree.

    The amount of credit you may be eligible to receive is assessed on a case-by-case basis by the Admissions team.

    The best way to determine your eligibility to receive credit or advanced standing is to apply using our International Application System which can be found on our How to Apply page. You will need to supply detailed syllabus documents with your application.

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

    UniSA welcomes the opportunity to speak with you regarding your study options. Our staff are able to talk to you about degree information, career outcomes and pathways, entry requirements, applications, and student life, so that you are able to make the best study decision for your future.

    Click here to book a 1:1 appointment with one of our enquiries team.

    We also have many events throughout the year in Australia and overseas where you can speak with UniSA representatives about your area of interest. View our calendar of events in your home country by selecting the 'International' filter.

More FAQs

What others are saying

"After working in the human services sector, I knew I wanted to become a social worker. The highlights of my time at UniSA include the flexible learning options, interactive workshops and my overseas study in Canada."

Christina Handley

Bachelor of Social Work
Family Practitioner, Department of Human Services SA

Christina Handley

Christina Handley

Bachelor of Social Work
Family Practitioner, Department of Human Services SA

"Practical experience in the field is a big focus for the Social Work degree. I had the opportunity to travel to Norway and complete my Social Work placement at a camp for unaccompanied asylum seeking minors. This was an experience which not only taught me a lot about myself, but also allowed me to put into practice the theoretical knowledge I was gaining."

Parisa Rowhani-Farid

Bachelor of Social Work

Parisa Rowhani-Farid

Parisa Rowhani-Farid

Bachelor of Social Work