Social Work

The Bachelor of Social Work at Deakin University is a comprehensive and dynamic undergraduate program designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in social services. This degree combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills to equip graduates with the ability to make positive impacts within diverse community settings. Throughout the course, students will explore core concepts such as human development, social policy, social justice, and ethical practice, gaining a solid foundation in the principles that underpin social work practice. The program emphasizes the importance of cultural competency, critical thinking, and effective communication, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to work with individuals, families, and communities facing various social challenges.

Deakin’s Bachelor of Social Work offers a blend of academic learning and hands-on experience through field placements in professional settings. These placements provide students with real-world exposure and an opportunity to apply classroom knowledge in practical environments, including community organizations, government agencies, healthcare facilities, and non-profit organizations. The program is delivered by experienced practitioners and academics who are committed to fostering students’ professional growth and ethical standards.

Students will engage with contemporary issues such as mental health, disability, aging, child protection, domestic violence, and refugee support, gaining insights into the complexities of social issues and the ways to address them effectively. The curriculum also covers research methods, policy development, advocacy, and intervention strategies, ensuring graduates are versatile and capable social workers. The program supports students in developing a strong ethical framework and integral skills necessary for promoting social justice and human rights.

Deakin’s innovative teaching methods include interactive lectures, seminars, group projects, and online learning components, providing flexibility for students balancing study with other commitments. The university’s supportive environment encourages collaboration and reflective practice, essential qualities for a successful career in social work. Upon graduation, students will be eligible for registration with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW), opening doors to diverse employment opportunities across government, community, and private sectors.

Whether you are passionate about helping vulnerable populations, advocating for social change, or working toward a more equitable society, the Bachelor of Social Work at Deakin University offers the knowledge, skills, and practical experience needed to turn your aspirations into a meaningful career. This program aims to develop competent practitioners who are committed to ethical professionalism, continual learning, and making a difference in the lives of individuals and communities.

Social Work at Deakin University prepares students to make a meaningful difference in individuals, families, and communities by equipping them with essential skills and knowledge in social justice, human rights, and evidence-based practice. The program covers a broad range of topics, including understanding complex social issues, developing advocacy skills, and applying ethical frameworks to real-world challenges. Students engage in both theoretical learning and practical placements, allowing them to integrate academic concepts with hands-on experience in diverse settings such as community organizations, health services, child protection agencies, and mental health clinics. The curriculum emphasizes cultural competence, diversity, and social inclusion, ensuring graduates are prepared to work effectively with people from different backgrounds and circumstances.

Throughout the program, students explore areas such as child and family welfare, mental health support, Indigenous and multicultural communities, and policy development. The coursework includes modules on communication skills, case management, and intervention strategies, providing a comprehensive foundation for professional practice. Deakin’s strong industry connections and placement opportunities facilitate real-world learning, giving students valuable insights into the social services sector and an understanding of the practical responsibilities of social workers. The program also emphasizes developing critical thinking and reflective practice, encouraging students to continuously improve their approach to client care and social advocacy. Graduates of the program are equipped to pursue careers as professional social workers or to undertake further study in related fields, contributing to social change and improving community wellbeing locally and globally.

Entry will be determined by performance in Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 30 in English EAL (English as an additional language) or at the very least 25 in English other than EAL or equivalent.

The Bachelor of Social Work at Deakin University offers a range of financing options to support students throughout their studies. Students are encouraged to explore various sources of funding to assist with tuition fees, living expenses, and professional development opportunities. Government loans and assistance programs, such as an Australian student loan scheme, provide eligible students with financial support to cover tuition fees, which can be repaid once the graduate's income reaches a certain threshold. In addition, Deakin University offers scholarships specifically tailored for social work students, recognizing academic achievement, community engagement, and financial need. These scholarships can significantly reduce the financial burden of undertaking a degree in social work and may cover partial or full tuition fees, as well as living expenses.

Students are also advised to consider external funding opportunities, including private scholarships, community grants, and financial aid programs offered by charitable organizations. Part-time work opportunities within the university or in related fields can help students supplement their income to cover day-to-day expenses. Deakin provides guidance and support services to assist students in navigating financial planning, applying for scholarships, and accessing external funding sources. The university’s flexible study options, including online and part-time study modes, allow students to balance work commitments with their education, potentially increasing their earning capacity during and after studies.

Overall, the university's commitment to accessible education ensures that students in the Bachelor of Social Work program have multiple avenues for financial support, enabling them to focus on their academic and professional development without undue financial stress.

The Bachelor of Social Work at Deakin University is designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in the social welfare sector, equipping them with the essential knowledge, skills, and values necessary to support individuals, families, and communities facing diverse challenges. This program emphasizes a strong foundation in social justice, human rights, and ethical practice, aligning with contemporary standards in social work education. Over the course of the degree, students engage in a blend of theoretical coursework, practical placements, and professional development activities. These components aim to foster critical thinking, cultural competence, and effective communication skills, enabling graduates to work effectively with diverse populations and in various settings such as community organizations, healthcare facilities, and governmental agencies.

The curriculum covers a broad range of topics including human development, mental health, child protection, substance abuse, and intercultural competence. Students also learn about policies that impact service delivery and how to advocate for social change. Field placements are an integral part of the program, providing hands-on experience where students apply their learning in real-world contexts under supervision. These placements help develop professional identity, ethical standards, and an understanding of the social work profession’s responsibilities.

Deakin University’s social work program is accredited by the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW), ensuring that the education provided meets national standards and prepares students for registration as qualified social workers. The program supports flexible study options, including online and on-campus modes, making it accessible to a diverse range of students, including those already working in related fields seeking further qualification or career advancement.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Social Work at Deakin are equipped to pursue employment in various sectors, including community services, aged care, disability support, youth services, and policy development. Many graduates also choose to continue their studies with postgraduate qualifications in social work or related fields to deepen their expertise. Overall, this program offers a comprehensive pathway into a professional discipline dedicated to enhancing social well-being and advocating for social justice at local, national, and global levels.