Social Work

Bachelor of Social Work (Honours) at Edith Cowan University offers a comprehensive and practical education designed to prepare students for meaningful careers in social services. This program emphasizes the development of comprehensive understanding and skills necessary to support individuals, families, groups, and communities facing various social challenges. Throughout the course, students will explore key areas such as human behavior and development, multicultural perspectives, social justice, ethical practice, and contemporary issues impacting marginalized populations. The curriculum integrates theoretical foundations with real-world applications, enabling graduates to confidently engage in assessment, intervention, advocacy, and policy development within diverse settings including healthcare, child welfare, mental health, community development, and government agencies. The program is delivered by experienced academics and industry practitioners who ensure that students gain both academic knowledge and practical experience through industry placements and community engagement projects. Graduates will be equipped to work ethically and effectively with vulnerable populations, applying evidence-based practices, and demonstrating cultural competence. Edith Cowan University's emphasis on innovative teaching methods, combined with a focus on social justice and human rights, ensures that students are well-prepared to make a positive impact in society. With the growing demand for qualified social workers, this degree offers excellent employment prospects nationally and internationally, as well as opportunities for further postgraduate study. Whether aiming to support individual well-being, advocate for systemic change, or contribute to policy development, students will emerge from this program ready to serve as professional social workers committed to fostering inclusive and equitable communities.

The Bachelor of Social Work at Edith Cowan University is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to make a positive impact in the lives of individuals, families, and communities. This program provides a strong foundation in social sciences, human development, and social justice principles, preparing graduates to work effectively in diverse social service settings. Throughout the course, students engage with contemporary issues such as mental health, child protection, disability support, indigenous rights, and community development, gaining a deep understanding of the social challenges faced by various populations. The curriculum integrates theoretical learning with practical experience, emphasizing hands-on training through placements in real-world environments. These industry placements are facilitated in partnership with community organizations, health services, and government agencies, offering students valuable opportunities to apply their learning and develop professional competencies. The program also focuses on ethical practice, cultural competence, and reflection, ensuring graduates are prepared to work ethically and respectfully with people from diverse backgrounds. Students will learn to conduct assessments, develop intervention plans, advocate for clients, and collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams. The Bachelor of Social Work at Edith Cowan University aims to produce graduates who are committed to social justice, capable of evidence-based practice, and ready to contribute positively to community wellbeing. Upon completion, graduates are eligible for accreditation with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW), enabling them to pursue registration as professional social workers. This innovative program is ideal for individuals passionate about helping others and making meaningful societal change, providing a pathway to diverse career opportunities within health and social services, governmental agencies, non-profit organizations, and community groups.

Bachelor of Social Work (Honours) requires the completion of 320 credit points, which typically involves four years of full-time study. The program curriculum includes foundational courses in social sciences, human development, and ethical practice, along with specialized subjects such as community development, policy analysis, and case management. Students must undertake practical placements totaling a minimum of 100 days in diverse social work settings to gain hands-on experience. The program emphasizes critical thinking, intercultural competence, and ethical decision-making to prepare graduates for professional practice. Admission often requires Australian Year 12 or equivalent with a minimum ATAR score, or relevant prior study for mature students. Additionally, students need to complete a core set of mandatory modules that cover areas like social work theories, human rights, cultural diversity, and legal frameworks relevant to social service provision. The program is accredited by the Australian Community Workers Association (ACWA), ensuring that graduates meet national standards for professional practice. Throughout the coursework, students are encouraged to develop research skills and engage with contemporary social issues such as domestic violence, mental health, and indigenous rights. The program fosters a multidisciplinary approach, integrating psychology, sociology, and law to prepare students for complex social environments. Students are also required to participate in seminars, workshops, and group projects to enhance communication and teamwork skills vital for social work roles. To progress, students must maintain a pass grade in all core modules and complete their practicum placements successfully. Upon graduation, students are eligible to apply for registration as social workers with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). The program aims to produce well-rounded professionals who are committed to social justice, ethical practice, and community engagement, equipped with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills to serve diverse populations effectively.

The Bachelor of Social Work program at Edith Cowan University offers a range of financing options to assist students in managing the costs associated with their studies. Students enrolled in this program have the opportunity to access government-funded loans and assistance schemes, such as the Higher Education Loan Program (HELP), which provides income-contingent loans to eligible domestic students. These loans help cover tuition fees, allowing students to defer payment until they are earning a sufficient income.

In addition to government support, students can explore scholarships and grants provided by Edith Cowan University. The university offers various scholarships based on academic achievement, financial need, community involvement, and specific criteria related to social work. These scholarships can significantly reduce the financial burden and provide additional resources for students to focus on their studies.

International students participating in the Bachelor of Social Work program are responsible for paying tuition fees directly to the university. The tuition fees for international students are set annually and vary depending on the specific course load and duration of the program. International students may also seek external scholarships, bursaries, or sponsorship programs from organizations that support higher education funding.

Students should also consider part-time work opportunities available on or near campus, which can supplement their income during their studies. The university’s Career Development Center offers resources and guidance to help students find suitable employment options that can align with their study schedules. Moreover, students are encouraged to look into private student loan options, though these generally come with interest and repayment obligations that should be carefully considered.

Financial planning is an integral part of undertaking higher education, and Edith Cowan University provides financial advice services to help students strategize their funding options. These services include guidance on budgeting, understanding financial aid packages, and navigating complex financial arrangements. The university advocates for early financial planning to maximize available support and minimize debt.

Students are advised to start exploring funding options early, submit scholarship applications promptly, and consult the university’s financial aid advisors to ensure they are fully informed about their financing opportunities. Overall, the combination of government assistance, university scholarships, part-time employment, and personal savings enables many students to successfully finance their studies in social work at Edith Cowan University.

The Bachelor of Social Work at Edith Cowan University is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for a variety of roles within the social services sector. The program emphasizes developing a strong foundation in social justice, human rights, and ethical practice, equipping graduates with the skills to support individuals, families, groups, and communities facing diverse challenges. Throughout the course, students engage with a mix of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, including placements in real-world settings such as community organizations, government agencies, and health services. This hands-on component is integral to the program, ensuring that graduates are workplace-ready with a deep understanding of the social work profession and its ethical obligations.

The curriculum covers core areas such as human development, mental health, child protection, Indigenous issues, and policy analysis, reflecting the varied contexts within which social workers operate. Students also learn about legislation and ethical frameworks guiding social work practice. The program fosters critical thinking, cultural competence, and resilience, preparing students to advocate effectively for social change and to work compassionately with diverse populations. Edith Cowan University's social work program is accredited by the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW), ensuring graduates meet national professional standards and are recognized for their competence in the field.

Coursework is delivered through interactive lectures, seminars, group projects, and case studies, facilitating a collaborative learning environment. The program also offers opportunities for specialization in areas such as mental health, domestic violence, child and family services, or Indigenous social work, enabling students to tailor their education to their career interests. Upon graduation, students are qualified to apply for registration with the AASW, which is a prerequisite for practicing as a registered social worker in Australia. Graduates can pursue employment in various settings including hospitals, schools, government departments, NGOs, and community health organizations, contributing to societal well-being and social justice.

The Bachelor of Social Work at Edith Cowan University typically takes three years of full-time study to complete, though flexible study options may be available. The university’s commitment to research-informed teaching and community engagement ensures that students receive up-to-date knowledge and practical skills aligned with current industry needs. Graduates of the program are recognized for their professionalism, ethical standards, and ability to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and communities. The program also encourages lifelong learning and professional development to adapt to evolving social issues and policy landscapes in Australia and beyond.