Bachelor of Social Work

Description

The Bachelor of Social Work provides graduates with the theoretical and practical skills required to work as a professional social worker and eligibility to become a member of the Australian Association of Social Workers. Social Workers typically work with disadvantaged and marginalised individuals, groups, and communities within a social justice framework in counselling, advocacy, and the enhancement of quality of life.

Social workers work toward addressing barriers, inequality and injustices faced by many groups and sub-groups in our community. Social work education is grounded within a framework that examines the nexus of human behaviour and complex social interactions. While covering all the core requirements of a professional social work degree, the Bachelor of Social Work at UNE provides students with a rural focussed program, with additional foci on Indigenous peoples, child protection and law.

This four year program draws together the fields of psychology, sociology, counselling, Indigenous studies and law with social work theory and practice. The course incorporates 1000 hours of supervised professional fieldwork experience in relevant social work settings. The Bachelor of Social Work is available to students to study either on campus, off campus or mixed mode to suit their own study needs over their candidature.

Career Opportunities

Social Worker

The Bachelor of Social Work at the University of New England offers students a comprehensive education designed to prepare them for a rewarding career in helping individuals, families, and communities. The program provides a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for social work practice in diverse settings. Throughout the course, students explore key areas such as human development, social policy, ethics, and community engagement, equipping them to address complex social issues with professionalism and compassion.

Students will engage in experiential learning through placements with local agencies, gaining real-world experience and understanding of the challenges faced by vulnerable populations. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, cultural competence, and evidence-based interventions, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to advocate for social justice and positive change. Additionally, the program fosters strong communication skills and cultural awareness, which are vital for effective social work practice across multicultural environments.

The program is designed for those passionate about making a positive impact on society. It prepares graduates for entry-level roles in a variety of settings, including healthcare, education, mental health services, child and family welfare, and community development organizations. Graduates of the Bachelor of Social Work at UNE are also equipped with a solid foundation for future postgraduate study, including Master of Social Work programs or specialized fields within social services.

This program emphasizes ethical practice, sustainability, and community involvement, encouraging students to become lifelong learners committed to ongoing professional development. The University of New England's social work program combines academic excellence with practical experience, ensuring that graduates are confident, competent, and ready to meet the demands of contemporary social work environments.

The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) at the University of New England requires students to complete a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare them for professional practice in social work. The program encompasses a broad range of foundational and advanced courses covering social policy, human behavior and the social environment, research methods, and ethical practice. Students are expected to engage in both theoretical learning and practical experiences, including supervised field placements that provide real-world exposure to social work settings. To graduate, students must successfully complete all prescribed coursework with examinations, assignments, and participation in field education. The program emphasizes multicultural competence, social justice, and ethical decision-making to prepare graduates for diverse communities and complex social issues. Additionally, students are required to demonstrate the integration of knowledge and skills through capstone projects or comprehensive assessments. Throughout the program, there is an emphasis on developing communication, advocacy, and case management skills essential for effective social work practice. The duration of the program typically spans three years of full-time study, with options for part-time enrollment. Admission prerequisites include a high school diploma or equivalent, along with meeting specific academic criteria outlined by the university. The curriculum is regularly reviewed and updated to align with current social work standards, policies, and industry best practices. Graduates of the program are eligible to seek accreditation and certification from relevant social work licensing bodies, enabling them to practice professionally across various settings including government agencies, non-profit organizations, healthcare facilities, and community services. The program also encourages ongoing professional development and lifelong learning to keep pace with evolving social issues and intervention strategies. Over the course of the program, students acquire critical thinking, ethical judgment, cultural sensitivity, and leadership skills to serve diverse populations effectively.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The University of New England offers various financing options for students enrolled in their Social Work programs to support their academic and living expenses. These options include government-funded financial aid, such as student loans, scholarships, and grants, designed to make education accessible and affordable. Federal and state government loans are available to eligible students, allowing them to finance their studies through manageable repayment plans after graduation. Additionally, the university provides internal scholarships based on academic merit, financial need, or specific criteria related to social work interests, which students are encouraged to apply for each academic year. The university also partners with external organizations and community agencies to offer bursaries and work-study opportunities, enabling students to gain practical experience while earning income. Students are advised to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and explore university-specific scholarship applications early to maximize their financial support opportunities. Furthermore, UNE offers flexible payment plans that allow students to spread out tuition payments over the semester or academic year, alleviating financial pressure. Certain programs may also be eligible for external funding sources, including research grants or employer sponsorships for students pursuing work-related studies. The university’s financial aid office provides comprehensive guidance to help students understand eligibility criteria, application processes, and deadlines, ensuring they access all available resources efficiently. International students may also have access to specific scholarships or financial aid options tailored to their needs. Overall, UNE emphasizes a comprehensive approach to student financing, combining government aid, institutional support, external sponsorships, and flexible payment options to ensure that students in the Social Work program can focus on their studies without undue financial hardship.

The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program at the University of New England is designed to prepare students for a meaningful career in social services, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and ethical foundations necessary to support individuals, families, and communities facing various challenges. The program emphasizes a broad understanding of social justice issues, human rights, and the social determinants of health and well-being, fostering a commitment to promoting positive social change. Students will engage with contemporary social work theories and practices, including person-centered approaches, advocacy, crisis intervention, and case management.

Throughout their studies, students will participate in rigorous coursework covering topics such as psychology, sociology, ethics, policy analysis, and community development. The program also incorporates practical experience through placements in approved community organizations, where students can apply their learning in real-world settings under supervision. These hands-on opportunities are integral to developing essential professional skills, including communication, collaboration, cultural competency, and ethical decision-making. The curriculum is designed to adhere to national accreditation standards, ensuring graduates meet the requirements for registration with relevant regulatory bodies, such as the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW).

The University of New England commits to providing a supportive learning environment with small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and access to contemporary resources and online learning tools. This facilitates interactive and flexible education tailored to diverse student needs, including mature-aged learners and those balancing work or family commitments. The program encourages critical thinking, empathy, and a strong ethical framework, preparing graduates to work effectively across diverse settings, such as healthcare, education, community development, mental health, and child protection. Graduates of the Bachelor of Social Work at UNE are well-positioned to pursue advanced study or begin a rewarding career making a tangible difference in people's lives, contributing to building a more equitable and just society.