Social Work

The Bachelor of Social Work at the University of South Australia is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for meaningful careers in social service and community support. This degree provides students with a solid foundation in social work theory, ethical practice, and human rights, equipping them with the skills necessary to make a positive impact in diverse communities. Throughout the course, students engage in a mix of academic learning, practical placements, and community engagement activities that foster critical thinking, cultural competence, and professional development. The program covers key areas such as human development, social policy, research methods, and intervention strategies, ensuring graduates are ready to address complex social issues. Students will learn to work effectively with individuals, families, groups, and organizations while advocating for social justice and equitable access to services. The program emphasizes ethical decision-making, reflective practice, and the importance of cultural sensitivity, preparing students to work in various social work settings including child welfare, mental health, aged care, disability services, and more. With strong links to industry and a dedicated team of experienced academics and practitioners, the Bachelor of Social Work at the University of South Australia fosters an environment of learning and innovation. Graduates of this program are eligible to apply for registration as professional social workers with relevant authorities and are well-positioned to contribute meaningfully to community development, policy formulation, and direct client support. Whether students aspire to work locally or internationally, this program provides the knowledge, skills, and ethical framework necessary for a rewarding career dedicated to social change and social justice.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Social Work degree will have a broad and coherent body of knowledge in the political, behavioural and social sciences, with depth in the underlying principles and concepts of social work and social policy and be able to function as reflexive practitioners within the human service context. 

The students will complete 144 units of study comprising 81 units of core studies, social policy and social work theory, 4.5 units of free elective, 31.5 units of practice skills and 27 units of field placements.

Students will be required to undertake a screening and background check through the Department of Communities and Social Inclusion (DCSI). The screening must be completed prior to being accepted for a placement.
In addition, students who are completing any site observations, activities or professional experience placements and social work with older people, vulnerable people or people with a disability, must undertake mandatory training in Child Safe Environments and Responding to Abuse and Neglect prior to the commencement of the activities or placements within the program.

To be eligible for selection, applicants are required to:

Qualify for the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE), and

• obtain a competitive ATAR, and
• meet any prerequisite requirements with a minimum grade of C-

Alternatively, applicants can fulfil one of the following requirements with a competitive result, and demonstrate that they fulfil any prerequisite requirements, and other academic requirements for the program:

• Complete secondary education qualifications equivalent to SACE, or
• Complete the International Baccalaureate Diploma with a minimum score of 24 points, or
• Complete or partly complete a recognised higher education program at a recognised higher education institution, or
• Complete at least four Open Universities Australia (OUA) courses at undergraduate level or above, or
• Complete an award from a registered training organisation at Certificate IV level or above, or
• Qualify for Special Entry, or
• Complete a University Foundation Studies program

English language entry requirements

In addition, international students who speak English as a foreign language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at the University of South Australia. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.

English language test

• IELTS total: - 6.0
• IELTS reading: - 6.0
• IELTS writing: - 6.0

Each year, more than 2,500 students at the University of South Australia benefit from scholarships and grants worth millions of dollars. We welcome high achieving students from developing countries who are supported by the Australian government program, Australia Awards. We also host around 500 students who are sponsored by their home government, university or employer. 

The Bachelor of Social Work at the University of South Australia is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for a dynamic and rewarding career in social services. This degree emphasizes developing the essential skills, knowledge, and values required to support individuals, families, groups, and communities facing a variety of social challenges. The curriculum combines theoretical frameworks with practical experience, enabling students to understand complex social issues such as mental health, child protection, addiction, homelessness, and social justice. Throughout the program, students engage in experiential learning through placements in diverse community organizations, hospitals, and social service agencies, which provide real-world exposure and foster professional networks. The course also covers a range of topics including human development, policy analysis, ethical practice, and cultural competency, preparing graduates to work effectively with diverse populations and in multidisciplinary teams. The University of South Australia’s strong emphasis on practical skills and community engagement ensures that students graduate with both academic knowledge and hands-on experience. Furthermore, the program encourages critical thinking and advocacy, empowering students to contribute to positive social change and policy development. Upon completion, graduates are equipped to pursue various roles in social work, such as case managers, community development workers, mental health practitioners, and policy advisors. The program also lays a solid foundation for further study, including postgraduate opportunities in social work, social policy, or related fields. With a focus on ethical practice and social justice, the Bachelor of Social Work at the University of South Australia aims to produce compassionate, competent, and innovative social work professionals dedicated to improving the wellbeing of individuals and communities across Australia.