Social Work

This degree aims to offer applicants who hold an approved bachelor degree in social work with advanced skills in areas of policy and research into community and clinical based clinic settings.

The Bachelor of Social Work at Flinders University is designed to provide students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills necessary for a rewarding career in social services. This program prepares graduates to work effectively with individuals, families, and communities facing diverse challenges across a range of settings, including healthcare, mental health, child protection, aged care, and community development. Throughout the course, students will explore core topics such as human development, social justice, policy analysis, ethics, and communication skills, equipping them to advocate for vulnerable populations and promote positive social change. The curriculum combines theoretical foundations with extensive practical placements, allowing students to apply their learning in real-world environments while under the supervision of experienced practitioners. Emphasizing a client-centered approach, the program aims to develop empathetic, culturally competent, and professional social workers who are capable of addressing complex social issues. The program also encourages critical thinking and research skills, enabling students to analyze social phenomena and contribute to evidence-based practice. Graduates of the Bachelor of Social Work will be eligible for registration with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW), opening opportunities for employment across government agencies, non-profit organizations, and community services. The program’s flexible structure offers full-time and part-time study options, with schedules designed to accommodate working students. With a focus on social inclusion, ethical practice, and lifelong learning, the Bachelor of Social Work prepares students not only for immediate employment but also for ongoing professional development and advancement within the social work field.

• Applicants must hold an approved four year pupil Honours level or equivalent qualification in the field of social work recognised with the Australian Association of Social Work (AASW)
• Or hold a licensed bachelor degree or equivalent qualification in the field of social work recognised with the Australian Association of Social Work (AASW) and must have no less than two years' full time equivalent professional work experience (paid or volunteer) following the completion of this level.

The financing of the Bachelor of Social Work program at Flinders University primarily comprises a combination of government funding, student contributions through tuition fees, and financial aid options accessible to domestic and international students. As an Australian higher education provider, Flinders University benefits from funding arrangements established by the Australian Government, including subsidies under the Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) scheme for eligible domestic students. These CSPs significantly reduce the cost of tuition for students, making higher education more accessible and affordable. Domestic students may also access various loan schemes such as HECS-HELP, which allows them to defer their tuition fees until they are earning a sufficient income after graduation.

International students enrolled in the program are responsible for paying full tuition fees, which are set annually and are published on the university’s official website. The tuition fees vary depending on the program and student status but are generally reflective of the high quality of education provided by the university. To support international students financially, Flinders University offers a range of scholarships, grants, and bursaries designed to reduce the financial burden associated with their studies. These scholarship programs are competitive and aim to attract talented students from around the world.

Additionally, students enrolled in the Bachelor of Social Work program may access external financial support options, including government and private scholarships, work-study programs, and part-time employment opportunities. The university’s Career and Employability Centre provides guidance on securing part-time work that aligns with students’ academic schedules and career goals.

Research funding and grants, although more relevant to postgraduate research students, contribute indirectly to the program’s quality and resources. These sources include university internal grants for curriculum development, infrastructure upgrades, and faculty staffing. The university also partners with community organizations and government agencies, which sometimes provide internship stipends and work placements that support students financially during practical components of their studies.

Furthermore, the university supports students through financial literacy programs, which help them understand and manage their study-related expenses efficiently. Overall, the financing structure of the Bachelor of Social Work at Flinders University is designed to promote accessibility, support diverse student needs, and ensure high-quality educational delivery through a mix of public funding, student contributions, scholarships, and external financial aid options.

The Bachelor of Social Work at Flinders University is a comprehensive, professionally oriented program designed to prepare students for a diverse range of careers within the social services sector. This degree emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical skills necessary to support individuals, families, groups, and communities facing various social, economic, and personal challenges. The program integrates core social work principles with contemporary issues, ensuring graduates are equipped to promote social justice, human rights, and ethical practice in their professional roles. Students will engage in a rigorous curriculum that includes topics such as human development, social policy analysis, mental health, youth and family work, and community development. A significant component of the program involves supervised placements, providing students with real-world experience in diverse settings such as hospitals, community organizations, government agencies, and non-governmental organizations. These placements foster practical skills, professional competence, and confidence to work effectively across different social contexts. The curriculum is designed to meet the accreditation standards of the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW), which is essential for graduates seeking registration as professional social workers. Flinders University also emphasizes critical thinking, cultural competence, and ethical reasoning, encouraging students to approach social work with empathy and respect for diversity. The program often includes opportunities for research and engagement with current social issues, preparing graduates for lifelong learning and ongoing professional development. Graduates from the Bachelor of Social Work program at Flinders University are well-prepared to pursue careers in areas such as mental health services, child protection, indigenous community work, disability services, and policy advocacy. The program's flexible delivery mode allows for combined online and on-campus study options, accommodating students' varying needs. Overall, the Bachelor of Social Work at Flinders University offers a robust education grounded in social justice principles, aimed at fostering skilled, ethical, and compassionate social workers ready to make a positive difference in society.