Social Work (Research)

The Doctor of Social Work (Research) at La Trobe University offers an advanced, research-focused qualification designed for experienced social work professionals seeking to deepen their expertise and contribute to the development of knowledge in the field. This program provides a unique opportunity for students to engage in rigorous academic investigation, addressing complex social issues, policies, and practices that impact diverse populations. With a strong emphasis on independent research, students will develop critical analytical skills, enhance their understanding of theoretical frameworks, and produce scholarly work that advances social work scholarship and practice. The program is suitable for those aspiring to pursue careers in academic, policy, or leadership roles within the social sector, or for practitioners aiming to specialise in research and evidence-based practices. Throughout the course, students will work closely with experienced supervisors who are experts in various areas of social work and social sciences. The program typically involves coursework combined with the development and completion of a substantive research thesis. It encourages interdisciplinary approaches and promotes ethical research methodologies aligned with contemporary social work standards. Graduates of the Doctor of Social Work (Research) will be equipped with advanced research skills, comprehensive knowledge of social issues, and the capacity to generate new insights that can influence policy and practice at local, national, and international levels. This program reflects La Trobe University’s commitment to social justice, community engagement, and innovative research, preparing students to become thought leaders and change agents in the social work sector.

The Master of Social Work (Research) at La Trobe University offers an intensive and comprehensive program designed for students who are passionate about advancing knowledge and practice in the field of social work. This research-focused degree provides students with the opportunity to develop high-level analytical and research skills essential for contributing to the evidence base underpinning social work practice, policy-making, and service development. Throughout the program, students engage with a diverse range of topics, including social justice, human rights, community development, mental health, and child protection, among others. The curriculum combines rigorous research methodologies with critical theoretical frameworks, enabling students to undertake independent research projects that address pressing social issues.

The program is tailored for those seeking careers in academia, policy analysis, advanced practice, or leadership roles within social services organizations. Students are supervised by experienced academics and researchers who are experts in various fields of social work, ensuring mentorship and guidance tailored to individual research interests. The coursework emphasizes ethical research practices, data analysis, and the dissemination of findings, preparing graduates to contribute meaningfully to social work scholarship and practice.

Students in the program have access to La Trobe’s state-of-the-art research facilities and engage with community organizations and industry partners for fieldwork placements and collaborative projects. The program encourages interdisciplinary approaches, fostering connections across health, education, and social sciences to create holistic solutions for complex social problems. Graduates will be equipped with the skills necessary to undertake independent research projects, critically evaluate existing literature, and advocate for social justice within diverse community contexts. This degree ultimately aims to produce research scholars who will shape the future of social work through innovative inquiry and impactful practice.

Bachelor's degree with Honours, or exhibited Honours equivalence concerning skills, experience, research or books.

The Master of Social Work (Research) program at La Trobe University offers a comprehensive pathway for students interested in advanced academic and research careers in social work. The program is typically funded through a combination of government-supported funding schemes, scholarships, scholarships offered directly through La Trobe University, and personal or external financial resources. Domestic students may be eligible for Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) funding, which significantly reduces the cost of tuition, supported by the Australian government. This subsidy aims to make postgraduate research more accessible and encourages students to pursue higher education in social sciences.

International students, on the other hand, generally pay full tuition fees, which are outlined on the university's official website and may vary annually. La Trobe University offers a range of scholarships for international students, including the La Trobe (International) Scholarship, which can significantly offset the financial burden of studying abroad. These scholarships are competitive and are awarded based on academic merit, research potential, and other criteria.

Additionally, research students in the program have access to research grants and funding opportunities provided through competitive applications within the university or external funding bodies such as Australian Research Council (ARC) or other national research organizations. These grants can cover various expenses, including research materials, conference travel, and living stipends. Many students also seek funding through industry partnerships and collaborative research projects, which may offer financial support or in-kind contributions.

Students are encouraged to explore personal funding options, including savings, family support, or loans, and to consult the university’s dedicated financial aid office for assistance in understanding available options. The university also participates in various scholarship programs specifically targeted at postgraduate research students, including Commonwealth Research Training Program (RTP) scholarships, which provide living stipends and tuition fee offsets for eligible students.

It is important for prospective students to review specific program costs, eligibility criteria for scholarships, and application deadlines on the La Trobe University website or by contacting the university’s admissions and financing department. Overall, financing a Master of Social Work (Research) at La Trobe University involves a multifaceted approach combining government support, university scholarships, external research funding, and personal financial planning to facilitate access and reduce financial barriers for students pursuing their research ambitions in social work.

The Master of Social Work (Research) at La Trobe University is a postgraduate program designed for individuals seeking to deepen their knowledge and expertise in the field of social work through research. This program offers students an opportunity to develop advanced research skills, focusing on the theoretical and practical aspects of social work practice, policy analysis, and social justice issues. The program typically prepares graduates for careers in academic research, policy development, or specialized practice roles within community organizations, government agencies, and non-profit sectors.

Students in this program engage in rigorous research training, including qualitative and quantitative methodologies, research ethics, and data analysis techniques. The curriculum often includes coursework that covers advanced topics in social work theory, research design, and critical analysis, complemented by an independent research project or thesis. This research component enables students to contribute original insights to the field, addressing contemporary social issues such as inequality, mental health, child welfare, or Indigenous community needs.

La Trobe University emphasizes a strong practical orientation, integrating research with real-world social issues and encouraging students to apply their findings to improve social policies and practices. The program may involve collaborations with industry partners, government departments, or community organizations, providing valuable opportunities for networking and applied research experience.

Graduates of the Master of Social Work (Research) are well-equipped to pursue careers in academic institutions, research organizations, or senior roles within governmental and non-governmental agencies focused on social development and social justice. They may also continue their studies at the doctoral level, contributing to the academic body of knowledge in social work and related disciplines.

The program is designed to accommodate both full-time and part-time students, offering flexible study options to suit working professionals. Admission requirements typically include an undergraduate degree in social work or a related discipline, along with relevant practical experience. The university provides comprehensive support services, including research supervision, academic resources, and career guidance, to ensure student success.

Overall, La Trobe University’s Master of Social Work (Research) is a comprehensive program aimed at fostering advanced research capabilities in students committed to making meaningful contributions to social research, policy, and practice. It combines methodological rigor, practical relevance, and an emphasis on social justice to prepare graduates for influential roles within the social sector.