Social Work (Research)

The Master of Social Work (Research) at La Trobe University is an advanced postgraduate program designed for dedicated individuals seeking to deepen their understanding and expertise in social work through rigorous research training. This program offers students the opportunity to engage in comprehensive research projects that address complex social issues, contribute to academic knowledge, and inform professional practice. Immerse yourself in a curriculum that combines theoretical foundations with practical application, fostering critical thinking, analytical skills, and innovative problem-solving abilities essential for impactful social work practice. The program is suitable for those aiming to enhance their research capabilities for careers in academia, policy development, or specialized social services. Throughout the course, students will work closely with experienced supervisors, engage in cutting-edge research methodologies, and participate in seminars and workshops that promote intellectual growth and professional networking. La Trobe University is committed to fostering a collaborative environment where students can explore diverse areas such as community development, mental health, family violence, child protection, and social justice. Graduates of this program will be well-equipped to contribute to innovative solutions for social challenges, influence policy making, and advance the field of social work through evidence-based research. The program is delivered in a flexible manner to accommodate various professional commitments, emphasizing both scholarly excellence and real-world impact. Join the Master of Social Work (Research) at La Trobe and be part of a dynamic academic community dedicated to advancing social change and improving the lives of individuals and communities through knowledge and research.

The Master of Social Work (Research) at La Trobe University offers an in-depth academic and practical exploration of social work as a discipline. This program is designed for students who seek to advance their knowledge and skills through rigorous research and scholarly inquiry within the social services sector. Over the course of the program, students will engage extensively with advanced research methodologies, critically analyze social issues, and develop innovative solutions to complex social problems. The curriculum emphasizes a strong foundation in social work theory, ethics, and practice, complemented by specialized research training that prepares graduates for influential roles in academia, policy development, or applied research settings. Throughout their studies, students will have opportunities to work closely with experienced academic staff on ongoing research projects, participate in seminars, and contribute to the broader field of social work scholarship. The program aims to foster critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of social justice issues, empowering graduates to make meaningful contributions to policy, practice, and research. Graduates of the Master of Social Work (Research) will be well-equipped to pursue careers in academic research, consultancy, government agencies, community organizations, or higher education institutions. The program is designed to be flexible, allowing students to tailor their research focus according to their interests within social work, such as mental health, child protection, Indigenous social work, or community development. Emphasizing both theoretical knowledge and practical application, this degree prepares students to influence positive social change and address contemporary societal challenges through evidence-based solutions.

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

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 financing of the Master of Social Work (Research) program at La Trobe University is structured to support students through a variety of funding options and financial aid opportunities. Tuition fees are the primary expense for international and domestic students enrolled in this postgraduate research degree. As of the latest available data, the tuition fee for international students is approximately AUD 36,000 to AUD 40,000 per year, depending on the specific research project and load. Domestic students may be eligible for subsidized tuition fees under the Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) scheme, which significantly reduces the financial burden, with students typically paying a student contribution amount set annually by the government.

Scholarships are an integral part of the financing framework for this program. La Trobe University offers a range of scholarships for research students, including the La Trobe Research Excellence Scholarships, which cover tuition fees and provide a stipend for living expenses, and other faculty-specific or discipline-related scholarships. These financial awards are highly competitive and are designed to attract high-achieving students. Additionally, students can explore external scholarship opportunities and research grants tied to their specific research interests or demographic background.

Students may also finance their studies through government loans, such as the Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) scheme, which provides stipend support and tuition fee offset for eligible domestic postgraduate research students. International students, on the other hand, typically pay fees upfront or through approved payment plans, and are not eligible for government loans.

Part-time students may have access to income support through part-time work or financial assistance programs offered by the university, such as on-campus employment or internships linked to their research field. Furthermore, some students secure funding from external sources, including research councils, NGOs, and professional organizations aligned with social work and community development.

Loan options, savings, or sponsorship from employers or community organizations can also serve as sources of financing. La Trobe University provides comprehensive financial guidance and support services to help students navigate application procedures for scholarships, financial aid, and payment plans.

In summary, the financing structure of the Social Work (Research) program leverages a combination of government-supported schemes, scholarships, external funding sources, and personal financial management strategies. These options aim to make higher education accessible and affordable while fostering research excellence and professional development in social work.

The Master of Social Work (Research) at La Trobe University is an advanced postgraduate program designed for individuals seeking to deepen their understanding of social work practices through rigorous research. This program equips students with a comprehensive knowledge base and the necessary skills to undertake independent research, analyze complex social issues, and contribute to evidence-based policy development and practice improvements within the social work sector. The curriculum emphasizes advanced research methodologies, critical analysis, and ethical considerations specific to social work. Students engage with a variety of research techniques, including quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods approaches, enabling them to design and implement research projects relevant to contemporary social challenges. The program fosters a strong theoretical foundation in social justice, human rights, and ethical practice, ensuring that graduates are prepared to address diverse community needs and advocate for vulnerable populations. Throughout their studies, students are encouraged to collaborate with industry professionals, participate in seminars, and undertake research projects that have real-world applications. The program often involves close supervision from experienced researchers and social work practitioners, providing mentorship and guidance throughout the research process. Graduates of this program typically pursue careers in academia, research institutes, government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and policy development roles. They are well-prepared to contribute to scholarly research, inform social work practice, and influence social policy. La Trobe University’s research-intensive environment emphasizes innovative inquiry and practical relevance, making it an excellent choice for those committed to advancing social work knowledge and practice through research. The program adheres to the university’s standards for quality education, ensuring students develop both specialized research skills and a broad understanding of social work’s role in contemporary society. Overall, the Master of Social Work (Research) aims to produce skilled researchers capable of making meaningful contributions to the field, promoting social justice, and improving community well-being through rigorous investigation and thoughtful analysis.