Bachelor of Social Work

The Bachelor of Social Work is a professionally recognised degree that prepares graduates to pursue a career as a social worker to enhance the wellbeing of individuals, groups and communities to address inequality and injustice. As a social worker you will use principles of social justice, human rights and cultural safety to promote social change and empowerment by providing a range of skills in counselling, case management and community development. The course incorporates knowledge from social work, psychology, social policy, research and First Nations Peoples’ perspectives.

With the Bachelor Social Work, you will gain the knowledge and practical skills required to work with individuals, families, groups and communities in a safe and inclusive way with those in crisis, or impacted by poverty and social disadvantage.

Students must attend 20 days of face-to-face classes delivered as blocks of five day intensive, prior to placements. This requirement for completion of the degree meets the professional accreditation standards of the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW). Students will be expected to pay for course related expenses such as travel and accommodation to attend the intensives and placements.

Areas of study

Humanities, social sciences.

Career opportunities

Child protection, counselling, youth work, community development, policy, hospital and primary health, mental health, women’s and men’s services, housing, faith-based services, addiction services, private practice, schools, aged care, corrections and on Country.

Professional recognition

Graduates of the Bachelor of Social Work are eligible for membership to the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW).

Fees and charges

The Australian Government pays part of the tuition fee for this course. The remaining balance is paid by the student. Current CDU fee information.