Social Work
# #1030
QS Subject Rankings
3 years
Program duration
Yes
Scholarships
Program Overview
Main Subject
Social Work
Degree
bachelor of arts
Study Level
Undergraduate
Study Mode
On Campus
The University of the Sunshine Coast (UniSC) offers a comprehensive Bachelor of Social Work program designed to prepare students for impactful careers in social justice and human rights. This four-year full-time degree emphasizes ethical practice and equips students with the skills to enhance the well-being of individuals, groups, and communities on both local and global scales.
The curriculum combines academic knowledge with extensive practical experience. Students are required to complete two field education placements, totaling 1,000 hours, in diverse settings such as health and mental health services, child protection, disability support, substance abuse programs, and family violence prevention. These placements provide hands-on learning opportunities, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the complexities of social work practice.
Core courses cover a range of topics, including group processes, therapeutic communication, mental and physical health, community development, and social policy analysis. The program also emphasizes working with First Nations peoples and multicultural communities, fostering cultural competence and responsiveness among students. Elective options allow for specialization in areas such as behavioral science, criminology, and sustainability, enabling students to tailor their education to specific interests and career goals.
Graduates of the Bachelor of Social Work program are equipped for diverse career opportunities in sectors like health, mental health, disability services, child protection, and policy development. The program is fully accredited by the Australian Association of Social Workers, ensuring it meets national standards for professional social work education. With a strong foundation in both theory and practice, UniSC prepares its social work graduates to make meaningful contributions to society.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the University of the Sunshine Coast's Bachelor of Social Work program, applicants must have completed education equivalent to Australian Year 12 with satisfactory grades. A minimum Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) of 55.00 is required for admission. Proficiency in English is mandatory, with specific language requirements outlined by the university.
While not compulsory, prior study in English is recommended to support success in the program. International applicants should refer to the university's guidelines for country-specific academic and English language prerequisites to ensure they meet the necessary criteria.
English Language Proficiency
These are the English language proficiency requirements for the program:
- IELTS (Academic): Overall score of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each subtest. The IELTS One Skill Retake (OSR) is accepted.
- TOEFL iBT: Overall score of 76 with a minimum score of 18 for writing.
- Pearson Test of English (PTE): Overall score of 50 with no subscore less than 50.
- Language of Instruction (LOI): Minimum 1 year full-time tertiary study, or 1 year full-time other post-secondary study, or 2 years full-time secondary study in English. This must be successfully completed in the last 5 years in countries such as Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the Republic of Ireland, South Africa, the United Kingdom, or the United States of America.
- C1 Advanced / C2 Proficiency: Overall score of 169 or above with no less than 162 in each skill.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
Domestic Students
Tuition Fee/year CSP estimate A$13,152 - 2025 Fees | Other Expenses |
International Students
Tuition Fee/year Annual tuition fee (A$, 2025) A$27,900 | Other Expenses
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Application Deadline
Semester 1
Domestic Deadline | International Deadline |
---|---|
January | It’s advisable to check specific program details on the university’s website for the most accurate dates. |
Semester 2
Domestic Deadline | International Deadline |
---|---|
July | It’s advisable to check specific program details on the university’s website for the most accurate dates. |
Curriculum
- COU176: Group Processes and Practice
- COU180: Therapeutic Communication Skills
- SCS101: Foundations of Human Behaviour
- SCS110: Australian Society: How doesn't it work? - An Introduction to Sociology
- SCS130: Introduction to Indigenous Australia
- SWK100: Introduction to Social Work Practice Theories
- SWK172: Introduction to Social Work and Human Services
- SCS225: Social Research
- SCS235: Social Justice, Welfare and the State
- SWK200: Social Work Practice in Various Organisational Settings
- SWK202: Mental and Physical Health and Wellbeing
- SWK251: Working with First Nations Peoples and Multicultural Communities
- SWK277: Working With Children, Youth and Families
- SWK278: Ethics, Law, and the Helping Professions
- SWK286: Disability: Culture, Community and Change
- SWK300: Social Work Field Education 1 (36 units)
- SWK302: Community Development and Social Action
- SWK304: Direct Practice 1
- SWK306: Direct Practice 2
- SWK400: Social Work Field Education 2 (36 units)
- SWK401: Critical Social Policy Analysis
- SWK407: Context Responsive Social Work Practice
Plus 1 course from:
- COU300: Counseling for Crisis, Trauma, and Loss
- CRM309: Working with Victims and Offenders
Select 5 elective courses (60 units) from the undergraduate elective course options. Students can choose electives from various discipline areas, such as:
- Behavioral Science
- Counseling Skills
- Criminology and Justice
- Indigenous Studies
- International and Human Rights
- International Studies
- Social Theory
- Sustainability
This structure prepares students for a broad range of roles in social work, human services, and related fields, with a strong emphasis on practical experience, social justice, and community-based work.
Program Benefits
The Bachelor of Social Work program at the University of the Sunshine Coast (USC) offers numerous benefits, including a comprehensive curriculum that blends theory with practical experience. Students engage in extensive fieldwork placements, allowing them to apply their skills in real-world settings and gain valuable insights into the social work profession. The program focuses on developing critical thinking, empathy, and advocacy skills, essential for addressing complex social issues. USC's supportive learning environment and experienced faculty provide personalized guidance, preparing graduates for diverse career opportunities in community services, mental health, and policy development, making a positive impact on society.
Career Possibilities
Graduates of the Bachelor of Social Work program at the University of the Sunshine Coast (USC) have a wide range of career possibilities in various sectors. They can pursue roles as social workers in community organizations, mental health services, child protection agencies, and hospitals. Opportunities also exist in policy development, advocacy, and research within governmental and non-governmental organizations. Additionally, graduates may work in areas such as substance abuse counseling, family support, and crisis intervention. The program equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge to address social issues and support individuals and communities effectively, making a meaningful impact in society.
Research Opportunities
The Bachelor of Social Work program at the University of the Sunshine Coast (USC) offers students numerous research opportunities that deepen their understanding of social issues and enhance their academic experience. Students can engage in research projects focusing on areas such as community development, mental health, child welfare, and social policy. USC encourages collaboration with faculty on innovative studies that address real-world challenges in the social work field. Opportunities to present research findings at conferences and contribute to academic publications further enrich students' learning experiences and prepare them for professional practice, equipping them with essential skills for effective advocacy and intervention.
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