Western Sydney University
Master of Social Work (Qualifying)
- Delivery: Face to Face
- Study Level: Postgraduate
- Duration: 24 months
Equips students with critical practice skills and cultural responsiveness to advocate for diverse communities across dynamic social landscapes.
Course overview
Explore a wide range of fascinating topics in applied social sciences, like the impacts of ageing, alcohol and drug use, empowerment in the community and the workplace, tuning into person-centred ways of working, gaining a deeper understanding of a range of therapeutic and community sector interventions, work to enhance equity and access, learn about implementing socially just policy and creating social change. You’ll be guided by passionate academics who can help you reach your full potential and enact positive and lasting change in the world.
This degree combines academic rigour, exceptional research training, blended and work-based learning and 1,000 hours of field education. As a student of Western Sydney University, you will undertake traditional academic subjects and complete assessed placements. The combination of blended and work-based learning is a distinguishing feature of this degree. There is a strong emphasis on students moving beyond the University and working on projects with people in the community and workplace. It is specifically designed to ensure you graduate with hands-on skills working with the community at large – skills that can take your career to the next level. In addition to emerging with a Master's degree, you will also be equipped with the practical education required to meet Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) standards.
CSP Subsidised Fees Available
This program has a limited quota of Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP). The indicative CSP price is calculated based on first year fees for EFT. The actual fee may vary if there are choices in electives or majors.
Key facts
What you will study
Qualification for this award requires completing 160 credit points for the subjects listed below. Unless otherwise indicated, each subject is worth 10 credit points.
Core subjects
Complete the following subjects:
- Social Work Practice Methods 1
- Social Work Practice Methods 2
- Theories and Knowledge for Social Work
- Indigenous Australia: History, Knowledge and Professional Practice
- Social Work (Qualifying) Field Education 1 (20 credit points)
- Leadership in Organisations
- Research for Social Work Practice
- Contextualised Practice
- Critical Social Work Practice
- Power and Marginalisation
- Theories of Difference and Diversity
- Social Work (Qualifying) Field Education 2 (30 credit points)
- Integrated Project
Entry requirements
Applicants must have one of the following:
- Successfully completed an undergraduate degree in the areas of Health, Education or Society and Culture, with a minimum of eight (8) subjects completed in Social Sciences or Psychology.
- Completed the Western Sydney University Postgraduate Bridging Program (Social Work) program.
Applications from Australian and New Zealand citizens and holders of permanent resident visas may be made via the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC) or directly through the Western Portal. Use the links below to apply via UAC or Western Sydney University. Applications made directly to Western Sydney do not have an application fee.
English language requirements
Local applicants who are applying through the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC) will find details of minimum English proficiency requirements and acceptable proof on the UAC website. Local applicants applying directly to the university should also use the information provided on the UAC website.
Contact the university or visit their website for more information.
Recognition of Prior Learning
Credit for Prior Learning is the recognition of prior learning in terms of experience and/or studies. When you apply for Credit for Prior Learning, the university will assess your prior learning. It may award you Credit for Prior Learning in the program you are currently studying in recognition of what you have achieved. Contact the university for more information.
Outcomes
Career outcomes
As a graduate of this degree, you can look forward to a broad range of exciting career opportunities in different sectors and industries. Below are some examples of the possible careers you can pursue with this degree:
- Become a caseworker/manager and make a difference in the areas of child protection, drug and alcohol services or community health.
- Take on an exciting research role.
- Become a counsellor and change the lives of people struggling with emotional issues.
- Influence the development of social policy.
- Get involved in Human Services and help improve aged care, communities, education providers and transport services.
Fees and CSP
Estimated total fee in 2025: $33,984 (Commonwealth Supported Place)
The estimated total fee is calculated based on a study load of 160 credit points.
A student's annual fee may vary depending on:
- The number of subjects studied per term.
- The choice of major or specialisation.
- Choice of subjects.
- Credit from previous study or work experience.
- Eligibility for government-funded loans.
Student fees shown are subject to change. Contact the university directly to confirm.
Commonwealth Supported Places
The Australian Government allocates a certain number of CSPs to the universities each year, which are then distributed to students based on merit.
If you're a Commonwealth Supported Student (CSS), you only need to pay some of your tuition fees. The student contribution amount is the balance once the government subsidy is applied. This means your costs are much lower.
Limited CSP spaces are offered to students enrolled in selected postgraduate courses.
Your student contribution amount is:
- Calculated per subject you're enrolled in.
- Depending on the study areas they relate to.
- Reviewed and adjusted each year.
HECS-HELP loans are available to CSP students to pay the student contribution amount.
