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There are over 48,000 social workers in Australia, with this number steadily growing every year. Whether you’re looking to pivot into social work from a different field or advance your existing career, a postgraduate social work course could help you get there.
Rather than paying the full-fee cost, however, a Commonwealth supported place (CSP) can help make the financial cost more manageable. With a CSP, part of your tuition is subsidised by the Australian Government, reducing the overall cost of your qualification. Find out more about what CSPs are, how much tuition a CSP covers, eligibility criteria and more in our guide to postgraduate CSP courses in healthcare.
The Master of Social Work at Monash University offers the largest discount at 69 per cent off, saving you more than $40,000. Read on to see how much the course costs and explore nine other postgraduate CSP social work courses with significant savings.
10 postgraduate CSP social work courses with the biggest discounts in 2026
We’ve looked through our entire catalogue of social work courses on GlobalHealth Education and compiled the top 10 postgraduate CSP social work courses with the biggest discounts in 2026. Ranked from the largest to the smallest discount, all percentages have been rounded to the nearest whole number.
For most courses, we’ve calculated the discounts by comparing the full-fee and CSP prices published on each university’s website. The only exception is the University of New England’s Master of Social Work (Qualifying), where costs had to be calculated manually. For this course, the full-fee cost was calculated using the subject area costs listed in the university’s 2026 domestic postgraduate course fees document, while the CSP cost was determined using the relevant subject area rates in the 2026 Commonwealth supported student contributions schedule.
Note that prices are subject to change and may vary depending on the course, study load and units selected.
Many of these postgraduate social work courses are available both online and on campus. As both streams share the same units and pricing, we’ve only featured one delivery mode in this list.
Although postgraduate CSP social work courses are relatively common, entry is competitive. As universities only have a limited number of CSPs available each year, meeting the eligibility criteria does not guarantee automatic admission into the course.
Disclaimer: While every effort has been made to ensure that pricing information is accurate and up to date, no guarantee is given, nor responsibility taken, for variations or discrepancies in pricing.
Master of Social Work at Monash University – 69% off
Explore social work in various settings, such as trauma care, family support and community development.
Gain the knowledge, skills and professional experience required to pursue a career as a social worker. Offered in both an on- campus and multi-modal format, this course is accredited by the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) and you’ll complete 1,000 hours of supervised placements over two years.
Through this course, you’ll develop specialist knowledge and research skills and build a strong foundation in social work practice. To further hone your practical skills, you’ll also get the opportunity to participate in small group workshops and case simulations with professional actors. Upon graduation, you’ll be equipped with the skills required to be a competent social worker.
Who should study this course?
This course is ideal for graduates with a bachelor’s degree in health or education who want to transition into social work. Graduates will be able to work in settings such as mental health, family violence centres, government departments and community and health service organisations.
Eligibility criteria
To be eligible for the course, you must fulfil one of the following requirements:
- Have an Australian bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) with at least a 60 per cent credit average and at least one year of full-time studies in social and behavioural sciences
- A master’s degree in allied health, education, medicine or nursing with at least a 50 per cent average
Course intake months in 2026: February and June
Course duration: Two years full-time or part-time equivalent
Estimated full-fee cost: $61,400
Estimated total fee with a CSP: $19,074
Master of Social Work (Online) at La Trobe University – 67% off
Examine and understand various aspects of social work, including practice, policy, education, research and more.
Learn from leading academics and gain valuable real-world experience in this Master of Social Work course. You’ll develop knowledge in areas such as program design and community development and put what you’ve learned into practice by completing two 70-day placements.
Examples of units that you’ll complete include Leadership in Social Work, Inclusion in Communities and Social Policy Analysis and Advocacy. Upon graduation, you’ll be prepared to work in roles such as senior social worker, school counsellor, mental health social worker and child and family support worker.
Who should study this course?
This course is suitable for individuals looking to move into or advance their career in social work. Graduates will be able to work in a range of social policy, community and direct practice areas in government, community and the private sector.
Eligibility criteria
To be eligible for the course, you must:
- Have an Australian bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a related discipline (including at least one year of full-time studies in social and behavioural sciences) with a minimum weighted average mark of 60 per cent
Course intake month in 2026: February
Course duration: Two years full-time or part-time equivalent
Estimated full-fee cost: $58,000
Estimated total fee with a CSP: $19,16
Master of Social Work (Qualifying) at University of Newcastle – 66% off
Provides students with an authentic learning experience and practical skills to prepare them for a meaningful career.
This course integrates theory, practice, research and social work values, preparing you for a rewarding career as a social worker. You’ll complete 1,000 hours of social work placements and study units such as Decolonising Social Work, Critical Practice for Health and Wellbeing and Skills for Professional Practice.
This course is practice-led, offering embedded fieldwork placements and providing you with authentic learning experiences to become a competent social worker. Upon graduation, some career options you may be eligible for include case manager, community development officer, counsellor and mental health clinician.
Who should study this course?
This course is designed for people in a related field who are looking to pursue a career as a social worker. As it’s also offered part-time and through a flexible night school option, it’s suitable for those who need to balance study with work or care responsibilities.
Eligibility criteria
To be eligible for this course, you must:
- Hold a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in a related field with at least one year of full-time studies in social and behavioural sciences
Course intake month in 2026: August
Course duration: Two years full-time or the part-time equivalent
Estimated full-fee cost: $56,816
Estimated total fee with a CSP: $19,074
Master of Social Work (Qualifying) (Online) at University of New England – 66% off
Acquire the skills needed to tackle barriers, inequality and injustices faced by marginalised and disadvantaged groups in Australia's diverse society.
In this course, you’ll learn to respond effectively to the rapidly changing social and environmental issues affecting individuals and communities. With a comprehensive curriculum and 1,000 hours of professional fieldwork placements, you’ll gain the practical and theoretical skills to succeed in the growing field of social work.
The course includes a focus on issues that face rural and regional communities and a capstone unit where you’ll conduct research in a specialised area of your choice. Offered both online and on campus, units that you’ll complete as part of the course include Juvenile Justice and Child Protection, Social Work Through the Lifespan and Working with Aboriginal People.
Who should study this course?
This course suits those looking to move into social work or those already working in community services and are looking to boost their career trajectory. As this course also offers an online option, it’s suitable for individuals that have other commitments and would prefer to undertake their studies remotely.
Eligibility criteria
To be eligible for the course, you must fulfil the following:
- Have a three-year undergraduate qualification in a discipline other than social work. The degree must include at least one year of full-time study in social and behavioural sciences or social science
Course intake months in 2026: February and June
Course duration: Two years full-time or part-time equivalent
Estimated full-fee cost: $56,640
Estimated total fee with a CSP: $19,008
Master of Social Work (Graduate Entry) at Flinders University – 66% off
Acquire the practical skills and essential knowledge to become an effective and ethical social work practitioner.
This course will prepare you for a rewarding career as a social worker. As part of the course, you’ll gain the skills and knowledge to work with people, promote social justice and affect social change. Offered both online and on campus, you’ll graduate job-ready, having completed a total of 1,000 hours of placement in a range of practice settings.
Some of the units that you’ll complete as part of the course include Foundations for Social Work Practice, Trauma, Violence and Resilience and Social Work in Mental Health and Addiction Settings. Upon graduation, some of the potential careers you can pursue include social worker, case manager, community services project officer and advocacy worker.
Who should study this course?
This course is suitable for graduates in other disciplines who are looking to become accredited social workers. As the course is available both in-person and online, it’s a great option for those who prefer the flexible nature of online education.
Eligibility criteria
To be eligible for the course, you must fulfil the following:
- Hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent with at least one year of full-time study in social and behavioural sciences
Course intake months in 2026: March and July
Course duration: Two years full-time or the part-time equivalent
Estimated full-fee cost: $56,600
Estimated total fee with a CSP: $19,074
Master of Social Work (Professional Qualifying) (Online) at James Cook University – 66% off
Study online to develop expertise in enhancing the lives of others by acquiring essential skills in social work that address the unique and complex challenges faced by individuals, families, groups and communities.
Gain the critical skills required to improve the lives of others in this Master of Social Work course. You’ll acquire valuable hands-on experience from placements and attend up to five days of mandatory workshops. You’ll also complete a series of essential core subjects such as Foundations for Practice, Working with Children and Families and Mental Health and Trauma Informed Practice.
Offered both online and on campus, the goal of this course is to ensure you have the skills to navigate the complex challenges faced by individuals, families, groups and communities. Upon graduation, you can pursue a range of roles in case work, community work, social policy, research and advocacy.
Who should study this course?
This course is ideal for those who have experience in or have studied social and behavioural sciences and are looking to pursue a career in social work. As this course has both an on campus and online option, you have the flexibility to study in the way that best fits your lifestyle.
Eligibility criteria
To be eligible for this course, you must:
- Have a bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline other than social work and have completed at least one year of full-time study in social and behavioural sciences
Course intake months in 2026: January and September
Course duration: Two years full-time or the part-time equivalent
Estimated full-fee cost: $55,968
Estimated total fee with a CSP: $19,074
Master of Social Work (Online) at Deakin University – 65% off
Whether you’re looking to enter the rapidly growing sector of social work or further advance your skills, this online course will give you the skills and experience to succeed in the field. A unique feature of this course is the Collaborative Practice in Healthcare unit, where you’ll get the chance to work alongside healthcare professionals from areas such as nursing, psychology and occupational therapy.
While this course is delivered on the university’s flexible learning platform, it still includes 1,000 hours of professional placement to prepare you for your future role. Examples of units you’ll study in the course include Addressing Violence and Abuse and Challenging Poverty and Social Exclusion.
Who should study this course?
This course is ideal for individuals who have a degree in a cognate discipline and are looking to pivot into social work. It’s also suitable for professionals in the field looking to strengthen their expertise and develop advanced skills. As the course is delivered online, it’s suitable for those looking to study on their own schedule, with all resources and assignments available through an intuitive e-learning platform.
Eligibility criteria
To be considered for the course, you must:
- Have completed a bachelor’s degree in a related discipline with at least one year, or the equivalent, of full-time studies in the social and behavioural sciences
Course intake month in 2026: March
Course duration: Two years full-time or the part-time equivalent
Estimated full-fee cost: $54,40
Estimated total fee with a CSP: $19,074
Master of Social Work (Qualifying) at Curtin University – 64% off
Acquire knowledge and skills to become a professional social worker and assist individuals in overcoming life challenges.
Are you ready to gain the skills and knowledge to become a professional social work practitioner? This course covers key areas such as social work values, knowledge and principles and how to work inclusively and creatively across diverse practice contexts.
The course is delivered through a mix of online learning, on-campus intensive blocks and fieldwork, including 14 weeks or 1,000 hours of supervised placements. Examples of units you’ll study in the course include Mental Health Recovery, Groups and Communities and Social Work in Contemporary Australia.
Who should study this course?
This course is ideal for individuals who have relevant experience or a bachelor’s degree in a related area and are looking to pursue a social work career. Graduates may find employment in areas such as health, child protection, mental health, community, aged care and non-government settings.
Eligibility criteria
To be eligible for this course, you must:
- Have a completed bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, including at least one year of full-time studies in social sciences
Course intake months in 2026: June
Course duration: Two years full-time or the part-time equivalent
Estimated full-fee cost: $53,728
Estimated total fee with a CSP: $19,200
Master of Social Work (Professional Qualifying) (Online) at Charles Sturt University – 64% off
Learn about people, communities, groups and social structures and how to think, communicate and respond to need and opportunity.
This online social work course is accredited by the AASW and encompasses areas such as child protection, ethics, human rights, mental health and social policy. You’ll develop strong practical skills through 1,000 hours of workplace learning and can choose to embark on a two-week social work tour in countries such as India, Indonesia or China.
Some of the units you’ll study in the course include Power, Oppression, Violence and Trauma and Health and Wellbeing Across the Lifespan. Upon completion, you can pursue a diverse range of roles in areas such as counselling, case management, social action, program planning and disability advocacy.
Who should study this course?
This course is ideal for individuals who have relevant work experience or education in social and behavioural sciences and are looking to pursue a social work career. It’s also ideal for professionals in the human services sector who want to advance their skills and take the next step in their professional development.
Eligibility criteria
To be eligible for this course, you must:
- Have a completed bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, including at least one year of full-time studies in social and behavioural sciences
Course intake months in 2026: March and July
Course duration: Two years full-time or the part-time equivalent
Estimated full-fee cost: $53,440
Estimated total fee with a CSP: $19,272
Master of Counselling Social Work at the University of New South Wales – 48% off
Develop advanced counselling skills, address complex issues such as therapeutic impasse, grief, loss, trauma and violence and improve your knowledge of social work research. This postgraduate degree also serves as a pathway to a Professional Doctorate or PhD.
Are you a social worker who’s looking to advance your counselling skills? The Master of Counselling Social Work will help you hone your counselling and therapy skills. As part of the course, you'll participate in interactive intensives and seminars that focus on building your knowledge and skills.
You’ll also learn contemporary counselling frameworks, gain advanced counselling skills and enhance your social work research knowledge. Examples of units that you’ll study include Family Inclusive Practice and Counselling Practice. You’ll also complete a capstone that includes a research project and a unit called Complex Practice Issues.
Who should study this course?
This course is ideal for social workers looking to advance their skills in counselling and therapy. As it’s offered part-time and combines online delivery with intensives, it’s suitable for those that require a flexible delivery option that fits around their personal and professional commitments.
Eligibility criteria
To be eligible for this course, you must:
- Hold a completed University of New South Wales Bachelor of Social Work (Honours) degree or equivalent qualification
- Be eligible for membership with the AASW
- Have at least one year of counselling, case management or other direct social work practice experience
- Be currently employed in a role that provides counselling, case management or other direct social work practice with clients
Course intake month in 2026: February
Course duration: Two years part-time
Estimated full-fee cost: $33,500
Estimated total fee with a CSP: $17,500
Chat to our Education Consultant
Book a free call with our Education Consultant, Catriona. She can provide personalised advice and recommend a suitable social work course and university based on your goals and lifestyle. Have questions about CSPs or need further clarification? She can help with that, too.
