AUSTRALIAN CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY · AUSTRALIA
Bachelor of Social Work
Bachelor's · Taught in en · UCAS 103202
At a glance
48 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Bachelor's
Level
- 4 yearsDuration
- 1000 hoursSupervised Field Education
- AASW accreditedProfessional Recognition
- Optional HonoursEmbedded Program
- Canberra, StrathfieldCampus Locations
The Bachelor of Social Work at Australian Catholic University (ACU) is designed for students passionate about human rights, social justice, and making a positive impact on people's lives. As a social worker, you will address critical challenges such as inequality, discrimination, and violence, working to improve individual and community wellbeing. This four-year full-time program includes an embedded Honours program for high-achieving students, starting from the third year. This degree equips you with the skills and knowledge to address complex social issues and advocate for vulnerable populations. You will engage with diverse communities and develop a deep understanding of the factors that influence human wellbeing. The program incorporates extensive practical experience to prepare you for a rewarding career in social work.
Curriculum
The Bachelor of Social Work requires the completion of 320 credit points. The curriculum integrates foundational psychology and sociology with core social work theories and practice skills, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the profession. An embedded honours program is available from the third year for high-achieving students.
- Year 1
- Foundations of PsychologyPSYC100
- Introduction to SociologySOCS100
- Indigenous Health and CultureHLSC120
- Purpose and Context of Social Work and Human ServicesSWTP108
- Professional Communication Skills in Social WorkSWTP110
- Global Society and ChangeSOCS101
- Human Rights and Social Justice in Social Work and Human ServicesSWTP109
- Core Curriculum Unit 1
- Year 2
- Life Span DevelopmentPSYC200
- Ethics and Theories in Social WorkSWTP215
- Social Work Skills in Practice with IndividualsSWTP216
- Race and Identity: Anti-Racist Social Work PracticeSWTP213
- Social Work with Children, Youth and FamiliesSWTP218
- Social Work Practice Skills with GroupsSWTP221
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and Social Work PracticeSWTP238
- Mental Health and Social WorkSWTP237
- Year 3
- Social Work Field Education 1SWTP333
- Research in Social WorkSWTP320
- Social Work Practice Skills with CommunitiesSWTP335
- Fields of Practice A: Domestic and Family ViolenceSWTP322
- Core Curriculum Unit 2
- Law and Social WorkSWTP339
- Year 4
- Social Policy and Social WorkSWTP415
- Fields of Practice B: Ageing and DisabilitySWTP422
- Advanced Practice Skills in Social WorkSWTP425
- Collaborative and Interdisciplinary Social Work Practice in OrganisationsSWTP417
- Social Work Field Education 2SWTP444
- Fields of Practice C: Child ProtectionSWTP434
Careers
Graduates of the Bachelor of Social Work program are well-prepared for a diverse range of roles within the social work and human services sectors. The comprehensive curriculum and extensive practical experience ensure you develop the skills needed to make a real difference in communities and individuals' lives.
- Community Development Officer
- Group Worker
- Mental Health Social Worker
- Hospital Social Worker
- Child Protection Officer
- Family Support Worker
- Case Manager
- Policy Analyst
- Policy Developer
- Researcher
- Social Action Advocate
- Program Planner
- Community Welfare Officer
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition fees for the Bachelor of Social Work programme for international students?
- International tuition fees are indicative and quoted in Australian dollars. Fees are based on a full-time study load. Additional fees may include the Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF).
- How long does the Bachelor of Social Work programme take to complete?
- The Bachelor of Social Work is a four-year full-time program.
- What are the entry requirements for international students?
- International students need to check the ACU website for specific academic and English language requirements. Supporting documents like academic transcripts and proof of English proficiency are necessary.
- What are the career prospects after graduating from this programme?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as Community Development Officer, Mental Health Social Worker, Child Protection Officer, and Policy Analyst within the social work and human services sectors.
- Does the programme include practical experience or placements?
- Yes, the program includes 1000 hours of supervised field education, providing hands-on experience in social work settings.
- When are the application deadlines for the Bachelor of Social Work?
- Applications for the March 2026 intake open in August 2026. Please check the ACU website for exact closing dates.
Fees
Tuition (international)—
Tuition (home)A$13,464 (Commonwealth Supported Place) per year. Note: Domestic students may be eligible for the Commonwealth Prac Payment.
Living—
All international tuition fees are quoted in Australian dollars and are indicative for students commencing in the academic year. Fees are based on a full-time study load. If you extend your course duration, your fees will increase to the new rates. Additional fees may include the Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF). Enrolment may be deferred, suspended, or cancelled if fees are not paid by the due date or other conditions are breached, with financial consequences potentially applying.
How to apply
1. Choose your course and campusIdentify the Bachelor of Social Work and your preferred campus (Canberra or Strathfield).
2. Check entry requirementsReview both academic and English language requirements for international students.
3. Gather supporting documentsPrepare all necessary documents, such as academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, and identification.
4. Submit your applicationFor domestic students, apply via UAC. International students should check the ACU website for specific application procedures, which usually involve direct application or through an agent.
5. Receive an offerIf successful, you will receive an offer of admission.
6. Accept your offer and enrolFollow the instructions to accept your offer, pay your initial fees, and enrol in your units.
Scholarships
Commonwealth Prac Payment (CPP)$331.65 per week
Accreditation
The Bachelor of Social Work degree is an Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW)-accredited qualification. It meets the Australian Social Work Education and Accreditation Standards (ASWEAS), making graduates eligible for membership of the AASW.
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for the Bachelor of Social Work programme for international students?
+
International tuition fees are indicative and quoted in Australian dollars. Fees are based on a full-time study load. Additional fees may include the Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF).
How long does the Bachelor of Social Work programme take to complete?
+
The Bachelor of Social Work is a four-year full-time program.
What are the entry requirements for international students?
+
International students need to check the ACU website for specific academic and English language requirements. Supporting documents like academic transcripts and proof of English proficiency are necessary.
What are the career prospects after graduating from this programme?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as Community Development Officer, Mental Health Social Worker, Child Protection Officer, and Policy Analyst within the social work and human services sectors.
Does the programme include practical experience or placements?
+
Yes, the program includes 1000 hours of supervised field education, providing hands-on experience in social work settings.
When are the application deadlines for the Bachelor of Social Work?
+
Applications for the March 2026 intake open in August 2026. Please check the ACU website for exact closing dates.