Sociology in Australia
Australia offers 15 Sociology programmes across 9 universities at various degree levels. La Trobe University, Australian Catholic University, Curtin University, Federation University Australia, the University of the Sunshine Coast, and Edith Cowan University are among the institutions providing sociology study in the country.
Tuition for international students is approximately €18,434 per year across these programmes. Australian sociology programmes examine social structures, inequality, culture, and social change, and graduates pursue careers in social research, policy, community services, and related fields.
Bachelor of Arts (Anthropology and Sociology Major)
This Bachelor of Arts degree at Curtin University offers a combined major in Anthropology and Sociology. It is designed for students interested in understanding human societies, cultures, and their development from both anthropological and sociological perspectives. The program encourages interdisciplinary study, allowing students to explore the complexities of social life, cultural practices, and societal structures. Through this major, you will gain insights into diverse human experiences, social behaviors, and the forces that shape communities. The curriculum covers a range of topics relevant to both fields, preparing graduates for a variety of career paths where an understanding of social dynamics and cultural contexts is crucial. The Faculty of Humanities administers this program, ensuring a strong foundation in social sciences.
Bachelor of Social Work
Bachelor of Social Work
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.
Bachelor of Social Work
Bachelor of Social Work
This Bachelor of Social Work program equips you with the professional and relational skills needed for a career dedicated to social justice, equality, and human rights. You will learn to support individuals and communities, focusing on improving overall wellbeing, particularly for vulnerable populations. Graduates are prepared for diverse roles in areas such as mental health, community development, child protection, and social research, making a tangible difference in society.
Bachelor of Social Work
This program equips you with the knowledge and skills to make a significant difference in communities. You will learn to assess the social needs of individuals, families, and groups, empower people to develop essential skills, and advocate for human rights and social justice. A career in social work or community services offers a rewarding path for those committed to improving the lives of vulnerable populations and fostering social well-being.
Bachelor of Social Work (Honours)
Department of Social Inquiry Programs
The Department of Social Inquiry at La Trobe University focuses on critical issues of social inequality, social justice, and cultural change, both in Australia and internationally. Building on a history of addressing these themes, the Department aims to produce graduates and research that significantly contribute to understanding and addressing societal challenges. Students learn from experienced researchers and educators who integrate theory with practical application, exploring contemporary issues in real-world contexts. The Department is committed to fostering a passion for making a difference, supporting students to achieve their academic and career goals through education and research.
Master of Social Work
La Trobe's Master of Social Work program equips you with the skills and knowledge to transform a passion for social justice into a rewarding career. Whether you are advancing in your current profession or starting a new path, this degree will provide hands-on expertise to support individuals and communities in need. You will learn from leading academics who are specialists in fields such as addiction, mental health, child and family welfare, and disability. The curriculum covers essential areas like human rights, law and ethics in social work, social policy analysis and advocacy, working with individuals, families, and groups, and program design and evaluation. The program is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) as a Level 9 Master's Degree.
Master of Social Work (Professional Qualifying)
This accredited Master of Social Work (Professional Qualifying) is designed for individuals with a background in social sciences, social welfare, psychology, or related fields. It equips you with the essential skills, knowledge, and ethical values needed to become a proficient social work practitioner. The curriculum delves into critical areas such as child protection, social policy and law, mental health, and health issues affecting Indigenous communities, alongside developing leadership skills in social work organisations. A significant component of the program involves supervised practice through work placements. Graduates will be prepared for professional social work roles in Australia and may have opportunities for international employment. Important Note: All students, regardless of study mode (on-campus or online), are required to complete a minimum of 150 hours (approximately 20 days) of on-campus learning over the course of the program. This is a mandatory requirement set by the Australian Social Work Education and Accreditation Standards (ASWEAS) and is fulfilled through compulsory residential schools held at the Gold Coast campus. This course also involves travel for mandatory placements; please review the placement information carefully.
Master of Social Work (Professional Qualifying)
This Master of Social Work (Professional Qualifying) program equips you with the essential skills to improve the lives of individuals, families, groups, and communities. It is professionally accredited by the Australian Association of Social Workers and designed to provide practical experience in social work practice and welfare agencies, both in Australia and internationally. You will gain expertise in addressing complex challenges with a focus on global and contemporary Australian issues, including those of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The course offers flexible study options, allowing you to work while you learn.
Master of Social Work (Qualifying)
This Master of Social Work (Qualifying) program is designed to prepare you for a career advocating for social justice and human rights. You will gain the skills to support individuals, families, and communities, with a focus on a strengths-based approach for a sustainable future. The course is suitable for new graduates, those seeking a career change, or experienced professionals looking to advance. Graduates will be qualified to work in various human and community service settings, including government bodies, non-government organisations, and health services, addressing issues related to migration, substance abuse, mental health, palliative care, child protection, and youth services.
Master of Social Work (Qualifying)
The Master of Social Work (Qualifying) program at Australian Catholic University (ACU) is designed for graduates from other disciplines who wish to become qualified social workers. This intensive two-year full-time program, or equivalent part-time study, provides the necessary theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and ethical understanding required for professional social work practice. Graduates will be equipped to work effectively with individuals, families, groups, and communities across diverse settings. The curriculum integrates core social work theories with extensive practice education, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience. Students will engage with contemporary issues in social policy, mental health, and Indigenous and cultural studies, preparing them for a dynamic and rewarding career in social justice and human services. The program focuses on developing critical thinking, research skills, and an ethical approach to practice. The program is offered at ACU's Canberra and Strathfield campuses. Upon successful completion, students will have completed 160 credit points, including a significant practice education component, making them eligible for professional accreditation as social workers.
Master of Social Work (Qualifying)
The Master of Social Work (Qualifying) program is designed to equip you with advanced skills and knowledge to address societal inequalities and advocate for those experiencing marginalisation. This professionally accredited degree focuses on developing critical reflection, analytical practice, and innovative approaches to social action, community development, policy analysis, and research. You will integrate theoretical learning with practical experience through extensive workplace placements in diverse fields such as health, mental health, child protection, disability, and family support.
Master of Social Work (Qualifying)
This Master of Social Work (Qualifying) degree is designed for individuals passionate about social justice, equality, and human rights. You will gain the knowledge and practical skills necessary to become a professional social work practitioner, capable of working with diverse individuals and communities to improve societal well-being, particularly for vulnerable populations. The program is delivered by experienced staff and includes a significant component of supervised fieldwork placements to ensure you are well-prepared for practice in Australia and internationally. ECU is recognized for its excellent student experience, ranking highly among public universities in Western Australia.
Frequently asked questions
How much does Sociology study cost in Australia?
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Tuition is approximately €18,434 per year for international students across these programmes.
Which universities offer Sociology programmes in Australia?
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Among the 9 universities are La Trobe University, Australian Catholic University, Curtin University, Federation University Australia, the University of the Sunshine Coast, and Edith Cowan University.
Can international students apply to Sociology programmes in Australia?
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Yes, Australian universities welcome international students; you will need to meet English-language requirements and hold a valid student visa.
What are typical entry requirements for Sociology in Australia?
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For undergraduate entry, a completed Year 12 or equivalent is required; postgraduate sociology programmes typically require a relevant bachelor's degree with a satisfactory GPA.
How do I apply for Sociology programmes in Australia?
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Apply directly through each university's admissions portal; intakes are generally in February and July, and international students should apply several months in advance.