Train to become a social worker in Australia

The Master of Social Work (Professional Qualifying) is designed for you if you have already completed a three-year degree at a recognised university and want to gain a professional qualification in social work. It allows you to train and qualify as a social worker in just two years, rather than the four usually required to complete a social work degree in Australia.

This course suits a wide range of students, including people seeking a career change, those who want to upgrade their qualifications, and recent graduates who want to obtain a professional social work qualification to complement their general undergraduate degree (for example, in arts, education, health science, behavioural science, or nursing).

The course aims to provide graduates with knowledge and skill for professional practice in contemporary social work and human services and with a strong commitment to social justice and human rights.

Practical placements

In order to meet the standards required by the Australian Association of Social Workers for accreditation, Master of Social Work students undertake a professionally supervised, agency-based field placement of 490 hours in both year 1 and year 2 of the course. These placements take place in Semester 2 (July – November) each year.

Professional recognition

The professional qualifying Master of Social Work is structured in accordance with Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) Accreditation and Education Standards 2010. Graduates from the MSW will be eligible for membership of the AASW which is a requirement for the employment of professional social workers in Australia and overseas.

Programme details

Duration: 2 years

Starts: Semester 1 (February)

Location: Hobart or Launceston campuses

Minimum entry requirements: Completed bachelor degree or equivalent in a subject other than in social work from a recognised university in a related field such as nursing, education, arts (with relevant units), behavioural studies, political science or social science; OR, a bachelor degree in a non-related field within which there are at least 4 x 12.5% units (or equivalent) which reflect a combination of study areas relating to studies of society and studies of the individual.

Annual tuition fees: Approx AU$23,000

Scholarships

Scholarships are available at the University of Tasmania. For more information please click here.

Visas

Once you have successfully completed this course there are options for you to stay in Australia and work. Please see this page for more information. If you study a Masters course in Australia your partner is able to work full time as a dependant on your student visa. Find out more here.