Master of Social Work (Qualifying)
Overview
If you want to make a difference and become an advocate for change CQU's innovative Master of Social Work (Qualifying) provides a unique opportunity to engage with cutting‑edge teaching methods and transformative learning experiences.
Elevate your career with the Master of Social Work (Qualifying). This program is designed to cultivate highly skilled, ethical, and competent social work practitioners ready to make a positive impact in diverse communities. Integrating theory and hands-on practice will give you the advanced knowledge required for effective social work in complex, real-world settings.
As a student, you will develop critical thinking and a deep understanding of social justice, diversity, and ethical practice. The course emphasises the importance of research-driven approaches and encourages creativity and initiative, particularly during field education placements. You'll explore key issues such as the influence of the environment on health and well-being, the dynamics of social and structural inequality, and the different approaches to understanding disability, trauma, and mental health.
Graduates will be equipped with versatile skills to work with individuals, families and communities, promoting social change and addressing injustice across various professional contexts. Upon completion, you’ll be eligible for membership with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW), opening doors to professional practice in Australia and beyond.
Career Opportunities
Graduates are well‑equipped for social work roles such as case manager, hospital social worker, family support worker, mental health social worker, child and family practitioner, community development practitioner, policy officer, and school social worker.
The health care and human services sector, a primary provider of new jobs in Australia, continues to grow, offering robust employment opportunities for our graduates.
Structure & Availability
The course structure and available locations can change depending on when you want to study. You can choose the intake that best suits you in the drop-down menu below.
Available Locations
Your Course
You must complete 12 units. (96 credits):
- 1The core structure (12 units)
Unit Details
The units you'll study are listed below. Click on a unit to learn more.
Additional Information
Social Work Field Education 1 - SOWK28005
Social Work Field Education 1 is the first work-integrated learning placement comprising 500 hours. The placement occurs in an agency approved by the University Field Education Coordinators and requires supervision from a qualified social worker. Field education may be organised in metropolitan, urban, regional, rural and remote areas. Students must complete all units in accordance with the prerequisites and undertake a successful interview with the Field Education Coordinator to determine placement readiness. Students must meet the inherent requirements for the course and successfully complete all necessary administrative/screening and legal obligations to undertake placement in organisational settings.
Social Work Field Education 2 - SOWK29007
Social Work Field Education 2 is the second work-integrated learning placement comprising 500 hours. The placement occurs in an agency approved by the University Field Education Coordinators and requires supervision from a qualified social worker. Field education may be organised in metropolitan, urban, regional, rural and remote areas. Students must complete all units in accordance with the pre-requisites and undertake a successful interview with the Field Education Coordinator to determine placement readiness. Students must meet the inherent requirements for the course and successfully complete all necessary administrative/screening and legal obligations to undertake placement in organisational settings.
Professional Practice - Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW)
Core
Completion of an accredited Master of Social Work (Qualifying) [MSW (Q)] course qualifies graduates to practice as professional social workers in Australia. This qualification opens up a range of career opportunities in various fields, including:
- Child Protection and Youth Work: Protecting and supporting at-risk children and adolescents.
- Mental Health Social Work: Providing counselling and support for individuals with mental health challenges.
- Family Violence and Advocacy: Assisting survivors of domestic and family violence and advocating for systemic change.
- Disability and Aged Care Services: Supporting individuals with disabilities and elderly populations through advocacy and tailored support programs.
- Hospital Social Work: Assisting patients and families in adjusting to injury, illness, or changing health needs.
- Public Service and Policy: Engaging in social services and policy roles to influence social policies and promote social justice.
- Nonprofit and Community Services: Working in community development, crisis work, counselling, refugee assistance, and housing services.
Social work is one of Australia's fastest-growing professions, with high demand across various sectors, including health and social services, public service, nonprofit organisations, and private practice. The MSW (Q) program also provides pathways for roles in research, policy development, and academia.
If you have already completed a study relevant to the course you have enrolled in, you may be eligible for credit transfer.
Requirements
To Be Eligible
For your application to be considered, you must meet the following entry requirements.
During Your Study
While not needed to apply, you'll need to meet the following requirements throughout your studies.
Fees & Scholarships
Course Fees
This is an approximate cost of enrolling in this course, shown in Australian dollars (A$), for one academic year and is based on a full-time study load (8 units over 2 terms).
Your actual fees may vary, depending on the units that you select to study and your study load. Fees are reviewed each year and are subject to change.
A scholarship can help with the costs involved with living on campus, laptops and technology, childcare, study and living expenses, travel, and more.
You may be eligible for up to 25% international scholarship funded by the University.
We also offer other scholarships to support international students and encourage you to apply for the one that's right for you.
In addition to your international course tuition fees, you must have sufficient funds to cover other study and living expenses.
This will include costs such as textbooks, accommodation, visa applications, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), general living, etc.
How to Apply
Our easy to use online application system for international students will guide you through the process of applying for a course at CQUniversity Australia.
