Bachelor of Social Work

Institution Australian Catholic University Strathfield Campus
Method On Campus
Location Strathfield
Type Bachelor
Course fee By request
Comments Available at the Sydney (Strathfield), Brisbane and Canberra Campuses

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Bachelor of Social Work

Objectives The Bachelor of Social Work course provides an education in social work that is informed by a critical understanding of the social science disciplines and that is oriented to the professional values and practices in the social work profession. This course educates social workers according to the standards set by the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW).
Practical experience Field Placement Field Placement is a core element and a major part of a student's development of a professional identity. It provides an opportunity for students to observe, question and model social work behaviour and to translate Social Work Theory into practice, and to apply knowledge drawn from other subjects. In order to meet the requirements of the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) students must complete 980 hours of supervised field education. This is undertaken in 2 placements in approved agencies. Each placement is normally of 14–20 weeks duration.
Entry requirements Prerequisites 1. a recognised Bachelor's degree; or 2. two-thirds of a recognised Bachelor's degree (which includes foundational studies in psychology and sociology or equivalent); and 3. applicants may be required to attend an interview.
Academic title Bachelor of Social Work
Course description The Bachelor of Social Work course provides a broad, contextual professional education, based on the analysis of social processes and human behaviour.

This professional education will inform professional practice in its purpose of:

   1. protecting vulnerable members of society;
   2. empowering individuals to determine and change the conditions in which they live;
   3. facilitating the participation of individuals, families, groups and communities in the decisions affecting their lives;
   4. helping change social institutions and policies which constrain development;
   5. contributing to a more equitable distribution of resources in society.

This course is designed for students who already have a three-year degree or its equivalent, or who have successfully completed two–thirds of a recognised degree.

Study Program

During the two – year period the annual arrangement of the teaching and field placement is as follows:

   1. Semester 1: 12 teaching weeks plus study and examination weeks;
   2. Winter Semester: a two-week intensive;
   3. Semester 2: Field preparation classes followed by a unit taught one day a week concurrently with field placement for 10-12 weeks. Field Placement includes class integration sessions held one half day per fortnight on campus.

Professional Recognition

The Bachelor of Social Work degree is a nationally recognised award. The course was developed in close consultation with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) and has received full approval from the AASW. All graduates of the course are eligible for membership of the AASW.
Career Opportunities

    * Community organisations
    * Government and welfare agencies
    * Human services
    * Policy formation
    * Social administration
    * Social action
    * Program planning