ObjectivesCSU’s Master of Social Work (Professional Qualifying) is a postgraduate social work program studied by distance education that will lead to professional accreditation with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW).
Academic titleMaster of Social Work (Professional Qualifying)
Course descriptionAbout the course
The Master of Social Work (Professional Qualifying) aims to produce graduates who are committed to advancing social justice and human rights. This course has both Commonwealth supported and fee paying places.
Upon completion of the course, graduates will be able to:
* critically assess key aspects of Australian society, including its history and its social, political and economic arrangements, as they relate to the profession of social work
* analyse behaviours of individual groups, communities and organisations
* demonstrate competence in the theories and practice of social work engagement, assessment, intervention and evaluation with individuals, groups, communities and organisations and social policy analysis
* employ professional methods of intervention and practice skills in a variety of human service and social work settings
* demonstrate an understanding of the contexts of social work practice at local, national and international levels
* exercise skills of critical thinking, reflection and judgement
* recognise, think through and reflect upon ethical issues arising in practice including the AASW Code of Ethics
* articulate the principles of social justice, human rights and non-oppressive practice that inform professional social work and apply these in practice
* demonstrate commitment to personal and professional self-development.
Residential school
This course includes four one week residential schools.
The residential schools will involve the students in interactive experiential learning of basic skills in a safe environment. They will provide specific lectures and opportunities for discussion and clarification of key concepts and processes. There will be individual and group activities to ensure that students have a clear understanding of the assessment process in preparation for their first practicum.
Practicum program
Students are required to complete a total of 140 days (980 hours) of field education under the supervision of a qualified social worker. The 140 days are divided into two subjects, with flexible arrangements of placement days in each. Learning objectives are based on the formulation of a detailed learning plan which is individually negotiated by the student, supervisor and CSU staff. There are a minimum of three liaison contacts with CSU staff including one on-site visit from a CSU staff person or their representative.