Graduate Diploma in Advanced Social Work

About the course

The Graduate Diploma in Advanced Social Work involves two compulsory units and a choice from a range of other advanced social work units, depending on availability. The course is open to social work graduates with a minimum of two years' experience as a professional social worker. Areas available for study include family-based practice, community and statutory practice, gender and cultural issues, issues of disability, as well as management. The Graduate Diploma in Advanced Social Work is a one-year full-time course, or up to four years part time.

Course details

• Status: Available
• Locations: Perth (Crawley campus)
• Attendance: Full-time, Part-time
• Delivery: On-campus
• Starting dates: Semester 1, Semester 2
• Weekly contact time: The estimated time commitment for a standard full-time enrolment is approximately 46 hours per week (over 13 weeks) which includes contact hours, personal study and examinations.
• Level of study: Postgraduate
• Course Code: 10370
• CRICOS code: F
• Full time/part time duration: 1 year
• Degrees course is available in: Graduate Diploma in Advanced Social Work

Course structure

Postgraduate coursework degrees and combined (coursework and research) degrees comprise a number of units. Refer to the course structure for more information.

Core

• Take all units (12 points):
  • SWSP5601 Theory for Practice (6)
  • SWSP5602 Research Methods (6)

Option - Group A

• Take unit(s) to the value of 36 points:
  • SWSP5605 Advanced Community Practice (6)
  • SWSP5607 Professional Supervision (6)
  • SWSP5608 Group Work (6)
  • SWSP5611 Indigenous Policy and Practice (6)
  • SWSP5613 Health and Human Development (6)
  • SWSP5614 Theory and Practice: Mental Health (6)
  • SWSP5615 Advanced Statutory Practice: Mental Health (6)
  • SWSP5616 Mental Health Policy and Practice (6)
  • SWSP5617 Family-Centred Practice: Mental Health (6)
  • SWSP5618 Cultural and organisational contexts of child protection (6)
  • SWSP5619 Theory and Practice: Child Protection (6)
  • SWSP5620 Advanced Child Protection Practice (6)
  • SWSP5621 Child, family and community-centred child protection practice (6)

Admission requirements

To be considered for admission to this course an applicant must have—

(a) a relevant bachelor's degree or graduate certificate1, or an equivalent qualification, as recognised by UWA; and (b) at least two years of experience as a professionally qualified social worker.

1A relevant graduate certificate includes a Graduate Certificate in Social Work, Graduate Certificate in Child Protection Practice, and Graduate Certificate in Mental Health Practice.

Ranking and Selection Process

Where relevant, admission will be awarded to the highest ranked applicants or applicants selected based on the relevant requirements.

English competency

English is the language of instruction and assessment at UWA and you will need to meet the English language requirements of the University to be eligible for a place.

Minimum overall IELTS score of 6.5, with no band less than 6.0.

Fees and scholarships

Domestic Student Fees

Annual course fee

2025

Full-Fee Paying Place $21,700.00

For Full-Fee Paying places, students are charged an annual course fee, charged per credit point at a rate dependent on the course in which the student is enrolled. Annual course fees are calculated based on a standard annual study load of 48 credit points (1.0 EFTSL).

Check the handbook to confirm the annual study load for your course.

Visit the Fee Calculator and select your course type to find out more. Fees are subject to annual indexation.

More information on how fees are calculated.

Scholarships

Scholarships are available to students from a diverse range of backgrounds, including academic achievement, financial need, educational disadvantage, leadership and community service, artistic or sporting achievements, and being from a rural or remote area.

Search Scholarships

Cost of living

There are a few things to consider before applying to study at university. One could be your cost of living. This can depend on factors such as lifestyle, accommodation, tuition fees, medical insurance, textbooks and more. For an indication of expenses and average costs, see our Cost of living page.

International Student Fees

Annual course fee

2025

$40,700.00

Onshore international students are charged an annual course fee, charged per credit point at a rate dependent on the course in which the student is enrolled. Annual course fees are calculated based on an annual study load.

Find out more about international student tuition fees and visit the fee calculator for the relevant course fees.

Fees are subject to annual indexation.

Careers and further study

Explore the career opportunities available to you.

Career Pathways

This course will provide skills, expertise, knowledge and understanding, which will assist you in taking the next step in your career.

Further Study

Master of Advanced Social Work, Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Postgraduate study at UWA

Master of Advanced Social Work

Hone your professional skills with a high level degree in social work.

The University of Western Australia

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Overview:

The University of Western Australia (UWA) is a leading research-intensive university located in Perth, Western Australia. It is renowned for its high-quality teaching, strong research output, and commitment to graduate employability. UWA is consistently ranked among the top 100 universities globally and is the number one university in Western Australia for graduate employability.

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Services Offered:

UWA offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Academic support:

Tutoring, workshops, and study skills resources.

Career services:

Career counselling, job search assistance, and internship opportunities.

Student wellbeing:

Mental health support, counselling, and health services.

Accommodation:

On-campus and off-campus housing options.

Sports and fitness:

Access to state-of-the-art facilities and a variety of sports clubs.

Clubs and societies:

A vibrant student community with numerous clubs and societies catering to diverse interests.

Study abroad and exchange:

Opportunities to study at universities around the world.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

UWA provides a dynamic and engaging campus experience for its students. The university boasts a beautiful campus with modern facilities, green spaces, and a strong sense of community. Students can participate in a wide range of activities, including:

Social events:

Concerts, festivals, and other social gatherings.

Sporting events:

Supporting the university's sports teams.

Volunteer opportunities:

Contributing to the local community.

Cultural events:

Art exhibitions, theatre performances, and music concerts.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

World-class education:

UWA offers a high-quality education with a focus on research and innovation.

Excellent employability:

Graduates from UWA are highly sought after by employers.

Vibrant campus life:

A diverse and engaging student community with numerous opportunities for personal and professional development.

Beautiful campus:

A picturesque campus with modern facilities and green spaces.

Strong research focus:

UWA is a leading research university with a strong commitment to innovation.

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Academic Programs:

UWA offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:

Arts and Humanities:

History, Literature, Philosophy, Languages, and more.

Science and Engineering:

Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Engineering, and more.

Business and Economics:

Accounting, Finance, Marketing, Economics, and more.

Health Sciences:

Medicine, Dentistry, Nursing, Pharmacy, and more.

Law:

Juris Doctor, Bachelor of Laws, and other law programs.

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Other:

UWA is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive campus community. The university has a strong focus on Indigenous education and research, and offers a range of programs and support services for Indigenous students. UWA also has a strong international presence, with students from over 100 countries studying at the university.