Program Overview

Master of Social Work (Qualifying)

The Master of Social Work (Qualifying) is a professionally accredited, post-qualifying degree that enables students to effect meaningful change. This program advances students' skills and knowledge for a fairer world, addressing structural inequalities and ensuring people do not experience marginalization.

Program Overview

In this program, students will:

• Develop their skills as a critically reflective and analytical social work practitioner
• Build advanced innovative knowledge and skills required to undertake social action, community development, policy analysis and development, advocacy, and research
• Integrate classroom learning with practical workplace experience in a range of fields, including health and mental health, child protection, disability, substance abuse, family violence, homelessness, working with young people, families, the elderly, refugees, and Indigenous communities

Location and Duration

• Location: Sunshine Coast, Moreton Bay
• Duration: 2 years full-time or equivalent part-time

Indicative Fees

• Annual tuition fee (A$, 2026): A$30,500
• CSP estimate: A$11,502 - 2026 Fees

Career Outcomes

Career opportunities include:

• Aged care
• Child protection
• Community agencies
• Community development
• Family support
• Government organizations
• Health
• Human service management
• Income support
• Indigenous rights
• Mental health
• Private practice
• Refugee and migrant support
• Social work
• Youth work

Memberships

Graduates may be eligible to become members of the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW).

Accreditation

The Master of Social Work (Qualifying) is fully accredited by the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW).

Program Structure

The program consists of:

• Required courses (11) - 180 units
• Required courses from a specified list (1) - 12 units
  • Examples include:
    • BUS512 Introduction to Research Concepts and Design
    • SCS725 Advanced Social Research

Program Requirements

To graduate, students must:

• Successfully complete 192 units as outlined in the Program Structure
• Complete a minimum of 140 hours of face-to-face classroom-based learning
• Demonstrate professional skill competencies in classroom learning
• Complete 2 field education placements for a total of 1000 hours in different settings

Entry Requirements

• Applicants must hold a bachelors degree (or equivalent) that includes the equivalent of at least one year of full-time studies in social sciences
• English language requirements must be met
• Special selection criteria apply, including a Personal Statement form
• Post-admission requirements include a Blue Card and maintenance of eligibility throughout the program

Inherent Academic Requirements

Prospective students must consider the Inherent Academic Requirements before applying to study this program. These requirements include fundamental skills, capabilities, and knowledge necessary to achieve the essential learning outcomes of the program.

Fees and Scholarships

• Commonwealth supported places are available
• Fee-paying places are available, with the option to defer the cost of studies via a FEE-HELP loan
• International student fee information is available on the Tuition fees and other costs page

How to Apply

Domestic applicants apply for admission direct to UniSC. International students can find information on how to apply on the UniSC website.