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A female counsellor sitting on a chair with a clipboard, facing a couple with a child sitting on the man's lap | Master of Social Work (Qualifying)

Master of Social Work (Qualifying)

Master of Social Work (Qualifying)

  • Professionally accredited postgraduate studies
  • Experiential learning opportunities
  • Upskill & expand your knowledge
  • Shape your identity in the field
Master of Social Work (Qualifying)
Duration
2 Years Full Time
Master
CRICOS Code: 082661F
Australian Qualification Framework: 9
Available at
Adelaide^, Melbourne, Sydney
^Adelaide is available from Trimester 4, 2024.
Study modes
Industry work placement
1,000 hours
Entry requirements
Fees
FEE-HELP Available
Start dates

Be intrigued by the human mind

Overview

What to expect when studying a Master of Social Work (Qualifying) with ACAP

 

If you’re a passionate Human and Community Services professional seeking a postgraduate degree in social work, this is the ideal next step in your career. ACAP’s Master of Social Work (Qualifying) delivers a comprehensive understanding of the reasons behind human thoughts and behaviour, as well as the essential skills and knowledge to enhance your role as a Social Worker.

 

Throughout your degree, you’ll study social work as a profession, including its history, ethics and key influences. Informed by principles of social justice and human rights, you will develop an understanding of the social work practice methods required to work effectively and ethically with a wide range of service users in diverse contexts.

 

The Master of Social Work (Qualifying) program will see you strengthen your skills in critical thinking and analysis, anti-oppressive practice, community empowerment, systemic advocacy, cultural sensitivity, and social research. You will also have the opportunity to integrate your classroom learning with professional practice through placement opportunities and supervision, totalling 1000 hours of practical work experience.

 

This is an Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) accredited qualification. It is an entry qualification into the social work profession and meets the Australian Social Work Education and Accreditation Standards (ASWEAS). The accrediting body may have additional requirements, including minimum English language, to meet professional social work accreditation standards. For more information on meeting these requirements, visit aasw.asn.au. It is a condition of progression in the Master of Social Work (Qualifying) that students complete a national police record check in their first trimester of enrolment.

 

The Navitas Professional Institute (NPI) has also accredited the Master of Social Work (Qualifying) course under its self-accrediting authority.

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NEW STUDY INTAKE | NOVEMBER 2024

To meet the increasing demand for ACAP’s postgraduate social work courses, new students will be able to commence studies in ‘Trimester 4’ at the University College’s Melbourne and Adelaide campuses.

Students in this new intake will jump-start their studies from 4 November 2024 with an intensive six-week trimester, concluding before Christmas.

The courses will continue with regular academic timelines from Trimester 1 (February 2025), setting you up for early graduation.

PLUS, scholarships are on offer for eligible new students!

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Potential Careers

Once you graduate from the Master of Social Work (Qualifying), you will open doors to a range of possible career opportunities. Listed below are a few typical roles you could consider.

  • Health Care Social Worker
  • Community-based Social Worker
  • Child Protection Worker
  • Aged Care Assessment Advisor

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN

By combining expertise in human behaviour with a focus on applied knowledge and practical experience, the Master of Social Work (Qualifying) equips you with the necessary tools to make a meaningful impact in the field of social work.

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Social Policy and Practice

Gain insights into the policies and frameworks that shape social work practice and learn how to navigate and influence social policies to promote social justice and equality.

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Critical Theories and Skills

Develop critical thinking skills and engage with various theoretical perspectives to analyse and address social issues, while enhancing your ability to advocate for marginalised populations.

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Fields of Practice

Explore different fields of social work practice, such as healthcare, child welfare, mental health, and community development. Acquire specialised knowledge and skills to work effectively within these specific areas.

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Individuals and Families

Study the dynamics of individuals and families within a social work context, including assessment, intervention, and support strategies to enhance their wellbeing and promote positive change.

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Group, Teamwork and Organisational Learning

Learn how to facilitate group processes, collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, and navigate organisational structures. Enhance your skills in teamwork, leadership, and organisational development.

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Field Education

Engage in practical, hands-on learning through field placements, where you will apply your knowledge and skills in real-world settings. These placements provide valuable opportunities for experiential learning and professional development.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

for the Master of Social Work (Qualifying)

TAKE THE FIRST STEP

Whether you’re ready to apply, or just want to learn more about a Master of Social Work, (Qualifying) we can help.

WHY CHOOSE THE MASTER OF SOCIAL WORK (QUALIFYING) AT ACAP

Pursuing a Master of Social Work (Qualifying) combines theoretical depth and practical application, designed for impactful careers in social work. ACAP prepares students with a comprehensive understanding of social work principles, equipping them with professional skills and values.

Professionally accredited courses
Industry-specific accreditations ensure our course content is relevant to your career
Graduate industry-ready
Gain industry experience and establish contacts through professional placement opportunities
Learn now, pay later
Study minus the financial stress with FEE-HELP
Personalised and supportive
Benefit from a personal learning experience and dedicated support
Learn from experts
You'll be taught by academics with relevant industry experience

Course structure

The Master of Social Work (Qualifying) course is comprised of 12 units, which are level 600 units. To find out unit delivery information view the relevant Yearly Planner.

The course duration is 2 years full time or part time equivalent. For more information on the recommended course sequence click here.

View unit descriptions

WHAT OUR ALUMNI SAY ABOUT ACAP

Kalpana - Girl smiling
As an international student, I was overwhelmed when I first started at ACAP but the support from staff made the academic journey comfortable. The practical learning environment with continuous support has unquestionably made me well equipped to develop my career in social work. Kalpana, Master of Social Work (Qualifying)
Kripa
Learning and understanding the social issues helped me choose social science as my career path. Ultimately, I would like to explore domestic violence and mental health issues. The ACAP team are helping me achieve my goal by making me more confident in understanding lectures and submitting assignments. Kripa, Master of Social Work (Qualifying)
Michal-Mary, Bachelor of Counselling
I have seen how far I have come since starting at ACAP. I have relished every moment in class and studying. Michael-Mary, Master of Social Work (Qualifying)
Asian woman with hair down , blue jumper and necklace
The lecturers really value your participation, and the smaller classes give a more personalised experience. Josephine, Master of Social Work (Qualifying)

Apply or find out more

Book a call back and one of our ACAP Course Advisors will be in touch. Ask questions about your funding options, delivery modes and whether full-time or part-time study suits your commitments.
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