Master of Social Work (Qualifying)
Master of Social Work (Qualifying)
Be the catalyst for change in the community. Progress your career in social work
Domestic Fees
Master of Social Work (Qualifying)
| Units x Cost 10 x $2,735 2 x $8,206 Indicative Total Annual Course Fees* (based on 1.0 EFTSL) $21,880 Year 1 $21,880 Year 2 Plus Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF) Indicative Total Course Fee* (based on 2.0 EFTSL) $43,762 AUD Plus Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF) * The Indicative Total Course Fee & Indicative Annual Course Fees reflects that students are charged fees on a per unit basis and the fee for a unit may increase. For more information view the ACAP Fees & Payments page. |
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International Fees
Master of Social Work (Qualifying)
| Units x Cost 10 x $3,670 2 x $11,021 Indicative Total Annual Course Fees* (based on 1.0 EFTSL) $29,360 Year 1 $29,360 Year 2 Plus Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF) Indicative Total Course Fee* (based on 2.0 EFTSL) $58,742 AUD Plus Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF) * The Indicative Total Course Fee & Indicative Annual Course Fees reflects that students are charged fees on a per unit basis and the fee for a unit may increase. For more information view the ACAP Fees & Payments page. |
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Be intrigued by the human mind
Overview
If you’re already working in the human and community services sector, love what you do and are looking for a postgraduate qualification in social work, this is your course. Our Master of Social Work (Qualifying) gives you a deep insight into why we think and act the way we do, and the skills and knowledge you need to develop your professional identity as a social worker.
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 accreditation standards. For more information on meeting those requirements visit aasw.asn.au. It is a condition of progression in this course that students complete a national police record check in their first trimester of enrolment.
This course has been accredited by TEQSA.
What you'll learn
Expertise in human behaviour forms the foundation of all our courses including our Master of Social Work (Qualifying).
EXPLORE WITH AN APPLIED FOCUS:
Social Policy and Practice
Critical Theories and Skills
Fields of Practice
Individuals and Families
Group, Teamwork and Organisational Learning
Field Education
Course structure
This course is comprised of 12 units, which are level 600 units.
The course duration is 2 years full time or part time equivalent. For more information on the recommended course sequence click here.
Level: Master
Credit Points: 6
Unit Description:
This unit introduces students to the social work profession, its history, philosophy, values, ethics, practices and key influences. Students gain an overview of the social work practice context, focusing on diverse fields of practice. Informed by principles of social justice and human rights, students will develop an understanding of the social work role and practice methods required to work effectively and ethically with a wide range of service users in diverse contexts.
Learning Outcomes:
On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
Learning and Teaching Process:
This unit is taught over 13 weeks and totals 3 student contact hours per week.
Students will participate in teaching and learning activities including:
a) Lectures and critical discussion
b) Tutorials and skill development activities
c) Online pre-learning activities
d) Online post-learning
Depending on the delivery mode, this unit’s content is delivered to students via
- A weekly 3 hour learning session [via Zoom or on-campus]. This three-hour workshop is comprised of didactic material delivered, interactive class learning, group discussion, readings, assessments and class activities.
In addition to timetabled contact hours, students are expect to do at least 6 hours of personal study each week to review lectures and read prescribed and recommended materials for this unit. The total individual workload of this unit will be around 9 hours (including teamwork, individual self-study and reading).
Learning and Teaching Approach:
- Learning is an active process – which involves both questioning and challenging.
- Learning is a shared process – where others’ thoughts and ideas are presented, critically analysed, exchanged and respected.
- Learning is a collaborative and empowering process for self and others.
- Learning is thoughtful and reflective.
- Learning requires integration with prior knowledge and other arenas of knowledge development in the program.
- Preparation for lectures and seminars and reading the recommended texts and references is essential.
The content of this unit has been designed to maximise both online and face-to-face learning to integrate the subject matter.
Students are expected to:
- Complete all activities
- Complete readings
- Complete all assessments
- Attend all classes
It is also recommended that students:
- Keep a record of new terminology that is introduced in this unit
- Keep a copy of assessments and other correspondence
- Make notes on unit content and readings
There will be learning activities linked to all lecture materials which are designed to encourage students to deliberate and reflect and to provide opportunities for further learning. The activities are designed to help students think through and practise the specific skills and general concepts presented in this unit as well as provide valuable learning opportunities.
Level: Master
Credit Points: 6
Unit Description:
This unit explores critical social work’s foundations in critical theory and the development of critical social work practice and approaches. It critiques historical and contemporary establishment social work approaches to address oppression and marginalisation and argues that only a critical approach can affect social change for human betterment.
Core skills imperative to a lifelong commitment to emancipatory social work practice are developed including critical thinking, critical and structural analysis, critical reflection and the use of critical theory to inform practice. A critical social work practice framework will be developed, informed by critical theory, critical social work approaches and principles of ethical social work practice. Understandings of the ‘self’, privilege, power, social location, oppression and disadvantage are explored including implications for practice.
The unit emphasises innovative, disruptive and creative practice solutions built on a foundation of critical thinking and structural analysis. Students are reoriented to new and innovative critical social work practice that draws on a rich history of collective action; linking experiences of oppression with emancipatory action for social change and social justice outcomes.
Learning Outcomes:
On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
Learning and Teaching Process:
This unit is taught over 13 weeks and totals 3 student contact hours per week.
Students will participate in teaching and learning activities including:
a) Lectures and critical discussion
b) Tutorials and skill development activities
c) Online pre-learning activities
d) Online post-learning
Depending on the delivery mode, this unit’s content is delivered to students via
- A weekly 3 hour learning session [via Zoom]. One hour will be didactive material delivered in lecture format. Two hours will be interactive class time, for discussion of the lecture, readings, assessments and class activities
In addition to timetabled contact hours, students are expected to do at least 6 hours of personal study each week to review lectures and read prescribed and recommended materials for this unit. The total individual workload of this unit will be around 9 hours (including teamwork, individual self-study and reading).
Level: Master
Credit Points: 6
Prerequisites: SWSP6003, SWSP6013
Unit Description:
This experiential unit introduces students to essential interpersonal and communication skills necessary for anti-oppressive social work practice. Students will explore professional and personal ethics and values, cultural sensitivity, interviewing and assessment skills necessary for effective and engaging social work practice. This subject sets the scene for the integration of theory with practice- a crucial part in becoming a professional and competent social work practitioner. It also provides necessary preparation for field placement.
Learning Outcomes:
On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
Learning and Teaching Process:
This unit is taught over 13 weeks and totals 3 student contact hours per week.
Students will participate in teaching and learning activities including:
a. Lectures and critical discussion
b. Tutorials and skill development activities
c. Online pre-learning activities
d. Online post-learning
Depending on the delivery mode, this unit’s content is delivered to students via
- A weekly 3-hour learning session [via Zoom or on-campus]. This three-hour workshop is comprised of didactive material delivered, interactive class learning, group discussion, readings, assessments and class activities.
In addition to timetabled contact hours, students are expected to do at least 6 hours of personal study each week to review lectures and read prescribed and recommended materials for this unit. The total individual workload of this unit will be around 9 hours (including teamwork, individual self-study and reading).
Level: Master
Credit Points: 6
Prerequisites: SWSP6003, SWSP6013
Unit Description:
This unit explores the complexity of practice faced by social workers engaged in individual and family work, with the aim to work towards effective outcomes to enhance the wellbeing of individuals and families. This unit teaches students how to develop and apply critical social work skills. Students will use anti-oppressive practice approaches, critical reflection and a strengths-based practice framework to examine and explore ethical dilemmas, cultural identity and power when working with individuals and families across different fields of practice.
Learning Outcomes:
On completion of this unit, students will be able to:
1. Critically apply strength-based and anti-oppressive approaches to practice with diverse individuals and families.
2. Analyse individual and family issues within social, cultural and political domains
3. Critically reflect upon ethical challenges relating to culture, gender, age and power that influence social work practice with families presenting with complex issues.
4. Appraise and apply professional social work practice skills in work to with diverse individuals and families.
Learning and Teaching Process:
This unit is taught over 13 weeks and totals 3 student contact hours per week.
Students will participate in teaching and learning activities including:
a) Lectures and critical discussion
b) Tutorials and skill development activities
c) Online pre-learning activities
d) Online post-learning
Depending on the delivery mode, this unit’s content is delivered to students via
- A weekly 3 hour learning session [via Zoom]. One hour will be didactive material delivered in lecture format. Two hours will be interactive class time, for discussion of the lecture, readings, assessments and class activities.
In addition to timetabled contact hours, students are expected to do at least 6 hours of personal study each week to review lectures and read prescribed and recommended materials for this unit. The total individual workload of this unit will be around 9 hours (including teamwork, individual self-study and reading).
Readings
Recommended Text
- The required text book for this unit can be found by viewing the textbook list by selecting the course and trimester at the following: link
Recommended Readings
- Refer to the readings list located on the online class space.
Journals
- Australian Social Work
- ADVANCES: Journal of Social Work and Welfare Education
- Australian Journal of Social Issues
- Critical Social Work
- Journal of Social Work Education (USA)
- Journal of Social Work (UK)
Academic Misconduct
Ethical conduct and academic integrity and honesty are fundamental to the mission of ACAP. Academic misconduct will not be tolerated by the college. Please refer to the Academic Misconduct Policy for full details.
Disclaimer
This unit outline may be updated and amended from time to time. To ensure you have the correct outline please check it again at the beginning of the trimester. For a list of required textbooks for the upcoming trimester, please click here.
Level: Master
Credit Points: 6
Prerequisites: SWSP6003
Equivalent Units: SWSP6023
Unit Description:
Social workers advocate for policy initiatives, approaches and practices aimed at achieving fair and equitable access for people to social, health, economic, environmental, and political resources. This unit teaches students important components of the Australian constitutional and political framework and the implications of these for critical social work practice in Australia and beyond.
Learning Outcomes:
On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
1. Critically analyse Australian constitutional and political structures as they relate to the production of social policy and social outcomes.
2. Investigate and critically analyse the concepts of political ideology, social capital and civic participation in the Australian context.
3. Conceptually map and review the Australian policy cycle and methods of policy analysis.
4. Investigate the impact of Australian political and social policy in international spheres.
Learning and Teaching Approach:
This unit is taught over 13 weeks and totals 3 student contact hours per week.
Students will participate in teaching and learning activities including:
a) Lectures and critical discussion
b) Tutorials and skill development activities
c) Online pre-learning activities
d) Online post-learning
Depending on the delivery mode, this unit’s content is delivered to students via
- A weekly 3 hour learning session [via Zoom]. One hour will be didactive material delivered in lecture format. Two hours will be interactive class time, for discussion of the lecture, readings, assessments and class activities.
In addition to timetabled contact hours, students are expect to do at least 6 hours of personal study each week to review lectures and read prescribed and recommended materials for this unit. The total individual workload of this unit will be around 9 hours (including teamwork, individual self-study and reading).
Level: Master
Credit Points: 18
Prerequisites: SWSP6003, SWSP6013, SWSP6163, SWSP6033
Unit Description:
Field education is a core component of social work education intended to assist students with integrating theory and practice.
Field Education 1 is the first placement that introduces students to human services agencies and social work fields of practice. This work integrated learning opportunity provides students with the opportunity to develop a range of social work skills. With supervision from a qualified social worker, students apply social work processes, approaches, and theories to practice in the agency where they are placed. This unit is supported by concurrent, compulsory theory-practice integrative seminars.
The unit consists of at least 500 hours of supervised field education, with formal supervision provided by a qualified social work Field Educator. Included in the 500 hours are compulsory integrative seminars. Prior to commencing placement, students engage in a preplacement seminar to prepare for their field placement.
Unit Workload:
Integrative Seminar: The unit includes five weeks of 2.5 hours of class time, fortnightly.
Integrative seminars are designed to facilitate the integration of theory and practice during students’ placement and to support their learning experience.
This time will be used for interactions with students to facilitate discussion of field education unit materials and assessments, readings, presentations and group activities.
Course material will be available in the online class space.
In addition to the seminars, students are expected to engage in 4-5 hours of private study per week including completing the required reading tasks, completing a Field Education Journal and developing a reference list of relevant literature and research. Private study cannot be counted towards placement hours.
Learning Outcomes:
On completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge relevant to the placement context, organisational structure and function, and the role of social work within this context.
Learning and Teaching Approach:
- Learning is an active process – which involves both questioning and challenging.
- Learning is a shared process – where others’ thoughts and ideas are presented, critically analysed, exchanged and respected.
- Learning is a collaborative and empowering process for self and others.
- Learning is thoughtful and reflective.
- Learning requires integration with prior knowledge and other arenas of knowledge development in the program.
- Preparation for lectures and seminars and reading the recommended texts and references is essential.
The content of this unit has been designed to maximise both online and face-to-face learning to integrate the subject matter.
Students are expected to:
- Complete all activities
- Complete readings
- Complete all assessments
- Attend all classes
It is also recommended that students:
- Keep a record of new terminology that is introduced in this unit
- Keep a copy of assessments and other correspondence
- Make notes on unit content and readings
There will be learning activities linked to all lecture materials which are designed to encourage students to deliberate and reflect and to provide opportunities for further learning. The activities are designed to help students think through and practise the specific skills and general concepts presented in this unit as well as provide valuable learning opportunities.
Readings
Recommended Texts
- The required text book for this unit can be found by viewing the textbook list by selecting the course and trimester at the following link: http://www.acap.edu.au/current-students/managing-my-course/order-course-materials-and-text-books/
Recommended Readings
- These are provided in the readings list located on your online class.
Journals
- Australian Social Work
- ADVANCES: Journal of Social Work and Welfare Education
- Australian Journal of Social Issues
- Critical Social Work
- Journal of Social Work Education (USA)
- Journal of Social Work (UK)
Academic Misconduct
Ethical conduct and academic integrity and honesty are fundamental to the mission of ACAP. Academic misconduct will not be tolerated by the college. Please refer to the Academic Misconduct Policy for full details.
Disclaimer
This unit outline may be updated and amended from time to time. To ensure you have the correct outline please check it again at the beginning of the trimester. For a list of required textbooks for the upcoming trimester, please click here.
Level: Master
Credit Points: 6
Prerequisites: Completion of SWSP6003, SWSP6013, SWSP6143 and SWSP6053
Unit Description:
This unit gives students an advanced understanding of social research aimed at influencing practice and policy outcomes. Students will explore the research process and discuss qualitative and quantitative social research methods. Students will gain an understanding of the theoretical and ethical considerations of undertaking social research and develop a research proposal.
Learning Outcomes:
On completion of this unit, students will be able to:
a. Articulate the components required to undertake a research project.
b. Develop and write a research proposal, ethics application, and conduct a literature review.
c. Evaluate ethical issues and ethical guidelines for conducting social work research.
d. Analyse the socio-political and cultural context for undertaking research and its influence on the policy process.
Learning and Teaching Process
This unit is taught over 13 weeks and totals 3 student contact hours per week.
Students will participate in teaching and learning activities including:
a) Lectures and critical discussion
b) Tutorials and skill development activities
c) Online pre-learning activities
d) Online post-learning
Depending on the delivery mode, this unit’s content is delivered to students via
- A weekly 3 hour learning session [via Zoom or on-campus]. This three-hour workshop is comprised of didactic material delivered, interactive class learning, group discussion, readings, assessments and class activities.
In addition to timetabled contact hours, students are expect to do at least 6 hours of personal study each week to review lectures and read prescribed and recommended materials for this unit. The total individual workload of this unit will be around 9 hours (including teamwork, individual self-study and reading).
Learning and Teaching Approach:
- Learning is an active process – which involves both questioning and challenging.
- Learning is a shared process – where others’ thoughts and ideas are presented, critically analysed, exchanged and respected.
- Learning is a collaborative and empowering process for self and others.
- Learning is thoughtful and reflective.
- Learning requires integration with prior knowledge and other arenas of knowledge development in the program.
- Preparation for lectures and seminars and reading the recommended texts and references is essential.
The content of this unit has been designed to maximise both online and face-to-face learning to integrate the subject matter.
Students are expected to:
- Complete all activities
- Complete readings
- Complete all assessments
- Attend all classes
It is also recommended that students:
- Keep a record of new terminology that is introduced in this unit
- Keep a copy of assessments and other correspondence
- Make notes on unit content and readings
There will be learning activities linked to all lecture materials which are designed to encourage students to deliberate and reflect and to provide opportunities for further learning. The activities are designed to help students think through and practise the specific skills and general concepts presented in this unit as well as provide valuable learning opportunities.
Readings
Recommended Texts
- The required text book for this unit can be found by viewing the textbook list by selecting the course and trimester at the following link: http://www.acap.edu.au/current-students/managing-my-course/order-course-materials-and-text-books/
Recommended Readings
- These are provided in the readings list on your online class space.
Journals
- Action Research (SAGE)
- ADVANCES: Journal of Social Work and Welfare Education
- Australian Journal of Social Issues
- Australian Social Work
- British Journal of Social Work
- Critical Social Work
- Health and Social Care in the Community (UK)
- Journal of Social Work (UK)
- Journal of Social Work Education (USA)
- Journal of Sociology and Social Work
- Qualitative Social Work
- Research on Social Work Practice
- Social Justice Research
- Systemic Practice and Action Research
Academic Misconduct
Ethical conduct and academic integrity and honesty are fundamental to the mission of ACAP. Academic misconduct will not be tolerated by the college. Please refer to the Academic Misconduct Policy for full details.
Disclaimer
This unit outline may be updated and amended from time to time. To ensure you have the correct outline please check it again at the beginning of the trimester. For a list of required textbooks for the upcoming trimester, please click here.
Level: Master
Credit Points: 6
Prerequisites: Successful completion of SWSP6003, SWSP6013, and SWSP6143
Unit Description:
This unit will introduce students to the diversity of the social, cultural and political situation in which Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people live. Indigenous Knowledge and practice as a new framework for working effectively within First Nations communities and influencing social work knowledge and practice will be explored.
Learning Outcomes:
On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
Learning and Teaching Process
This unit is taught over 13 weeks and totals 3 student contact hours per week.
Students will participate in teaching and learning activities including:
a) Lectures and critical discussion
b) Tutorials and skill development activities
c) Online pre-learning activities
d) Online post-learning
Depending on the delivery mode, this unit’s content is delivered to students via
- A weekly 3 hour learning session [via Zoom or on-campus]. This three-hour workshop is comprised of didactic material delivered, interactive class learning, group discussion, readings, assessments and class activities.
In addition to timetabled contact hours, students are expected to do at least 6 hours of personal study each week to review lectures and read prescribed and recommended materials for this unit. The total individual workload of this unit will be around 9 hours (including teamwork, individual self-study and reading).
Learning and Teaching Approach:
- Learning is an active process – which involves both questioning and challenging.
- Learning is a shared process – where others’ thoughts and ideas are presented, critically analysed, exchanged and respected.
- Learning is a collaborative and empowering process for self and others.
- Learning is thoughtful and reflective.
- Learning requires integration with prior knowledge and other arenas of knowledge development in the program.
- Preparation for lectures and seminars and reading the recommended texts and references is essential.
This course is experiential and interactive; students are encouraged to actively participate in group discussions and group activities and exercises.
Students are expected to:
- Complete all activities
- Complete readings
- Complete all assessments
- Attend all classes
It is also recommended that students:
- Keep a record of new terminology that is introduced in this unit
- Keep a copy of assessments and other correspondence
- Keep notes on unit content and readings
There will be learning activities linked to all lecture materials which are designed to encourage students to deliberate and reflect and to provide opportunities for further learning. The activities are designed to help students think through and practise the specific skills and general concepts presented in this unit as well as provide valuable learning opportunities.
Level: Master
Credit Points: 6
Prerequisites: Successful completion of SWSP6003, SWSP6013, SWSP6143 and SWSP6053
Unit Description:
The objective of this unit is to convey advanced knowledge on the theoretical framework of social work with groups. The unit provides an overview of group work intervention and applies group work processes so that the student will be able to develop an understanding of the nature and application of group work as a social work method. The value of the unit is that students will get an opportunity to integrate theory and practice in simulated situations so that they can be prepared for application of group work processes in their future work.
Learning Outcomes:
On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
1. Critically reflect upon and apply theoretical knowledge that underpins groupwork as a practice method.
2. Purposefully select groupwork activities based on assessment of the diverse needs of the client system and group work theories and strategies.
3. Distinguish and evaluate the different models and processes of group development and apply these with diverse groups.
4. Make ethical decisions by applying the standards of the AASW code of ethics as appropriate to the group work context.
Learning and Teaching Process:
This unit is taught over 13 weeks and totals 3 student contact hours per week.
Students will participate in teaching and learning activities including:
a) Lectures and critical discussion
b) Tutorials and skill development activities
c) Online pre-learning activities
d) Online post-learning
Depending on the delivery mode, this unit’s content is delivered to students via
- A weekly 3 hour learning session [via Zoom or on-campus]. This three-hour workshop is comprised of didactic material delivered, interactive class learning, group discussion, readings, assessments and class activities.
In addition to timetabled contact hours, students are expect to do at least 6 hours of personal study each week to review lectures and read prescribed and recommended materials for this unit. The total individual workload of this unit will be around 9 hours (including teamwork, individual self-study and reading).
Level: Master
Credit Points: 6
Prerequisites: Successful completion of SWSP6003, SWSP6013, SWSP6143, SWSP6053
Mode(s) of delivery: Online & On-Campus
Core/elective: Core
Unit Description
This unit introduces students to the philosophies, theory, principles, values, strategies and skills of community work as a way of building capacity in community and society over the long term. This unit of study has a practical component which will enable students to develop their skills as community and social development practitioners. Advocating for social change will be explored through social action theory and practice, building on social justice, community empowerment and anti-oppressive theory and practice approaches and strategies.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
1. Exhibit advanced knowledge of community and systemic advocacy work, the underpinning principles, theories and practice context needed to challenge societal inequalities.
2. Articulate how community development and systemic advocacy supports civil society to redress entrenched socio-economic and political inequalities in light of social work critical theories and practice approaches.
3. Critically reflect, review and analyse how the dynamics of power and influence can propel or hinder community and advocacy practice when seeking social, economic and political change.
4. Demonstrate skills for social action, community campaigns and community development.
Learning and Teaching Process
This unit is taught over 13 weeks and totals 3 student contact hours per week.
Students will participate in teaching and learning activities including:
- Lectures and critical discussion
- Tutorials and skill development activities
- Online pre-learning activities
- Online post-learning
Depending on the delivery mode, this unit’s content is delivered to students via
- A weekly 3 hour learning session [via Zoom or on-campus]. This three-hour workshop is comprised of didactic material delivered, interactive class learning, group discussion, readings, assessments and class activities.
In addition to timetabled contact hours, students are expect to do at least 6 hours of personal study each week to review lectures and read prescribed and recommended materials for this unit. The total individual workload of this unit will be around 9 hours (including teamwork, individual self-study and reading).
Learning and Teaching Approach
- Learning is an active process – which involves both questioning and challenging.
- Learning is a shared process – where others’ thoughts and ideas are presented, critically analysed, exchanged and respected.
- Learning is a collaborative and empowering process for self and others.
- Learning is thoughtful and reflective.
- Learning requires integration with prior knowledge and other arenas of knowledge development in the program.
- Preparation for lectures and seminars and reading the recommended texts and references is essential.
The content of this unit has been designed to maximise both online and face-to-face learning to integrate the subject matter.
Students are expected to:
- Complete all activities
- Complete readings
- Complete all assessments
- Attend all classes
It is also recommended that students:
- Keep a record of new terminology that is introduced in this unit
- Keep a copy of assessments and other correspondence
- Make notes on unit content and readings
There will be learning activities linked to all lecture materials which are designed to encourage students to deliberate and reflect and to provide opportunities for further learning. The activities are designed to help students think through and practise the specific skills and general concepts presented in this unit as well as provide valuable learning opportunities.
Level: Master
Credit Points: 18
Prerequisites: Completion of SWSP6003, SWSP6013, SWSP6163, SWSP6033, SWSP6153, SWSP6043 & SWSP6053
Unit Description:
Field Education 2 is the second and final placement which provides students with an opportunity to build on and extend the professional knowledge and skills acquired on the first placement. It allows students to apply and ‘test out’ subsequent theoretical and critical skills learned. Students are challenged to allow for greater depth of learning, transferring their learning across client populations, problem circumstances and organisational environments. This learning process facilitates the development of students’ professional identity as an emerging social worker. This unit is supported by concurrent, compulsory theory-practice integrative seminars.
The unit consists of at least 500 hours of supervised field education, with formal supervision provided by a qualified social work Field Educator. Included in the 500 hours are compulsory integrative seminars. Prior to commencing placement, students engage in a preplacement seminar to prepare for their field placement.
Field Education 2
The second and final placement serves three purposes: firstly, it provides students with an opportunity to build on and extend the professional knowledge and skills acquired on the first placement and to apply and ‘test out’ subsequent theoretical and critical skills learned. Secondly, students are challenged further to allow for greater depth of learning. Finally, the second placement offers students a contrasting practice setting, allowing them to transfer their learning across client populations, problem circumstances and organisational environments. This process facilitates the development of a professional identity based on an understanding of the ‘universals’ of practice.
Placement opportunities for the second placement include further options, such as local, state and federal governments, schools and universities, social enterprise and community development projects, and indirect practice opportunities such as research, advocacy and policy development.
Unit Workload:
Integrative Seminar: The unit includes five weeks of 2.5 hours of class time, fortnightly
Integrative seminars are designed to facilitate the integration of theory and practice during students’ placement and to support their learning experience.
This time will be used for interactions with students to facilitate discussion of field education unit materials and assessments, readings, presentations and group activities.
Course material will be available in the online class space.
In addition to the seminars, students are expected to engage in 4-5 hours of private study per week including completing the required reading tasks, completing a Field Education Journal and developing a reference list of relevant literature and research. Private study cannot be counted towards placement hours.
Learning Outcomes:
On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
Learning and Teaching Approach:
- Learning is an active process – which involves both questioning and challenging.
- Learning is a shared process – where others’ thoughts and ideas are presented, critically analysed, exchanged and respected.
- Learning is a collaborative and empowering process for self and others.
- Learning is thoughtful and reflective.
- Learning requires integration with prior knowledge and other arenas of knowledge development in the program.
- Preparation for lectures and seminars and reading the recommended texts and references is essential.
The content of this unit has been designed to maximise both online and face-to-face learning to integrate the subject matter.
Students are expected to:
- Complete all activities
- Complete readings
- Complete all assessments
- Attend all classes
It is also recommended that students:
- Keep a record of new terminology that is introduced in this unit
- Keep a copy of assessments and other correspondence
- Make notes on unit content and readings
There will be learning activities linked to all lecture materials which are designed to encourage students to deliberate and reflect and to provide opportunities for further learning. The activities are designed to help students think through and practise the specific skills and general concepts presented in this unit as well as provide valuable learning opportunities.
Readings
Recommended Texts
- The required text book for this unit can be found by viewing the textbook list by selecting the course and trimester at the following link: http://www.acap.edu.au/current-students/managing-my-course/order-course-materials-and-text-books/
Recommended Readings
- These are provided in the readings list located on your online class space.
Journals
- Australian Social Work
- ADVANCES: Journal of Social Work and Welfare Education
- Australian Journal of Social Issues
- Critical Social Work
- Journal of Social Work Education (USA)
- Journal of Social Work (UK)
Academic Misconduct
Ethical conduct and academic integrity and honesty are fundamental to the mission of ACAP. Academic misconduct will not be tolerated by the college. Please refer to the Academic Misconduct Policy for full details.
Disclaimer
This unit outline may be updated and amended from time to time. To ensure you have the correct outline please check it again at the beginning of the trimester. For a list of required textbooks for the upcoming trimester, please click here.
Level: 600 level core
Credit points: 6
Unit Description:
This unit advances students’ understanding of self and their development, and the impact of these on their professional development as counsellors and psychotherapists. Students are provided with the opportunity to develop and apply foundational counselling skills and processes. Significant emphasis is placed on building students’ self-awareness and critical reflexivity, as they begin developing an evolving professional identity as counsellors and psychotherapists.
Learning Outcomes:
On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
a. Critically review, interpret, integrate, synthesise and apply advanced foundational counselling skills and processes.
b. Exercise adaptability and judgment when critically analysing, evaluating and applying knowledge and skills to their evolving professional identity as counsellors and psychotherapists.
c. Critically apply self-awareness and self-reflexivity to sustain effective and ethical practice as counsellors and psychotherapists in training.
d. Effectively demonstrate professional knowledge and integrated understanding to communicate ideas at an advanced academic level, using contemporary communication approaches.
Learning and Teaching Process:
The workload for this unit is 12 hours per week.
Special Provisions:
Students will attend an on campus workshop of 16 hours in this unit.
Level: Master of Social Work (Qualifying)
Duration: One Trimester
Credit Points: 6
Prerequisites: Completion of SWSP6003, SWSP6013, SWSP6143
Unit Description:
This unit introduces students to current social work practice focusing on supporting people living with a disability. It attempts to convey an impression of what it is like to be living with a disability and the challenges that people with disabilities face within everyday life. Students are introduced to the notion of self-determination and the discourse of choice and control that underpins current assessment and support approaches.
Learning Outcomes:
On successful completion of this unit the student should be able to:
Learning and Teaching Process:
This unit is taught over 13 weeks and totals 3 student contact hours per week.
Students will participate in teaching and learning activities including:
a) Lectures and critical discussion
b) Tutorials and skill development activities
c) Online pre-learning activities
d) Online post-learning
Depending on the delivery mode, this unit’s content is delivered to students via
- A weekly 3 hour learning session [via Zoom]. One hour will be active material delivered in lecture format. Two hours will be interactive class time, for discussion of the lecture, readings, assessments and class activities.
In addition to timetabled contact hours, students are expected to do at least 6 hours of personal study each week to review lectures and read prescribed and recommended materials for this unit. The total individual workload of this unit will be around 9 hours (including teamwork, individual self-study and reading).
Level: Master
Credit Points: 6
Pre-requisites: SWSP6003, SWSP6013, SWSP6143
Unit Description:
Family violence is one of the most significant social problems of our time. An overwhelming percentage of the work done by social workers and human services professionals is addressing the impact and consequences of family violence. In this unit, students will examine the social and political underpinnings of violence in our society and the gendered manifestations of this. This unit aims to deepen students’ knowledge of gender-based violence and family violence through theory and practice, research and policy with reference to the relevance of intersectionality. The focus will be understanding the complex, interlinked experiences of family violence in the lives of victim/survivors who are from marginalised groups and the key barriers to accessing support faced by these communities. This unit draws on Australian and international practice frameworks to assist students to develop skills in identifying and responding to family violence. Exploring current policy, research and prevention strategies, students will be able to analyse, evaluate and increase their understanding of the roles and responsibilities of social workers, organisations, governments, and communities in preventing and responding to family violence.
Learning Outcomes:
On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
Learning and Teaching Process:
This unit is taught over 13 weeks and totals 3 student contact hours per week.
Students will participate in teaching and learning activities:
a) Lectures and critical discussion
b) Tutorials and skill development activities
c) Online pre-learning activities
d) Online post-learning
Depending on the delivery mode, this unit’s content is delivered to students via
- A weekly 3 hour learning session [on Zoom]. One hour will be didactive material delivered in lecture format. Two hours will be interactive class time, for discussion of the lecture, readings, assessments and class activities.
In addition to timetabled contact hours, students are expect to do at least 6 hours of personal study each week to review lectures and read prescribed and recommended materials for this unit. The total individual workload of this unit will be around 9 hours per week (including teamwork on group assignments, writing assessments and reading).
Readings
Recommended
- The required text book for this unit can be found by viewing the textbook list by selecting the course and trimester at the following link: http://www.acap.edu.au/current-students/managing-my-course/order-course-materials-and-text-books/
Journals
- Australian Social Work
- Child & Family Social Work
- Children and Youth Services Review
- Feminist Review
- International Journal of Critical Indigenous Studies
- International Social Work
- Journal of Australian Indigenous Issues
- Journal of Family Studies
- Journal of Gender-based Violence
- Journal of Interpersonal Violence
- Journal of Social Work (UK)
- Journal of Social Work Education (USA)
- Journal of Women’s Health, Issues and Care
- No to Violence
- Violence Against Women
Level: Master
Credit Points: 6
Prerequisites: Successful completion of SWSP6003, SWSP6013, and SWSP6143
Unit Description:
This elective explores the issue of ageing and aged care and examines social work practice issues with this diverse population. Exploring life course context on ageing and then focusing on the end of life spectrum, this unit tackles difficult issues in order to understand the diversity and complexity of working with the aged population – from individual to community work and networking to policy and research. Social issues of invisibility, marginalisation, abuse, neglect, loss and grief will be addressed. The elderly contribution to unpaid productivity of caring and volunteerism as well as the wisdom and maturity that comes with old age will underpin much of this material. In highlighting key research, theory and policy relevant to working with older people key practice strategies available to address their health, welfare, physical and material wellbeing will be examined for their usefulness and effectiveness. How to have a meaningful old age will also be addressed.
Learning Outcomes:
On completion of this unit, students will be able to:
a. Demonstrate advanced understandings of the nature, scope, and impact of ageing on individuals, families, communities and society.
b. Articulate advanced understanding of how ageing is constructed socially, politically, economically and culturally.
c. Demonstrate expert knowledge of the many pathways to ageing and the complexities of working with the aged population.
d. Demonstrate advanced knowledge of the health and well-being of the aged and the provision of services from the service users’, their carers’ and families’, social workers’, and consumer advocates’ perspectives.
e. Evaluate the political economy of ageing and its impact on society and the provision of services.
f. Analyse and provide advanced discussion of the social issues associated with ageing with a social justice and human rights perspective and social workers’ responses.
g. Understand the role and responsibilities of the Government and NGOs in relation to service provision for the aged population.
Learning and Teaching Process:
This unit is taught over 13 weeks and totals 3 student contact hours per week.
Students will participate in teaching and learning activities including:
a) Lectures and critical discussion
b) Tutorials and skill development activities
c) Online pre-learning activities
d) Online post-learning
Depending on the delivery mode, this unit’s content is delivered to students via
- A weekly 3 hour learning session [via Zoom]. This three-hour workshop is comprised of didactic material delivered, interactive class learning, group discussion, readings, assessments and class activities.
In addition to timetabled contact hours, students are expect to do at least 6 hours of personal study each week to review lectures and read prescribed and recommended materials for this unit. The total individual workload of this unit will be around 9 hours (including teamwork, individual self-study and reading).
Level: Master
Credit Points: 6
Prerequisites: Completion of SWSP6123 (Credit average)
Unit Description:
This unit is undertaken in your final trimester of study. You will propose and complete a capstone project through which you will demonstrate your ability at and advanced level to command, analyse, synthesise and apply knowledge skills pertinent to your discipline. With guidance from your supervisor, you will formulate a detailed plan for independent learning that focuses on scholarly, professional or practice issues relevant to your discipline and interest in social work.
Learning Outcomes:
On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
Learning and Teaching Process:
This unit is taught over 13 weeks and totals 1.5 student contact hours per week.
Students will participate in teaching and learning activities including:
a) Group discussion
b) Group-directed research
c) Online pre-learning activities
d) Online post-learning
Depending on the delivery mode, this unit’s content is delivered to students via
- A weekly 1.5 hour learning session [via Zoom or on-campus]. This time will be used for interactions with students to facilitate discussion of the challenges and learnings associated with implementing the research. Some of this will include group tutorials revising topics such as data collection, analysis, and presentation.
In addition to timetabled contact hours, students are expected to engage in 16.5 hours of self- or group-directed research totalling 18 hours per week.
Learning and Teaching Approach:
- Learning is an active process – which involves both questioning and challenging.
- Learning is a shared process – where others’ thoughts and ideas are presented, critically analysed, exchanged and respected.
- Learning is a collaborative and empowering process for self and others.
- Learning is thoughtful and reflective.
- Learning requires integration with prior knowledge and other arenas of knowledge development in the program.
- Preparation for lectures and seminars and reading the recommended texts and references is essential.
The content of this unit has been designed to maximise both online and face-to-face learning to integrate the subject matter.
Students are expected to:
- Complete all activities
- Complete readings
- Complete all assessments
- Attend all classes
It is also recommended that students:
- Keep a record of new terminology that is introduced in this unit
- Keep a copy of assessments and other correspondence
- Make notes on unit content and readings
There will be learning activities linked to all lecture materials which are designed to encourage students to deliberate and reflect and to provide opportunities for further learning. The activities are designed to help students think through and practise the specific skills and general concepts presented in this unit as well as provide valuable learning opportunities.
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Pathways for future study
Completion of this course enables students to establish their professional identity as a social worker.
Related courses
Applied Psychology
Bachelor of Social Work
Applied Psychology
Bachelor of Psychological Sciences and Counselling
Up To 8 Years Part Time Equivalent