Social Work

The course is designed to allow social work practitioners to reflect on and formulate their practice; read about and appraise alternative practices and theories; and assess their work problems and clients' needs in new ways.

The aim is to evaluate existing practice and provision critically, with a view to promoting change and improvement in services offered and outcomes effected in the lives and situations of clients. It offers opportunities for the analysis and investigation of theories and initiatives in social policy and their impact.

Outcomes

The coursework program has a strong focus on critical reflection on practice, research skills and theory development. At the conclusion of this designated degree students should be able to:

• demonstrate indepth knowledge of the full range of social work theories and practices.
• examine and develop their own social work practice skills and capacities, including work with individuals, families, groups and communities.
• critically evaluate existing social work practice and systems of social provision.
• demonstrate detailed knowledge of social policies and their impact on individuals, families, communities and nations and develop policy and advocacy skills in order to address issues.
• apply new knowledge and create new knowledge for social work practice and social provision.
• work with and for diverse individuals and groups in diverse and interdisciplinary settings.
• demonstrate commitment to social work ethics and contribute to the development of ethical and culturally inclusive practices.
• analyse and undertake social work practice research in order to contribute to the field.
• contribute to the development of social services, workplaces and social policies in Australia and internationally.

Awards and requirements

Master of Social Work
To qualify for the award of Master of Social Work, candidates must complete 8 units of study (48 credit points), including:

• 2 units of study (12 credit points) of core units; and
• a minimum of 1 unit (6 credit points) of capstone units; plus
• a minimum of 4 units (24 credit points) of elective units to be chosen from the units of study table below.

A capstone unit is completed in the last semester of the award course. It provides an opportunity to integrate ideas and understandings drawn from units of study taken in the course. The capstone is a compulsory requirement and is undertaken by completing an Authorised Independent Study and Report or a dissertation with an upper limit of 12,000 words.

Students who intend on undertaking a higher degree by research (MPhil, PhD, or Doctor of Social Work) in future should enrol in the Dissertation option (please note that entry requirements apply for this unit of study – consult your Course Coordinator for further details).

Graduate Diploma in Social Work
To qualify for the award of Graduate Diploma in Social Work, candidates must complete 6 units of study (36 credit points), including

• 2 units of study (12 credit points) of core units; and
• 4 units (24 credit points) of elective units to be chosen from the units of study table below.

Contact

Associate Professor Susan Goodwin
Phone: 02 9351 3282
Location: Room 536, Education Building, A35
Email: