Undergraduate | 2026

Bachelor of Social Work (Honours)

Start date

February, July

Campus

Magill, Adelaide City

Duration

4 year(s) full-time

Mode

Hybrid

Program code

HSOCW

Study as

Full-time

Indicative annual fees

$41,300

Prerequisite

None

Assumed knowledge

None

English language requirements

IELTS Overall 7.0 IELTS Reading 7.0 IELTS Listening 7.0 IELTS Speaking 7.0 IELTS Writing 7.0 Equivalent English qualifications

CRICOS code

115757K

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible for admission, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum entry requirements and demonstrate that they fulfill any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission:

Recent secondary education (Year 12)

Completion of a secondary education qualification equivalent to the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE).

Vocational Education and Training (VET)

Completion of an award from a registered training organisation (RTO) at Certificate IV (AQF level 4) or higher.

Higher education study

Successful completion of at least 6 months full-time study (or equivalent part-time) of an undergraduate certificate (or higher AQF level qualification) from a recognised higher education institution.

English language entry requirements

In addition, international students who speak English as an additional language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at Adelaide University. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.

IELTS Overall 7.0
IELTS Reading 7.0
IELTS Listening 7.0
IELTS Speaking 7.0
IELTS Writing 7.0

Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by Adelaide University and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements:

Equivalent English qualifications

International admissions by country

Country	Score
Australia – ATAR	85
Bangladesh – Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC)	4.95
China – Gaokao	75%
Hong Kong – Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE)	19
India – CBSE and CISCE	85
India – State Board Examinations	95
Kenya – Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE)	A-
Malaysia – Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM)	3.22
Malaysia – United Entrance Certificate (UEC)	15
Malaysia – Matrikulasi	3.22
Singapore - Singapore GCE Advanced Levels	10
Sri Lanka – GCE A Levels	11
Vietnam – Year 12 - Bằng Tốt Nghiệp Trung Học Phổ Thông	8.50

Why Bachelor of Social Work (Honours)?

Social workers are found on humanity’s frontlines, offering support to people experiencing hardship or significant change. They take a whole-person approach, considering all parts of an individual’s life, to ensure support services are tailored to their specific needs.

Are you passionate about social justice and equity? Have a strong calling to help those in need? Enjoy finding practical and creative solutions to complex issues? Then our Bachelor of Social Work (Honours) is the perfect degree for you.

This honours degree provides an advanced level of knowledge in the political and behavioural sciences. You’ll also complete a major research project under the guidance of an experienced supervisor, with the opportunity to publish upon completion.

Overview

Our Bachelor of Social Work (Honours) provides an advanced level of knowledge in the social and behavioural sciences, with a specific focus on four major areas of study: social work theory, social work practice and skills, social policy and social research.

Our comprehensive range of core and elective courses enable you to dive deep into a wide-range of theories, principles, and approaches to working with diverse populations – equipping you with the skills needed for social and human services work.

Additionally, you’ll undertake your own research project under the guidance of an experienced supervisor, with the opportunity to publish post-completion.

Throughout your studies, you’ll have multiple opportunities to put your learning into practice. Hone your professional skillset with simulated client studios and 2 x 500-hour industry placements.

These combined experiences guarantee that you will graduate equipped with advanced knowledge, techniques, and professional skills essential for success in your social work career.

Key features

Develop an advanced understanding of political and behavioural sciences.
Explore social work approaches for working alongside individuals, families, communities, groups and within organisations.
Grow your skills alongside field practitioners and academic staff in simulated and real-life scenarios.
Complete a major research project under the guidance of an experienced supervisor.
Gain valuable professional experience through 2 x 500-hour industry placements.

What you'll learn

The first year of the Bachelor of Social Work is designed to provide a comprehensive introduction to core social work theory, principles, and perspectives. You’ll complete courses covering communication skills in social work and human services, social theory, human service provision, and child development.

From second year, you’ll take core courses focused on professional skills and practical approaches, designed to prepare you for upcoming placements. These courses cover topics including:

Advanced social work theory and practice
Applied psychology
Community and group work
Governance and citizenship
Human service intervention
Human service workers and the law
Mental health and wellbeing
Policy practice
Preparation for field placement
Social policy
Social research methods
Social work interviewing skills.

To ensure you're prepared for your career, you'll complete 2 x 500-hour industry placements during the third and fourth years of your degree.

In your final year, you'll also conduct a significant research project supervised by an experienced mentor. There's even the chance to publish your research findings after completion.

Assessment methods for this degree encompass projects, e-portfolios, essays, assignments, examinations and a major research project.

What courses you'll study

Complete 192 units comprising:

162 units for all Core courses, and
24 units for all Work integrated learning, and
6 units for Electives

Complete 162 units for ALL of the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Human Service Provision	Course code SOCI1009	Units 6
Course name Communication Skills in Social Work and Human Services	Course code SOWK1001	Units 6
Course name The Social World	Course code SOWK1002	Units 6
Course name Child Development	Course code SOWK1003	Units 6
Course name Governance and Citizenship in Australia	Course code POLI1011	Units 6
Course name Applied Psychology	Course code PSYC1010	Units 6
Course name Group Work	Course code SOWK1004	Units 6
Course name Working with Community	Course code SOWK2001	Units 6
Course name Human Service Intervention	Course code SOWK2002	Units 6
Course name Australian Social Policy	Course code POLI2010	Units 6
Course name Social Research Methods	Course code SOCI2009	Units 6
Course name Interviewing Skills in Social Work and Human Services	Course code SOWK2003	Units 6
Course name Mental Health and Mental Wellbeing	Course code SOWK2004	Units 6
Course name Preparation for Field Placement	Course code SOWK2005	Units 6
Course name Human Service Workers and the Law	Course code SOWK2008	Units 6
Course name Aboriginal Australians and the Human Services	Course code SOWK2006	Units 6
Course name Policy Practice	Course code POLI3021	Units 6
Course name Advanced Social Work Theory and Practice	Course code SOWK3003	Units 6
Course name Working with Human Service Organisations	Course code SOWK3004	Units 6
Course name Child Centred Practice	Course code SOWK3005	Units 6
Course name Leading and Managing in Human Service Organisations	Course code SOWK4011	Units 6
Course name Applied Social Research (Honours)	Course code SOWK4006	Units 6
Course name Social Work Honours Research Project 1	Course code SOWK4010	Units 12
Course name Social Work Field Education (Honours)	Course code SOWK4007	Units 18

Complete 24 units for ALL of the following:

Course name		Course code	Units
	Course name Social Work Field Education 1	Course code SOWK3002	Units 18
	Course name Social Work Honours Research Project 2	Course code SOWK4008	Units 6

Complete 6 units comprising:

6 units from Program electives

Course name		Course code	Units
	Course name Trauma Informed Practice	Course code SOWK4003	Units 6

Career outcomes

Social workers provide support, counselling and service referrals. They undertake research and advocacy with the ultimate aim of promoting a more fair and inclusive society.

You could work in a hospital, providing advocacy support to give patients a voice and ensure they receive appropriate care and resources. Maybe you’ll specialise in services for the elderly, assisting older people to live well and remain independent for as long as possible. Perhaps you’ll become a researcher, exploring important issues within the social work field to inform future practice.

The fields and sectors in which social workers are employed are every bit as diverse as the populations and people they serve. You could work in areas like:

Aged care
Child and family services
Community centres
Disability services
Employee assistance programs
Government agencies
Social policy
Healthcare (hospitals, out-patient clinics, community and allied health settings)
Hospice and end-of-life planning
International and humanitarian organisations
Justice and corrections
Mental health support services
Non-profit organisations
Research and academia
Schools and educational settings
Addiction and substance misuse settings
Veterans’ affairs.

Industry trends

With an ageing population, increasing demand for mental health services, and government policies focusing on family violence and disability – qualified and dedicated social workers are needed more than ever before (Global Health Education Australia, 2022). 

Healthcare and social assistance has been the primary provider of new jobs in the Australian labour market since the 1990s. It leads all other industries by a wide margin and is projected to grow by an extra 301,000 jobs by 2026 (Australian Government, 2021). At the same time, employment for Social Workers and Human Service Workers is expected to increase by 25.2% by 2026 (Australian Government, 2021). Join an industry with excellent job prospects and unlimited potential to make a difference.

Accreditation

Adelaide University is working through relevant approvals for program accreditation ahead of students commencing in 2026.

How to apply

Check your eligibility

Before you begin, find the degree you wish to study and check you meet the academic entry requirements and English language requirements.

Entry requirements

Gather your relevant documents

Ensure you have all supporting documentation needed at the time of application to avoid delays.

How to apply

Complete and send your application

Apply through one of the University’s official agency partners, or via our online application system.

Apply now

How to apply

Applications for international students are open now, to begin your studies in 2026.

Apply through one of the University’s official Education Agents, or via our International Application System.

Find an Education Agent

Depending on your country of citizenship, you may be required to apply through one of our Education Agents.

Find an education agent in your country

FAQs

Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.

From August 2025 you can apply as a domestic student for entry to Adelaide University in 2026.
Applications for 2026 will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs. A direct application process will be available for 100% online degrees at a later date. In the meantime, you could start your degree at UniSA or the University of Adelaide and continue at Adelaide University.

Adelaide University is South Australia’s largest university with seven campuses across the state. Adelaide City Campus is in the heart of the central business district (including eastern and western precincts), while our Magill, Mawson Lakes and Waite campuses are located within the inner suburbs of Adelaide. Our Mount Gambier, Roseworthy and Whyalla campuses are set in the regions of South Australia. Building on our digital and online learning successes, we aim to also deliver online education to more students than any other Australian university.

Each of our campuses is equipped with cutting-edge, discipline specific facilities, contemporary study spaces and well-resourced libraries. Our city and suburban campuses also feature on-site gyms and eateries, and health services on, or nearby, campus.

You will be well supported academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually with access to on-campus facilities and services such as counselling, learning support, childcare, prayer rooms and more.

You will be well supported through a range of services at Adelaide University to ensure you get the most out of your student experience. Support services include:

Academic learning support, including after-hours support provided via Studiosity through live online chat assistance with writing, referencing, mathematics and more.
Advice and advocacy regarding access, adjustments and inclusivity if you have a disability, impairment, chronic health condition or significant caring responsibilities.
Libraries providing flexible study spaces, access to books, computer suites and online resources – as well as referencing support, search tips and more.
Career development hub, including extensive self-help resources, online learning programs, on-campus events, workshops and networking, one-on-one advice, and job search support.
Qualified counsellors who can provide confidential support to manage your mental health and wellbeing.
On-campus medical clinics on-site where you can make an appointment with a General Practitioner (GP) to discuss acute and preventative health care matters.
Information and advice for international students regarding accommodation, student life, visa and work rights and academic policies and procedures.
An active and visible LGBTIQA+ Ally Network that ensures the University provides a supportive environment where all staff and students can safely work and study free of harassment or discrimination.
Prayer rooms on campus, including gender specific spaces for worship purposes.
Campus security available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to ensure all students feel safe on campus.
A range of scholarships offered to commencing and continuing students each year to make university life a little easier.
A number of social outlets including student lounges, gyms, student-led clubs, sports teams and free events throughout the year.

Your tuition fees will depend on your program of study and enrolment load. You can find the annual fees relevant to your program on the specific degree page under the ‘fees’ section. The annual fee payable for your chosen program will also be outlined in your Offer of Admission.

Adelaide University will open in January 2026. Your studies will start at different times depending on what study period you’ve applied for. Adelaide University is currently using a semester model, which means most degrees start in Semester 1. Some degrees are also available to start in mid-year, sometimes with a different degree structure. 

Studies at Adelaide University typically commence in:  

February for Semester 1  
July for Semester 2.

Some degrees, such as the Bachelor of Medical Studies and Master of Business Administration, will have different starting dates. View the relevant degree page for more detail. 

For other key dates, including census dates and exam periods, you can view our Academic calendar. 

View all FAQs

Your study experience and support

Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.

You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.

Student services

We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:

Career advice and mentoring services
Personal counselling
LGBTQIA+ support
Academic support
Fees and finance help
Security services
Accommodation services
Common rooms
Prayer rooms.

You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.

Your campus

You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.

This degree is offered at the following campus(es)

Study hours

Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.

Assessment

During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include: