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, including the social context, 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 (Honours) 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 from Core courses, and
- 24 units for all Work integrated learning, and
- 6 units for Electives
Complete exactly 162 units from the following:
| Course name | 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
PSYC1009
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Australian Social Policy
|
Course code
POLI2010
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Working with Community
|
Course code
SOWK2001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Human Service Intervention
|
Course code
SOWK2002
|
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
|
|
|
Course name
Protecting Children
|
Course code
SOWK4009
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Trauma Informed Practice (UniSA)
|
Course code
SOWK4003
|
Units
6
|
Notes
1. Within the first 6 months of enrolling in the program all students are required to have obtained a National Coordinated Criminal History Check (NCCHC) and, a Working with Children, Aged, NDIS and Vulnerable People clearance through the Department of Human Services (DHS).
2. Field Education consists of 1000 hours of supervised placement to be undertaken during the third and fourth years. Students are advised that they will be required to attend field education placements generally but not exclusively during normal working hours in both teaching and non-teaching weeks, for between 3 and 5 days per week. Students are strongly encouraged to undertake one rural placement.
3. Prior to commencing placement, all students must have successfully completed a 1-day Child Safe Environments Course.
4. Most placements will require students to hold a current driver's licence and to be willing to drive an agency car. Some agencies will require a recognised First Aid Certificate. Not having a current driver's licence will limit your placement choices.
5. Students choosing to undertake a minor must take the specified minor attached to this program.
6. The program is designed to graduate professional social workers who can function effectively in demanding environments. It satisfies professional and employer requirements through its content and its assessment processes. Students are advised that the program does require consistent participation in a wide range of potentially challenging classroom, assessment and field activities.
7. The program is four years of full-time study but may also be studied part-time and while there are two 18 unit courses both can be taken in part time mode in negotiation with the Field Education Course Coordinator and the Honours Coordinator.
8. Students are required to pass the Interview assessment to enrol in placement. Students failing the Interview will be given the chance to retake the assessment.
9. Students studying externally will be required to attend a minimum of 20 days on campus spread over the four years of the program to meet the Australian Association of Social Workers accreditation requirements around attendance.
10. Students enrolled in the Bachelor of Social Work are eligible to apply to transfer to the 4 year Bachelor of Social Work (Honours) program if they have achieved a GPA of 5.0 or higher. Transfer into the Bachelor of Social Work (Honours) program for students is encouraged at any point in the first three years of the program but is highly encouraged in the first two years to ensure a smooth transition prior to the first placement.
11. The first year and a half of the Bachelor of Social Work is in common with the Bachelor of Social Science majoring in Human Services. Transfer between the degrees is possible. Transferring by mid-year of second year ensures smooth transition between the degrees and avoids any problems in relation to field education, the minor, and AASW field education requirements.
| Course name | Units |
|---|---|
| Year 1 | |
| Semester 1 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Year 2 | |
| Semester 1 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Year 3 | |
| Semester 1 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
18
|
| Semester 2 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Year 4 | |
| Semester 1 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
12
|
| Semester 2 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
18
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
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
|
Notes
1. Within the first 6 months of enrolling in the program all students are required to have obtained a National Coordinated Criminal History Check (NCCHC) and, a Working with Children, Aged, NDIS and Vulnerable People clearance through the Department of Human Services (DHS).
2. Field Education consists of 1000 hours of supervised placement to be undertaken during the third and fourth years. Students are advised that they will be required to attend field education placements generally but not exclusively during normal working hours in both teaching and non-teaching weeks, for between 3 and 5 days per week. Students are strongly encouraged to undertake one rural placement.
3. Prior to commencing placement, all students must have successfully completed a 1-day Child Safe Environments Course.
4. Most placements will require students to hold a current driver's licence and to be willing to drive an agency car. Some agencies will require a recognised First Aid Certificate. Not having a current driver's licence will limit your placement choices.
5. Students choosing to undertake a minor must take the specified minor attached to this program.
6. The program is designed to graduate professional social workers who can function effectively in demanding environments. It satisfies professional and employer requirements through its content and its assessment processes. Students are advised that the program does require consistent participation in a wide range of potentially challenging classroom, assessment and field activities.
7. The program is four years of full-time study but may also be studied part-time and while there are two 18 unit courses both can be taken in part time mode in negotiation with the Field Education Course Coordinator and the Honours Coordinator.
8. Students are required to pass the Interview assessment to enrol in placement. Students failing the Interview will be given the chance to retake the assessment.
9. Students studying externally will be required to attend a minimum of 20 days on campus spread over the four years of the program to meet the Australian Association of Social Workers accreditation requirements around attendance.
10. Students enrolled in the Bachelor of Social Work are eligible to apply to transfer to the 4 year Bachelor of Social Work (Honours) program if they have achieved a GPA of 5.0 or higher. Transfer into the Bachelor of Social Work (Honours) program for students is encouraged at any point in the first three years of the program but is highly encouraged in the first two years to ensure a smooth transition prior to the first placement.
11. The first year and a half of the Bachelor of Social Work is in common with the Bachelor of Social Science majoring in Human Services. Transfer between the degrees is possible. Transferring by mid-year of second year ensures smooth transition between the degrees and avoids any problems in relation to field education, the minor, and AASW field education requirements.
| Course name | Units |
|---|---|
| Year 1 | |
| Semester 1 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Year 2 | |
| Semester 1 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Year 3 | |
| Semester 1 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
18
|
| Semester 2 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Year 4 | |
| Semester 1 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
12
|
| Semester 2 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
18
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
Complete 6 units for either of the following:
- 6 units from University-wide electives, or
- 6 units for all Program electives
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Informed Practice with Children
|
Course code
SOWK2007
|
Units
6
|
Notes
1. Within the first 6 months of enrolling in the program all students are required to have obtained a National Coordinated Criminal History Check (NCCHC) and, a Working with Children, Aged, NDIS and Vulnerable People clearance through the Department of Human Services (DHS).
2. Field Education consists of 1000 hours of supervised placement to be undertaken during the third and fourth years. Students are advised that they will be required to attend field education placements generally but not exclusively during normal working hours in both teaching and non-teaching weeks, for between 3 and 5 days per week. Students are strongly encouraged to undertake one rural placement.
3. Prior to commencing placement, all students must have successfully completed a 1-day Child Safe Environments Course.
4. Most placements will require students to hold a current driver's licence and to be willing to drive an agency car. Some agencies will require a recognised First Aid Certificate. Not having a current driver's licence will limit your placement choices.
5. Students choosing to undertake a minor must take the specified minor attached to this program.
6. The program is designed to graduate professional social workers who can function effectively in demanding environments. It satisfies professional and employer requirements through its content and its assessment processes. Students are advised that the program does require consistent participation in a wide range of potentially challenging classroom, assessment and field activities.
7. The program is four years of full-time study but may also be studied part-time and while there are two 18 unit courses both can be taken in part time mode in negotiation with the Field Education Course Coordinator and the Honours Coordinator.
8. Students are required to pass the Interview assessment to enrol in placement. Students failing the Interview will be given the chance to retake the assessment.
9. Students studying externally will be required to attend a minimum of 20 days on campus spread over the four years of the program to meet the Australian Association of Social Workers accreditation requirements around attendance.
10. Students enrolled in the Bachelor of Social Work are eligible to apply to transfer to the 4 year Bachelor of Social Work (Honours) program if they have achieved a GPA of 5.0 or higher. Transfer into the Bachelor of Social Work (Honours) program for students is encouraged at any point in the first three years of the program but is highly encouraged in the first two years to ensure a smooth transition prior to the first placement.
11. The first year and a half of the Bachelor of Social Work is in common with the Bachelor of Social Science majoring in Human Services. Transfer between the degrees is possible. Transferring by mid-year of second year ensures smooth transition between the degrees and avoids any problems in relation to field education, the minor, and AASW field education requirements.
Free electives - The Justice & Society Study Tour course can be chosen in place of an elective course as part of this program. Additional fees apply for the study tour component of this course, and enrolment is conditional upon successful application in a competitive Expression of Interest process as well as successful completion of 36 units.
| Course name | Units |
|---|---|
| Year 1 | |
| Semester 1 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Year 2 | |
| Semester 1 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Year 3 | |
| Semester 1 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
18
|
| Semester 2 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Year 4 | |
| Semester 1 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
12
|
| Semester 2 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
18
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
Career outcomes
Social workers with an honours degree hold advanced knowledge and skills. Along with the typical social work activities, they specialise in using evidence-based practise, synthesising ideas and undertake research and advocacy with the ultimate aim of promoting a more fair and inclusive society.
The fields and sectors employing social workers are as varied as the populations they assist. 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.
You could work in areas like:
- Academic and research
- Aged care facilities
- 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
- 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
This program is provisionally accredited by the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW).
Graduates are eligible for membership of the AASW.
Ready to apply?
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.
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:
- Case studies
- Essays and assignments
- Examinations
- Group projects
- Internships and placements
- Practicals
- Presentations
- Reports and project documentations
- Research projects
- Workplace and classroom contributions.
