Bachelor of Social Work
The social work profession promotes advocacy, social change, positive
human relationships and the empowerment and the liberation of people to
enhance their well being. Principles of human rights and social justice
are fundamental to social work, an increasingly important profession in
today's rapidly changing world.
The Bachelor of Social Work provides a sound knowledge of the political, behavioural and social sciences. It prepares students for a range of professional social work job opportunities in areas such as healthcare, legal and court services, domestic violence, child protection, services for youth, families, children and communities, drug and alcohol programs, services for Aboriginal families and communities, and refugee assistance.
- Program information
- What will I study?
- What does it take?
- Who will employ me?
- Professional recognition
- Honours
- Field Education
Please send your enquiries to swp.enquiries@unisa.edu.au or enquire on-line
Program Director
Dr Sue King
School of Social Work and Social Policy
Tel : +61 8 830 24316
Email: sue.king@unisa.edu.au
What will I study?
This program has been developed around four major areas of study: Social Work Knowledge, Social Work Practice, Social Policy and Research.
Social Work Knowledge: This field introduces the core concepts of race, ethnicity, age, culture, gender and class. Students develop their knowledge of social work approaches, working with individuals, families, communities, groups and organisations. Students may also specialise in areas such as interpersonal violence, rural communities, cultural diversity, healthcare, child protection, aged care and many other areas of practice.
Social Work Practice: Students engage in two 15-week supervised field placements in their third and fourth years, where they apply their knowledge, skills and experience to practical situations. Students often say that their best learning experiences are while on placement, and many use this opportunity to secure permanent employment.
Social Policy: This field addresses the conditions leading to disadvantage and the marginalisation of individuals and sectors of society, enabling students to identify social policies that affect people's lives, the forces that shape these policies, and the strategic ways that social workers may influence these policies.
Research: A central focus of the program is to prepare practitioners with knowledge and skills grounded in sound research. The ability to use, evaluate and construct research is developed throughout the program.
What does it take?
Social work requires a strong commitment to and passion for working for social justice and human rights. Social workers enable people and communities to achieve their full potential, often against great odds. All forms of professional social work require effective interpersonal skills, a disciplined objective approach and adherence to the profession's ethics and values. Social workers may be required to work in settings where resources and assistance are limited, and often work with individuals, families, organisations and communities under stress, or in situations where there is conflict or uncertainty.
Who will employ me?
Social workers have excellent employment opportunities. Current vacancy levels are very high according to the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations. There are also strong employment opportunities overseas, particularly in the United Kingdom.
Graduates may find employment in the fields of aged care, domestic violence, child and youth welfare, community development, legal and court services, correctional services, disability services, social planning and administration, research and private industry.
Professional recognition
Subject to Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) Ltd review every five years, graduates are eligible for membership of the AASW.
The Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) is the professional association which monitors the practice standards, provides continuing education and promotes the objectives of the social work profession. It assists Social Workers to improve and be accountable for their standard of practice. The AASW has a Code of Ethics that provides guiding principles for Social Work practice and is binding on all members of the AASW.
Student membership is approximately $100.00 per year. Membership is from July to June. You can join at any time at an adjusted rate.
For further information about AASW Ltd visit their website by clicking here.
Honours
The degree may be awarded with honours.
Field Education
Field Education is undertaken during the third and fourth year of the Bachelor of Social Work program. It is important to note that pre-requisites for enrolment into Field Education courses, students must complete all first and second year courses and Social Work and Reflective Practice.
In third year, students experience working with individuals and families, for example, working with young parents who need help with parenting skills and supportive social networks. In fourth year, students take on a broader project focus, working with community groups or organisations, immigrants or people in detention centres.
Students also have the opportunity to undertake one of their field placements overseas, with programs established in both India and Kenya, allowing students to focus on issues of poverty, access to nutrition and clean water, and improving opportunities for a better life.
Please note the following:
- Some work placement require a current driver's licence and a recognised First Aid Certificate
- Prior to placements, all students are required to undertake training
on Child Safe Environments: Report Child Abuse and Neglect
(formerly known as Mandated Notification Training) - All students preparing for placement will require evidence of a current police check before commencing placement
Click here for more information on Field Education placement