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Master of social work (professional qualifying), ocb structure design, what kind of student are you.
- Australian or New Zealand citizen
- Australian permanent visa holder
- Australian permanent humanitarian visa holder
- You do not hold Australian or New Zealand citizenship or permanent residency in Australia
I'd like to commence studies in
This course is part of an articulated program of study. Articulated programs allow you to build on your study to achieve the right level of qualification for you.
Make a difference
At Charles Sturt you can create a world worth living in. Let's do it together.
Key information
Study mode and sessions, entry score, indicative fees, course points and codes, additional information.
Applications close February 12
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Why study with us?
Career opportunities, what you will study.
For each 8-point subject you are enrolled in, you should expect to spend 10 to 12 hours per week working on assignments and assigned readings, tutorial assistance, individual or group research/study, forum activity, workplace learning, and attending lectures, intensive schools, or examinations. If you are studying four subjects per session, this is equivalent to a full-time job. The workload for some subjects may vary as a result of approved course design.
Intensive school
Online students may need to attend an online or on campus intensive school for certain subjects. Intensive schools offer face-to-face or virtual lectures, tutorials and practicals to give you a deeper understanding of your subject content.
Essential subjects
Elective subjects
Sample study plans
Brush up on your skills with our short, online subjects that prepare you for university. Topics range from essay writing and grammar, to maths, statistics, and chemistry - best of all they're free for most Australian residents. Visit Study Link to see our full range of subjects.
Graduation requirements
As a Charles Sturt University student, throughout your course you have a responsibility to continue to develop skills in English language, literacy and numeracy as appropriate to your discipline. This ongoing development will enable you to effectively participate in your course and graduate prepared to enter the workforce.
Calculate my fee
The section below is designed to allow you to select the option specific to your circumstances to discover the course fee and course offering information appropriate for you.
Course Fees
If you are an Australian or New Zealand citizen or hold a permanent humanitarian visa, and meet the relevant citizenship and residency requirements, you may be eligible for a Commonwealth supported place
Frequently Asked Questions on CSP
1 year indicative (2022) --> full-time equivalent fee points)-->
Please note: Commonwealth supported places fees for 2023 are still being finalised by the government. We'll update the information as soon as we have more details.
Please note: Fees are indicative only, based on full-time study. Check the course duration and graduation requirements to determine your study load for this course.
See more about fees
For more information about Charles Sturt University Study Centres
Payment Options
- Pay all of your student contribution up front direct to the university
- Pay part of your student contribution to the university and defer the balance via a HECS-HELP loan through the Australian Government (if eligible)
- Defer all of your student contribution via a HECS-HELP loan through the Australian Government (if eligible)
More information about Commonwealth Supported Places
Session availability
This course is offered in the following sessions for enrolment:
A standard full-time study load at Charles Sturt University is 64 points over two sessions. The points above indicate the number of points for the first year of this course based on overall full time course duration.
Actual fees will vary according to:
- your choice of subjects and their point value
- whether the course (and mode) allows you to study full-time or part-time
- whether you want to study full-time or part-time
More about Calculating Fees
It is important to note that the student contribution you pay will depend on the subjects you choose to study, as each subject has its own costs. The government assigns different price bands to a subject, depending on the discipline that subject belongs to.
Check out the subject fee calculator below to get a more accurate cost for your first year. The calculator will open in a new window, once open go to the Subjects section to review the subjects available for this course and enter them into the calculator.
The Australian Government indexes student contributions each year.
Access the fee calculator
A fee-paying student will pay a tuition fee for each subject in the course without the Australian government contributing any financial support to the university. But don’t be put off by the cost of study - eligible students still have the option to defer their fees through FEE-HELP .
If there is a direct connection between your study and work you may be able to claim your tuition fees as a tax deduction. For further guidance please seek independent advice or visit the Australian Taxation Office website.
Subject fee (8 Points)
- pay your tuition fees up front by the census date each session direct to the university
- pay part of your tuition fees up front by the census date direct to the university and get help to cover the balance via a FEE-HELP loan through the Australian Government (if eligible)
- get help to cover the cost of your tuition fees via a FEE-HELP loan through the Australian Government (if eligible)
More information about Fee Paying places
Note: the 8-point value is a subject indicative value only. Not all Charles Sturt University subjects are 8 points – refer to the Charles Sturt University handbook (links in the Subject section) for actual point value for the subjects required for your course.
More information about International Student Fees
Charles Sturt University gives a discount on tuition fees to citizens and Permanent Residents of Canada and the United Kingdom.
Contact a Recruitment agent in your country who can answer your questions about Charles Sturt University as well as help with the student visa application process.
International recruitment agents
CSU gives a discount on tuition fees to citizens and Permanent Residents of Canada and the United Kingdom.
Contact a Recruitment agent in your country who can answer your questions about CSU as well as help with the student visa application process.
This Course has limited Commonwealth supported places available.
Contact Us to see if you are eligible.
Most postgraduate students in Australia will pay the full cost of their tuition, however if you are a Charles Sturt University alumni student, you will receive a 10% discount .
Payment options
Most postgraduate students in Australia will pay the full cost of their tuition, however if you are a Charles Sturt University Alumni Student, you will receive a 10% discount .
If there is a direct connection between your study and work you may be able to claim your tuition fees as a tax deduction. For further guidance please seek independent advice or visit the Australian Taxation Office open_in_new website.
If you’re a successful applicant for an Australian Government supported Research Training Program (AGRTP) scholarship, you won't pay any tuition fees.
The AGRTP scheme is administered by individual universities on behalf of the Department of Education and Training.
Applications for AGRTP Scholarships need to be made directly to Charles Sturt University.
Research Training Program
For assistance contact the Research Office
Candidates who exceed their Research Training Program (RTP) entitlement are required to pay the appropriate domestic student tuition fee for their course. Eligible students still have the option to defer their fees through FEE-Help .
If you are a Charles Sturt University alumni student, you will receive a 10% discount on tuition fees .
1 year part-time points)-->
For assistance, please contact the Research Office
This international off-shore on-campus offering is managed through a Charles Sturt University partner organisation. Course fees will not be displayed here and should be discussed with the partner organisation.
Please contact us to find out more.
My Student Type
Domestic student:.
Australian citizen, a New Zealand citizen or the holder of a permanent visa .
International Student:
International or overseas students are those without Australian or New Zealand citizenship and who do not have permanent residency status in Australia.
Canadian or UK Student:
Citizens and Permanent Residents of Canada and the United Kingdom.
When I want to start
The year you intend to start your study.
How I want to study
Attending lectures, classes and tutorials at a Charles Sturt University campus.
Complete your course online to allow you the flexibility to manage your study with your professional and personal commitments and to study from anywhere.
Where I want to study
Available course fee types, commonwealth supported.
You may be eligible for the government contributions toward your tuition fees.
Full Fee Paying
If you are not eligible for government support you will be required to pay the full course fee.
How is this calculated?
This is an estimate
- Fees calculated based on 1 year of full-time study (ETSL).
- Fees dependant on chosen subjects.
- Subject to annual increase each year.
Not included
Additional costs, fees and incidentals
Scholarships
We have scholarships and grants, totalling over $5 million annually!
They cover various areas such as academic performance, volunteering, sports achievements, community service, specific courses, on-campus living and individuals in unique circumstances.
Entry requirements
Selection rank:.
Learn about how our selection ranks are calculated (including ATARs and adjustment factors).
View the course profile for this course.
Credit and pathways
If you’ve completed relevant tertiary study, or work experience related to your course, you could receive credit towards your degree. Which would mean completing your qualification quicker. Find out how to apply for credit and see our credit policy .
Check your eligibility for credit
We also have several admission pathways to help you take the step into your preferred course, even if you don't quite meet the entry requirements at first. Find out what admission pathways are available to you.
How to apply
Applying to Charles Sturt University is easy. Choose how you want to apply below, or get in touch with Charles Sturt University and we can help you with your application.
Apply via UAC
Important dates.
Refer to key dates on the UAC website
Apply via VTAC
Refer to key dates on the VTAC website
Apply directly to Charles Sturt
Check out our direct application closing dates
Related courses
Check out some of our other courses. You can use these as a stepping stone to get into this course, or complete them after you graduate.
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- Master of Social Work (Professional Qualifying)
Make a real difference with social work and expand your career opportunities in this professionally accredited course, recognised by the Australian Association of Social Workers. Gain expertise in improving the lives of others with critical skills in social work tailored to the unique and complex challenges of individuals, families, groups and communities.
Set for success
Make a difference, flexible delivery.
Some compulsory on-campus attendance is required for online students.
- Townsville: February, July
- Cairns: February, July
$8,948.00 +
$25,875.00 ^
+ estimated annual Commonwealth Supported Fee for a full-time study load
^ estimated annual tuition fee for a full-time study load
Plus Student Services and Amenities fee Fee deferral and scholarships available if eligible
2 years full-time
Entry Requirements
AQF level 7 bachelor degree in a relevant discipline other than Social Work that includes a minimum of 1 year full-time study in social and behavioural sciences; or equivalent
Course Code
Course detail.
Enhance your current qualifications and gain the critical skills to improve the lives of others, working towards creating a just and equitable society. This specialist postgraduate professional qualifying course, recognised by the Australian Association of Social Workers is designed to give you valuable opportunities to gain practical professional experience in social work practice and social welfare agencies, both in Australia and overseas.
Acquire valuable hands-on experience working with individuals, families, groups and communities through on-campus classes and/or residential workshops. JCU’s world-class lecturers provide consistent support and regular feedback to help you get the most out of your learning experience.
Students complete a series of essential core subjects, tailored to the unique and complex challenges of individuals, families, groups and communities. Subjects consider global and contemporary Australian issues and international perspectives with those of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Work while you study with JCU’s flexible delivery options. You may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning for one field education placement if you already have significant social welfare and human services experience.
View the handbook for a detailed overview of subjects. Additional information
Master’s in Social Work
Do you genuinely care about the well-being of others and want to work in a role where you can make a real difference and contribute to improving the lives of others? Are you a good communicator, resilient to stress, passionate about human rights and willing to take on a challenge? Then you seem like the ideal candidate for a career in social work. Social work is a highly rewarding field where you get to work with people and make a positive difference. It’s challenging but highly rewarding and gives a sense of self-fulfilment, unlike many other jobs. To qualify for this type of role, study for a master’s degree in Social Work at JCU.
Studying at JCU will provide you with excellent opportunities to further your knowledge and will provide you with the key skills you need to succeed in social work. With flexible study options and excellent learning resources the JCU Master of Social Work is qualifying for social work and sets you up for success with real experience.
Study Flexibly
JCU's flexible delivery options make it accessible for more people to study social work and become qualified in the field they’re most passionate about. If you’re wondering how to get a master’s degree in social work in a way that fits your lifestyle and existing commitments, JCU is the answer. You can study in Townsville or Cairns and can choose between studying full-time or part-time, which allows you to work while studying or fit your master’s degree around other existing commitments. Those with significant experience in social welfare or human services can be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning to replace one field education placement.
Set Yourself Up for Success
The JCU master’s in Social Work is professional qualifying and recognised by the Australian Association of Social Workers. Students receive top-quality teaching and access to excellent learning resources and work placements to ensure they graduate fully equipped to take on the world of social work. Graduates are highly employable and find work in government and non-government organisations in Australia and abroad. You can find yourself working in settings like hospitals, community health services, mental health services, child protection services and more. You could work in roles that include case worker, community work and development roles, social policy, research or advocacy. With the broad skillset and extensive experience gained during your studies, you can work in an area of social work you feel most passionately about and open up the doors to endless employment opportunities.
Study a Master's Degree in Social Work at JCU & Learn Through Experience
There is no substitute for experience. Students of the master’s in Social Work at JCU complete 1000 hours of placements during their studies, gaining invaluable real-life work experience in a range of relevant settings both in Australia and other countries. Apart from classes and workshops with world-class teachers, you will get practical experience working with individuals, families and communities which will set you apart to employers after graduation.
Make a difference where it matters and provide yourself with the experience you need for success by choosing JCU when you want to study for a master’s in Social Work in Queensland . Hide additional information
Inherent requirements
Inherent requirements are the identified abilities, attributes, skills, and behaviours that must be demonstrated, during the learning experience, to successfully complete a course. These abilities, attributes, skills, and behaviours preserve the academic integrity of the University’s learning, assessment, and accreditation processes, and where applicable, meet the standards of a profession. For more information please review the inherent requirements for the Master of Social Work (Professional Qualifying) .
Master of Social Work (Professional Qualifying) graduates are highly employable and make a difference in a variety of settings.
You could pursue a career as a social worker in government and non-government organisations throughout Australia or internationally.
Graduates find employment in areas like hospital and community health services, mental health services, child protection services, youth and family services.
You could work in a range of occupations, such as case work with individuals and families, community work and development roles, or social policy, research and advocacy roles.
Award Requirements
Admission requirements, academic requirements for course completion, inherent requirements, course structure, core subjects.
WS5517 :06 Foundations for Social Work Practice
WS4503 :03 Social Work and Mental Health
WS2121 :03 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Skills and Frameworks for Practice
WS4514 :03 Advanced Social Work Theory
WS5304 :06 Field Education 1
WS3027 :03 Working with Children and Families
WS5103 :03 Community Development
WS5005 :03 Social Policy Analysis
WS5020 :03 Advanced Research Methods
WS5021 :03 Advanced Contemporary Practice
WS5611 :03 Professional Development for Social Work Practice
WS5605 :09 Advanced Social Work Practicum
Candidature
Progression, award details.
Estimated annual Commonwealth Supported fee: $AUD8,948.00
Estimated annual tuition fee: $AUD25,875.00
A Student Services and Amenities fee is payable per subject up to a maximum amount per year.
A variety of Scholarships are available to suit different student types.
JCU offers multiple Pathways to University. If you do not meet the entry requirements for this course, consider exploring our available Pathways options .
Contact our friendly team today to discover which pathway is right for you .
Complete an online application through our Online Application Portal.
Real stories
Vimbayi Mupazviripo
This course’s emphasis on remote and Indigenous communities aligns with my passion for serving marginalised groups. The academics’ dedication, the hands-on learning opportunities, and the sheer fun of the student life are unbeatable.
Valarie Derwent
The wealth and depth of knowledge I gained through the Master of Social Work, in addition to being able to grow personally and professionally, has been amazing. I am now a school counsellor – a role not easily attained by Social Workers – but through this course, my dream became a reality.
Associate Professor Abraham Francis
Lecturer, College of Arts, Society and Education
JCU Social Work is grounded on the principles of social justice and human rights. We welcome our students to be connected to the grassroots realities around them. We need competent, confident, and compassionate social workers and human service professionals in the field, and we inspire our students to be change agents.
Ross Murray
North Queensland President, Australian Association of Social Workers
Employing and working alongside JCU Social Work graduates has been a seamless process of securing well trained and supported graduates. The standout attributes we have observed with graduates in our workplace is the level of preparedness and readiness to provide productive clinical services on start of employment.
Real-world experience
- James Cook University
- Bachelor of Advanced Science
- Bachelor of Arts
- Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences
- Bachelor of Business
- Bachelor of Business / Laws
- Bachelor of Dental Surgery
- --> Bachelor of Early Childhood Education --> Bachelor of Primary Education --> Study Education Online -->