Master of Social Work

Learn from industry experts and award-winning researchers, gain hands-on experience in our on-campus Social Work Studios, and build workplace networks when you complete field education placements. You will also graduate with advanced research skills.

In the custom-built Social Work Studios you will work alongside field practitioners and academic staff in simulated, real-life situations. Using state-of-the-art recording equipment and cameras, you can review your work and learn from your experiences. Work placements will also provide valuable real-world experience during which you will experience first-hand what it's like to work in local, rural and international settings.

If you would like to continue to work while you study the timetable for this master degree makes that possible, with flexible study options that accommodate other life commitments. As Australia's university of enterprise:

• we are number one in South Australia for student satisfaction1
• we are the largest university in South Australia with more than 31,000 students
• we hold 26th spot in the QS World University Rankings for institutions under 50 years old in 20172

Our commitment to research with an industry focus is unprecedented in South Australia. In the 2015 Excellence in Research for Australia evaluation, 97 per cent of our assessed research was rated world-class or above. It's a very good time to choose UniSA for your postgraduate study.

1 QILT: Course Experience Questionnaire 2015-2016 Overall Satisfaction Item2 2017 QS Top 50 Universities Aged Under 50

On completion you will have an advanced knowledge and understanding of current social issues, social work values and ethics.

Building on knowledge and skills already attained through previous study, you will explore topics such as:

• social work values
• ethics and identity
• human rights
• current social issues
• mental health
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures
• child protection
• cross cultural practice

A portion of this degree will include practicum, with the remaining courses in social policy and social work theory. There is a major focus on leadership, innovation and research driven practice.

Social work requires a strong commitment to and passion for social justice and human rights. If you think you've got what it takes the employment opportunities in Australia are excellent and the demand for graduates is high1, with graduating students quickly finding work in a range of fields.

Careers to consider:

• aged care worker: provide personal, physical and emotional support to older people who need assistance with everyday living
• correctional services officer: aid in the rehabilitation and counselling of offenders
• domestic violence victim services officer: counsel, investigate and report on incidences of domestic violence
• disability services officer: provide support for people in the community with intellectual, physical, social and emotional disabilities
• social planner: a pivotal role in creating liveable, sustainable communities; social planners create strategic policy and action that policy in order to meet the needs and wants of the people

1Australian Government Department of Employment, Occupational Employment Projections 2015