La Trobe University
4 years full-time or part-time equivalent
Become a qualified social worker with La Trobe's honours degree combining theoretical knowledge in psychology and sociology with two 14-week professional placements. Ideal for students passionate about human rights, social justice, and supporting vulnerable communities across health, welfare, and government sectors.
Applicants must meet English language requirements (VCE Units 3 and 4 with study score of at least 25 in English or equivalent HSC). An ATAR is used as part of selection considerations, with the 2026 lowest selection rank at Melbourne (Bundoora) campus being 55.35. Subject adjustments apply for Humanities, Psychology, Legal Studies, Economics and Language Other Than English studies. International applicants must demonstrate required IELTS (Academic) scores. Work experience and community involvement may be considered through special access schemes.
Year 1 covers foundational knowledge including Being a Social Worker, Introductory Psychology (Brain and Mind, People and Culture), Health and Wellbeing of People with Developmental Disabilities, Reflective Communication and Social Work, Rural Community Engagement, Social Work in a Political Context, and Society and Culture. Year 2 introduces Integrating Practice and Theory, Diversity, Law Human Rights and Ethics, Social Work in an Unequal World, Social Work Research, Theories for Social Work, and Trauma, Resilience and Development. Year 3 focuses on Fields of Practice, Inclusion in Communities, and Social Work Skills for Practice with a 14-week placement. Year 4 includes Social Policy and Advocacy, Social Work Skills, and a second 14-week professional practice placement. Students can choose minors in Industry Honours or Research Honours.
La Trobe University offers a comprehensive social work program accredited by the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW). The university provides world-renowned academics teaching human rights and social justice principles, practical placements in leading health and welfare organisations, and flexible study options across multiple campuses including Melbourne, Albury-Wodonga, Bendigo, Mildura, and Shepparton. The program emphasizes both Western and First Nations worldviews with critical appraisal of colonisation impacts.
Graduates can pursue diverse career paths in community health centres and hospitals working alongside health professionals to provide counselling and support; government departments and non-government agencies in case management and advocacy roles; and mental health and disability services providing recovery-oriented practice. Employment opportunities span private industries and the public sector, including schools, hospitals, community service organisations, corrections facilities, and mental health providers. Professional recognition through AASW membership opens pathways to leadership roles in social reform and policy development.
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