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The Bachelor of Social Work at Charles Darwin University prepares students to become qualified social workers who support individuals, families, and communities through counselling, advocacy, and social support services. This program suits students who are empathetic, socially aware, and motivated to create positive change in areas such as human rights, wellbeing, and social justice.
Curriculum Structure:
Year 1:
In the first year, students are introduced to the foundations of social work practice and human behaviour. Key units include Introduction to Human Services, Introduction to Psychology A, and Social Work Skills A. These subjects help students understand how individuals and communities function while developing basic communication and professional skills required in social work.
Year 2:
The second year builds deeper understanding of society, culture, and group dynamics. Students study units such as Indigenous Contemporary Perspectives, Dynamics of Group Work, and Social Work Theory and Practice. Social Work Skills B continues to strengthen practical abilities, preparing students for more applied and community-focused learning.
Year 3:
In the third year, students focus on advanced theory and begin professional field experience. Core units include Social Research Methods, Social Policy, and Engaging with Individuals and Families in Partnership. Field Education A allows students to gain supervised real-world experience in social service settings.
Year 4:
The final year focuses on advanced practice and professional readiness. Students study areas such as mental health practice, legal issues in social work, and community safety. Field Education B provides an extended placement experience where students apply their skills in real practice environments before graduation.
Focus Areas:
Social justice, human behaviour, counselling, community development, Indigenous perspectives, mental health, social policy, and professional practice.
Learning Outcomes:
Graduates gain the ability to assess and support individuals and communities, apply ethical and culturally sensitive practice, conduct research-informed interventions, and provide counselling and advocacy across diverse social settings.
Professional Alignment (Accreditation):
This degree is accredited by the Australian Association of Social Workers, ensuring graduates meet national professional standards and are eligible for recognised membership pathways.
Reputation (Employability Rankings):
Charles Darwin University is recognised for strong graduate outcomes in social work, with high employability rates and competitive starting salaries in the sector, reflecting strong demand for qualified social workers.
Further Academic Progression:
After completing this degree, students can progress to a Master of Social Work (Qualifying), postgraduate certificates in specialised community services, or research degrees such as MPhil or PhD for advanced practice, leadership, or academic careers.
The Bachelor of Social Work at Charles Darwin University is strongly focused on hands-on, practice-based learning so students graduate with real professional experience and confidence in working with people and communities. Learning is not limited to the classroom — students regularly apply theory through placements, skill-building workshops, and guided practical training that reflects real social work settings. This approach helps students develop communication, counselling, and decision-making skills needed in real community and welfare environments:
Field Education (Placements): Students complete around 1000 hours of supervised placements in government, health, and community organisations, gaining direct experience working with clients and services
Placement Support Services: The university provides structured support to help students find suitable placement opportunities across urban, regional, and remote locations
Intensive Skills Workshops: Compulsory on-campus intensive sessions focus on developing practical skills such as counselling, communication, and intervention techniques
Community-Based Learning: Students engage in real community and agency settings, gaining exposure to areas such as mental health, child protection, and social support services
Case-Based and Role-Play Training: Classroom learning includes simulated case studies and role-play activities to build professional judgement and practice readiness
Interdisciplinary Learning: Students collaborate with other health and human service disciplines, reflecting how social workers operate in real workplaces
Pre-Placement Preparation: Training and compliance support are provided to ensure students are fully prepared before entering field placements
For more details on facilities and learning environment, refer to the university’s social work course information page.
The Bachelor of Social Work at Charles Darwin University prepares graduates to work as qualified social workers who support individuals, families, and communities through counselling, advocacy, and practical support services. Graduates are ready for roles across community services, healthcare, government, and non-profit organisations, where they help address social challenges and improve wellbeing.
Typical roles include: Social Worker, Case Manager, Community Services Worker, Youth Worker, and Mental Health Support Worker.
Progression & Future Opportunities:
• Students receive dedicated support from CDU Careers and Employment Service, including help with resumes, interview preparation, career planning, and connecting with employers
• The program includes extensive 1000-hour field education placements, giving students hands-on experience in real social work and community service settings
• CDU has strong connections with government agencies, health services, and community organisations, supporting placement opportunities and future employment pathways
• The degree is professionally accredited by the Australian Association of Social Workers, ensuring national recognition and eligibility for professional membership
• Graduates benefit from strong employment outcomes in the social work sector, with consistent demand across Australia for qualified professionals
Further Academic Progression:
After completing this degree, students can continue into a Master of Social Work (Qualifying), pursue postgraduate studies in specialised community service areas such as child protection or mental health, or undertake research degrees like an MPhil or PhD for advanced practice, policy, or academic careers.
This course is available at the Casuarina campus.Successful completion of the Northern Territory Certificate of Education and Training (or equivalent) and the awarding of an Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank (ATAR) of at least 60Successful completion of a national qualification at Certificate III level or higherSuccessful completion of at least 0.5 year of full-time study (or equivalent) of a higher education degree/diplomaSuccessful completion of the Tertiary Enabling Program, the Preparation for Tertiary Success courses, or other recognised tertiary preparation courseEnglish language Requirement: IELTS: A minimum overall score of 7.0 with no score below a 7.0 in reading, writing, speaking and listening skills or TOEFL Internet-based Test (iBT) A minimum overall score of 94 with a minimum score of 24 in reading and listening, a minimum score of 27 in writing and a minimum score of 23 in speaking.India: completion of AISSC/ISC/SSC with at least 60% average in best 4 academic subjects including English, or HSC with 75% (Punjab & Haryana boards) or 65% (other state boards) in best 4 academic subjects, excluding non-academic subjects such as local languages, physical education, and work experience.China: A recognised foundation/pre-tertiary program or GAOKAO score for Tier Two university entry; alternatively Year 12 with 70% (most courses) or 80% (Law, Health, Health Science master pathways, and Engineering Honours).UK: Cambridge International or GCE A Levels required, with a predicted A-level score typically one point above the standard admission requirement.USA: High School Diploma with an average grade of C, or SAT score of 980 (post-2016) / 1320 (pre-2016), or at least 2 AP scores of 2+, or ACT score of 20.Human ServicesChild ProtectionIncome SupportCommunity HealthCommunity DevelopmentCounsellingHospital Social Work
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Charles Darwin University
