Curtin University

What you'll study

The program combines social work theory, human development, social policy, ethics and research with practical skills in assessment, intervention and case management. Core study areas typically include social work practice and methods, human behaviour and development, social welfare policy, community development, mental health, child and family welfare, Indigenous and intercultural practice, and practice-relevant research methods.

A key feature of the degree is sustained supervised field education in community, health and government agencies. Field education placements are integrated across the course so students apply classroom learning to real-world practice, develop professional competence and meet the program's accreditation expectations.

Entry requirements

• Completion of secondary school (or equivalent) with a competitive entry rank; Curtin considers a range of qualifications and alternative entry pathways.
• Applicants with prior tertiary study, relevant work or community experience may be eligible for admission through recognition of prior learning or alternative entry schemes.
• International applicants must meet Curtin's English language proficiency requirements.
• Because of placement requirements, successful applicants must be able to meet professional suitability checks such as police or background checks, vaccination or health screening and any jurisdictional working-with-children requirements.
• Selection may include consideration of personal statements, referees or interview, depending on the cohort and intake.

Career prospects

Graduates are eligible to pursue accredited social work registration and work across a wide range of settings. Common employment destinations include:

• Community services and non-government organisations (casework, program delivery, community development)
• Health services (hospital social work, mental health teams, rehabilitation services)
• Child protection and family services
• Aged care and disability services
• Court and corrections services
• Government policy, advocacy and programme roles
• Research, teaching and further postgraduate study in social work, public policy or related fields

Why study at Curtin University

• Professional accreditation and practice focus: The program is designed to meet professional standards for social work practice and emphasises substantial supervised field education, preparing graduates for workplace readiness.
• Applied learning and industry links: Curtin maintains partnerships with health services, community agencies and government bodies in Western Australia, giving students access to diverse placement opportunities.
• Multidisciplinary environment: Students benefit from studying alongside related health and social science disciplines, supporting interprofessional practice skills valued by employers.
• Experienced academic staff and supportive learning: Teaching staff combine academic and practice experience, and the university provides academic support, placement coordination and student services.
• Focus on Indigenous and multicultural practice: Curtin embeds Indigenous perspectives and cultural competence into curriculum to prepare graduates to work effectively with diverse communities.