University of Otago

What you'll study

The Bachelor of Social Work combines social science theory, professional practice skills, research methods and statutory and policy knowledge required for contemporary social work practice in Aotearoa New Zealand. Core study areas include human development and lifespan perspectives, social welfare policy, social justice and human rights, professional ethics and reflective practice, assessment and intervention methods, and applied research and evaluation.

The programme places particular emphasis on bicultural competence and Te Tiriti o Waitangi, including Māori perspectives on wellbeing and culturally responsive practice. Students also explore issues impacting diverse populations such as tangata whenua, Pasifika communities, immigrants, older people, children and families, people with disabilities, and those with mental health or substance-use needs.

A central feature of the degree is supervised field education. Students undertake professional practicum placements in partner agencies across health, education, child protection, community development, criminal justice and non‑government organisations, where classroom learning is applied to real-world practice. Research methods and a final research or practice-informed project are normally included to develop skills in evidence-informed practice.

Entry requirements

Applicants typically need to meet university entrance requirements. Domestic applicants usually require secondary school qualification equivalent to New Zealand University Entrance (for example NCEA Level 3) with sufficient English literacy; specific recommended subjects include English, social sciences and health-related subjects. International applicants are assessed against equivalent secondary qualifications and English language proficiency requirements.

Admission to the professional social work programme may also consider academic performance, a personal statement outlining commitment to social work values, and any relevant volunteer or paid experience. Mature applicants with prior tertiary study or relevant work experience may be eligible through alternative entry pathways. Successful applicants should be prepared for the practical and ethical demands of field placements; agencies typically require satisfactory police vetting and health checks prior to placement.

Career prospects

Graduates qualify to apply for registration with the Social Workers Registration Board and work as professional social workers in a wide range of settings. Typical employment destinations include hospitals and health services, child protection and family services, mental health and addictions services, schools and youth services, iwi and Māori organisations, community and social service NGOs, corrections and probation services, and local or central government policy and social development roles.

With experience and further study, social work graduates can move into senior practice, clinical social work, team leadership, management, policy development, research or specialised fields such as forensic social work, family therapy, gerontology or community development.

Why study at University of Otago

The University of Otago's social work programme is delivered by experienced academics and practitioners who combine teaching, research and professional links across the Otago region and broader New Zealand. The curriculum integrates Aotearoa-specific perspectives, including a focus on Te Tiriti o Waitangi and culturally safe practice with Māori and other diverse communities.

Otago provides a strong field education network of partner agencies, ensuring students gain supervised, practice-based learning in varied settings. Students benefit from small-group teaching, support services for learning and wellbeing, and access to interdisciplinary collaboration across health and humanities disciplines. These strengths aim to prepare graduates for competent, ethical and locally responsive social work practice.