Master's Degree Social Work Full Time

Master of Social Work

at Griffith University · Brisbane, Queensland

CRICOS course code

092427M

CRICOS provider code

00233E

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

2.5 years

Tuition (whole course)

A$81,000 total

Per year

A$32,400/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

The Master of Social Work at Griffith University gives students the skills needed to work in professional social work roles across a variety of Australian settings. Throughout 2.5 years of study, students focus on social justice, culturally safe practice, policy analysis, and advanced interventions with individuals, families, and communities. The curriculum covers child protection, mental health, ageing, community development, and working with diverse populations, alongside essential skills in ethical and reflective practice.

Australian master's qualifications, like this degree, require completion of specified units of study, each worth a set number of credit points. Expect course work alongside substantial professional placements, totalling the number of hours required by Australian social work accrediting bodies. This hands-on component ensures graduates are job-ready, and can meet eligibility for professional registration as a social worker within Australia.

Students experience teaching over semesters, complete core and elective units, and develop advanced research and practical skills. The degree includes a major placement in an Australian social service or community organisation. International students are expected to meet higher English language requirements, with an IELTS minimum overall score typically at 7.0, reflecting professional registration standards for social work in Australia.

This course suits those aiming for a professional career in social work, including graduates from other fields seeking a qualifying social work credential, or those wanting employment in health care, government, schools, and non-government agencies. Students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during semester and may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) after graduation. Always confirm structure, placement opportunities, and accreditation details through the official Griffith University website.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.

International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

Social worker in health care, mental health, disability services, child protection, or aged care
Community development officer with government or non-profits
Case manager in family support services or youth work
Policy officer or social policy adviser
Researcher or project officer in social service organisations
Many of these roles are found in government departments, public health organisations, NGOs, and not-for-profits across Australia

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Master of Social Work at Griffith University?

It typically takes 2.5 years, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$81,000 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Social worker in health care, mental health, disability services, child protection, or aged careCommunity development officer with government or non-profitsCase manager in family support services or youth workPolicy officer or social policy adviserResearcher or project officer in...

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