Master of Social Work at La Trobe University

Master's Degree Social Work Full Time

Master of Social Work

at La Trobe University · Melbourne, Victoria

CRICOS course code

110240B

CRICOS provider code

00115M

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 years

Tuition (whole course)

A$77,000 total

Per year

A$38,500/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Master of Social Work at La Trobe University is designed to prepare graduates for roles as qualified social workers in Australia. This two-year coursework master's degree provides a comprehensive exploration of social work theory, ethics, policy, and practice within the Australian context. Students develop advanced knowledge in areas such as child and family welfare, mental health, ageing, community development, and social justice, with a focus on working with diverse communities.

The programme structure typically involves a combination of core and elective units of study, contributing to a specified number of credit points. Core units cover essential social work methodologies and frameworks, while electives allow for specialisation according to career interests. The curriculum integrates academic coursework with substantial professional placements, ensuring students meet the Australian requirements for work-integrated learning and acquire real-world experience in agencies, hospitals, or community organisations.

Across the programme, students gain vital skills such as critical reflection, evidence-based assessment, communication, advocacy, and case management. A capstone component or research-based project is included, enabling students to engage deeply with social issues and prepare for leadership or specialist roles. This degree is suitable for those seeking a career change into social work or for graduates of related fields aiming for professional registration in Australia. Please confirm current course structure, requirements, and professional placement details on the official La Trobe University page.

International students gain from Melbourne’s vibrant community, industry links, and eligibility for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-graduation. All students may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study, offering valuable exposure to the Australian social work sector.

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, aged care, or child and family services
Community Development Officer within NGOs, local government or advocacy groups
Case Manager in disability support, corrections or homelessness services
Policy Analyst within government departments or research institutes
Project Coordinator for social impact initiatives

Graduates are sought after in Australia’s community services, healthcare, education, not-for-profit, and government sectors.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Master of Social Work at La Trobe University?

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

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$77,000 total. Fees change yearly, confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Social Worker in health care, mental health, aged care, or child and family servicesCommunity Development Officer within NGOs, local government or advocacy groupsCase Manager in disability support, corrections or homelessness servicesPolicy Analyst within government departments o...

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