Postgraduate International Placement Program

The Postgraduate International Placement Program at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) is a specialised master's-level course designed to provide social sciences and psychology graduates with valuable industry experience in Australia. Over 26 weeks, students participate in a supervised placement, gaining firsthand exposure to professional practice while building essential skills for employability and research application within the Australian context.

The program integrates practical work-based learning with academic reflection, focusing on bridging theory with practice. Students complete structured units of study, each assigned credit points as per UNSW’s postgraduate framework. Emphasis is placed on developing advanced analytical, communication, and problem-solving abilities, preparing graduates for diverse roles within the social sciences and psychology sectors.

Ideal for international graduates seeking to enhance their career prospects, the program suits those wishing to understand the Australian workplace, acquire professional skills, and expand their local networks. The placement experience, combined with academic guidance and reflective assessment, equips graduates for roles in both research and applied settings. Detailed program structure and unit specifications can be confirmed via the official UNSW course page.

• Programme Coordinator in community and social services
• Policy officer in government agencies
• Research assistant in universities or think tanks
• Human resources or organisational development specialist
• Mental health or support worker (with relevant undergraduate qualifications)
• Employment adviser in non-profit organisations
• Industry roles within Australia’s health, education, public, and community sectors

Graduates may use their Australian qualification to seek post-study work rights through the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485), and are permitted to work 48 hours per fortnight while undertaking studies. The program’s placement component fosters strong industry connections, supporting successful entry into Australia’s competitive social sciences and psychology fields.