Master of Social Work

The Master of Social Work at the University of Tasmania is a two-year qualification for people who want to work as social workers in Australia. It sits at master's level on the Australian Qualifications Framework, which means it builds on prior study rather than starting from scratch. You'll spend those two years learning how to assess people's situations, plan interventions, work with families and communities, and understand the legal and policy systems that shape social work practice in this country.

How the degree is structured

Like most Australian master's degrees, this one runs on a semester basis, with units of study carrying credit points. You'll complete coursework units in areas such as social work theory, research methods, law and ethics, and field education. The exact unit list and credit point totals are set by the university, so check the official course page for the current sequence. A research project or capstone is typically part of the later stages, letting you dig into a practice issue that matters to you.

Field education and professional recognition

Social work is a field where you can't learn from books alone. Australian social work degrees include supervised field education placements, usually two separate blocks, where you work in an agency under a qualified supervisor. Placements can be in hospitals, community health, child protection, mental health services, family support agencies, or policy and advocacy organisations. The University of Tasmania has strong links to services across the state, including in regional and rural areas, so you may find yourself on placement outside Hobart or Launceston. Graduates apply for accreditation with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW), which is the professional body for social workers in Australia. Confirm the current accreditation status and placement requirements on the official course page.

English language and visas

International applicants need to meet a higher English standard for social work than for many other coursework master's degrees. The published requirement is IELTS Academic 7.0–7.5 overall, with equivalent scores accepted from TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced, or the university's own English programmes. The Department of Home Affairs also sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa. While you study, your visa allows you to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during the semester. After you graduate, you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream, which lets you stay and work in Australia for a period that depends on your qualification and circumstances.

Who this suits

This degree suits people who already hold a bachelor's degree in a related area, social sciences, psychology, education, health, community development, and want to become a registered social worker. It also appeals to people already working in human services who need the qualification to advance or to meet registration requirements. If you're organised, good with people in difficult situations, and want a career that mixes direct practice with policy and advocacy, this is a practical way in. Tuition is published on the CRICOS register under course code 079610K. Check the official page for current fees, intake dates, and application details.

• Social worker in hospitals, community health centres, mental health services, or aged care, assessing needs, coordinating care, and supporting patients and families.
• Child protection practitioner with state departments or non-government agencies, working with children, young people, and families at risk.
• Family support worker in community organisations, running programs for parents, carers, and children.
• Mental health social worker in clinical teams, providing counselling, case management, and psychosocial support.
• School social worker or wellbeing officer in primary and secondary schools, helping students and families access support.
• Policy or research officer in government departments or advocacy groups, analysing social issues and developing programs.
• Case manager in disability services, housing, or homelessness services, coordinating support for people with complex needs.
• Community development worker in local councils or NGOs, working with residents on projects that improve local services and connections.

Social workers are employed across Australia in health, education, government, and the community sector. The qualification is also recognised in some overseas countries, though you should check local registration requirements if you plan to practise outside Australia.