Bachelor of Social Work

Charles Sturt University and TAFE NSW offer an integrated program leading to a Bachelor of Social Work. The program is offered over four years (full-time) with the first two years co-enrolled in the Diploma of Community Services at TAFE NSW and Charles Sturt University's Bachelor of Social Work. Students will concurrently study eight subjects in Bachelor of Social Work while completing their TAFE Diploma of Community Services.

The TAFE diploma and Charles Sturt University co-enrolment is completed after two years and students may graduate with the Diploma of Community Services from TAFE. Students complete the final two years of their degree with Charles Sturt University. In Port Macquarie, this program is delivered on campus at Charles Sturt University's Port Macquarie campus and  TAFE NSW's Port Macquarie and Taree campuses. In Dubbo, this program is delivered on campus at Charles Sturt University's Dubbo campus and TAFE NSW's Dubbo and Orange campuses.

This program draws on the extensive skill-building throughout the TAFE course, which is concurrently incorporated into a broader theoretical and professional context through the university component. The final two years are university study alone.

Areas of study

Child and family practice, ethics, human rights, Indigenous Australian practice, law, mental health, rural policy and practice, social inequality, social work theory and practice methods, sustainability.

Career opportunities

Social workers operate at the interface between people and their environments in settings such as hospitals, councils, human services agencies and in private practice. Graduates will have the opportunity to work professionally with individuals, groups and communities in both government and non-government agencies.

Practical experience

1,000 hours of supervised fieldwork in approved agencies.

Professional recognition

Accredited by the Australian Association of Social Workers and satisfies all academic requirements for professional recognition as a social worker.

Fees and charges

The Australian Government subsidises the tuition fee for this course. The remaining balance is paid by the student. Visit the Charles Sturt University website for current fee information.