Master of Social Work

La Trobe's Master of Social Work gives you the skills and knowledge to turn your passion for social justice into a thriving career. Whether you're looking to advance your career or move into a rewarding new field, you'll gain the hands-on expertise to help people in need.

Learn from world-class academics with extensive backgrounds in social work practice, including specialists in areas such as addiction, child and family welfare, disability, and mental health. Explore the various roles undertaken by social workers, including direct practice, social policy, education and research, community development, counselling, organisational planning.

Under the supervision of an experienced social worker, you'll put your knowledge into practice by completing two 70-day placements. Through our partnerships with Eastern Health, Northern Health and Alfred Health, and community partners, you'll work in real industry settings and gain valuable insights into the day-to-day experiences of social workers.

You'll learn:

• Human rights, law and ethics in social work

  • Explore the legal context of Australian social work practices and the ethical principles that guide them.

• Social policy analysis and advocacy

  • Gain an understanding of key social welfare ideologies and apply this knowledge to analyse and evaluate contemporary social policy.

• Social work with individuals, families and groups

  • Discover the theoretical frameworks used to assess and build relationships with clients, including casework theory and preparing an intervention plan.

• Program design and evaluation

  • Develop the knowledge and skills needed to design and implement programs that help address social welfare issues.