Master's Degree Social Work Full Time

Master of Social Work (Qualifying)

at Edith Cowan University · Perth, Western Australia

CRICOS course code

116686A

CRICOS provider code

00279B

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$78,000 total

Per year

A$39,000/yr

Intake

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

About this program

Edith Cowan University's Master of Social Work (Qualifying) is for those who already hold a bachelor's degree in another field and want to move into social work as a profession. Across two years of full-time study at ECU’s Perth campus, you’ll engage in a balance of classroom learning and practical experiences. The curriculum focuses on social justice, human rights, and ethical practice, examining how social work addresses disadvantage and supports individuals, families, and communities in an Australian context.

This master’s qualification is structured around semesters, with units of study providing credit points towards the degree. Students critically examine theories and models of social work, gain knowledge about mental health, child and family services, and community development, and develop practical skills in assessment and intervention. Practical placements are a significant part of the course and are organised with Australian agencies, giving you direct experience in the sector and helping build professional networks before graduation.

Expect to complete a research or capstone project exploring real-world issues faced by Australian social workers. You’ll refine your ability to communicate with diverse groups, manage casework, work in multidisciplinary teams, and critically analyse social policy. The course is suitable for those wanting to start a new career where they can directly support and advocate for people dealing with complex challenges. Students must meet English proficiency requirements—social work asks for higher scores than many other fields, so do check the official criteria for evidence needed.

International students are eligible for work rights in Australia during study, up to 48 hours per fortnight, and may be able to apply for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) on course completion. Placement opportunities and close links with WA employers mean graduates are well placed to enter Australia’s social services sector. Always confirm course details on ECU’s official CRICOS listing and website to stay up to date.

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 government or non-government agencies
Child Protection Caseworker
Community Development Officer
Mental Health Support Worker
Aged Care Social Worker
Disability Services Coordinator
Hospitals and health services
Schools and educational settings
Family and domestic violence support services

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Master of Social Work (Qualifying) at Edith Cowan 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$78,000 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Social Worker in government or non-government agenciesChild Protection CaseworkerCommunity Development OfficerMental Health Support WorkerAged Care Social WorkerDisability Services CoordinatorHospitals and health servicesSchools and educational settingsFamily and domestic violenc...

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