Master's Degree Social Work Full Time

Master of Social Work

at RMIT University · Melbourne, Victoria

CRICOS course code

058234C

CRICOS provider code

00122A

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$80,640 total

Per year

A$40,320/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Master of Social Work at RMIT University in Melbourne prepares students to work with individuals, families, and communities across a variety of social and welfare settings. This program is structured over two years of full-time study, organised into semesters. Students complete a series of units of study that contribute to credit points required for graduation. The curriculum covers core topics in social work theory, social policy, ethical practice, human rights, research methods, and mental health.

Practical experience is a key component, with substantial work-integrated learning through professional placements in real-world social work environments such as hospitals, community organisations, and government agencies. These placements are designed to meet the requirements of Australian professional accreditation for social workers. Students are assessed both academically and through performance in their placements, ensuring they graduate ready to meet industry expectations.

Throughout the course, students develop a broad skill set including assessment, direct practice with clients, case management, advocacy, and community development. The program encourages reflective practice and a strong ethical orientation. Most units are built around real-life scenarios and issues pertinent to Australian society, giving students insight into the kinds of challenges faced by social workers in Australia.

The Master of Social Work is suited to those looking to build a career supporting social change and wellbeing in urban, rural, or regional Australian contexts. Graduates can apply for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream, and have work rights for up to 48 hours per fortnight while studying. For entry, international applicants must meet a higher English language proficiency requirement; always check the university's official site for the most current details about admissions and structure.

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 hospitals, schools, and community health settings
Child protection practitioner for government or non-profit services
Mental health practitioner in clinical and community organisations
Policy officer within government departments and advocacy organisations
Case manager or coordinator for aged care, youth, disability, or refugee services

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Master of Social Work at RMIT 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$80,640 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Social Worker in hospitals, schools, and community health settingsChild protection practitioner for government or non-profit servicesMental health practitioner in clinical and community organisationsPolicy officer within government departments and advocacy organisationsCase manag...

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