Bachelor of Social Work (Honours)/Bachelor of Arts

The Bachelor of Social Work (Honours)/Bachelor of Arts at the University of New South Wales is an integrated double degree designed to foster deep expertise across social work practice and the arts. This extended 5.5-year (full-time) program, delivered in Sydney, combines the evidence-based, practice-oriented curriculum of social work with a rich selection from the humanities, social sciences, or creative arts. Students engage in a progressive academic journey, balancing foundational knowledge with advanced, honours-level study, and interdisciplinary perspectives.

In the Bachelor of Social Work (Honours), students complete structured units of study accumulating credit points towards their degree. The honours year focuses on research, including a research thesis or capstone project addressing complex issues in social work practice in Australia. The program incorporates work-integrated learning through professionally supervised placements, allowing students to develop practical skills in real-world settings such as community organisations, hospitals, and government agencies. Work placements are a core component, essential for professional preparation and industry connection.

The Bachelor of Arts portion offers students the flexibility to specialise in areas such as sociology, psychology, Indigenous studies, languages, history, and more. Learning is structured into semesters, with students undertaking a combination of required and elective units to complete the dual-degree requirements. The curriculum encourages critical thinking, ethical reflection, cross-disciplinary communication, and cultural awareness – all valuable in the Australian context.

This double degree suits those committed to a career addressing social justice, equality, and wellbeing in diverse communities, while also seeking a broad arts education. Graduates develop advanced skills in client assessment, policy analysis, research, communication, and advocacy. International students must demonstrate English proficiency (IELTS 7.0–7.5 for social work), and may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa after graduation, with current work rights allowing 48 hours per fortnight during study. For the latest program structure and requirements, prospective students should confirm details via the official university page.

• Accredited Social Worker in health, disability, youth, family and community services
• Policy Analyst and research roles within government departments and NGOs
• Community Development Officer in local government or social enterprises
• Case Manager in welfare, corrections, or immigration support services
• Human Services Worker within hospitals, schools, and aged care
• Advocacy and project roles in Australian non-profit and policy organisations
• Professional roles in education, public relations, media, and creative industries (from Arts areas of study)