Bachelor of Social Work (Honours)/Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice

The Bachelor of Social Work (Honours)/Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice at the University of New South Wales provides students with a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education, preparing graduates for impactful careers across social work and the criminal justice sector. This integrated double degree blends the practice-oriented principles of social work with an understanding of criminological theories, policies, and the workings of criminal justice systems.

Structured over 5.5 years of full-time study, students complete a sequence of units of study, each carrying Australian standard credit points, progressing through foundational, intermediate, and advanced subjects across both fields. The social work component addresses areas such as human behaviour, social policy, community development, counselling, and social justice, while criminology and criminal justice units focus on crime theory, policy analysis, and the functioning of legal institutions. The honours year incorporates a supervised research thesis or project, allowing in-depth exploration of a chosen topic.

Integral to the degree are work-integrated learning experiences, particularly in social work, where field education placements in community, health, or justice settings enable students to apply academic knowledge in real-world environments and develop practical, client-focused skills. Throughout the program, students enhance critical thinking, research abilities, interdisciplinary collaboration, and ethical decision-making. The double degree structure suits those aspiring to work at the intersection of social change and justice, or those seeking to influence policy, practice, and outcomes for individuals and communities within complex social systems.

This degree is designed to meet Australian professional accreditation requirements for social work, supporting eligibility for membership with relevant bodies following graduation. Students are advised to consult the university’s official resources for detailed program structures, specific credit point requirements, and up-to-date professional accreditation information.

• Social Worker in health, community, and correctional settings
• Case Manager in youth justice or welfare agencies
• Policy Analyst in government or advocacy organisations
• Criminologist within research institutes or law enforcement bodies
• Probation or Parole Officer
• Community Development Officer
• Support roles within court systems, NGOs, or restorative justice programs

Graduates are sought by Australian government agencies, non-profit and advocacy groups, research organisations, and the justice sector. Eligible graduates may also access post-study work rights (Temporary Graduate visa subclass 485), and international students can gain practical experience through work rights during studies (48 hours per fortnight, subject to visa conditions).