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The Master of Social Work (Qualifying) (MSW [Q]) is a program provisionally accredited by the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW). This degree serves as an entry point into the social work field and complies with the Australian Social Work Education and Accreditation Standards (ASWEAS). Social work combines academic study with practical application to advance social justice, inclusion, and community wellbeing. The MSW (Q) prepares graduates to demonstrate professional competence, understand socio-political contexts in human services, and drive positive change by empowering marginalized groups. The program emphasizes interactive learning through small group sessions and close collaboration with peers and seasoned educators. Recognizing the growing role of digital platforms, the curriculum incorporates blended learning approaches. Instructional methods include: interactive workshops; real-world case analyses; classroom activities; hands-on learning techniques; flipped classroom models; social work simulations; written assignments; oral presentations; blog posts; academic papers; and research projects. Additionally, students gain practical experience through supervised field placements. Reasons to choose Social Work at Excelsia College: An immersive, practical foundation in social work practice.
Supportive faculty with extensive expertise and qualifications to guide your development.
Personalized attention in intimate classroom environments.
Collaborative learning among peers with shared passions.
Extensive fieldwork opportunities (totaling 1000 hours across two 500-hour placements) developing professional competencies in diverse sectors (healthcare, elder care, social services, child/family welfare, mental health, community development, research, policy formulation).
The program facilitates placement arrangements with organizations including Anglicare, Catholic Care, Centrelink, Community Services departments, healthcare facilities, community health centers, municipal authorities, and more.
Educational prerequisites (Direct entry)
Applicants may be admitted to the Master of Social Work (Qualifying) if they have previously successfully completed a relevant bachelor (AQF Level 7) degree course that contains at least one year, or the equivalent (8 units) of full-time studies in the social and behavioural sciences, as required by the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW). Units from the following broad fields may be considered:
• Psychology
• Sociology
• History
• Media and arts
• Community and welfare studies
• Human development
• Gender studies
• Nursing, allied health
• Anthropology
• Law
• Counselling
• Philosophy
• Politics
Educational prerequisites (pathway entry)
Applicants may be admitted to the Master of Social Work (Qualifying) if they have successfully completed a relevant bachelor (AQF Level 7) degree course with 4 units from the above list and the Graduate Certificate in Social Science or Graduate Diploma of Social Science.