MWT Study Abroad

Bachelor of Social Work in Australia

Delivery Mode:

On Campus

AQF Level:

07

Course Duration:

4 Years full-time
8 Years part-time

CRICOS Course Code:

108842E

Units:

26

  • On Campus: Per Semester Fee: $10,000
  • Melbourne
  • Accreditation:

Introdction

The Bachelor of Social Work emphasizes the wellbeing and building of relationships with individuals, families, and communities and linking the local with the global. The Bachelor of Social Work explores social care, health and wellness programs and initiatives that seek to locate and create systems and relationships that are preventative and educative in nature.

Graduates of the BSW will be able to influence local, national, and global social policy impacting all peoples and communities. The IHM Bachelor of Social Work offers significant interaction between students, their peers, social work academics, and social work/human services agencies that will provide the knowledge, skills and professional relationship building required to produce the quality and practice-ready graduates that are required by the social work profession.

IHM’s Bachelor of Social Work has 1,000 field education hours embedded in the course

This is an AASW-accredited qualification. It is an entry qualification into the social work profession and has been determined to meet the Australian Social Work Education and Accreditation Standards.

The accreditation ascribed to the IHM Bachelor of Social Work Program of Provisional Accreditation (2022-2025) means that it is a new program which has not yet delivered its first graduates. Provisional accreditation does not impact graduates of the BSW course with this status. Graduates have the same eligibility and standing as graduates in fully accredited social work programs.

Bachelor of Social Work

Pursue a Bachelor of Social Work in Australia to build a meaningful career in community support, advocacy, and human services. This accredited degree equips you with practical skills and hands-on training while exploring post-study work and PR pathways. The IHM Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) aims to provide accessible, quality, professional social work education at a foundational level to produce graduates who can practice within 21st-century human services agencies and diverse communities and societies. Students looking to advance their careers can later pursue a Master of Social Work to specialize in areas like clinical practice, policy advocacy, or community development. 

A student of bachelor of social work in Australia

The Bachelor of Social Work in Australia emphasizes the well-being and building relationships with individuals, families, and communities, and linking the local with the global. The Bachelor of Social Work in Australia explores social care, health, and wellness programs and initiatives that seek to locate and create systems and relationships that are preventative and educative. Graduates of the BSW will be able to influence local, national, and global social policy impacting all peoples and communities. The IHM Bachelor of Social Work in Australia offers significant interaction between students, their peers, social work academics, and social work/human services agencies that will provide the knowledge, skills, and professional relationship-building required to produce the quality and practice-ready graduates required by the social work profession.

Why Study Social Work in Australia?

Globally Recognized Qualification: Earn a degree that meets international social work standards and is respected worldwide.

Practice-Based Learning: Gain hands-on experience through extensive field placements and real-world training in community settings.

High Demand for Social Workers: Australia has a growing need for qualified social workers, especially in areas like mental health, aged care, child protection, and Indigenous support.

Top Universities & Flexible Study Options: Choose from top institutions such as IHM, University of Melbourne, and Griffith University, with options for on-campus and blended learning. Learn more about what makes Australia a top study destination for social work and human services.

At MWT Study Abroad, we guide you through every step – from selecting the right university to visa processing, ensuring your journey towards a rewarding career in social work starts smoothly

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Join the course to achieve your dreams

Details about the Course

The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) is grounded in the core principles of the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW), including respect for human dignity and worth, social justice, and a commitment to supporting individuals, families, groups, and communities. The program equips students with the knowledge, skills, and values required to promote wellbeing, social inclusion, and positive change across diverse populations.

Through this program, students develop the ability to:

  • Enhance individual and community wellbeing

  • Address interpersonal and social challenges

  • Promote social inclusion and community participation

  • Identify and challenge systemic inequalities and social injustice

  • Advocate for vulnerable and marginalised populations

Program Structure and Learning Approach

The Bachelor of Social Work is structured using a progressive learning framework that builds knowledge and skills across key study areas. The program integrates theory with practice through scaffolded learning and increasing levels of complexity across each stage of study.

The curriculum incorporates the following core streams:

  • Society and Culture

  • Behavioural Science and Public Health

  • Generalist Social Work Practice

  • Specialist Social Work Practice

  • Field Education (1,000 hours of supervised professional placement)

This structured approach ensures students develop both theoretical understanding and practical competence required for professional social work practice.

Accreditation and Professional Recognition

The Bachelor of Social Work is accredited under Provisional Accreditation (2022–2025) by the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW). This status indicates that the program meets national accreditation standards and that graduates are fully eligible for professional recognition. Graduates of provisionally accredited programs hold the same standing as those from fully accredited programs.

Study Requirements

  • Students must complete a total of 256 credit points to graduate.

  • International students are required to complete at least 75% of the program on campus, as a maximum of 25% of study may be undertaken online, in accordance with regulatory requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long is the course?

The BSW program requires four years of full-time study.

Yes, it is accredited by the AASW for all graduates from 2022; see AASW accreditation web page Accrediated Courses

The Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) is the national professional body responsible for accrediting social work programs across Australia. It also provides professional recognition, ongoing development opportunities, and support services for social workers.

Graduates of accredited social work programs are eligible to apply for membership with the AASW, which recognises their professional standing and supports their ongoing career development within the social work profession.

No prerequisite experience is required, but students must have passed Year 12, Certificate 4, or equivalent.

The program has three intakes per year, beginning in March, July and November.

Credit transfer eligibility is assessed based on each student’s prior studies in a relevant Bachelor’s degree in the social sciences. The BSW Course Coordinator will review individual academic backgrounds and provide guidance regarding available credit transfers.

If you possess a three-year BSW from another country, you may apply for credit for Years 1 and 2 of the IHM BSW (16 Units) and then complete Years 3 and 4. To discuss this possibility, contact the BSW Course Coordinator.

Students will be required to purchase prescribed textbooks or e-books, with an estimated cost of approximately $450 per year.

In addition, students must complete two professional practice placements as part of the course requirements. Prior to commencing placement, students are responsible for obtaining and paying for mandatory pre-placement checks, which may include police checks, working with children checks, and updated immunisation records, in line with placement provider requirements.

Students are also responsible for any travel and related expenses incurred while attending placement locations throughout the course.

Yes, there are two social work field placements, one in Year 3 of the BSW for 500 hours (15-20 weeks) and a final placement in Year 4 of 500 hours (15-20 weeks)

The IHM Bachelor of Social Work educates social workers in generalist social work practices (casework, support work, crisis interventions), mental health work, international human rights, community development, and societal change and social research.

Frequently Asked Questions

To be eligible for admission into the Bachelor of Social Work program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Successful completion of Year 12, Certificate IV, or an equivalent qualification, studied in English;

  • Relevant work or volunteer experience in the human services sector may be considered in support of the academic requirements;

  • Applicants must meet the English Language Proficiency requirements, as specified by the institution.

English Language Proficiency

  • Academic IELTS level Overall 7.0 and no band less than 7.0 or equivalent scores in PTE/ other, OR
  • Direct entry through a pass in an Australian English for Academic Purpose (EAP) course with the minimum score of 70%, OR
  • As prescribed/ recommended by the AASW

Pathway Entry and Credit Transfer

Students may be eligible for advanced standing (credit transfer) into the Bachelor of Social Work based on prior qualifications and study.

  • Applicants who have completed an Australian Bachelor’s degree in areas such as Community Work, Youth Work, Human Services, or related disciplines may be eligible for credit transfer.

  • Completion of an Australian Diploma in Community Services, Youth Work, or Mental Health, or an overseas Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) qualification (subject to verification), may attract up to 8 units of credit across Year 1 and Year 2 of the program.

  • Students who have completed relevant Australian bachelor-level studies may be eligible for up to 12 units of credit, depending on academic equivalency and course mapping.

Accreditation Status

The Bachelor of Social Work offered by IHM holds Provisional Accreditation with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW). Provisional accreditation is granted to new programs that meet national accreditation standards but have not yet graduated their first cohort.
Graduates of provisionally accredited programs are afforded the same professional recognition and eligibility as those graduating from fully accredited programs.

English Language Proficiency

All applicants must meet the English Language Proficiency requirements as stipulated by the institution and relevant regulatory bodies.

The accreditation ascribed to the IHM Bachelor of Social Work Program of Provisional Accreditation (2022-2025) means that it is a new program which has not yet delivered its first graduates. Provisional accreditation does not impact graduates of the BSW course with this status. Graduates have the same eligibility and standing as graduates in fully accredited social work programs.

English Language Proficiency Entry Requirements has to be met by the student

English Language Requirements Bachelor of Social Work
International English Language Testing System (IELTS) – Academic version
Overall, 7 with no bands less than 7
Pearson Test of English (PTE) – Academic
Overall, 65 with no bands less than 65

Inherent Requirements

Inherent requirements are the essential academic, cognitive, physical, and professional attributes that students must possess to successfully complete a course and achieve the required learning outcomes. These requirements ensure that students are able to meet the academic standards, professional competencies, and ethical expectations of the program while maintaining the integrity of the learning and assessment processes at IHM.

For the Bachelor of Social Work, inherent requirements are aligned with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) accreditation standards and reflect the capabilities necessary to practise safely and effectively as a social worker. These requirements outline the fundamental skills, knowledge, and attributes students must demonstrate to progress through the program and graduate successfully.

The inherent requirements information is provided to assist prospective and current students in making informed decisions about their capacity to meet the demands of the course. It also supports transparency in admission, progression, and assessment processes throughout the program.

All students enrolled in the Bachelor of Social Work are expected to meet these inherent requirements in order to successfully complete the course and be eligible for graduation and professional recognition.

Ethical and professional behaviour

Social Work is a regulated profession governed by the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) and is underpinned by clearly defined professional standards, ethical principles, and codes of conduct. Students enrolled in social work programs are expected to demonstrate accountability, professionalism, and ethical behaviour across all learning and practice environments.

To meet the inherent requirements of the program, students must be able to:

  • Demonstrate a sound understanding of ethical principles and actively apply them in professional practice

  • Interact respectfully and professionally with individuals, families, groups, and communities across diverse social, cultural, and organisational contexts

  • Reflect critically on personal attitudes, values, and behaviours, and modify actions to maintain professional standards and integrity

Justification of Inherent Requirements

Adherence to professional standards, ethical codes, and legislative frameworks is essential to ensure safe, respectful, and effective practice in social work. These requirements protect the wellbeing of service users, colleagues, and the broader community while supporting ethical decision-making and professional accountability.

Reasonable adjustments may be made to support students in meeting these requirements, provided such adjustments do not compromise professional standards, ethical responsibilities, or the safety of others. Students requiring support are encouraged to engage with the IHM Student Equity Officer to discuss appropriate accommodations.

Examples of Ethical and Professional Behaviour

  • Maintaining confidentiality and appropriate professional boundaries in academic and fieldwork settings

  • Demonstrating ethical reasoning and reflective practice when responding to complex or sensitive situations

  • Working collaboratively, respectfully, and professionally with peers, educators, and community members across diverse environments

Behavioural stability is essential for effective and ethical practice in the field of social work. Students must demonstrate the capacity to function appropriately and adaptively in diverse, complex, and often challenging environments encountered during academic study and professional practice.

To meet this requirement, students must be able to:

  • Demonstrate emotional and behavioural stability when engaging in academic and field-based learning environments

  • Work constructively and respectfully within diverse teams and professional settings

  • Respond appropriately to change, stress, and challenging situations commonly encountered in social work practice

Justification of Inherent Requirement

Social work practice often involves exposure to emotionally demanding and unpredictable situations. Behavioural stability is essential to ensure safe, ethical, and effective engagement with individuals, families, and communities. Students must be able to manage their own responses, maintain professional boundaries, and uphold standards of conduct consistent with the profession.

Reasonable adjustments may be considered to support students in meeting these requirements; however, such adjustments must not compromise professional standards, ethical responsibilities, or the safety of others. Students are encouraged to discuss individual support needs with the IHM Student Equity Officer.

Examples of Behavioural Stability

  • Demonstrating respectful and professional behaviour toward peers, educators, clients, and supervisors

  • Responding constructively to feedback and supervision

  • Maintaining professionalism in challenging or emotionally charged situations

  • Seeking appropriate support or guidance when required

Social work is a regulated profession governed by Australian legislation, professional standards, and ethical frameworks. Students must demonstrate the ability to understand and comply with all relevant legal, regulatory, and professional obligations to ensure safe and responsible practice.

To meet this inherent requirement, students must be able to:

  • Demonstrate knowledge of, and compliance with, Australian laws, professional standards, and the scope of social work practice

  • Understand and adhere to regulatory requirements that govern ethical and safe professional conduct

  • Apply legal and ethical principles appropriately within academic and field education contexts

Justification of Inherent Requirement

A sound understanding of legal and regulatory responsibilities is essential to ensure the safety and wellbeing of individuals, families, and communities. Compliance with these requirements supports ethical decision-making, professional accountability, and the prevention of harm in practice settings.

Students must meet all legislative and regulatory obligations to participate in professional placements and academic activities. This ensures alignment with industry standards and protects the integrity of the profession.

Examples of Legal and Professional Compliance

  • Meeting eligibility requirements for registration or membership with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW)

  • Adhering to mandatory reporting obligations, workplace health and safety regulations, and anti-discrimination legislation

  • Completing required health checks, immunisations, and clearances prior to participating in field education placements

Any reasonable adjustments made must not compromise professional standards, ethical obligations, or legislative requirements. Students requiring support are encouraged to consult with the IHM Student Equity Officer to discuss appropriate accommodations.

Effective communication—verbal, non-verbal, and written—is essential to safe, ethical, and competent social work practice. Students must demonstrate the capacity to communicate clearly, respectfully, and appropriately in academic, professional, and fieldwork settings.

Verbal Communication

Effective verbal communication is essential to ensure safe, respectful, and responsive social work practice.

Students are required to:

  • Demonstrate sensitivity to individual, cultural, and contextual differences

  • Communicate clearly, accurately, and appropriately in a range of professional settings

  • Respond to verbal communication in a timely and appropriate manner

  • Provide clear instructions, explanations, and feedback relevant to the context

Justification

Effective verbal communication underpins trust, rapport, and professional relationships. It enables safe practice, supports collaboration, and ensures accurate information exchange in complex and emotionally sensitive environments.

Non-Verbal Communication

Non-verbal communication plays a critical role in establishing trust, empathy, and professional credibility within social work practice.

Students must demonstrate the ability to:

  • Recognise and interpret non-verbal cues such as body language, facial expressions, and tone

  • Respond appropriately to behavioural and emotional signals in diverse settings

  • Maintain awareness of personal behaviour, posture, and presence

  • Demonstrate cultural sensitivity and respect in all interactions

Justification

Appropriate non-verbal communication supports effective engagement, promotes understanding, and enhances client safety. The ability to interpret and respond to non-verbal cues is essential for ethical and effective practice across diverse populations.

Written Communication

Effective written communication is fundamental to professional social work practice and academic success.

Students must demonstrate the ability to:

  • Produce clear, coherent, and well-structured written work suitable for academic and professional contexts

  • Accurately document information, including case notes, reports, and assessments

  • Use appropriate professional language and terminology

  • Maintain accurate and confidential records in accordance with professional standards

Justification

Accurate written communication is critical for maintaining continuity of care, meeting legal and ethical obligations, and ensuring accountability in professional practice. Written documentation must be clear, precise, and accessible to relevant stakeholders.

Reasonable Adjustments

Reasonable adjustments may be implemented to support students in meeting these inherent requirements, provided such adjustments do not compromise academic integrity, professional standards, or the safety of others. Students are encouraged to discuss individual needs with the IHM Student Equity Officer to explore appropriate support options.

Cognition: Knowledge and Cognitive Skills

Students must demonstrate appropriate cognitive capability to engage effectively in academic study and professional social work practice. This includes the ability to acquire, process, and apply knowledge in a safe, ethical, and competent manner.

Students are required to:

  • Demonstrate the ability to locate, interpret, and utilise relevant information from a range of academic and professional sources

  • Apply theoretical and practical knowledge appropriately in learning and practice contexts

  • Integrate and evaluate information to support professional decision-making

Justification of Inherent Requirement

Safe and effective social work practice relies on the ability to acquire, understand, and apply knowledge appropriately. Cognitive competence ensures that students can engage meaningfully with academic content and translate learning into professional practice.

Reasonable adjustments may be made where appropriate, provided they do not compromise the essential learning outcomes or professional standards required of the program.

Cognition: Literacy (Language Skills)

Effective communication through reading and writing is essential for professional social work practice. Students must demonstrate the ability to comprehend, interpret, and communicate information accurately and appropriately.

Students are required to:

  • Demonstrate effective written communication suitable for academic and professional contexts

  • Interpret and respond appropriately to written materials, including academic literature, policies, and case documentation

  • Apply appropriate academic and professional writing conventions

Justification of Inherent Requirement

Competent literacy skills are fundamental to ensuring safe and ethical practice. Accurate documentation, clear communication, and correct interpretation of information are critical to professional accountability and effective service delivery.

Reasonable adjustments may be considered, provided they do not compromise clarity, accuracy, or professional standards.

Cognition: Numeracy

Numeracy skills are essential for accurate interpretation and application of quantitative information in social work practice.

Students are required to:

  • Demonstrate the ability to interpret numerical data relevant to assessments, reports, and service delivery

  • Apply basic mathematical concepts accurately in professional and academic contexts

Justification of Inherent Requirement

Numeracy skills support evidence-based decision-making, data interpretation, and effective case management. Accurate handling of quantitative information is essential for ensuring ethical and professional practice.

Reasonable adjustments may be considered to support learning; however, students must be able to demonstrate the required level of competency to meet professional standards.

Effective relational skills are required in social work practice to make and maintain strong relationships with a range of individuals, groups and communities, professional colleagues, and organisations.

The student will need to:

  • Demonstrate ability to make and maintain strong relationships with clients/service users, academic staff, supervisors and student peers

Justification of inherent requirement

  • Highly developed relational skills are essential for effective relationships that ensure effective assessment, interventions and professional responses in the field placement context

Adjustments must ensure that student is able to demonstrate an acceptable level of effective relational skills. Adjustments specific to the individual can be discussed with IHM’s Student Equity Officer

Examples of relational skills

  • Build rapport with a client in order to engage them in an assessment whilst at field placement
  • Effectively use relational and interpersonal skills to manage relationships whilst at field placement

Social work practice requires self-awareness and a capacity for reflectivity in order to consider the effect of one’s own issues, actions, values and behaviours on practice.

The student will need to:

  • Demonstrate the ability to accurately reflect on their professional performance. The ability to accept feedback on their professional practice and respond constructively

Justification of inherent requirement

  • Engagement in self-reflection and participation in supervision is a key teaching strategy in social work education which requires well developed understanding of oneself in order to appropriately engage in this activity. Working with service users and responding to them requires a well-developed understanding of oneself, and the ability to effectively manage one’s reactions to situations that may arise in the field placement context

Adjustments must ensure that student is able to meet reflective skills requirement and demonstrate an acceptable Minimum level of capacity for reflective skills. Adjustments specific to the individual can be discussed with IHM’s Student Equity Officer

Examples of reflective skills:

  • Identify when a practice issue is outside of one’s scope of expertise or when one’s practice may be negatively affected by personal experience and/or reactions

Social work training and practice requires both physical and mental stamina at a consistent and sustained level.

The student will need to:

  • Demonstrate consistent and sustained levels of physical energy to complete a specific task in a timely manner and over time
  • Demonstrate the capability to maintain consistency and quality of performance regularly throughout the designated period of time

Justification of inherent requirement

  • Sufficient physical and mental endurance is an essential requirement needed to perform tasks in an assigned period to provide effective, safe and professional response in the field placement context

Adjustments must ensure that performance is consistent and sustained over a given period. Adjustments specific to the individual can be discussed with IHM’s Student Equity Officer

Examples of sustainable performance:

  • Participating in tutorials, lectures and skills classes
  • Providing consistent field placement practice over a negotiated time frame
Where will this take me?

After completing the course, you can explore your career in the fields of:

  • Child and family services
  • Counselling
  • Child protection
  • Disability
  • Ageing
  • Refugee and Settlement
  • Mental Health
  • Rehabilitation
  • Mediation
Possible Roles:
  • Careers counsellor
  • Case manager
  • Child and family counsellor
  • Child protection officer
  • Community development access officer
  • Community development and education officer
  • Disability support coordinator
  • Drug and alcohol case manager
  • Diversity officer
  • Family relationship adviser
  • Mental health coordinator
  • School counsellor
  • Youth projects officer

What Will I Study?

The Bachelor of Nursing course is structured using unit outlines, comprising 19 theoretical units and 5 professional experience placements.

Unit of Study Code
Title of Unit of Study
Credit Points (CP)
Mandatory short non- credit units to be completed during the orientation week prior to the commencement of the course
A1001
Academic Integrity
0
A1002
Aboriginal Health
0
Year 1 — Foundational Knowledge and Skills
Semester 1
C7003
Introduction to Psychology & Sociology
8
A7003
Knowledge & Skills for Planning & Assessment in Social Work
8
A7005
Foundational Interpersonal Skills & Communications for Social Work
8
C7001
Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander & Transcultural Health
8
Semester 2
H7001
Introduction to Health & Wellbeing
8
A7009
Social & Health Research Frameworks
8
H7002
Human Lifespan Development
8
A7001
Managing Human Service Organisations
8
Year 2— Social Work Theories and Practices<
N7013
Mental Health and Wellness Nursing
N7014
Research and Evidence-Based Practice in Health Care
N7015
Global and Culture Health Care
N7016
Professional Experience Placement 3
Year 3: SEMESTER 5
N7017
Community Health Nursing
N7018
Health and Wellness in Children and Young People
N7019
Health Informatics
N7020
Professional Experience Placement 4
Year 4: SEMESTER 6
N7021
Rural, Regional and Remote Health and Wellness
N7022
Clinical Leadership in Nursing
N7023
Transitioning to the Role of the Registered Nurse
N7024
Professional Experience Placement 5

Entry Requirement

PATHWAY NAMES
DURATION IN MONTHS
NUMBER OF UNITS
Pathway 1: Direct school leaver entry:
• An ATAR score of 50. This includes the satisfactory completion of VCE and Units 3 and 4 with a minimum study score of 25 in any English (except EAL) or
• 30 in English as Alternate Language (EAL) or equivalent, OR An equivalent, such as an interstate or international Year 12 qualification
36 full time
24
Pathway 2: Enrolled Nurse to Registered Nurse Pathway:
Diploma of Nursing (all students entering the course through an enrolled nurse pathway must hold an unrestricted NMBA/AHPRA registration as an enrolled nurse).
A maximum of 12 months credit
A minimum of 16 units to complete
English Language Requirements Bachelor of Social Work
International English Language Testing System (IELTS) – Academic version
Overall, 7 with no bands less than 7
Pearson Test of English (PTE) – Academic
Overall, 65 with no bands less than 65
International fee-paying: On Campus
Annual Fee :AUD $20,000
Total Tuition Fee :AUD $80,000
Administration* (Non-Tuition) Fee :

**Only applicable to international students.

**AUD $250.00 (Non Refundable)
International fee-paying: On Campus (From July 2026 intake)
Annual Fee :AUD $24,000
Total Tuition Fee :AUD $96,000
Administration* (Non-Tuition) Fee :

**Only applicable to international students.

**AUD $250.00 (Non Refundable)

Fees are subject to change annually.

Pay upfront and Save 10%.

Applicable for International (1 year fee) and full-fee students. Not applicable for funding students.

Payment plans for the Bachelor of Social Work course are available.

i. Semester 1 fees paid on enrolment = AUD 10,250

ii. Semester 2 fees paid prior to the end of semester 1

iii. Semester 3 fees paid prior to the end of semester 2

iv. Semester 4 fees paid prior to the end of semester 3

The payment process for a particular course will continue until the 8th semester of the program.

*Books, equipment, and other materials are required to undertake the program and their cost is not included in the tuition fee.

*The Bachelor of Social Work course is accredited by AASW.

FEE-HELP is an Australian Government loan scheme designed to assist eligible fee-paying students in covering the cost of their tuition fees for higher education courses at approved institutions. Similar to the HECS-HELP scheme, FEE-HELP applies to students enrolled in full-fee undergraduate, postgraduate, or vocational education and training (VET) programs.

Through FEE-HELP, eligible students can defer all or part of their tuition fees, with repayment made through the Australian taxation system once their income reaches the required repayment threshold. This scheme supports greater access to higher education by reducing the financial burden of upfront tuition costs, allowing students to focus on their studies while repaying their loan gradually as their earnings increase.

Recieve expert guidence at every stage.

 

  1. Application
  2. Interview
  3. Offer Letter
  4. Enrolment Fee
  5. Confirmation of Admission
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Social Work Field Education

The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program requires students to complete a total of 1,000 hours of supervised field education, delivered across two structured placements. These placements are designed to progressively develop professional competence, ethical practice, and readiness for the social work profession.

Professional Practice – Field Placement 1 (500 hours)

The first placement provides students with their initial professional learning experience in a real-world practice setting. This placement focuses on developing foundational social work skills, professional identity, ethical awareness, and an understanding of organisational and community contexts. Students begin to integrate theoretical knowledge with practical application while being supported through supervision and reflective learning.

Advanced Professional Practice – Field Placement 2 (500 hours)

The second placement represents the culmination of the Bachelor of Social Work program and enables students to consolidate and extend their professional capabilities. During this placement, students are expected to demonstrate increasing independence, critical thinking, and professional judgement. Emphasis is placed on applying advanced social work theories, ethical decision-making, and evidence-based practice in complex practice environments.

Placement Support and Supervision

IHM works closely with a broad network of partner organisations to provide high-quality field education experiences. Students are supported by qualified Field Educators and Task Supervisors who offer structured supervision, guidance, and professional mentoring throughout both placements.

Through these placements, students develop the skills, confidence, and professional identity required to practise safely and effectively as graduate social workers, meeting the expectations of the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW).

Special requirements
Field Education Compliance Requirements

To participate in Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) field education placements, students must meet all mandatory compliance requirements prior to commencing placement. It is the student’s responsibility to ensure that all required documentation is obtained, current, and submitted within the specified timeframes.

Fitness for Practice and Professional Conduct

Students must demonstrate ongoing fitness for professional practice throughout the course. Fitness for practice is assessed across all units and includes professional behaviour, ethical conduct, and suitability for engagement in placement settings.

Failure to meet professional standards may result in a fail grade for the unit and may require remediation or repetition of the unit. In serious or ongoing cases, students may be excluded from placement or the program in accordance with institutional policies.

Working With Children Check (WWCC)

A valid Working with Children Check is mandatory for all students undertaking field education placements. This ensures suitability to work with children and vulnerable populations.

Police Checks

Students must provide a current National Police Check and, where applicable, an International Police Check to meet placement requirements.

NDIS Worker Screening Check

Some placement settings may require a valid NDIS Worker Screening Check. Students will be advised if this applies to their placement.

Immunisation and Vaccination Requirements

In accordance with National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) guidelines, students must meet all required immunisation and vaccination standards prior to placement commencement. This includes evidence of immunity to specified infectious diseases.

Students who test positive for blood-borne viruses (such as Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, or HIV) must seek assessment from an approved medical specialist to determine any necessary workplace restrictions or adjustments.

Failure to meet immunisation or health clearance requirements may result in ineligibility for placement and subsequent academic progression delays.

Estimated Placement-Related Costs

Students undertaking field education placements should be aware of the following indicative costs. All amounts are approximate and subject to change:

  • Immunisation and/or Medical Requirements: Approx. $310 (costs may vary depending on individual vaccination status)

  • Working With Children Check (WWCC): Free (valid for 5 years)

  • National Police Check: Approx. $30 (renewed annually)

  • International Police Check: Approx. $200 (cost varies by country of origin)

  • NDIS Worker Screening Check: Approx. $132 (valid for 5 years)

  • Placement-Related Expenses: Up to $2,300, depending on location, travel, accommodation, and individual circumstances

Please note: All costs are indicative only and subject to change.

For further information please contact  sw.placements@ihm.edu.au

Please keep in mind that Field Education encompasses more than just your placement hours. It includes pre-placement activities, assessments, and your engagement with the key individuals involved in the process. These elements collectively reflect your preparedness for professional practice. Your patience, professionalism, and respectful communication are recognised and valued.