Master of Advanced Social Work (Research) (CRICOS course code 003324M) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by The University of Western Australia (UWA) over 1 year. This course is designed for graduates seeking to deepen their expertise in social work through research, focusing on advanced theory and practice in human welfare studies and services. The University of Western Australia, a CRICOS-registered provider (00126G), is a Group of Eight university with a strong reputation for research-led teaching. Located in Crawley, Perth, the course offers access to world-class facilities and a vibrant research community. As an international student, you are protected by the ESOS Act, ensuring quality education and consumer rights. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this course is part of a rich educational landscape. Below, we break down the fees, duration, entry requirements, and visa information for this qualification.
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Master of Advanced Social Work (Research) (CRICOS course code 003324M) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by The University of Western Australia (UWA) over 1 year. This course falls under the field of education '09 - Society and Culture', specifically '090501 - Social Work'. It is a research-oriented program that prepares graduates for advanced roles in social work practice, policy, and academia. UWA is a publicly funded Australian university with CRICOS registration 00126G, ensuring all international students receive the protections of the ESOS Act. The course is conducted entirely in English and is a single qualification (no dual or foundation studies). With no mandatory work component, the focus is entirely on research and academic development.
This Masters Degree (Research) in Social Work focuses on developing advanced research skills relevant to human welfare studies. Students typically engage in a supervised research project, learning to design ethical studies, collect and analyse data, and contribute to evidence-based social work practice. The curriculum covers contemporary issues in social work, such as mental health, child protection, community development, and social justice. Graduates gain the ability to critically evaluate existing policies and interventions, and to generate new knowledge that can improve outcomes for individuals and communities. This level of study (AQF Level 9) is ideal for those aiming to pursue doctoral research or leadership roles in social services.
The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. It is offered on a full-time basis, with English as the language of instruction. The program is a single qualification, not a dual award or foundation program. Students should plan for a full-time commitment to complete the research requirements within the standard timeframe. Part-time options may be available, but international students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions.
The indicative fees for this course, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, are: tuition fee A$38,400, non-tuition fee A$373, resulting in an estimated total of A$38,773. Please note that these fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge (Subclass 500). OSHC is mandatory and varies by provider and duration; for a single student, OSHC typically costs around A$600–A$1,200 per year. Living expenses in Perth are estimated at around A$450–A$600 per week for rent, groceries, and transport. Always confirm current fees directly with The University of Western Australia (UWA) by visiting their official website, as fees are subject to change.
Entry requirements for this Masters Degree (Research) vary by provider. Typically, applicants must hold a relevant bachelor's degree (AQF Level 7) with a strong academic record, often including research experience or a thesis component. English language proficiency is required; providers commonly ask for IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall (or equivalent) for research degrees. Some students may need to complete a pathway program if their prior qualifications do not directly align. For specific entry criteria, refer to The University of Western Australia's website or contact their admissions office. HeadStart Academy does not evaluate individual qualifications—always consult the provider directly.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component or industry placement. As a research-focused degree, students dedicate their time to independent research under academic supervision. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This can help offset living costs while studying.
This course is delivered at The University of Western Australia's main campus in Crawley, Western Australia. Crawley is located adjacent to the Perth central business district, just 5 km from the city centre. Perth has a student population of over 100,000, with more than 20 CRICOS-registered providers offering a diverse range of courses. The campus is well-served by public transport, including bus routes and a free campus shuttle to the Perth CBD. Living in Perth offers a relaxed outdoor lifestyle with a Mediterranean climate, and the cost of living is generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, making it an attractive destination for international students.
To study Master of Advanced Social Work (Research) as an international student, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa requires you to maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, hold adequate OSHC, and meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion. You must demonstrate financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; we recommend consulting a MARA-registered agent or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice.
Western Australia offers a unique environment for social work research, with diverse communities and pressing social issues such as Indigenous health, rural access to services, and environmental sustainability. Perth is home to several universities conducting cutting-edge social work research, and the city's relatively low cost of living (compared to Australia's east coast) makes it a practical choice for full-time study. The state's robust economy, driven by mining and services, also provides opportunities for research collaborations and post-study work. When choosing a course like this, consider your research interests and how they align with faculty expertise at UWA. The university's extensive networks with government and non-profit organisations can enhance your research impact.
Follow these three steps to apply for Master of Advanced Social Work (Research) at The University of Western Australia: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy's course search tool to find this course (code 003324M) and compare it with similar programs. Ensure the provider meets your academic and personal needs. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit UWA's official website to review entry requirements, English language test scores, and application deadlines. Prepare your academic transcripts, research proposal, and other required documents. Submit your application online. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – If accepted, UWA will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and proof of financial capacity ready.
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Master of Advanced Social Work (Research) is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Western Australia (UWA). Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.