Master of Social Work (Qualifying) (CRICOS course code 0101380) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Charles Darwin University (CDU) over 2 years. This program is designed for students who wish to qualify as professional social workers in Australia, combining academic theory with substantial supervised placement. CDU, a government provider (CRICOS 00300K), offers this course at its Casuarina Campus in Darwin, Northern Territory. As a registered course on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), it meets the standards required for international student enrolment and is protected by the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act. Whether you are a recent graduate or a professional seeking to transition into social work, this qualification can lead to accreditation with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) pending meeting their requirements.
This Masters Degree (Coursework), classified under AQF Level 9, focuses on human welfare studies and services (Field of Education 090501 – Social Work). The program typically equips students with advanced skills in social work theory, practice methods, research, and ethics. Graduates often work in healthcare, child protection, community services, mental health, and policy development. The course includes a significant work-integrated learning component of 1000 hours across 100 weeks at 10 hours per week. This placement is a key feature, providing real-world experience in professional settings. As a CRICOS-registered course, international students benefit from ESOS Act protections, ensuring education quality and consumer rights.
The CRICOS register lists the duration as 104 weeks (2 years). The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification course (no dual award) and does not include foundation studies. Full-time study is expected, with placements integrated throughout the program. Delivery is face-to-face at the Casuarina Campus, supporting interactive learning and supervision.
Tuition fees are indicative at A$72,970 for the entire course. Non-tuition fees (such as materials, student amenities) are estimated at A$736, bringing the estimated total to A$73,706. Please note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges are not included. For the most current fee information, always check Charles Darwin University's website. Fees are set by the institution and subject to change. Living costs in Darwin: estimated weekly rent A$300–450, groceries A$80–120, and public transport A$30–50. International students must demonstrate financial capacity for tuition, living expenses, and OSHC for the first year.
English language proficiency: typically IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall (or equivalent). Applicants generally need a bachelor's degree, preferably in a related field (e.g., social sciences, health, human services). Some background in social sciences may be required. Specific prerequisites, such as previous study in human development or sociology, are common for qualifying degrees. Foundation or pathway options may be available; please refer to the provider for details. Always verify exact entry requirements on CDU's website.
Yes, this course includes a supervised work component: 100 weeks at 10 hours per week, totalling approximately 1000 hours. This is typically structured as a series of placements in community service organisations, hospitals, or government agencies. The work-integrated learning allows students to apply theoretical knowledge under professional supervision, fulfilling accreditation requirements for social work. Placements may be full-time block placements or part-time concurrent, scheduled across the program duration.
This course is delivered at Casuarina Campus in Casuarina, NT, a suburb of Darwin. Darwin is the capital of the Northern Territory, a tropical city with a diverse population of around 150,000. It has over 20 CRICOS-registered providers, including CDU. Living costs are moderate, with public transport options including buses. The campus is accessible by bus from Darwin CBD.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time. Conditions include maintaining enrolment, satisfactory attendance, and adequate OSHC. Students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. The visa application must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion and demonstrate financial capacity. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered MARA agent for visa advice.
Follow these three steps to apply: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Confirm this course at CDU meets your goals. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements, English test results, and application deadlines on CDU's website. Submit all required documents. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once CDU issues your CoE, prepare your visa application with OSHC and financial evidence.
Social work is a regulated profession in Australia. Graduates often seek accreditation with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW). This course is designed to meet the educational requirements for membership. Consider location: Darwin offers a unique opportunity to work with Indigenous communities and in remote settings. The 1000-hour placement is intensive but essential. Also factor in living costs and climate. HeadStart Academy provides free tools to compare courses and providers.
Ready to start your journey? Compare social work courses on HeadStart Academy or apply directly to CDU through their website.
Master of Social Work (Qualifying) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Charles Darwin University (CDU). 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.