Doctor of Social Work (Professional Doctorate) (CRICOS course code 029305M) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by La Trobe University (La Trobe) over 4 years. This course is designed for experienced social work professionals seeking to advance their expertise through research and practice-based inquiry. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 00115M), it meets the Australian Government's standards for international student enrolment. With an indicative tuition fee of A$170,400 and delivered across five Victorian campuses, this program offers flexibility for students across the state. Whether you're based in Albury-Wodonga, Bendigo, Melbourne (Bundoora), Mildura, or Shepparton, La Trobe provides access to quality doctoral-level education in human welfare studies and services (field 090501).
Doctor of Social Work (Professional Doctorate) (CRICOS course code 029305M) is a Doctoral Degree (AQF Level 10) delivered by La Trobe University (La Trobe) over 4 years (208 weeks). This course falls under the field of education 09 - Society and Culture, specifically 0905 - Human Welfare Studies and Services, with a focus on social work (090501). As a professional doctorate, it combines advanced coursework with a substantial research component, aimed at developing leadership in social work practice and policy. La Trobe University is a government-funded institution with CRICOS provider code 00115M, and has been delivering this program since its registration in the CRICOS register. International students are protected by the ESOS Act 2000, ensuring quality education and consumer rights. This course does not include a foundation studies program or dual qualification, and instruction is entirely in English.
As a Doctoral Degree in Social Work, this program develops high-level research skills and professional practice capabilities. Students typically engage in advanced theoretical frameworks, research methodologies, and a supervised research project or thesis that contributes to the field of social work. Graduates are prepared for senior roles in social work practice, academia, policy development, or research. The course covers areas such as social justice, human rights, evidence-based practice, and organisational leadership. Note that specific curriculum details are determined by La Trobe University and may vary; prospective students should consult the provider for the latest syllabus.
The CRICOS register lists the duration as 4 years (208 weeks). The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification — no dual award is offered. La Trobe University may offer flexible study options including full-time or part-time enrolment, but international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) must maintain full-time enrolment as per visa conditions. Contact La Trobe for specific study mode availability.
As per the CRICOS register (April 2026), the indicative tuition fee for this course is A$170,400, with no additional non-tuition fees listed, bringing the estimated total to A$170,400. This fee does NOT include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. For example, students in Victoria should budget for weekly rent (approx. A$250–$450), groceries (A$80–$150), and public transport (A$30–$60), depending on location. Fees are set by the institution and subject to change. Always confirm current fees with La Trobe University at www.latrobe.edu.au/international.
English language proficiency typically requires an IELTS overall score of 6.5–7.0 (or equivalent). For a doctoral-level course, candidates are generally expected to have completed a bachelor's degree in social work or a related field, plus significant professional experience. Some providers may require a master's degree or a research proposal. Foundation or pathway options are not part of this course, but La Trobe may offer alternative entry pathways. Check with the provider for detailed requirements. Note that meeting minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission; the institution assesses each application holistically.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. It is a research-oriented professional doctorate without a compulsory internship, placement, or work experience requirement.
Doctor of Social Work (Professional Doctorate) is delivered at five campuses in Victoria: Albury-Wodonga Campus (Wodonga), Bendigo Campus (Flora Hill), Melbourne (Bundoora) Campus (BUNDOORA), Mildura Campus (Mildura), and Shepparton Campus (Shepparton). Each location offers access to regional and metropolitan study environments. For instance, Melbourne (Bundoora) is a major city campus with excellent public transport, while regional campuses like Mildura provide a quieter lifestyle with lower living costs. Victoria is home to over 50 CRICOS-registered providers and thousands of international students.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time on CRICOS registration. Visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during academic terms and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must maintain valid OSHC for the duration of your stay. Key requirements include genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criteria, sufficient financial capacity, and English proficiency. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to apply for Doctor of Social Work (Professional Doctorate) at La Trobe University (La Trobe): 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the CRICOS register to confirm that La Trobe University (00115M) and this course (029305M) are currently registered. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Prepare your qualifications, English test scores (e.g., IELTS), and any required documents (research proposal, references). Check application deadlines on the La Trobe international website. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Upon acceptance, La Trobe will issue a CoE. Then submit your visa application to the Department of Home Affairs with OSHC and financial evidence.
Victoria offers a diverse range of study environments for doctoral students in social work. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers across Australia, Victoria alone has hundreds of options. La Trobe University's five campuses allow you to choose between urban Melbourne and regional cities like Bendigo or Shepparton, each with unique cultural and cost-of-living profiles. Regional campuses often have lower rental costs (e.g., Mildura may offer rents around A$250/week vs. Melbourne's A$400+). Public transport in Melbourne is extensive, while regional areas may require a car. Consider your research focus and lifestyle preferences when selecting a campus.
Ready to apply? Visit La Trobe University's international admissions page. For visa guidance, consult a registered migration agent.
Doctor of Social Work (Professional Doctorate) is a CRICOS-registered programme at La Trobe University (La Trobe). 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.