Are you an international student considering a career in social work in Australia? The Master of Social Work (CRICOS course code 061212E) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb), one of Australia’s leading Group of Eight universities. This two-year program is designed to equip graduates with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to become a professional social worker, eligible for membership with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW). With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers across Australia offering more than 26,000 courses, the Master of Social Work at UniMelb stands out for its strong industry connections and emphasis on clinical practice. In this page, we break down everything you need to know: indicative fees, entry requirements, work-integrated learning, student visa conditions, and how to apply. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. Remember, HeadStart Academy is a free resource — we do not charge referral fees or provide immigration advice. For visa matters, always consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Master of Social Work (CRICOS course code 061212E) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) over 2 years. This program sits within the field of Society and Culture (09), specifically Human Welfare Studies and Services (0905) and Social Work (090501). The course is designed for graduates who already hold a bachelor’s degree (not necessarily in social work) and wish to qualify for professional social work practice. On completion, graduates meet the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) accreditation standards, enabling them to work in a wide range of settings such as hospitals, community health centres, child protection, mental health, and aged care. The University of Melbourne (CRICOS 00116K) is a public government university consistently ranked among the world’s top institutions, and its social work program is known for its rigorous curriculum and strong research base. As a CRICOS-registered provider, UniMelb is subject to the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act, ensuring international students receive the same protections as domestic students.
The Master of Social Work curriculum typically covers advanced theoretical frameworks in social work, social policy analysis, research methods, and ethical practice. Students develop skills in assessment, intervention, and evaluation across diverse client groups and settings. The program emphasises reflective practice, cultural competence (including working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and culturally diverse populations), and advocacy for social justice. While the exact syllabus is set by the university, graduates at this level are expected to demonstrate critical thinking, evidence-based decision-making, and the ability to work autonomously in complex situations. The course also includes significant work-integrated learning, detailed below.
According to the CRICOS register, the Master of Social Work has a duration of 104 weeks (2 years) when studied full-time. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (not a dual degree or combined with foundation studies). The program is not a VET course; there is no VET national code. Delivery is on-campus at The University of Melbourne’s Parkville campus in Melbourne, Victoria. Students are expected to attend classes, tutorials, and practical placements in person. Part-time study may be possible for some domestic students, but international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are generally required to maintain full-time enrolment.
The indicative tuition fee for the Master of Social Work (CRICOS 061212E) is A$115,132 for the full program (2 years). Non-tuition fees including amenities and services are approximately A$150. The estimated total cost (tuition + non-tuition) is A$115,282. Please note: these figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change by the institution. Fees do NOT include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. For the most up-to-date and accurate fee schedule, always visit The University of Melbourne’s official website. For indicative living costs: as a guide, international students in Melbourne typically budget A$500–$650 per week for rent, groceries, and transport. Use the cost of living calculator on the Department of Home Affairs website for detailed estimates.
Entry requirements for the Master of Social Work are set by The University of Melbourne and may vary by intake. As a general guide, international students need to demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall (with no band below a certain threshold, often 6.5 or 7.0 depending on the component). Applicants must also hold a recognised undergraduate degree (typically a three-year bachelor’s degree or equivalent) and meet any prerequisite subjects (e.g., in social sciences). Some universities require a minimum GPA. Since this is a coursework master’s, prior work experience is not always mandatory but may be looked upon favourably. Foundation studies or pathway programs are not applicable for this level; however, students who need to improve their English can consider ELICOS courses before admission. Always check the official provider website for precise requirements and application deadlines.
This course includes a compulsory work-integrated learning component. According to the CRICOS register, the work component spans 104 weeks (the full duration of the course), with an unspecified number of hours per week, totalling approximately 500 hours. This typically involves supervised professional placements in social work settings such as hospitals, community organisations, or government agencies. Placements allow students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts, develop clinical skills under supervision, and build professional networks. The University of Melbourne coordinates placements across a range of partner organisations in Melbourne and regional Victoria. Industry placement is a key feature of AASW-accredited programs and is essential for graduation and professional registration.
The Master of Social Work is delivered at The University of Melbourne’s main campus in Parkville, Victoria (postcode 3052). Parkville is a suburb just north of Melbourne’s central business district, known for its university precinct and proximity to major hospitals and health services. Melbourne is Australia’s second-largest city, home to over 5 million people, and a popular destination for international students. The city has over 50 CRICOS-registered institutions offering more than 8,000 courses. Public transport to Parkville is excellent, with trams and buses connecting to the CBD and surrounding suburbs. Living costs in Melbourne are generally lower than Sydney but higher than regional areas. The suburb itself offers a vibrant student atmosphere with access to parks, cafes, and libraries.
International students who wish to study the Master of Social Work at UniMelb will generally need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa requires: a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from the provider; evidence of English language proficiency; genuine temporary entrant (GTE) requirements; sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC; and a valid passport. Students on a Subclass 500 visa can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to any future changes by the Department of Home Affairs). All international students must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of their stay. The Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act provides legal protections including the Tuition Protection Service (TPS) if the provider cannot deliver the course. For visa and migration advice, consult a registered MARA agent. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Melbourne is consistently ranked as one of the world’s most liveable cities, with a multicultural population, diverse food scene, and numerous cultural events. For social work students, Melbourne offers a wide range of placement opportunities due to its large public health network, community services, and non-profit organisations. The city is home to over 200,000 international students, making it easy to connect with peers from around the world. However, consider that the cost of living in Melbourne — especially inner-city suburbs like Parkville — can be high. Indicative weekly expenses: rent for a shared apartment A$200–$350, groceries A$70–$100, and transport A$40–$60. Climate is temperate with cool winters and warm summers. If you prefer a quieter or more affordable lifestyle, you might explore other Australian states like Queensland or South Australia, which also offer CRICOS-registered social work programs.
Ready to take the next step? Explore the Master of Social Work entry requirements on The University of Melbourne’s website and start your application today.
View the full The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) profile →
Master of Social Work is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Melbourne (UniMelb). 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.