Master of Social Work (Research) (CRICOS course code 072273A) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by Deakin University (Deakin) over 2 years. This course is designed for graduates seeking to advance their knowledge in social work through research, contributing to evidence-based practice and policy development. Hosted at the Geelong Waterfront Campus in Victoria, this program combines rigorous academic training with the unique benefits of studying in a vibrant regional city. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 00113B), it meets Australian Government standards for international students, ensuring quality education and legal protections under the ESOS Act. Whether you aim to pursue a PhD or lead social work innovation, this degree provides a strong foundation.
The Master of Social Work (Research) (CRICOS 072273A) is a research-focused masters degree at AQF Level 9, offered by Deakin University, a government university in Victoria. This program is ideal for international students who want to deepen their expertise in social work while contributing original research to the field. It is delivered over 104 weeks and taught entirely in English. As a CRICOS-registered course, it is approved for international student enrolment, giving you access to Australia’s robust student visa framework (Subclass 500) and the legal protections of the ESOS Act. Deakin University is one of over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, offering more than 26,000 courses. When choosing this program, you benefit from Deakin’s strong reputation in social sciences and its commitment to research excellence.
This course falls under the field of Society and Culture (09), specifically Human Welfare Studies and Services (0905) and Social Work (090501). As a research degree, you will focus on developing advanced research skills, including literature review, methodology design, data collection and analysis, and academic writing. You will explore contemporary issues in social work such as mental health, child protection, aging, community development, and social justice. The program typically involves a supervised research thesis or project that contributes new knowledge to the profession. While specific syllabus details are determined by Deakin University, the curriculum is designed to meet the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) standards for Level 9, ensuring you gain high-level cognitive, technical, and communication skills. Graduates often pursue careers in academia, policy analysis, clinical leadership, or specialist practice.
The Master of Social Work (Research) has a duration of 2 years (104 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification, meaning it is not part of a dual degree or combined program. There is no foundation studies component. While the CRICOS register indicates no formal work component, research degrees typically require self-directed study and regular supervision meetings. It is important to note that the duration may vary if you study part-time, but student visa conditions generally require full-time enrolment. International students should plan for a full-time commitment of around 40 hours per week including independent research.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$89,768 for the full 2 years, with non-tuition fees of A$0, resulting in an estimated total of A$89,768. Please note: these fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Deakin University sets the final fees, so you must verify current costs on their website. Additional expenses not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (e.g., rent, groceries, transport), and the visa application charge. For context, living costs in Geelong are generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne. Indicative weekly costs: rent A$200–A$350, groceries A$80–A$120, public transport A$30–A$50. Always budget for these when planning your studies. Visit Deakin’s official fee page for the most accurate information.
Entry requirements for the Master of Social Work (Research) vary by provider, but generally you will need a bachelor’s degree in social work or a related field, with a strong academic record. Research experience or a research proposal may also be required. English language proficiency is typically demonstrated through tests like IELTS (overall band 5.5–7.0, depending on the course level) or equivalent. For this research degree, a higher score may be expected. You may also need to submit a research proposal and secure a supervisor. Foundation or pathway options are not listed for this course, but Deakin may offer pre-masters or English language programs. Always check with Deakin directly for specific admission criteria. Note that satisfying entry requirements does not guarantee admission—places are competitive.
This course does not include a work component. According to the CRICOS register, there is no mandatory professional placement, internship, or practical training embedded in the program. This is typical for research degrees, where the focus is on independent study and thesis preparation. However, Deakin University may offer optional work-integrated learning or networking opportunities outside the formal curriculum. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, which can help gain experience and offset living costs. Always check your visa conditions and ensure work does not interfere with your research progress.
This course is delivered at Deakin University’s Geelong Waterfront Campus in Geelong, Victoria. Geelong is Victoria’s second-largest city with a population of over 250,000, offering a more affordable and relaxed lifestyle compared to Melbourne. The Waterfront Campus is located on the scenic Corio Bay, close to the city center and public transport. Geelong has a growing international student community, with several other CRICOS-registered providers offering courses across various fields. Public transport connections include trains to Melbourne (approximately 1 hour) and local bus networks. The cost of living is lower than in major capitals; for example, median rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around A$300–A$350 per week. Geelong also offers a safe, family-friendly environment with access to beaches, parks, and cultural events. For students in Society and Culture, Geelong provides opportunities to engage with diverse communities and social services.
Choosing Geelong for your Master of Social Work (Research) means immersing yourself in a dynamic regional centre with strong links to community services. The city hosts a range of social welfare organizations, health networks, and research institutes, providing potential context for your thesis. Geelong’s lower cost of living allows you to focus more on your studies without the financial pressure of larger cities. The Waterfront Campus itself is modern and well-equipped, with libraries, labs, and student support services tailored to international students. Additionally, regional areas often have more affordable housing and a tight-knit student community. If you value a balance between academic rigor and quality of life, Geelong is an excellent choice. Remember to research the specific resources available for research students at Deakin, including supervisor expertise and funding opportunities.
International students enrolling in this course must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Deakin University, evidence of financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC, and travel), English language proficiency, and meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion. With this visa, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight when your course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must maintain OSHC for the duration of your stay. The ESOS Act protects your rights as a consumer of education services. For visa details, always consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent and cannot provide visa advice. Refer to our Student Visa guide for more information.
Follow these three steps to apply for Master of Social Work (Research) at Deakin University (Deakin):
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses like this one. Filter by course level (Research Masters), field (Society and Culture), and location (Geelong) to find your ideal program.
2. Apply directly to Deakin University: Prepare your documents, including academic transcripts, English test results, a research proposal, and referee reports. Check application deadlines and submit through Deakin’s online portal.
3. Receive your CoE and apply for your Student visa: Once accepted, Deakin will issue a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Include proof of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement. After visa grant, prepare for your journey to Australia.
For personalized assistance, contact Deakin’s international admissions team.
Ready to advance your career? Check your eligibility and apply to Deakin University for Master of Social Work (Research). Explore more courses on HeadStart Academy.
Master of Social Work (Research) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Deakin University (Deakin). 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.