Doctor of Social Work (CRICOS course code 080467B) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 3 years. This AQF Level 10 course falls under the field of Society and Culture, specifically Human Welfare Studies and Services (Social Work). UNSW is a CRICOS-registered provider (00098G) located in Kensington, New South Wales. As a doctoral program, it prepares graduates for advanced practice, research, and leadership in social work. The course is taught entirely in English and does not include a work component. UNSW is one of over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, offering more than 26,000 courses. All international students are protected under the ESOS Act. This page provides indicative fees, entry requirements, and visa guidance to help you plan your studies. Remember, all data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). HeadStart Academy is a free resource with no referral fees.
Graduates of this Doctoral Degree in Social Work develop advanced knowledge in social welfare theories, research methodologies, and professional practice. The program typically involves original research leading to a thesis, contributing new insights to the field. Students engage with topics such as social policy, community development, and human rights. UNSW's Kensington campus provides access to extensive research facilities and a diverse academic community. As a doctoral candidate, you will work closely with supervisors to design and execute a research project that addresses real-world social issues. The course is designed for those seeking to become leaders in social work practice, academia, or policy. While specific syllabi vary, the focus is on producing independent researchers and advanced practitioners.
The CRICOS register lists this course as 3 years (156 weeks) of full-time study. It is delivered in English and is a single qualification (no dual qualifications). Part-time options may be available but are not reflected in the CRICOS register—check with UNSW directly. The course is research-intensive, so you should expect to dedicate significant time to independent study and supervision meetings. Language of instruction is English, so meeting the English requirement is crucial.
Indicative tuition fees for this Doctor of Social Work are A$180,000 for the total course. Non-tuition fees are estimated at A$4,000, making a total of A$184,000. These do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (e.g., rent, groceries, transport), or the student visa application charge. For the most current fees, always check UNSW's website. Sydney's living costs are among Australia's highest; typical weekly rent for a student may be A$200-400, groceries A$80-150, and transport A$35-50. Plan accordingly.
International students typically need an English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.5-7.0 overall. Prior qualifications should include a Master's degree in Social Work or a related field, with research component. Some applicants may need to provide a research proposal. Foundation or pathway options are not typical for doctoral degrees—contact UNSW for advice. Entry is competitive and based on academic merit and research potential.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as a student visa holder, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled breaks. This can help with living costs but should not interfere with your studies.
The course is delivered at The University of New South Wales — Kensington, NSW. Kensington is a suburb of Sydney, about 6 km from the city centre. Sydney has over 20 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student population (over 200,000). The campus is accessible by bus and light rail. Living in Sydney offers a vibrant urban experience with beaches, cultural venues, and diverse communities.
To study this course, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa requires you to meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity. Work rights are as above. Always check Department of Home Affairs requirements and consider consulting a registered migration agent.
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's course finder to filter by Doctoral Degree, Social Work, and NSW. Confirm UNSW's CRICOS registration (00098G). 2. Apply directly to UNSW: Prepare your academic transcripts, English test scores, research proposal, and references. Check UNSW's application deadlines and admission requirements. 3. Receive your CoE and apply for a Student visa: Once accepted, UNSW issues a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Use this to apply for a Subclass 500 visa. You'll need to provide evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE.
Ready to apply? Start your journey with HeadStart Academy's free CRICOS search.
View the full The University of New South Wales (UNSW) profile →
Doctor of Social Work is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of New South Wales (UNSW). 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.