Master of Social Work (CRICOS course code 092427M) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Griffith University over 2 years 6 months (~130 weeks). This program is designed for graduates who wish to become qualified social workers, combining theoretical knowledge with extensive supervised professional practice. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00233E), it meets Australian standards for social work education and is a pathway to social work roles in health, community services, government, and non-profit sectors. Griffith University is a public research university with campuses across Queensland, including Brisbane (Nathan), Gold Coast, and Logan. Prospective international students can enrol with a Student visa (Subclass 500) and benefit from ESOS Act protections. All course data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
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The Master of Social Work belongs to the field of Society and Culture (09), specifically Human Welfare Studies and Services (0905) and Social Work (090501). This AQF Level 9 program prepares students for professional social work practice. Graduates learn to assess individual and community needs, develop intervention strategies, apply ethical frameworks, and advocate for social justice. The curriculum typically covers social work theory, human development, mental health, community development, research methods, and policy analysis. While the exact syllabus is set by Griffith University, graduates gain competencies required for membership with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW). The program includes a substantial work-integrated learning component (see below), ensuring graduates are ready for practice in diverse settings. Social work is a regulated profession in Australia, and this CRICOS-registered course aligns with industry standards.
The Master of Social Work has a duration of 2 years 6 months (130 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification course (not a dual degree or combined program). It is delivered as a masters degree by coursework, meaning students complete taught subjects and a mandatory work placement. The full-time study load is typically four subjects per trimester, with three trimesters per year. Griffith University may also offer part-time options, but international students on a Student visa must maintain full-time enrolment. The program does not include foundation studies; students are expected to meet entry requirements directly. For the exact study mode and trimester dates, always check Griffith University's website.
Tuition fees for the Master of Social Work are indicative and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. The total tuition is A$81,000 for the full program. Additional non-tuition fees (such as student services and amenities fee) amount to approximately A$2,277, bringing the estimated total to A$83,277. Please note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (rent, food, transport), and the visa application charge are NOT included in this estimate. For international students, OSHC is mandatory for the visa duration. Living costs in Queensland vary: in Brisbane or Gold Coast, you may budget A$20,000–A$25,000 per year for rent, groceries, transport, and utilities. Always verify current fees with Griffith University before applying, as fees are subject to change.
Entry requirements for the Master of Social Work are set by Griffith University. As a general guide, applicants need an IELTS overall score of 6.5–7.0 (no band below 6.0–7.0, depending on the component). Prior qualifications expected include a recognised bachelor's degree, preferably in social sciences or equivalent. Some prerequisite studies in human development or social sciences may be required. Applicants without a social science background may need to complete a qualifying pathway (check with Griffith directly). There are no foundation studies offered within this course. International students must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement. Because entry requirements can vary, consult Griffith University's website or a registered education agent for specific academic and English requirements.
Yes, this course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component. According to the CRICOS register, the work component spans 34 weeks at 29.4 hours per week, totalling approximately 1,000 hours of supervised practice. This is a key feature of social work accreditation, allowing students to apply theory in real-world settings. Placements typically occur in hospitals, community health centres, schools, aged care facilities, or non-government organisations. Students will work under the guidance of a qualified social worker. This experience not only meets AASW requirements but also builds professional networks and practical skills. International students should note that placements are arranged by the university and are considered part of the course, not employment. The 48-hour fortnight work limitation on Student visas does not apply to placement hours when they are compulsory course requirements.
The Master of Social Work is delivered at three Griffith University campuses: Brisbane South (Nathan) in NATHAN, QLD; Gold Coast in SOUTHPORT, QLD; and Logan in MEADOWBROOK, QLD. Each campus offers a distinct student experience. Nathan is Griffith's original campus, located in a bushland setting 20 minutes from Brisbane's city centre. The Gold Coast campus is in Southport, close to surf beaches and the GC light rail. The Logan campus is in Meadowbrook, a growing southern suburb. All campuses are accessible by public transport. Brisbane and the Gold Coast together host over 20 CRICOS-registered providers, making Queensland a popular study destination. Living costs in Brisbane are typically lower than Sydney or Melbourne; weekly rent for a shared apartment ranges from A$200–A$350, groceries ~A$80–A$120, and public transport ~A$50–A$70. International students benefit from ESOS protections at all locations.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. The visa requires you to be enrolled in a CRICOS-registered course (as this is), and you must hold a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) before applying. Key visa conditions include maintaining full-time enrolment, satisfactory course progress, and adequate OSHC coverage. Student work rights are 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). You must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, proving your intention to stay temporarily for study. Financial capacity requirements include proof of tuition fees, living costs, and travel. After graduation, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) to work in Australia. For detailed advice, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA migration agent. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Master of Social Work at Griffith University: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Masters Degree (Coursework)), field (Social Work), and location (Queensland). Confirm the course CRICOS code 092427M and provider CRICOS 00233E. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit Griffith University's website (www.griffith.edu.au) to review specific entry requirements (IELTS, prior qualifications, prerequisite subjects) and application deadlines. Submit your application online with all required documents (transcripts, English test results, personal statement, references). 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): If accepted, Griffith will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and meet financial capacity requirements. The CoE is valid for the course duration.
Ready to start your social work journey? Explore the Master of Social Work (092427M) at Griffith University and apply today.
Master of Social Work is a CRICOS-registered programme at Griffith University. 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.