Master of Social Work (Qualifying) (CRICOS course code 094540E) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by University of Wollongong (UoW) over 2 years. This CRICOS-registered course prepares international students for professional social work practice in Australia. With a strong focus on work-integrated learning, including 34 weeks of supervised placement, graduates meet the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) accreditation requirements. HeadStart Academy provides this independent resource to help you compare CRICOS courses and make informed study decisions. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) — a free, unbiased reference for prospective students.
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Master of Social Work (Qualifying) (CRICOS course code 094540E) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by University of Wollongong (UoW) over 2 years. This qualification is AQF Level 9 and sits within the field of Society and Culture (0905 - Human Welfare Studies and Services). The course is designed for graduates with a bachelor's degree in a related field who wish to qualify as professional social workers. It is offered at three locations in New South Wales: UOW Liverpool Campus, 50 Scott Street Liverpool, and UOW Wollongong. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 00102E), it meets the Australian Government's standards for international student enrolment, ensuring ESOS Act protections apply.
This program covers advanced social work theory, practice methods, and research skills. Students engage with topics such as human behaviour, social policy, community development, counselling, and ethical practice. The curriculum is structured to develop competencies in assessment, intervention, and evaluation across diverse client groups. Graduates are prepared for roles in health, community services, child protection, mental health, and aged care. While specific unit details vary, the course emphasises critical reflection and culturally responsive practice, particularly relevant to Australia's multicultural context.
The course duration is 2 years (104 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. It is delivered in English with a full-time study load. This is a single qualification — not a dual degree or combined course. Full-time enrolment is typically required for student visa holders, though part-time options may be available under certain conditions. The program includes both coursework and a substantial work component (see below).
The indicative tuition fee for Master of Social Work (Qualifying) is A$74,688 over two years. Non-tuition fees (e.g., student services and amenities fee) are approximately A$730, bringing the estimated total to A$75,418. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Always confirm current fees directly with University of Wollongong (UoW). Note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges are not included. For a single student, living costs in Wollongong range from A$500–700 per week (rent, food, transport). In Liverpool (Sydney metro), costs are higher — approximately A$600–900 per week. These are estimates only.
Entry into Master of Social Work (Qualifying) typically requires a bachelor's degree in a related field (e.g., social sciences, psychology, or human services) with a minimum grade average. English language proficiency is required: IELTS overall 6.5–7.0 (or equivalent) as a general guide. Some applicants may need to complete prerequisite subjects. Foundation or pathway programs are not explicitly listed for this course — refer to University of Wollongong's website for specific admission criteria. HeadStart Academy recommends contacting the provider directly or consulting a registered education agent.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 34 weeks of supervised placement at 30 hours per week (totalling approximately 1,020 hours). This work-integrated learning places students in real social work settings under professional supervision, such as hospitals, community health centres, or NGOs. Placements are arranged by the university and may be in Wollongong, Liverpool, or surrounding regions. This practical experience is essential for meeting AASW accreditation and builds industry-readiness.
Master of Social Work (Qualifying) is delivered at three locations: UOW Liverpool Campus (Liverpool, NSW), 50 Scott Street Liverpool (Liverpool, NSW), and UOW Wollongong (Wollongong, NSW). Liverpool is a major southwestern Sydney hub with over 200,000 residents and excellent public transport links (train and bus). Wollongong is a coastal city about 80 km south of Sydney, home to a large student population and the main UOW campus. Both locations offer vibrant student communities and access to services. Students can choose based on their lifestyle and career goals.
International students studying this CRICOS-registered course must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time, with work rights of 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). You must comply with the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity for tuition, living costs, and travel. For detailed guidance, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA migration agent.
Follow these three steps to apply for Master of Social Work (Qualifying) at University of Wollongong (UoW): 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** — Use HeadStart Academy's directory to filter by course level and location. Verify the provider's CRICOS registration (UoW: 00102E). 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** — Submit your application through UoW's online portal. Prepare your academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS), and any required supporting documents. Meet application deadlines (typically October for February intake). 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** — Once UoW issues your CoE, lodge your Student visa (Subclass 500) application with the Department of Home Affairs. Include OSHC evidence and financial capacity documents.
New South Wales (NSW) is Australia's most populous state, with over 100 CRICOS-registered providers and a diverse range of social work placements. Sydney offers extensive hospital networks and NGOs, while Wollongong provides a more affordable coastal lifestyle with excellent clinical training opportunities. Consider your budget: living costs in Sydney are higher (weekly rent ~A$600–900) compared to Wollongong (~A$400–600). Public transport is widely accessible, and both cities have multicultural communities — ideal for developing cross-cultural social work skills.
Get your application ready: Visit University of Wollongong (UoW) website for the latest fees, entry requirements, and application deadlines.
All Masters Degree (Coursework) courses in New South Wales →
Master of Social Work (Qualifying) is a CRICOS-registered programme at University of Wollongong (UoW). 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.