Master of Social Work (CRICOS course code 110240B) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by La Trobe University (La Trobe) over 2 years. This program prepares graduates for professional social work practice in Australia and internationally. It is part of the field of education 0905 - Human Welfare Studies and Services, specifically Social Work. La Trobe University is a government-funded institution (CRICOS 00115M) with campuses across Victoria. The course includes a significant work-integrated learning component, with 14 weeks of supervised placement. Indicative tuition fees are A$77,000, with no additional non-tuition fees. English language requirements typically range from IELTS 6.5 to 7.0 overall. HeadStart Academy is a free resource for international students, providing accurate data from the official CRICOS register as of April 2026. Over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offer more than 26,000 courses in Australia. Use this page to understand everything you need to know about Master of Social Work at La Trobe University.
Master of Social Work (CRICOS 110240B) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) at AQF Level 9. It is offered by La Trobe University (La Trobe), a government-funded university with CRICOS provider code 00115M. The course falls under the broad field of Society and Culture (09), specifically Human Welfare Studies and Services (0905) and Social Work (090501). This program is designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and skills for social work practice, including assessment, intervention, and advocacy. The course includes a compulsory work component of 14 weeks (490 hours) of field education placement, enabling students to gain practical experience in real-world settings. La Trobe University delivers this course across multiple campuses in Victoria: Albury-Wodonga, Bendigo, Melbourne (Bundoora), Mildura, and Shepparton. Each location offers unique opportunities for study and professional networking.
As a Master of Social Work student, you will explore the field of human welfare studies and services. Graduates at this level typically develop advanced understanding of social work theories, ethical practice, cultural competence, and research methods. The curriculum often covers topics such as social policy, community development, mental health, child protection, and working with diverse populations. While specific subjects may vary, the program aims to meet the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) accreditation standards, which are essential for professional registration in Australia. The course emphasizes critical thinking, reflective practice, and evidence-based interventions. Students engage in both theoretical learning and supervised practice to prepare for roles in health, education, community services, and government agencies.
The Master of Social Work is a full-time program lasting 2 years (104 weeks) according to the CRICOS register. All instruction is delivered in English, and the course is a single qualification (not a dual degree or combined program). No foundation studies are required. The program is structured to accommodate the academic and fieldwork components. Students should expect a combination of lectures, tutorials, seminars, and self-directed study, along with the 14-week placement. The duration is standard for a Masters Degree (Coursework) at Level 9 in Australia.
The indicative tuition fee for the Master of Social Work is A$77,000 for the entire program. There are no additional non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register, making the estimated total cost A$77,000. Please note that these fees are set by La Trobe University and are subject to change. Additional expenses not included in this figure are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (accommodation, food, transport), and the visa application charge. For current fees, always check the official La Trobe University website. HeadStart Academy advises budgeting for living costs: in Melbourne, indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around A$400–$500, with groceries about A$80–$120 and public transport around A$45. Regional campuses like Bendigo or Mildura have lower costs.
International students typically need an English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall. Additionally, applicants are expected to hold a bachelor's degree, often in a related field such as social sciences or psychology. Some universities require previous study in human welfare. La Trobe University may have specific prerequisites, including a minimum GPA and relevant work or volunteer experience. Foundation or pathway programs are not directly linked to this course, but students who need to meet academic or English entry requirements can explore other options through the provider. Always confirm exact entry requirements with La Trobe University before applying.
This course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component: a field education placement of 14 weeks, with 35 hours per week, totaling approximately 490 hours. This placement provides supervised practical experience in social work settings such as community health centers, hospitals, government agencies, or non-profit organizations. Students apply theoretical knowledge to real cases, develop professional skills, and build networks. Placements are arranged by the university, and students may need to meet additional requirements like police checks or immunizations. The work component is integral to meeting AASW accreditation standards for professional practice.
La Trobe University delivers the Master of Social Work at five campuses across Victoria: Albury-Wodonga (Wodonga campus), Bendigo (Flora Hill campus), Melbourne (Bundoora campus), Mildura, and Shepparton. Each campus offers a distinct study environment. The Bundoora campus in Melbourne's north is near a major city with extensive public transport, vibrant culture, and higher living costs. Regional campuses like Bendigo and Mildura provide a more affordable lifestyle with close-knit communities. Albury-Wodonga and Shepparton offer regional city experiences with growing student populations. Students should consider their preferences for urban versus regional settings, as well as proximity to placements and future employment opportunities.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time in Australia. Visa conditions include studying with a CRICOS-registered provider (La Trobe University, CRICOS 00115M), maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement. Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, OSHC, and travel. The Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act provides legal protections, including tuition assurance. Always check the Department of Home Affairs website for the latest visa requirements. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent for guidance.
Victoria is home to over 30 CRICOS-registered providers and a vibrant international student community. Melbourne, the state capital, is consistently ranked among the world's most liveable cities. For social work students, Victoria offers diverse placement opportunities in urban and regional settings. Regional campuses like Bendigo and Mildura have lower living costs and strong community ties. The state has a high demand for social workers, particularly in regional areas. However, consider the cost of living: Melbourne is more expensive, while regional areas are more affordable. Public transport connects all campuses, and each location has unique cultural and recreational offerings. HeadStart Academy can help you weigh these factors when choosing your study destination.
Follow these three steps to apply for Master of Social Work at La Trobe University (La Trobe):
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy's course search to filter by course level, field, and city. Confirm that La Trobe University is CRICOS-registered (00115M) and that the course (110240B) meets your goals.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit the La Trobe University international admissions page. Review entry requirements including English language tests and academic qualifications. Prepare documents such as transcripts, CV, and personal statement. Note application deadlines and apply online.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – If accepted, La Trobe will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC, sufficient funds, and meet GTE requirements. Visa processing times vary.
Ready to apply? Use the steps above to start your journey. HeadStart Academy is here to help you find CRICOS-registered courses and providers.
Master of Social Work is a CRICOS-registered programme at La Trobe University (La Trobe). 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.