Bachelor of Social Work (Honours) (CRICOS course code 113007J) is a Bachelor Honours Degree delivered by Southern Cross University (SCU) over 4 years. This program sits within the field of Society and Culture, specialising in Human Welfare Studies and Services (090501 Social Work). Designed to prepare graduates for professional social work practice, the course includes 30 weeks of work-integrated learning (approximately 900 hours) to build real-world skills. Delivered at SCU's Gold Coast campus in Bilinga, Queensland, the course is fully registered on CRICOS, ensuring ESOS Act protections for international students. Indicative tuition fees are A$104,000, with non-tuition costs of A$8,000, totalling an estimated A$112,000 (excluding OSHC, living expenses, and visa charges). HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, sourced from the official CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026.
As a Bachelor Honours Degree (AQF Level 8), this program builds on foundational social work knowledge with advanced theoretical and research components. Students explore topics such as human development, social policy, community work, counselling, and ethical practice. The honours year typically involves a supervised research project, allowing students to develop critical analysis and evidence-based practice skills. Graduates are prepared to work in diverse settings including healthcare, child protection, mental health, and community services. Note that this is a general description of the field; specific curriculum details should be confirmed with Southern Cross University (SCU).
The course is scheduled over 4 years (208 weeks on the CRICOS register). Study is delivered in English. This is a single qualification (not a dual award) and does not include foundation studies. There is no VET national code as it is a higher education program. Students are expected to attend on-campus classes at the Gold Coast Airport Development Park campus in Bilinga, with potential for some online components subject to SCU's delivery mode. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to meet visa conditions.
Tuition fees for Bachelor of Social Work (Honours) are indicative at A$104,000 total for the 4-year program. Non-tuition fees (including materials, excursions, and student services) are estimated at A$8,000, bringing the combined indicative total to A$112,000. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional costs include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (rent, food, transport), and the Student visa application charge. Always confirm current fees with Southern Cross University (SCU) before applying. For indicative living costs, see the Gold Coast section below.
Applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency, typically an IELTS score of 6.0–6.5 overall with no band below 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent). Prior academic qualifications equivalent to an Australian Year 12 or higher are required. Some institutions may require prerequisite subjects or relevant work experience. For this honours program, a bachelor degree in a related field may be necessary. Foundation or pathway options may be available through SCU’s pathways or partner colleges. Entry requirements are set by Southern Cross University; check their website for detailed, up-to-date criteria.
This course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component of 30 weeks, equivalent to approximately 900 total hours (hours per week not specified in the CRICOS register). Placements typically involve supervised social work practice in community organisations, hospitals, government agencies, or non-profits. These placements allow students to apply theoretical knowledge, develop professional competencies, and meet accreditation requirements. Students may need to secure their own placement with support from the university. The work component is a critical part of the program and contributes to eligibility for professional membership.
The program is delivered at Southern Cross University's Gold Coast campus, located at Gold Coast Airport Development Park in Bilinga, Queensland. Bilinga is a coastal suburb near Coolangatta, close to the Gold Coast Airport. The Gold Coast is a major student city with a large international student population, affordable living options, and extensive public transport (G:link light rail and bus network). Indicative weekly living costs: rent A$200–$350, groceries A$80–$120, transport A$30–$50. The Gold Coast is home to multiple CRICOS-registered providers, offering a vibrant study destination with beaches and urban amenities.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this CRICOS-registered course. The visa requires evidence of genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status, adequate OSHC, and sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. From 1 July 2023, student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. Dependants may have separate work rights. Always check current visa conditions on the Department of Home Affairs website. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; consult a registered MARA agent for personalised advice.
The Gold Coast offers a dynamic lifestyle with a strong student community, world-class beaches, and a growing economy. It has numerous CRICOS-registered providers, including several universities and colleges. The cost of living is moderate compared to Sydney or Melbourne. While Bilinga is a quieter suburb, the light rail connects to Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach, and Southport. Consider your preference for campus environment, climate, and proximity to social work placement opportunities. Queensland has a high demand for social workers, especially in regional areas. This location may suit students seeking a balance of study, work, and lifestyle.
Applying for Bachelor of Social Work (Honours) at Southern Cross University involves three key steps:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field (Social Work), and location (QLD). Verify that Southern Cross University (SCU) is CRICOS registered (01241G) and that the course code 113007J matches your interest.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Visit SCU’s website (www.scu.edu.au) to confirm entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your academic transcripts, English language evidence, and any required supporting documents. Apply through the university’s online portal or via a registered education agent.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa**: Once SCU issues your CoE, use it to lodge your Student visa (Subclass 500) application with the Department of Home Affairs. Include evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE. For visa assistance, consult a registered MARA migration agent.
Start your social work journey today—explore Southern Cross University and apply for this CRICOS-registered program.
Bachelor of Social Work (Honours) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Southern Cross University (SCU). 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.