Master of Social Work (Qualifying) (CRICOS course code 114021C) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Southern Cross Education Institute (Higher Education) Pty Ltd over 2 years. This course is designed for individuals seeking to become qualified social workers in Australia, focusing on human welfare studies and services. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international students, ensuring quality education and ESOS Act protections. The program includes a substantial work component, providing practical experience in social work settings. With an indicative total cost of A$67,800, it is an investment in a rewarding career dedicated to supporting individuals, families, and communities. Whether you plan to study in Adelaide or North Melbourne, this course offers a pathway to professional accreditation and a meaningful contribution to society.
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Master of Social Work (Qualifying) (CRICOS course code 114021C) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) at AQF Level 9, offered by Southern Cross Education Institute (Higher Education) Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03739K). This private higher education provider is registered to deliver this course to international students, ensuring compliance with the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act. The course falls under the field of Society and Culture (09) with a focus on Human Welfare Studies and Services (0905) and specifically Social Work (090501). Graduates are prepared for professional social work practice, eligible for membership with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) upon meeting accreditation requirements. The program integrates theoretical knowledge with practical skills, covering areas such as social policy, counselling, community development, and research methods.
As a Masters degree in Social Work, students engage with advanced concepts in human welfare and social justice. The curriculum typically includes subjects such as social work theories and methods, ethics and legal frameworks, working with diverse populations, mental health, child protection, and community practice. You will develop skills in assessment, intervention, evaluation, and critical reflection. The course emphasises evidence-based practice and cultural competence, preparing graduates to work across various settings including health, aged care, schools, and non-government organisations. While specific syllabi are set by the provider, the field of education (090501) ensures alignment with professional standards. Students also complete a substantial work-integrated learning component to apply their learning in real-world contexts.
The Master of Social Work (Qualifying) extends over 2 years, equivalent to 104 weeks on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English, and it is a single qualification (not a dual degree). No foundation studies are included. The course is delivered in a coursework format, typically involving lectures, tutorials, seminars, and supervised placement. While the exact mode (face-to-face, online, or blended) is determined by the provider, international students must be enrolled in a course that meets student visa requirements, including sufficient contact hours. The duration allows for comprehensive study of social work theory and practice, culminating in eligibility for professional accreditation.
The indicative tuition fee for the Master of Social Work (Qualifying) is A$66,000, with non-tuition fees of A$1,800, totalling an estimated A$67,800. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Fees are set by Southern Cross Education Institute (Higher Education) Pty Ltd — always verify directly with the provider. Note that these costs do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the student visa application charge. Indicative living costs in Adelaide (SA) are approximately A$400–600 per week for rent, groceries, and transport, while North Melbourne (VIC) may range from A$450–700 per week. For accurate current fees, visit scei-he.edu.au.
Entry to a Masters degree typically requires a completed Australian Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in a related field, such as social sciences, psychology, or health. English language proficiency is essential, with an IELTS score of 6.5–7.0 overall (or equivalent) commonly required. Some providers may consider relevant work experience. Foundation or pathway options are not offered for this course; however, you can discuss your qualifications with the provider. Always check the specific entry criteria on the provider's website, as requirements may vary. Meeting entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as places are limited and competitive.
This course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component comprising 40 weeks of placement at 25 hours per week, totalling approximately 1,000 hours. This placement provides supervised practical experience in social work settings, such as hospitals, community health centres, government agencies, or non-profit organisations. The work component allows students to apply theoretical knowledge, develop professional competencies, and build networks in the social work field. It is a critical part of meeting AASW accreditation requirements for practice. Students must secure their own placement sites with provider approval, and may need to undergo police checks and vaccinations. The provider offers support and guidance throughout the placement process.
The Master of Social Work (Qualifying) is delivered at two campuses: 14-16 Grote Street, Adelaide, SA; and 530-538 Victoria Street, North Melbourne, Victoria 3051. Adelaide is the capital of South Australia, home to over 1.3 million people and a growing international student community with around 40,000 students. The city offers affordable living costs compared to Sydney or Melbourne, with average weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment around A$350–450. Public transport in Adelaide includes buses, trams, and trains, with a student concession pass available. North Melbourne is a suburb close to Melbourne's CBD, known for its vibrant student population. Melbourne hosts over 250,000 international students, with rent for a one-bedroom apartment averaging A$450–600 per week. The campus is accessible via tram and bus from the city. Both locations provide access to placement opportunities in surrounding communities.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key requirements include: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and meeting health and character standards. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. OSHC is mandatory for the duration of the visa. Upon completion, graduates may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) if they meet requirements, which can provide work rights post-study. Always check the Department of Home Affairs website for the latest conditions, and consider consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised advice.
Follow these three steps to apply:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** — Use HeadStart Academy to find and compare courses like this Master of Social Work. Filter by course level, field (Social Work), and city (Adelaide or Melbourne) to confirm the provider is CRICOS-registered (03739K).
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** — Visit scei-he.edu.au to review entry requirements, prepare your academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS), and any required documents. Submit your application online before the deadline. You may need to attend an interview.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** — If accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. Then apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Include evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement. Visa processing times vary, so apply early.
Social work is a rewarding but demanding profession. Before enrolling, consider your passion for helping others, resilience in challenging situations, and willingness to complete a 1,000-hour placement. Both Adelaide and North Melbourne offer diverse placement opportunities, but living costs differ — Adelaide is generally more affordable. Check the provider's accreditation status with AASW, as this affects your eligibility to practice. Also factor in post-study work rights: on a Temporary Graduate visa, you can gain experience in Australia. Remember, CRICOS registration (course code 114021C) ensures quality and student protections. HeadStart Academy provides free resources to compare courses, but always verify details with the provider.
Ready to start your journey? Visit Southern Cross Education Institute (Higher Education) Pty Ltd's website at scei-he.edu.au for up-to-date fees, application dates, and detailed course information.
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Master of Social Work (Qualifying) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Southern Cross Education Institute (Higher Education) Pty Ltd. 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.