Master of Social Work (Qualifying) (CRICOS course code 114532B) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by University of Southern Queensland over 2 years. This AQF Level 9 program prepares international students for professional social work practice, covering human behaviour, social policy, and intervention strategies. As a CRICOS-registered course (114532B), it meets Australian quality standards for overseas students. The University of Southern Queensland (CRICOS 00244B) is a government-owned university with campuses across Queensland, offering this course at its Ipswich campus. With a strong focus on work-integrated learning, students complete 42 weeks of supervised placement, gaining real-world experience in community and healthcare settings. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this qualification meets the educational requirements for membership with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW).
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This course falls under the field of education 090501 Social Work, within the broader Society and Culture category. Graduates develop competencies in assessing client needs, planning and implementing interventions, advocating for social justice, and working with diverse populations. The curriculum integrates theoretical frameworks with practical skills, including case management, counselling, and community development. Students learn to apply ethical principles and critical reflection to professional practice. While the specific syllabus is set by the University of Southern Queensland, typical subjects include social work theory, human development, mental health, child protection, and research methods. The course is designed to align with the Australian Social Work Education and Accreditation Standards (ASWEAS), ensuring graduates are eligible to apply for AASW membership upon completion.
According to the CRICOS register, the Master of Social Work (Qualifying) has a duration of 2 years (104 weeks). All instruction is delivered in English. This is a single qualification, not a dual degree or combined with foundation studies. It is structured as a full-time coursework program, though part-time options may be available for domestic students; international students must generally maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions (Subclass 500). The course does not include a VET component (national code not applicable). This duration is standard for a master's degree that includes significant work-integrated learning.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$63,680 for the entire program, with no additional non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register (A$0). Therefore, the estimated total cost is A$63,680. Please note that these fees are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional costs not included in this figure include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students, living expenses (such as accommodation, food, and transport), and the Student visa application charge (Subclass 500). For the most current fee information, always check the University of Southern Queensland's international website at http://www.usq.edu.au/study/international.
Entry to this master's program typically requires a recognised bachelor's degree, preferably in a social sciences or human services field. The University of Southern Queensland may also consider applicants with relevant work experience. English language proficiency is essential: the recommended IELTS overall score for this level is 6.5 to 7.0 (often 7.0 for social work). Other acceptable tests include TOEFL, PTE Academic, or Cambridge English. Some applicants may need to complete prerequisite subjects or a pathway program. Foundation studies are not part of this course, but the university may offer bridging or postgraduate preparation options. Always refer to the provider's official entry requirements as they can change.
Yes, this course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component of 42 weeks, with 24 hours per week, totalling approximately 1,008 hours. This supervised field placement is an integral part of the Master of Social Work (Qualifying) and is designed to meet the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) accreditation standards. Students undertake placements in a variety of social work settings, such as hospitals, community health centres, schools, government agencies, and non-profit organisations. Under the guidance of experienced social workers, students apply their theoretical knowledge to real client situations, develop professional skills, and build networks for future employment. The placement must be completed before graduation and is a key requirement for professional registration.
This course is delivered at the University of Southern Queensland's Ipswich campus in Ipswich, Queensland. Ipswich is a growing city located about 40 km west of Brisbane, with a population of around 200,000. It is home to a number of CRICOS-registered providers, making it an attractive option for international students seeking a more affordable cost of living compared to Brisbane. Indicative weekly expenses in Ipswich include rent A$250–A$350 (for shared accommodation), groceries A$80–A$120, and public transport A$30–A$50 (concession fares available for students). The campus is accessible by train and bus from Ipswich station, with frequent services to Brisbane. The location offers a supportive learning environment with access to community placement opportunities across the region.
Ipswich offers a balanced lifestyle with a lower cost of living than major capitals, while still being close to Brisbane's facilities. The University of Southern Queensland's Ipswich campus provides modern facilities and strong industry connections. However, social work placements may require travel to various settings, so consider your access to transport. The region has a diverse population, giving students exposure to a wide range of social issues. If you prefer a quieter study environment with affordable housing, Ipswich is a strong choice. Always research the local job market for social workers and the support services available for international students.
International students studying this course on campus in Australia will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study terms and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Visa conditions require you to maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, and hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. You must also demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, travel, and dependants (if applicable). The Department of Home Affairs publishes current financial thresholds. For example, living costs are estimated at A$21,041 per year for a single student (as of October 2025). HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; we recommend consulting a MARA agent or visiting homeaffairs.gov.au for personalised advice.
Follow these three steps to begin your study journey for the Master of Social Work (Qualifying) at University of Southern Queensland:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy to compare social work courses from multiple CRICOS-registered providers. Filter by course level, field, and location to find the right fit.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Visit the University of Southern Queensland's international admissions page. Check entry requirements, English language test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application along with supporting documents (transcripts, CV, personal statement). Some courses may require a supplementary application.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa**: If accepted, you will receive a CoE from USQ. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. You'll also need to arrange OSHC and demonstrate financial capacity.
Ready to apply? Visit the University of Southern Queensland's international website for current fees and application details.
Master of Social Work (Qualifying) is a CRICOS-registered programme at University of Southern Queensland. 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.