If you're an international student looking to pursue postgraduate studies in social work in Australia, the Postgraduate Social Work Pathway Program (CRICOS course code 115655E) is a Non AQF Award delivered by Southern Cross University (SCU) over 1 year. This program is designed for students who need to meet academic and English language requirements before entering a full master's degree in social work. Southern Cross University is a government-owned institution (CRICOS 01241G) with a strong reputation for health and social sciences. The course is delivered at SCU's Gold Coast campus in Bilinga, Queensland, a vibrant coastal city with a growing student community. With indicative tuition fees of A$18,480 and additional costs of A$2,000, the estimated total is A$20,480. As with all courses on HeadStart Academy, this information is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) and is provided as a free resource with no referral fees.
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The Postgraduate Social Work Pathway Program (CRICOS course code 115655E) is a Non AQF Award offered by Southern Cross University (SCU). This program is classified under Field of Education 12 - Mixed Field Programmes, specifically 129999 Mixed Field Programmes, n.e.c. The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks) and is taught entirely in English. It does not lead to a dual qualification and is not a VET course. The program is designed to prepare students for entry into a postgraduate social work degree (such as a Master of Social Work) by building foundational knowledge and skills. Importantly, the CRICOS register confirms no mandatory work component is included. Southern Cross University (CRICOS 01241G) is a government-owned provider, and all international students enrolling in this course are protected by the ESOS Act 2000.
As a Mixed Field Programme at this level, the Postgraduate Social Work Pathway Program covers broad interdisciplinary content that bridges academic preparation and professional readiness. Students typically engage with foundational subjects in social work theory, ethics, human development, and Australian welfare contexts. The curriculum is intended to develop critical thinking, cross-cultural competence, and communication skills essential for graduate-level study. Since this is a pathway program, it also focuses on English for academic purposes, research skills, and Australian academic conventions. While specific syllabi are set by Southern Cross University, the overall goal is to equip students with the competencies needed to succeed in a full master's degree. International students should expect a mix of lectures, tutorials, and self-directed learning, with assessments including essays, presentations, and group projects.
According to the CRICOS register, the Postgraduate Social Work Pathway Program has a duration of 1 year or 52 weeks. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification program—there is no dual award. Classes are conducted on campus at the Gold Coast Airport Development Park in Bilinga, Queensland. Students are expected to attend full-time to maintain their student visa conditions. The course is not available online or as a part-time option for international students, as per typical visa requirements. Southern Cross University may offer different intakes, so check the provider's website for exact start dates.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$18,480, with non-tuition fees of A$2,000, making an estimated total of A$20,480. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Please note that fees are set by the institution and are subject to change. Always confirm current fees with Southern Cross University. Additional costs not included are: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (e.g., rent, groceries, transport), and the Student visa application charge. In Bilinga/Gold Coast area, indicative weekly living costs are around A$400–A$600 (including rent). For up-to-date fee information, visit the Southern Cross University website at www.scu.edu.au.
Entry requirements for the Postgraduate Social Work Pathway Program are determined by Southern Cross University. Typically, applicants need a completed bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in any discipline. English language proficiency is required – common acceptable tests include IELTS (overall band 6.0–6.5, with no band below 5.5), TOEFL, PTE Academic, or equivalent. Some applicants may need to meet specific prerequisite subjects. Completion of this pathway program does not guarantee automatic entry into a master's degree; students must meet the university's progression requirements. For exact entry criteria, including academic and English requirements, refer to the provider's website. International students should also check the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their visa application.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. Therefore, the program does not have a required internship, practicum, or work placement. However, students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks, subject to visa conditions. Any work undertaken is at the student's own initiative and is not part of the curriculum.
The Postgraduate Social Work Pathway Program is delivered at the following location: Gold Coast Airport Development Park - Bilinga, BILINGA, QLD. Bilinga is a coastal suburb of the Gold Coast, Queensland, approximately 20 km south of Surfers Paradise. The Gold Coast is home to over 50 CRICOS-registered providers offering hundreds of courses. The city has a large international student population, excellent public transport (including light rail and buses), and a range of student accommodation options. Living costs on the Gold Coast are slightly lower than in Sydney or Melbourne but higher than regional areas. Students at this campus have access to SCU's facilities, library, and student support services.
International students enrolling in the Postgraduate Social Work Pathway Program at Southern Cross University will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in a CRICOS-registered course. Key requirements include: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, proof of sufficient financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC, and travel), and English language proficiency. You must also maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. Student work rights are 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited during scheduled breaks (conditions apply). All students are protected under the ESOS Act. For visa application details, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA agent. HeadStart Academy provides general guidance only.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Postgraduate Social Work Pathway Program at Southern Cross University (SCU): 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's free resources to compare courses and providers. Filter by course level, field of education, and location. Ensure the provider is CRICOS-registered (SCU's CRICOS is 01241G). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Submit an application to Southern Cross University. Check entry requirements (academic transcripts, English language test scores, and any prerequisite subjects). Note application deadlines and provide all required documents. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, SCU will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa. Include OSHC, financial evidence, and a Genuine Temporary Entrant statement. For visa help, consult a MARA agent.
The Gold Coast is one of Australia's most popular study destinations, with over 50,000 international students from more than 100 countries. It offers a subtropical climate, world-famous beaches, and a relaxed lifestyle. The city has a well-developed public transport system including light rail (G:link), trains, and buses, making it easy to commute to SCU's Bilinga campus. Student accommodation options include purpose-built student apartments, shared rentals, and homestays, with weekly rent ranging from A$200 to A$500. Groceries and transport costs are moderate. The Gold Coast also has a growing job market in tourism, hospitality, and health services, suitable for part-time work. However, if you prefer a quieter environment, consider regional Queensland. Weigh your preferences before deciding.
1. How much does Postgraduate Social Work Pathway Program cost at Southern Cross University (SCU)? The indicative tuition fee is A$18,480, plus non-tuition fees of A$2,000, totalling an estimated A$20,480. Remember, OSHC, living costs, and visa application charges are extra. Always check SCU's website for current fees.
2. How long is Postgraduate Social Work Pathway Program? The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks) on the CRICOS register. Full-time study is required to maintain your student visa.
3. What are the entry requirements for Postgraduate Social Work Pathway Program? Applicants typically need a bachelor's degree and English proficiency (e.g., IELTS 6.0-6.5). Specific prerequisites may apply. Check with Southern Cross University for exact requirements.
4. Where is Postgraduate Social Work Pathway Program delivered? It is delivered at the Gold Coast Airport Development Park in Bilinga, Queensland (BILINGA, QLD). This is the main location for this course at SCU.
Ready to take the next step? Visit Southern Cross University's website for the latest fees, intake dates, and application details. Start your journey today.
Postgraduate Social Work Pathway Program 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.