Master of Social Work (CRICOS course code 115958A) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Adelaide University over 2 years. This program is designed for graduates seeking to enter the social work profession in Australia. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 04249J), it meets the standards required for international student enrolment. Adelaide University is a government-owned institution with multiple campuses across South Australia. The program covers human welfare studies and services, preparing students for roles in community, health, and government settings. With an indicative total fee of A$86,888, this course offers a pathway to professional social work practice after completing required placements and coursework. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
The Master of Social Work (CRICOS 115958A) is a 2-year full-time program at Adelaide University, a government-owned institution. It is classified under AQF Level 9 (Masters Degree (Coursework)) and falls within the field of Society and Culture, specifically Human Welfare Studies and Services (090501). This course equips graduates with advanced knowledge in social work theory, practice, and research. Adelaide University is one of over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, offering more than 26,000 courses to international students. All listed institutions are CRICOS-registered, ensuring compliance with the ESOS Act, which protects international students' rights.
The curriculum focuses on developing competencies in social work assessment, intervention, and evaluation across diverse populations. Students explore themes such as social justice, human rights, and community development. The program integrates theoretical foundations with practical skills through case studies, simulations, and supervised placements. Graduates typically gain skills in counselling, advocacy, policy analysis, and ethical decision-making. While specific units are not listed here, the field of education (090501 Social Work) indicates a strong emphasis on evidence-based practice, cultural competence, and working with vulnerable groups. This program is designed to meet the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) accreditation standards, enabling graduates to apply for membership and practice in Australia.
The course runs for 2 years (104 weeks) as per the CRICOS register. It is delivered full-time with English as the language of instruction. This is a single qualification program (no dual qualification) and does not include foundation studies. Students are expected to attend classes at one of Adelaide University's campuses in South Australia. The CRICOS registration ensures that the duration and mode align with student visa requirements for holders of a Student visa (Subclass 500).
The indicative tuition fee for Master of Social Work is A$86,800, with non-tuition fees of A$88, totalling approximately A$86,888. These fees 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, and the visa application charge (VAC). For current fee details, always check Adelaide University's official website. Living costs in Adelaide: rent A$300–500 per week, groceries A$100–150 per week, and public transport A$40–60 per week. The Australian Government recommends a minimum of A$21,041 per year for living costs (from October 2024).
International students typically need an IELTS score of 6.5–7.0 overall (with no band below 6.5–7.0, depending on the provider). A bachelor degree is generally required, preferably in a related field such as social sciences, psychology, or health. Some providers may require prior study in human welfare or relevant work experience. Foundation or pathway programs may be available for students who do not meet direct entry requirements. Always confirm with Adelaide University for specific prerequisites. English language requirements are set by the institution and may vary; the IELTS scores above are a common range for master's level social work programs in Australia.
This course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component of 25 weeks, involving approximately 1000 total hours of placement. This typically takes the form of supervised industry placements in hospitals, community organisations, or government agencies. The placement allows students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings under professional supervision. Work components are a common feature of CRICOS-registered social work programs to meet AASW accreditation requirements. The hours contribute to the total course duration and are scheduled during the program. Students must have a valid student visa to undertake placements.
The Master of Social Work is delivered across four Adelaide University campuses in South Australia: Adelaide City Campus in Adelaide's CBD, Magill Campus in the eastern suburbs, Mount Gambier Campus in the regional city of Mount Gambier, and Whyalla Campus in Whyalla Norrie. Adelaide, the state capital, has a population of over 1.3 million and is home to more than 60 CRICOS-registered providers. Public transport, including trains, trams, and buses, connects the city campus well. Regional campuses offer a smaller community feel. Mount Gambier and Whyalla have lower living costs compared to Adelaide. Each location provides unique study environments while delivering the same accredited program.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time in Australia. The visa requires genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status, sufficient financial capacity, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. The ESOS Act protects international students' rights, including tuition fee refunds and access to grievance processes. For visa applications, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA migration agent. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Master of Social Work at Adelaide University: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's directory to filter by course level (Masters Degree), field (Society and Culture), and location (South Australia). Confirm the course is CRICOS-registered (115958A) and offered by Adelaide University (04249J). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements (including English test scores and prior qualifications), prepare documents, and submit an application through Adelaide University's online portal. Note application deadlines for international students. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE. Use this to apply for a visa via the Department of Home Affairs, including evidence of OSHC and financial capacity.
South Australia offers a high quality of life with lower living costs compared to Sydney or Melbourne. Adelaide is known for its affordable housing, vibrant food scene, and numerous festivals. Regional campuses like Mount Gambier and Whyalla provide a quieter, close-knit community. The state has a strong education sector with over 60 CRICOS-registered providers and a growing international student population. Consider your preference for urban vs. regional study, climate (Mediterranean), and access to placement opportunities. Master of Social Work students benefit from the state's well-developed health and community services networks. Public transport is efficient in Adelaide, but a car may be needed for regional campuses.
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Master of Social Work is a CRICOS-registered programme at Adelaide University. 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.