Master of Advanced Social Work (Research)


The Master of Advanced Social Work (Research) allows students to combine coursework with extensive independent research in social work. It encourages an advanced practice-oriented and theoretical approach, and supports self-directed, lifelong learning.

A Master of Advanced Social Work (Research) candidate must receive an average grade of at least H3 (65%) or better to be eligible for the award of the degree.

Students who complete the masters will:

  • acquire research skills and undertake a shorter thesis which is relevant to social work practice and/or social policy;
  • undertake preparation for advanced practice.

Course structure

The Master of Advanced Social Work (Research) is comprised of 150 credit points. Students complete a thesis of 30,000 words, the Research Processes subject, and one elective.

Credit points: Total 150 points.

Duration: 1.5 years full-time / 3 years part-time

Attendance: Students are regularly required to attend the relevant postgraduate research seminars organised by Social Work.

Electives: Not all of these subjects will be available every year. Some may be on a two year cycle. Students may vary their course plans by negotiation with the Course Coordinator if they wish to undertake a specific specialist or elective subject.

Subjects

Subject Type Subject Code Subject Title Credit points
Mandated SCWK90045 Thesis FT (full-time, 30,000 words) 125
or
  SCWK90046 Thesis PT (part-time, 30,000 words) 125
Mandated SCWK90047 Research Processes 12.5
Electives
(Choose 1 of)
SCWK90021 Advanced Child and Family Practice* 12.5
SCWK90024 Managing Human Service Organisations 12.5
  SCWK90025 Ageing, Social Work & Social Policy* 12.5
  SCWK90027 Advanced Trauma Perspectives* 12.5
  SCWK90031 Social Work Practice in the Health Field 12.5
  SCWK90032 Advanced Clinical Practice* 12.5
  SCWK90034 Depression and Anxiety* 12.5
*Please Note: These subjects are not offered in 2012

Admission requirements

The Selection Committee will consider applications for the Master of Advanced Social Work (Research) from individuals who meet all of the following criteria:

  1. A qualifying Australian Bachelor of Social Work or equivalent within the last ten years with a grade point average of 75% or above
  2. Eligibility for membership of the Australian Association of Social Workers
  3. Two years of documented professional social work practice

Applicants must also meet the University's English language requirements.


Application Process

For information on the application process, please see the How to apply and Preparing your application pages under MSHS Graduate Research.