Bachelor of Social Work

Townsville, Cairns

 

INTAKE: Jul & Feb

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Social Work program at James Cook University (JCU) is a comprehensive undergraduate degree designed to prepare students for careers in social work practice and advocacy. This program equips students with the knowledge, skills, and values required to address social issues, promote social justice, and empower individuals, families, and communities.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the Bachelor of Social Work program at JCU covers a wide range of topics essential for understanding the theory and practice of social work. Core courses include social work theory, human behavior and development, social policy and welfare systems, research methods, and professional ethics. Students also engage in practical field education placements in various social service agencies, such as hospitals, schools, government departments, and non-profit organizations. The curriculum is designed to develop students' critical thinking, communication, assessment, and intervention skills, as well as their cultural competence and ethical decision-making abilities.

Research Focus: JCU is committed to fostering research excellence in social work and related fields. Faculty members within the School of Arts and Social Sciences conduct research projects on diverse topics such as social justice, community development, mental health, indigenous issues, and family violence. Bachelor of Social Work students have the opportunity to engage in research activities through research internships, honors projects, and collaborative research initiatives. This research-focused approach allows students to develop research skills, critical analysis, and evidence-based practice, preparing them to address complex social problems and contribute to positive social change.

Industry Engagement: The Bachelor of Social Work program at JCU emphasizes industry engagement and practical experience to prepare students for professional practice in social work. Through partnerships with social service agencies, government departments, and community organizations, students have access to field education placements, internships, and applied research projects. Industry-engaged learning opportunities enable students to gain practical experience in social work practice, develop professional networks, and apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations. JCU's strong connections to the social work profession facilitate networking opportunities, mentorship, and career pathways for graduates in diverse social work roles.

Global Perspective: As a globally focused institution, JCU offers Bachelor of Social Work students a diverse and inclusive learning environment with a global perspective on social issues and social work practice. The program explores international trends and best practices in social work, preparing students to work in multicultural and diverse communities. JCU's partnerships with international universities, social service organizations, and advocacy groups offer students opportunities for international field education placements, study abroad programs, and cross-cultural exchanges. Through global engagement, students gain a broader understanding of social work principles, human rights, and social justice issues, preparing them to be effective social work practitioners in a globalized world.

Pollster Education

Location

Townsville, Cairns

Pollster Education

Score

IELTS 7

Pollster Education

Tuition Fee

AUD 30080

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.

English Language Proficiency:

  • IELTS: Overall band score of 7.0 with a minimum of 6.5 in each component.
  • TOEFL: Overall score of 79 with a minimum of 19 in each section.
  • PTE (Pearson Test of English): Overall score of 65 with a minimum of 58 in each section.

Students must provide:

  • academic marksheets & transcripts
  • letters of recommendation
  • a personal statement - SOP
  • passport
  • other supporting documents as required by the university.

It's important to note that entry requirements can vary by program and may change over time. Additionally, some programs may have additional requirements, such as interviews, portfolios, or work experience.

JCU is supporting international students in their pursuit of higher education. The university offers various scholarships designed to assist eligible students in achieving their academic and career goals.

Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarship: This prestigious scholarship is awarded to high-achieving international students across various study areas. It provides a significant reduction in tuition fees and is highly competitive.

Dean's Scholarship for Excellence: This scholarship is aimed at international students who have demonstrated outstanding academic performance. It offers financial support by reducing tuition fees.

JCU Access Fund Scholarship: This scholarship supports students facing financial hardship, offering assistance to cover tuition fees and living expenses.

Tropical Environmental Scholarship: Designed for international students passionate about environmental conservation and research, this scholarship provides financial support for related programs.

Sporting Scholarships: JCU recognizes the importance of sports and offers scholarships to athletes who excel in their chosen sport while pursuing their academic goals.

Indigenous Scholarships: JCU is supporting Indigenous students by providing scholarships that facilitate access to higher education.

Country-Specific Scholarships: JCU offers scholarships tailored to specific countries, encouraging cultural diversity and international collaboration.

External Scholarships: JCU also facilitates access to external scholarships and funding opportunities that international students may be eligible for.

Graduates of James Cook University's Bachelor of Social Work program possess the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to pursue rewarding careers in various sectors. 

Social Worker: Many graduates choose to work as social workers, providing support and assistance to individuals, families, and communities facing social challenges. Social workers work in diverse settings such as hospitals, schools, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and community centers. They assess clients' needs, develop intervention plans, and connect clients with resources and services to address issues such as poverty, mental health, substance abuse, family conflict, and domestic violence. Social workers also advocate for social change, promote human rights, and empower marginalized populations to achieve greater well-being and social inclusion.

Child and Family Welfare Officer: Some graduates specialize in child and family welfare, working with children, youth, and families involved in the child protection system. Child and family welfare officers assess families' strengths and needs, investigate allegations of child abuse or neglect, and develop safety plans to protect children at risk of harm. They collaborate with child protection agencies, courts, and community organizations to provide support services, counseling, and parenting education to families in crisis. Child and family welfare officers advocate for children's rights, ensure their safety and well-being, and strive to reunite families whenever possible.

Community Development Worker: For those interested in community-based practice, a career as a community development worker offers opportunities to promote social change and empower communities to address local issues and improve quality of life. Community development workers collaborate with residents, community organizations, and government agencies to identify needs, set priorities, and implement community-led initiatives such as affordable housing projects, youth programs, and neighborhood revitalization efforts. They facilitate community meetings, build partnerships, and advocate for resources and policies that support community development and social justice.

Mental Health Counselor: Some graduates specialize in mental health counseling, providing therapeutic support and counseling services to individuals experiencing mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, or addiction. Mental health counselors assess clients' emotional and psychological needs, develop treatment plans, and facilitate individual or group therapy sessions to promote healing and recovery. They work in settings such as mental health clinics, hospitals, substance abuse treatment centers, and private practices, collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to provide holistic care and support clients on their journey toward mental wellness.

Policy Analyst: For those interested in macro-level social work practice, a career as a policy analyst offers opportunities to influence social policies, advocate for systemic change, and address social inequalities at a broader level. Policy analysts work for government agencies, think tanks, research institutes, and advocacy organizations, analyzing social issues, evaluating policy options, and developing recommendations to improve social welfare systems, address poverty, and promote social justice. They engage in research, policy development, and advocacy efforts to shape public policies and programs that support vulnerable populations and advance social equity and inclusion.


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