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Human Services/Social Work

This course information is for local students only

Year

2010

Award

Bachelor of Human Services and Master of Social Work

Length

4 years full-time or part-time equivalent

Campuses

Melbourne (Bundoora), Bendigo, Mildura, Albury-Wodonga

Course description

This course allows students to complement social work studies with an understanding of welfare agencies and the welfare needs of individuals, families and groups. Based on a philosophy of social justice, it gives students the knowledge and skills to practise as a social worker and to work effectively in complex organisations. A key feature of the course is the practical placement component, which allows students to gain practical skills in the field.

Course structure

In first year students undertake an interdisciplinary common year, focusing on basic human biosciences and factors influencing health, and on developing an understanding of the roles of health professionals in the health and welfare sectors. In second year, they explore social work theories and develop an understanding of welfare agencies and the needs of individuals, families and groups. Third and fourth years focus on a critical analytic approach to social problems and practice through case-based study.

Handbook

Major areas of study

Social work theory and practice, diversity, Indigenous studies, ethics, sociology, welfare history, mental health, working with families, family welfare, psychology, casework, group-work, community work, social policy, research, program design and evaluation.

Overseas study opportunities

Overseas study opportunities are available.
Please see www.latrobe.edu.au/international/exchange for more information

Application

VTAC/UAC

Fee type

Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)

Scholarships

Applicants who are Australian citizens or who hold permanent humanitarian visas are eligible for a range of University-wide scholarships, including Commonwealth Scholarships. For details please see http://www.latrobe.edu.au/scholarships/prospective/uniwide/index.html

Additional costs (AUD)

Other approximate costs include A$100 for course manuals. Accommodation costs for clinical placements vary depending on venue.

Middle Band

Applicants are selected in the middle-band based on relevant paid and unpaid work experience, during and/or subsequent to secondary school. Current Year 12 students must provide this information to VTAC on the Pi form. For students applying to Bendigo, Albury-Wodonga and Mildura campuses, the La Trobe University Regional Bonus Scheme applies. Re-ranking is also based on criteria associated with VTAC's Special Entry Access Scheme.

Selection

Melbourne (Bundoora): ENTER 61.00
Bendigo: ENTER 54.50
Albury-Wodonga: ENTER 56.80
Mildura: ENTER n/a (newly available)

Extra requirements

Non-Year 12 applicants must return a completed Supplementary Application, available from www.latrobe.edu.au/socialwork, by 25 September 2009.

Applicants considering adding this course at Change of Preference, or lodging an application after 25 September 2009, must first contact the School to make alternative arrangements for satisfying these requirements.

Please note that the 140 days professional placement is unpaid and may be located in metropolitan or rural areas, interstate or overseas. Students may be required to do their placement outside semesters. For information about clinical placements, visit www.latrobe.edu.au/health/courses/undergrad/about_courses


Prerequisites

VCE Units 3 & 4: Study score of at least 30 in English (ESL) or 25 in any other English.
NSW HSC: any two units of English (Band 3).

Semester starts

Semester 1 (March)

Additional information

Prior to undertaking professional placements, students must obtain a police check (Victoria Police: $A14.50 for local students).

Career opportunities

Social workers are employed in a wide range of social policy, community, and direct practice areas within public and non-government agencies. Areas include hospitals and community based health services, disability, substance abuse, child protection and family care, aged care, indigenous support, housing services, mental health, family services, psychiatric services, protective services, refugee and asylum seeker support services, local government, community work, social justice advocacy, and counselling services.

Professional recognition

The School of Social Work and Social Policy is seeking provisional accreditation from the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW).

Contact information

Enquire Online
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Future Students Centre:
T 1300 135 045
E study@latrobe.edu.au
School of Social Work and Social Policy:
Albury-Wodonga T (02) 6024 9802
Bendigo T (03) 5444 7411
Bundoora T (03) 9479 5815


All students may pay a Voluntary General Service Fee.
Most international students must pay for Overseas Student Health Cover