Study Social Work
Embrace a career that makes a difference
#1
in QLD for full-time employment1
#1
in QLD for median graduate salary2
#1
in QLD for student support3
- Gain extensive real-world experience through placements and professional learning.
- Study in Cairns, Townsville or online*, with small class sizes and dedicated academic support.
- Understand the unique needs of northern Queensland and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
- Apply your learning to the issues affecting people, families and communities.
- Graduate ready to make a difference in government, education, health or community sectors.
Fast facts
Location: Online*, Cairns, Townsville
Starts: January, May, September
Entry requirements:** ATAR: 62
Recommended knowledge: English (Units 3/4,C)
*Some compulsory on-campus attendance is required for online students.
**This web page is intended as a general guide for domestic students commencing 2025 or later. Prospective domestic students and all international applicants should contact the University to confirm admission requirements and the availability of courses. Information is correct at the time of publishing. James Cook University reserves the right to alter any course or admission requirement without prior notice.
Gain credit with the following qualifications:
- Diploma of Community Services – 8 subjects (or one year full-time equivalent study)
- Diploma of Alcohol and Drugs – 8 subjects (or one year full-time equivalent study)
- Diploma of Mental Health – 8 subjects (or one year full-time equivalent study)
What career possibilities are there?
JCU Social Work graduates work across aged care, child welfare, domestic violence, Indigenous health, public housing, mental health support, hospitals, education and more. You could find employment as a social worker, youth worker, health policy officer, mental health counsellor, or child protection officer.
Fast facts
Location: Online*, Cairns, Townsville
Starts: January, September
Entry requirements:** AQF level 7 bachelor degree in a relevant discipline other than Social Work that includes a minimum of 1 year full-time study in social and behavioural sciences; or equivalent.
*Some compulsory on-campus attendance is required for online students.
**This web page is intended as a general guide for domestic students commencing 2025 or later. Prospective domestic students and all international applicants should contact the University to confirm admission requirements and the availability of courses. Information is correct at the time of publishing. James Cook University reserves the right to alter any course or admission requirement without prior notice.
What career possibilities are there?
Graduates are equipped for roles in aged care, public housing, domestic violence support, education, Indigenous health, government agencies, not-for-profit organisations, hospitals and more. Career paths include social worker, school counsellor, health services manager, youth worker and health policy officer.
"I work at ACT for Kids as a social worker and therapist. I come from an Aboriginal family – I’m the first person in my family to go to university. Studying Social Work was great because it gave me the opportunity to work with other Indigenous families. This career is so rewarding and interesting. You won’t regret it."
Wesley Bennet
Bachelor of Social Work – Alumni
"The structure of my course has been incredibly supportive in helping me balance my studies with other commitments. The availability of online collaborations allows me to participate without disrupting my personal and professional life. This flexibility enables me to manage my time effectively, ensuring I can attend classes and engage with my peers while still fulfilling family and work responsibilities."
Krys Bickley
Master of Social Work (Professional Qualifying) – Student
"We don’t only study what’s written in the book. They invite guest lecturers from the profession, from the field itself, so it gives us knowledge of what is going on currently in the market. The entire course curriculum is outstanding and that’s the reason I’m here."
Chandandeep Chirag Patel
Master of Social Work (Professional Qualifying) – Student
Chose your JCU course, confirm that you meet the entry requirements, and note the QTAC code or course code.
If applying for entry into a bachelor's degree please submit your application via QTAC. For all other applications please apply via the JCU Application Portal.
Ready today for tomorrow
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