Bachelor of Social Work (Honours) / Social Sciences
- Commencing Terms
- Term 1 & 2
- Duration
- 5 Year(s)
- Delivery Mode
- Face-to-face (includes blended)
- Campus
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Kensington
- Codes
- UAC code 422402
- Program code 4046
- CRICOS code 110659H
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2024 Indicative first year full fee
- $11,000*
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2024 Indicative full fee to complete degree
- $57,500*
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2024 Indicative first year full fee
- $45,500*
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2024 Indicative full fee to complete degree
- $253,500*
Fees
Fees
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Field experience
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Overseas study options
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AASW accreditation
International application pause for 2025 intakes
Applications for international students to study at UNSW in 2025 are currently paused. Please submit your expression of interest to join our application waitlist so we can contact you.
- Overview
- Entry requirements
- What will I study?
- Future careers
- How to apply
- Fees & Scholarships
Overview
The Bachelor of Social Work (Honours) / Bachelor of Social Sciences is a five-year double degree when studied full-time. The program prepares you to improve lives by working directly with vulnerable individuals and driving political change. Discover how social workers and social scientists shape genuinely transformative experiences for us all.Ìý Ìý
Build experience across diverse human services such as mental health, social work counselling, community work, sociology, psychology, and working with Indigenous communities. You’ll also analyse and understand myriad political, international, social, environmental, and economic challenges using social research skills and real-life experience. Ìý
Experience practical and theoretical classes under direct guidance from industry professionals and current social workers. In addition to two social work placements, you’ll have opportunities for social science projects and internships in Australia and overseas. Graduate with real connections, real experience, and skills accredited by the Australian Association of Social Workers.  
Key features
Practical experience, here and overseas Ìý
Work experience is essential to learning and experiencing the world beyond the classroom. This degree includes two social work field placements and opportunities for social science internships and international projects. You’ll gain distinct experience working in metropolitan and rural Australia or in one of our partnering countries overseas. 
Purpose-driven community 
Become part of a collective dedicated to resolving personal, local, and global challenges. Diverse classmates, teachers, researchers, and practitioners support your goals and share knowledge. Dive deeper into the social work and social science areas where you’re driven to have the most impact.
Research for your future Ìý
Social work careers evolve with society’s changing needs. With advanced research and analysis skills, your professional development can adapt to future changes with confidence. In your final year, you’ll produce a thesis or advanced professional portfolio based on your independent research.  Ìý
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Empower yourself with an education that meets formal accreditation standards. Upon graduation, you’ll meet the benchmarks set by the Australian Association of Social Workers (the professional body for social workers) and be eligible for their membership. Ìý
Why study this degree at UNSW?
- We are ranked 2nd in Australia and 27th globally for Social Sciences according to the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024
- Increased employability with an Honours qualificationÌý
- Practical classes and at least two work placementsÌý
- Accredited with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW)Ìý
- Strong focus on international studies and exchange opportunitiesÌý
- Benefit from strong social work industry connectionsÌý
- Join a supportive, open, and inclusive communityÌý
- Connect with a global alumni network  Ìý
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Entry requirements
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- The 2024 Lowest Selection Rank (LSR) is the adjusted rank (ATAR plus adjustment factors) you would have needed to gain entry to this degree in 2024.
- The 2024 A levels score is based on four Advanced Level (A2) subjects. Entry scores are calculated from the best three or four A2 subjects (excluding repeated subjects) using the following values: A*=6, A=5, B=4, C=3, D=2, E=1. At most one Applied A Level subject may be included in the best four subjects used to calculate the aggregate.
- The 2024 IB Diploma is an indication of the IB you would have needed to gain entry to this degree in 2024. It is to be used as a guide only.
- The 2024 Lowest ATAR is the lowest ATAR (before adjustment factors were applied) to which an offer was made. Where <5 is listed, this indicates that less than 5 ATAR-based offers were made and so the score has not been published. N/A indicates no offers were made on the basis of ATAR.
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At UNSW, we are committed to ensuring prospective students have all the information they need in order to make informed decisions about their study options.
To assist you in gaining a better understanding of how Admissions works at UNSW, we have provided you with a summary of ATAR offers and the student profile.
We hope this information will help you identify the degree that is right for you.
Portfolio EntryÌý
At UNSW ADA, you will find the freedom and support to design the future you want. An ADA Portfolio Entry submission will demonstrate your passions alongside your best work, to boost your chances of admission to a bachelor’s degree of your choice. For more information and to see specific guidelines for portfolio submissions visit UNSW Portfolio Entry.Ìý
Adjustment Factors
We offer a range of adjustment factor schemes that reward students for academic performance and extra-curricular achievements. These schemes also take into account a range of personal and educational disadvantages that may have affected your studies.Ìý
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This scheme rewards students who perform well in Year 12 subjects that are relevant to their preferred UNSW degree. You may be awarded up to five points.Ìý
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This program recognises achievements in the areas of sport, academia, leadership and music at an elite level. You may be eligible for up to five points.
Factors such as illness, financial hardship, language difficulties or attending a particular school can mean you don't always get the best possible marks in Years 11 and 12. If one of these situations applies to you, submit an application for the Educational Access Scheme (EAS) via UAC. Eligible students can receive between 1 and 10 points towards their chosen UNSW degree.
Admission pathways
Your ATAR is not the only measure of your potential to succeed, which is why we offer a range of pathways into university. Explore your options below andÌýÌýwith our future student advisors to discuss your path to UNSW.Ìý
This scheme is open to students in Years 11 and 12 who attend Gateway schools. It significantly adjusts the ATAR requirements for your preferred UNSW degree and provides you with an early conditional offer to UNSW.Ìý
We offer entry programs for Indigenous Australians, including the Indigenous Preparatory Programs and the Indigenous Admission Scheme (IAS). The entry pathway program you apply for will depend on the degree you want to study.Ìý
If you’ve studied a relevant Diploma under a TAFE Training Package, you can receive credit transfer for up to 36 units of credit (UOC) into the Bachelor of Social Work (Honours)/Bachelor of Social Sciences double degree. View the TAFE Pathway Study Plan.
UNSW Prep Program
If you want to study at UNSW but faced challenges in year 11 and 12 that make you eligible for the UNSW ACCESS Scheme, but you don't meet the cut-off for degree entry, consider UNSW Prep.
UNSW Prep is a one-year (18 months for Engineering) pathway to a UNSW degree place. You'll study subjects that allow you to develop your academic skills, including maths skills if needed, so that you can achieve your best results. You also study degree level courses from week one, to give you a realistic introduction to university level study. If you do well in these courses you can earn course credit towards your degree.
English language requirements
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You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on your educational background and citizenship. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.
If you’re completing an Australian Year 12 qualification (e.g. NSW HSC or equivalent), you do not need to provide anything extra to prove your proficiency. Your qualification will be used as evidence of your English proficiency.
If you do need to provide evidence of your English proficiency, this will be indicated in your application. You can prove this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:
- English language tests and university English courses
- Prior study in the medium of English
- Other qualifications
If you need to improve your English skills before you start your degree, are for you. The programs are suitable for various English levels and help you prepare for university studies and life in Australia.
International direct entry
We do not accept secondary qualifications from this country. We may accept tertiary study results, please for more information.
Please for direct entry requirements.
Admission pathways
If you do not meet the requirements for direct entry into your chosen degree, you may be eligible for a pathway program with . UNSW College provides alternative entry options using university-approved content so that you can start your UNSW journey with confidence. 
English language requirements
You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on whether you are from an English-speaking background or non-English speaking background. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.
If English is not your first language, you’ll need to provide proof of your English proficiency before you can be given an offer to study at UNSW. You can do this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:
- English language tests and university English courses
- Prior study in the medium of English
- Other qualifications
If you need to improve your English skills before you start your degree, are for you. The programs are suitable for various English levels and help you prepare for university studies and life in Australia.
Check the specific English language requirements for this program
Study areas
Combine your interests for a unique career connected to your talents and passions. In a double degree, you focus on two areas of expertise to graduate with more knowledge, skills, and career options. Despite the name, it's not double the workload. A double degree combines the core components of two programs. You'll graduate with two certificates sooner than studying two consecutive degrees.  
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A solid foundation Ìý
In your first year of study, you’ll begin building the stability to adapt within a diverse field that is constantly changing. Discover new interests and contexts while developing the foundations of your future social work practice. You’ll have guidance throughout the program from social workers experienced in teaching, practice, research, and policy.  ÌýField education Ìý
Work experience is essential to learning and experiencing the world beyond the classroom. This degree includes two work placements to develop your insights, confidence, and essential practical skills. You’ll gain distinct experience working in metropolitan and rural Australia or in one of our partnering countries overseas.  ÌýFuel your passion Ìý
Dive deeper into the area where you’re driven to have the most impact. You’ll be able to focus your efforts and interpersonal skills in fields such as community health, child welfare, or clinical social work. You’ll also have opportunities to gain expertise in various areas of practice and in research fields such as social work theory and policy studies. ÌýResearch for your future Ìý
Social work careers evolve with society’s changing needs. With advanced research and analysis skills, your professional development can adapt to future changes with confidence. In your final year, you’ll produce a thesis or advanced professional portfolio based on your independent research.  Ìý´¡³¦³¦°ù±ð»å¾±³Ù²¹³Ù¾±´Ç²Ô â¶Ä¯Ìý
Empower yourself with an education that meets formal accreditation standards. Upon graduation, you’ll meet the benchmarks set by the Australian Association of Social Workers (the professional body for social workers) and be eligible for their membership. Ìý -
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- Environmental humanitiesÌý
- Geographical studies  Ìý
- Global development  Ìý
- Human resource management Ìý
- Indigenous studies Ìý
- International business 
- International studies
- Innovation, strategy and entrepreneurshipÌý
- Marketing  Ìý
- Media, culture & technology  Ìý
- Politics and international relations Ìý
- Sociology
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Full program structure
In the Bachelor of Social Work (Honours) / Bachelor of Social Sciences, you’ll study core components in social work and choose a specialisation in social sciences. The program consists of approximately 40 individual courses. As a full-time student, you’ll typically study eight courses a year. You can study part-time and also take advantage of a flexible study load.  For detailed information on the full program structure,
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Whether you want to study more or fewer courses in any term, the choice is yours. Our flexible academic calendar means you can graduate faster or take your time to study abroad, complete an additional internship, or fit your study around other commitments.Ìý
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Broaden your horizons and study overseas for a term. Choose an international exchange at one of UNSW’s 300 partners in more than 30 countries. UNSW encourages a global mindset, which means overseas study can count towards your degree. You may also be eligible for financial support to help cover international studies costs.Ìý
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Whether you have a learning difficulty or could benefit from extra guidance, you’ll find free UNSW academic skills support such as toolkits, tutors, and workshops. UNSW Arts, Design and Architecture students and academics are supportive, diverse, and inclusive – it’s easy to ask for advice.
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Future careers
More than just a foot in the door or a pathway towards landing your first job, this degree will set you up with the professional and creative skills you’ll need to thrive throughout your career. Turn your time with us into a future that celebrates your passion and purpose. 
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From much-needed mental health support to child protection, case management, social justice, human rights advocacy and community development – the potential for true change and impact as a social worker is limitless.  Ìý
- Caseworker Ìý
- Counsellor Ìý
- Policy analyst  Ìý
- Research officer Ìý
- Project manager Ìý
- Special care worker Ìý
- Social policy adviser Ìý
- Social research officer Ìý
- Social worker Ìý
- Welfare worker Ìý
- Youth worker Ìý
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- Advocate Ìý
- Campaign manager Ìý
- Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade official Ìý
- International business consultant Ìý
- Local government official Ìý
- Non-government organisation official Ìý
- Policy analyst Ìý
- Political adviser Ìý
- Political journalist Ìý
- Project officer Ìý
- Program manager Ìý
- Research consultant Ìý
- Research officer Ìý
- Tourism and trade adviser Ìý
- United Nations official Ìý
How to apply
Applications for undergraduate study from domestic students (Australian citizens, Australian permanent residents, Australian permanent humanitarian visa holders and New Zealand citizens) are processed by the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC).
Visit the Apply section of the Ìýand you can nominate up to five degrees in order of preference, with the first being your most desired degree and university.
On-time applications for admission usually close at the end of September each year for Term 1 admission. Late applications can be submitted, but a late fee will apply. For study starting in Term 1, the majority of offers are made in December and January. Visit the for key dates for admission outside of Term 1.
Ready to apply?
For most international students, applications are submitted viaÌýour  service. We encourage you to submit your completed application as early as possible to ensure it will be processed in time for your preferred term.
Some high-demand programs with limited places, may have an earlier application deadline or may have an earlier commencementÌýdate. ForÌýmore information visitÌýour .
*If you are an international student studying an Australian qualification, go to the  for application and UAC key dates. Note: If you are under 18 years of age, you need to make special arrangements. .
Ready to apply?
Fees & Scholarships
Commonwealth Supported Place multiple Student Contribution Bands may apply for this double degree. See single degrees for the applicable fee bands.*The student contribution for a Commonwealth Supported Place is an indication only of the amount payable in Year 1 based on a standard full-time load of 48 credit points (1.0 EFTSL). The actual student contribution you will be liable for depends on your individual program of study and the calendar year in which you enrol. Actual fees are calculated upon enrolment. Student contribution amounts are subject to annual review by the University and may increase each year during your studies (subject to caps determined by the Australian Government), effective at the start of each calendar year. The indicative fees listed here are based on an estimated average and are for tuition only other fees and charges are not included.
*Fees are subject to annual review by the University and may increase annually, with the new fees effective from the start of each calendar year. The indicative fees listed here are based on an estimated average and are for tuition only, other fees and charges are not included. The amount you pay will vary depending on the calendar year to enrol, the courses you select and whether your study load is more or less than 1 Equivalent Full Time Student Load (8 courses per year).
Indicative fees are a guide for comparison only based on current conditions and available data. You should not rely on indicative fees. More information on fees can be found at theÌý.
Indicative fees to complete the program have been calculated based on a percentage increase for every year of the program. Fee increases are assessed annually and may exceed the indicative figures listed here.
Indicative fees to complete the program include tuition plus an estimate of study-related costs of approximately $1,000 per year. To find out more about other costs, visitÌý.
Scholarships
At UNSW, we award over $83 million in scholarships each year. We pride ourselves on rewarding excellence and making university accessible to students from all walks of life. Whether you’re a domestic or international student, our range of scholarships, prizes and awards can support your journey.
QS World University Rankings, 2025.
AFR Top 100 Future leaders Award.
#1 Australian uni attended by start-up founders.
The student community collectively inspire and encourage my individual career goals.
