The best social work courses in Australia that could lead to PR

Imagine this. You have a career that changes other people’s lives and allows you to live permanently in Australia. 

If you’re passionate about helping vulnerable communities, being a social worker is one of the most fulfilling professions you’ll ever take. But this career can change not just other people’s lives—yours too. 

If you choose to study social work in Australia, it can lead to your permanent residency (PR). How?

This guide covers everything you need to know, including the social work programs, IELTS requirements and PR pathways for social workers.

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Whether you’re enrolling to start university or looking to advance your career with a graduate degree, here are the programs to fit your needs: 

• Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) (3-4 years)

In this undergraduate program, you’ll learn the important aspects of social work, including human behaviour, social policies, ethics, and the law. You will also learn real-life skills through field placements, which will allow you to work directly with communities in need.

• Master of Social Work (Qualifying)  (2 years)

If you already have a bachelor’s degree, but it’s not related to social work, you can get a Master of Social Work (Qualifying). This will allow you to be a qualified social worker in 2 years. 

• Master of Social Work (Advanced Practice) (1.5 - 2 years)

If you already have a Bachelor’s in Social Work and you want to advance your practise, you can take a Master's in Social Work (Advanced Practice).  

This program will allow you to become a researcher or move into leadership and policy-making roles in the field.

Now that you know the social work programs you can study, the next thing you should know is how to qualify.

One of the most important requirements for a social work program is your English proficiency test. So, what IELTS score do you need to qualify? 

As an international student in Australia, you need to take an IELTS test when applying for a social work course. 

Whether you’re transitioning from high school to university or pursuing a postgraduate degree in social work, an IELTS test proves that your language skills meet the academic and professional standards needed for success in this field.

Most Australian universities require a minimum overall IELTS score of 6.5 for social work courses, with no individual band score below 6.0. 

Here’s a breakdown of the typical IELTS score requirements:

• Overall Score: 6.5

• Reading: 6.0

• Writing: 6.0

• Speaking: 6.0

• Listening: 6.0

Some universities may have slightly different requirements. It’s always best to check the specific IELTS scores needed for the program you’re applying to.

If you’re worried about meeting the required score, don’t stress! You’ll find a one-stop source of IELTS review materials in our preparation courses. Here, you can access expert-guided tutorial videos, practice tests, sample writing assessments, and more. Each resource is designed to help you perform your best on test day.

Picture this: you’re sitting across from someone who’s been through a traumatic experience. They’re trusting you to listen, understand, and offer the right support. But without strong English skills, it’s hard to find the right words or communicate in a way that feels sensitive and trauma-aware.

In social work, how you say something is just as important as what you say. Understanding the nuances of English helps you connect with people from different backgrounds and respond to their needs with care and professionalism.

Beyond communication, universities and certification bodies require a high level of English proficiency to ensure you can handle coursework, write detailed case reports, and meet the standards for field placements. 

These skills aren’t just academic—they’re the foundation for making a real difference in people’s lives.

Australia needs more future social workers like you, and not just today, but for the years to come. 

Social work is on the country’s 2025 Occupation Shortage List—meaning, there are not enough social workers to meet the needs of communities. This demand will grow to 23.2% by 2026.

Here’s what this means for you: job security and continued opportunities. 

Isn’t that great? You’ll pursue a rewarding career without worrying about being jobless!

Most Australian social work programs are also accredited by the  Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW).

This is important because it gives you more job opportunities around the world. For example, if you decide to work in a different country, having an AASW-accredited degree will let employers know your qualifications are top-notch and meet international standards.

With this in mind, you’re probably now more motivated to study social work in Australia. Here’s the next thing to know: which universities can you study social work at?

Let’s hop on to the exciting part: choosing the right university for you!

Your university will be the foundation of your new life as an international student. This will not only be your second home in a new country, it will also give you the skills you need to become a qualified social worker. So it’s an important decision to make. 

But no pressure, if you don’t have choices in mind yet, here are the top 5 universities where you can study social work: 

1. University of Melbourne

Programs Offered: Bachelor of Social Work, Master of Social Work (Qualifying), Graduate Certificate in Advanced Social Work

What they’re known for: Known for its research-led teaching and fieldwork placements, this university will provide you with the best practical experience by connecting you with real communities in need. 

2. University of Sydney

Programs Offered: Bachelor of Social Work, Master of Social Work (Qualifying)

What they’re known for: The University of Sydney is one of Australia’s oldest and most prestigious universities. Here, you'll be taught by a renowned faculty and have the opportunity to specialise in areas like mental health, child welfare, and policy analysis.

3. Monash University

Programs Offered: Bachelor of Social Work, Master of Social Work

What they’re known for: Monash University is known for its innovative teaching methods and a strong focus on community partnerships. You'll be equipped with the practical skills needed to thrive in a wide range of social work settings.

4. University of Queensland

Programs Offered: Bachelor of Social Work, Master of Social Work (Qualifying)

What they’re known for: The University of Queensland is one of Australia's leading research institutions. With their social work programs, you’ll have the opportunity to tackle major social issues, such as mental health and child protection, with a focus on practical solutions.

5. Griffith University

Programs Offered: Bachelor of Social Work, Master of Social Work (Qualifying), Graduate Certificate in Social Justice and Community Practice

What they’re known for: Griffith University is known for promoting social justice and sustainable practices. Their social work programs are designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge to make a meaningful impact, inspired by their mission to create a better, more just future for all.

Now that you know the best universities to choose from, the next big question is: how do you get in? 

Admissions can be competitive, and you won’t have to keep guessing anymore. 

Below are the requirements you need to apply to Australian universities.

For Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor of Social Work):

• Completion of high school (Year 12 or equivalent).

• Satisfactory grades in English.

• Minimum ATAR score or equivalent (varies by university).

For Postgraduate Programs (Master of Social Work):

• A recognized undergraduate degree in any field (preferred backgrounds include health, social sciences, or related disciplines).

English Proficiency:

• Proof of English language skills, often through an IELTS test.

• Minimum IELTS score: Overall band of 7.0, with no individual band lower than 7.0.

Additional Requirements (varies by university):

• Personal statements or essays explaining your interest in social work.

• Relevant work experience or volunteer work in the social sector (optional but advantageous).

• Completion of prerequisite subjects, if required by the program.

Due to the demand for social workers, there are several pathways to permanent residency. 

Initially, you’ll be on a student visa, subclass 500. 

From there,  you can look for relevant work in Australia while on a temporary graduate visa

Before being hired, you need to be a member of the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) to be considered a qualified social worker. 

Once qualified and registered with AASW, you can look for permanent roles. 

As a social worker, you’ll be eligible for the following visas, depending on your location and role: 

Permanent Visas:

• Visa 186 – Employer Nomination Scheme

• Visa 189 – Skilled Independent Points-Tested

• Visa 190 – Skilled Nominated

• Visa 187 – Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme 

Provisional Visas:

• Visa 489 – Skilled Regional 

• Visa 482 – Temporary Skill Shortage – Medium Term Stream 

• Visa 494 – Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Employer Sponsored Stream

• Visa 491 – Skilled Work Regional State or Territory Nominated

Need help choosing the right visa? 

With over 50 years of experience and trusted by thousands of students, our multilingual agents specialise in visa applications and ensure that you meet all requirements. 

Whether you need help with visa extensions, document preparation, or understanding the latest policy updates, IDP's registered agents are here to guide you. Chat with one of our visa experts today. 

Your international journey as a social worker begins now. The good news? You have nothing to worry about.

Picture IELTS as your key to a door of global opportunities. Our English language tests are recognised by 12,500+ organisations in over 150 countries–securing you a spot at your dream Australian university. 

And we make every step of your journey effortless. At IELTS, we make sure that you pass your test with our preparation resources, masterclass, and free practice tests. When you’re ready to take the test, we can also help you find a test centre near you.

Your English test can make or break your career and PR plans in Australia. Let us help you get it right.

Start preparing and book your IELTS test today.