Bachelor of Social Work (Honours) / Arts
- Commencing Terms
- Term 1 & 2
- Duration
- 5.7 Year(s)
- Delivery Mode
- Face-to-face (includes blended)
- Campus
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Kensington
- Codes
- UAC code 422401
- Program code 4045
- CRICOS code 074888J
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2024 Indicative first year full fee
- $15,000*
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2024 Indicative full fee to complete degree
- $89,000*
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2024 Indicative first year full fee
- $42,000*
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2024 Indicative full fee to complete degree
- $260,000*
Fees
Fees
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AASW accreditation
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Field experience
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Internship opportunities
Join us at our Portfolio Entry Info Events
This degree is eligible for our Portfolio Entry Early Conditional Offer Scheme. Join us in-person or at our online information evening to learn how you can best demonstrate your passion, talent and potential with your Portfolio Entry submission.
Tuesday 12 November | Online info evening | Register now
Wednesday 13 November | In-person workshop at UNSW Art & Design | Register now
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.
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 Arts is a five-year double degree that develops your worldview and prepares you to directly improve the lives of vulnerable individuals. Experience practical and theoretical classes under guidance from industry professionals and current social workers.
Pursue studies that you love and deepen your understanding of the world with your choice of humanities, languages, and social studies subjects. You'll build diverse skills and knowledge in the arts, complemented with human services such as mental health, social work counselling, community work, sociology, psychology, and working with Indigenous communities.
In addition to two social work placements, you’ll have opportunities for arts-related internships in Australia and overseas. Graduate with real connections, real experience, and professional skills accredited by the Australian Association of Social Workers.
Key features
Design your degree
Personalise a degree unique to your interests, aspirations, and career goals. You can explore culture-defining knowledge that spans the humanities, languages, media, social sciences, the environment, and many more.
Purpose-driven community
Join a collective dedicated to resolving individual, local, and global challenges. Diverse classmates, teachers, researchers, and practitioners support your goals and share knowledge. Dive deeper into the social work and arts areas where you’re driven to make the most positive change.
Practical experience, here and overseas
Work experience is essential to learning and experiencing the world beyond the classroom. This degree includes two field placements and opportunities for professional arts internships. You’ll gain distinct social work experience in metropolitan and rural Australia or in one of our partnering countries overseas.
Research for your future
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.
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
- Freedom to design your degree your way
- Increased employability with an Honours qualification
- Practical classes and at least two work placements
- Accredited with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW)
- A supportive, diverse, and inclusive community
- Benefit from strong industry connections
- Connect with a global alumni network
Want to see more from UNSW Arts, Design & Architecture?
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 Entry
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.
Demonstrate your passions and skills alongside your ATAR. Depending on your preferred degree, you'll complete either a critical reflection or a portfolio, with successful applicants receiving an early conditional offer with an adjusted ATAR entry requirement for their preferred degree. See more information about [UNSW Admission Pathways] (https://www.unsw.edu.au/study/how-to-apply/undergraduate/admission-pathways/portfolio-entry).
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.
HSC Plus
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.
Elite Athletes, Performers and Leaders (EAPL)
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.
Educational Access Scheme (EAS)
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 and get in touch with our future student advisors to discuss your path to UNSW.
Gateway Admission Pathway
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.
Entry programs for Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
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.
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
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, UNSW College’s Academic English Programs 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 contact us for more information.
Please contact us 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. 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, UNSW College’s Academic English Programs 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 courses from two programs. You'll graduate with two certificates sooner than studying two consecutive degrees.
For arts, you can choose to do a double major or combine a major and a minor specialisation from the study areas listed below. See ‘Program structure’ for more information.
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You can complete a minor in the study areas listed above, as well as:
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A solid foundation
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.Field education
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.Fuel your passion
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.Research for your future
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.Accreditation
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.
Program structure
You’ll study core components in social work and choose two study areas in the arts. 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, visit the handbook.
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A major is a collection of courses focused on one study area. In this double degree, the arts majors have eight core courses.
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A minor is a small collection of courses focused on one study area. Minors in the Bachelor of Arts component of this double degree typically have six courses, which gives you the ability to enrol in elective courses to meet the full program requirements.
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An elective is a course that is not a compulsory part of your major or minor. In the arts component of this double degree, there are prescribed electives that sit outside of majors and minor study areas. They include professional placements, research projects and global internships. Prescribed electives are courses that you must choose from a recommended list.
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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Find employment anywhere in the world with an arts degree – consider NGOs, consultancies, public relations, media, creative arts, the Australian government, and so much more.
- Academic
- Activist
- Actor
- Advocate
- Creative consultant
- Content producer
- Diplomat
- Gallery manager
- Government administrator
- International representative
- Journalist
- Media consultant
- Museum manager
- Politician
- Political strategist
- Policy consultant
- Public servant
- Publisher
- Research assistant
- Social media producer
- Set manager
- Writer
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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.
- Caseworker
- Counsellor
- Policy analyst
- Research officer
- Project manager
- Special care worker
- Social policy adviser
- Social research officer
- Social worker
- Welfare worker
- Youth worker
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 UAC website and 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 UAC website for key dates for admission outside of Term 1.
Ready to start your application?
For most international students, applications are submitted via our Apply Online 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 commencement date. For more information visit our international applicant information page.
*If you are an international student studying an Australian qualification, go to the Universities Admission Centre (UAC) for application and UAC key dates. Note: If you are under 18 years of age, you need to make special arrangements. Read more.
Ready to start your application?
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 the UNSW fees website.
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, visit UNSW International.
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.
