Social Work


WHAT CAN I STUDY?

 

WHAT IS SOCIAL WORK?

Social work is an exciting and rewarding career for those interested in working with people, and in addressing social and community issues and problems. Social workers play a key role in developing a society based on social justice, and in alleviating disadvantage. Social workers stimulate action to change the social circumstances of individuals and groups who are socially excluded. They also work to reduce personal pain and distress, and provide direction for individual development and control over life situations.

Careers in social work can be described as diverse, challenging, engaging, inspiring, collaborative and fulfilling. Social workers find themselves working with individuals, groups and communities, in many different circumstances.

Employment outcomes within this sector are very favorable. According to Department of Employment and Workplace Relations’ (DEWR) Australian Jobs 2007, job prospects for social workers are currently good and better still, future job growth to 2011-12 is expected to be strong.

There is no shortage of rewarding job opportunities in the public sector. In fact, according to the Good Universities Guide 2008, 85% of recent graduates were employed in the public sector – the second highest of any graduate group. The private sector also offers exciting opportunities for those interested in a career as a clinical social worker.

Social workers are employed in:

  • Centrelink

  • Child Protection Agencies

  • Community Corrections

  • Defence Forces

  • Disability Services

  • Drug and Alcohol Support Clinics

  • Hospitals

  • Indigenous Health and Welfare Agencies

  • Legal Centres

  • Local Councils

  • Multicultural Agencies

  • Neighbourhood Centres

  • Policy Development Units

  • Private Practice

  • Refugee Support Organisations

  • Rehabilitation Units

  • Residential Care

  • Women’s Refuges and many other organisations.

Welcome to the School of Social Work and Human Services

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