QUALIFICATION
Bachelor's Degree (Level 7, 480 credits)
Duration
4 Years Full-Time
Location
Hamilton City Campus
Fees
NZD $23,600
Entry Score
IELTS: Academic 6.5 overall (with no individual band lower than 6.5)
Next Intake
February
Programme Overview
This programme is for those passionate about social justice and empowering individuals, families, and communities. You will learn to advocate for others, provide professional advice, and support communities in functioning independently.
The degree combines theoretical knowledge with substantial hands-on experience, including two 60-day supervised field placements. Graduates are eligible for provisional registration with the Social Workers Registration Board (SWRB), preparing them for immediate entry into the workforce.
What You'll Study
The programme moves from introductory theory to advanced professional practice and research.
Year One & Two (Level 5 & 6): Foundation & Applied Skills
- HSSW506 & HSSW507: Introduction to Social Work Skills and Fields of Practice.
- HSIP501 & HSIP502: Te Pū and Human Development.
- HSIP504 & HSIP505: Sociology and Psychology.
- HSSW604: Applied Social Work Practice with Individuals, Family, and Whānau (30 credits).
- HSSW605: Applied Professional Practice (30 credits), including 40 hours of voluntary work.
Year Three & Four (Level 7): Advanced Practice
- HSSW702: Advanced Social Work Practice (30 credits).
- HSSW703: Advanced Professional Practice (60 credits), including a 60-day placement.
- HSSW705: Advanced Social Policy and Community Development (30 credits).
- HSSW706: Integrated Professional Practice (60 credits), including a second 60-day placement.
- Specialist Electives: Options include Rural Social Work, Health Social Work, or Social Work with Children and Youth.
Why Choose This Programme?
- Blended Learning: Flexible delivery combining short on-campus blocks with online study from your community.
- Field Placement: Gain 120 days of supervised professional experience in real-world settings.
- SWRB Aligned: Specifically designed to meet the "Fit and Proper" criteria for professional registration in New Zealand.
- Bicultural Focus: Strong emphasis on integrating Te Tiriti o Waitangi and bicultural frameworks into daily practice.
Career Pathways
| Sector | Roles |
|---|---|
| Government | Statutory Social Worker (Oranga Tamariki), Probation Officer |
| Health | Hospital Social Worker, Mental Health Support Worker |
| Community | Youth Worker, Community Development Officer, Refugee Support |
| Education | School Social Worker, Student Support Advisor |
Entry Requirements
- Academic: University Entrance or a relevant Level 4 qualification.
- SWRB Criteria: Must meet "Fit and Proper" criteria (good character, physical and mental fitness).
- Selection: Includes a mandatory selection interview, group session, and a written exercise.
- Safety Checks: Full safety checks are required under the Children's Act 2014, including police vetting and referee checks.
- English: IELTS Academic 6.5 (all bands 6.5 or higher) for those with English as an additional language.
