Be in demand to play a key role in developing a society based on social justice, and in alleviating disadvantage.

As a qualified social worker, you'll have a commitment to the well-being of society and be highly skilled to intervene with and support individuals, families, groups and communities to achieve equitable access to opportunities and resources.

You'll have the skills to stimulate action to change the social circumstances of individuals and groups who are socially excluded. You'll also work to reduce personal pain and distress and provide direction for individual development and control over life situations.

UQ lets you forge your own path in social work, undergoing foundation and advanced practice in the areas of health and ageing, children, youth and families, and mental health. Your focused learning, research and placement opportunities will be combined with core knowledge and skills in social work, social policy and research. You'll learn from award-winning educators about the law, human development, professional ethics and the principles and ideas that guide social workers.

You'll also undertake 1000 hours of supervised placement in a range of clinical settings, including hospitals and a variety of public and private agencies. Plus you may complete a rural, interstate or international placement in your final year.

Career possibilities

Our programs prepare you for your first job and beyond. Depending on which major you choose, here are some of the careers you could be on your way to:

Youth counsellor
Child welfare worker
Family therapist
Community worker
Social worker
Social and welfare services planner
Disability advocate
Disability support worker