In response to COVID-19, the University of Sydney has reviewed the availability of courses to be delivered remotely for students commencing their studies in Semester 1, 2021.
This course will be available to study remotely for students commencing in Semester 1, 2021. Please note that some units of study that are not essential to completing the degree may not be available to be studied remotely.
Note: The University intends to offer as many units of study as possible in a remote as well as face-to-face learning method of delivery in Semester 1, 2021 and subject to ongoing border closures and public health orders impacting attendance on campus, in Semester 2, 2021. However, some units of study and courses require students to study in-person at the relevant University of Sydney campus/es and host locations for placements and will not be available remotely.
About this course
Understand and appreciate the latest developments in policy and its application, practice and research in this vital and growing sector. Strengthen your professional knowledge and specialise in your preferred sector, including community work policy and practice, mental health practice standards, and policy responses to domestic violence in Australia.
You will be taught by experienced and highly skilled academic staff, while group discussion and class interaction will help you understand and develop ideas and maximise your skills.
This six-month, graduate-level program may provide a pathway for suitable candidates into the Master of Social Work (Qualifying), which leads to a professional qualification in social work recognised by the Australian Association of Social Workers.
For academic requirements check the ‘Admission requirements’ section on this page.
You can apply online via the application portal. When you are ready to apply, select the ‘Apply’ button on this course page. Visit the How to apply page for other important information.
Standard closing dates:
Semester 1 - 11 February of the commencing year
Semester 2 - 15 July of the commencing year
We strongly encourage applicants to apply as early as possible, offers are made on a rolling basis and places are limited. Separate scholarship deadlines apply - check the scholarships website for details.
Semester 1 (March) and Semester 2 (August)
You can apply online via the application portal. When you are ready to apply, select the ‘Apply’ button on this course page. Visit the How to apply page for other important information.
Standard closing dates:
Semester 1 - Not available
Semester 2 - 30 June of the commencing year (please note: from 2021, this course will no longer be available to international student visa holders)
We strongly encourage international applicants to apply as early as possible to allow time for visa and travel arrangements. Separate scholarship deadlines may apply - check the scholarships website for details.
Semester 2 (August)
Please note: from 2021, this course will no longer be available to international student visa holders
Under normal progression, a full-time student completes prescribed units of study to the value of 24 credit points per semester. Part-time students may undertake prescribed units of study up to the value of 12 credit points per semester. Students are required to attend all lectures, tutorials and other activities prescribed for their units of study.
Admission to candidature requires a bachelor's degree from the University of Sydney or equivalent qualification.
This course does not lead to professional recognition. Students who would like to get accreditation with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) are encouraged to enquire about the Master of Social Work (Qualifying).
Graduates of the Graduate Certificate in Human and Community Services may seek employment in human service organisations such as neighbourhood centres, aged care and disability services.
Students who have successfully completed the Graduate Certificate in Human and Community Services and are successful in their application for the Master of Social Work (Qualifying) may be eligible to claim credit towards the MSW(Q) providing eligible units have been completed and they have not taken out the Grad Cert award.