Social work is all about making a genuine, lasting difference in the lives of vulnerable members of the community. It’s a profession focused on supporting individuals, families and community groups through challenges such as mental health concerns, family conflict, housing insecurity and systemic disadvantage.
A degree in social work opens doors to a diverse range of career paths, whether you want to work directly with clients or shape policies that drive social change. With an increasing demand for skilled professionals in Australia, social work is a career that offers both stability and the opportunity to make a real impact.
Today, we’ll answer some of your frequently asked questions, including “What can you do with a social work degree?” and explore the many rewarding social work careers available to ACAP University College graduates.
Let’s start with what a social work degree entails and what you’ll learn when you study social work at ACAP University College.
What is A SOCIAL WORK DEGREE?
A degree in social work equips you with the knowledge and skills to support individuals, families and communities in times of need. You’ll study topics like mental health, child protection, disability services, social justice, policy development and advocacy.
By studying one of Australia’s professionally accredited social work courses, you’ll develop critical skills in communication, problem-solving, case management and ethical decision-making. These skills are highly valued across a range of sectors, allowing you to follow your passion and work in a field that aligns with your values.
In Australia, a Bachelor of Social Work is the most common pathway to becoming a professional social worker. Accredited by the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW), this four-year degree includes a placement component where you’ll gain hands-on experience in real-world settings.
After completing your undergraduate social work degree, you might decide to pursue postgraduate studies to deepen your knowledge of social work and enhance your career prospects in more complex case management. ACAP’s Master of Social Work (Qualifying) will strengthen your skills in critical thinking, community empowerment and anti-oppressive practice.
Eligible ACAP graduates of the Bachelor of Social Work course with a GPA over 6.0 can apply for ACAP’s Bachelor of Social Work (Honours).
Want more information on social work careers? Visit our dedicated blog post to learn more about how to become a social worker in Australia.
What CAN YOU DO WITH A SOCIAL WORK DEGREE?
Now that you know what a degree in social work entails, let’s answer the big question – what can you do with a social work degree?
Social work careers can be varied, with positions spanning areas such as healthcare, mental health, child protection, policy development and community services. Keep reading to explore some of the most impactful careers in social work available to ACAP graduates.
MENTAL HEALTH SOCIAL WORKER
Mental health social workers provide crucial support to individuals experiencing psychological distress, crisis, trauma and mental illness. They work in hospitals, community services and residential care facilities, assisting clients in managing their conditions, accessing support networks and developing coping strategies.
Their role often involves crisis intervention, counselling and collaboration with other healthcare professionals such as psychologists, psychiatrists and counsellors to promote holistic recovery and wellbeing.
To work as a Medicare-registered mental health social worker in Australia, you’ll need an additional mental health credential through the AASW and experience in mental health practice.
CHILD PROTECTION WORKER
Child protection workers play a critical role in safeguarding children from abuse, neglect and harm. They work closely with families, government agencies and legal professionals to ensure the safety and wellbeing of vulnerable children.
These social workers conduct assessments, provide counselling and intervene when necessary to protect children at risk. They may also help families access resources and support to create a safe and stable home environment.
Child protection workers collaborate with government agencies, schools and community organisations to ensure children’s safety and well-being, advocating for their rights and providing access to essential services.
AGED CARE SOCIAL WORKER
With Australia’s ageing population on the rise, the demand for aged care social workers is growing. These professionals support older adults and their families by assisting with aged care planning and assessments, advocating for their rights and connecting them with home care or residential services.
Aged care social workers play a key role in improving the quality of life for older Australians, ensuring they receive the care and support they need to live with dignity and independence. Their role also involves monitoring health needs, coordinating with other healthcare professionals and promoting social engagement to enhance quality of life.
DISABILITY SUPPORT WORKER
Disability support workers assist individuals with disabilities to enhance their independence, wellbeing and quality of life. They provide personal care, support daily activities and help clients participate in the community. Working in homes, care facilities or community settings, they collaborate with healthcare professionals, families, and support networks to deliver person-centred care tailored to individual needs.
Social workers in the disability sector may also act as an advocate for individuals with a disability, ensuring they have access to services, employment opportunities and social inclusion. They often work within the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) to assist clients in navigating their funding options and support networks.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT WORKER
Community development professionals empower communities to address social, economic and environmental challenges through collaborative initiatives. They work with local organisations, government agencies and community groups to identify needs, develop programs and advocate for positive change.
Their efforts focus on areas such as social inclusion, education, health and capacity building, ensuring communities have the resources and skills to create lasting improvements.
This career path is ideal for those passionate about grassroots activism, working on the front line with those affected by social inequality to determine the best way to improve their outcomes.
SOCIAL JUSTICE CASE MANAGER
While the job title of this role may vary, those working in social justice advocate for and champion the rights of those in marginalised communities. They often work in legal aid services, community organisations or government agencies, focusing on social equity and systemic change.
Social justice caseworkers or case managers support their clients by assessing their immediate needs, coordinating resources and services, providing crisis intervention and ensuring vulnerable members of society are aware of their rights.
SOCIAL POLICY AND ADVOCACY PROFESSIONAL
On the topic of social justice and wondering, “What can you do with a social work degree?”, those passionate about enacting lasting change might find a career in policy and advocacy to be the perfect fit.
Social workers in this field influence government policies, campaign for legislative change and work with organisations to develop programs that address social inequalities related to poverty, health, education and employment.
By investigating social issues and providing recommendations for change, these professionals shape and implement policies that impact marginalised communities and drive long-term change at a national level.
READY TO STUDY SOCIAL WORK?
A degree in social work is more than just a qualification – it’s the foundation for a career where you can make a lasting difference in the lives of others.
Whether you choose to work in mental health, child protection, disability services or policy development, studying a degree in social work will equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to create meaningful change.
Still wondering, “What can you do with a social work degree?” Our Course Advisors are here to help! Book a call with our team to chat through your course options, careers in social work and more.