Master of Social Work

What are the career outcomes for Master of Social Work (MSW) graduates?

The Master of Social Work (MSW) equips graduates with the skills to work in various facets of social work practice, including casework, counselling, advocacy and community engagement. This qualification can also assist those working in periphery fields, such as law or education, better comprehend the different and specialised needs of their clients or students.

What are the top career paths after completing the Master of Social Work?

• Become a social worker. Practice as a social worker in Australia or internationally within mental health facilities, criminal justice systems, disability services, child protection services and more.
• Advocacy. Help give a voice to disadvantaged people through community engagement, human service design and government policy.
• Counselling. Support others through long-term ongoing mental support.

What are the salary expectations for a Master of Social Work graduate?  

The expected entry level salary for a Master of Social Work graduate is approximately $70,000-85,000 plus super. This can be higher for regional or international opportunities that have relocation costs.

The average salary after 3-4 years for a Master of Social Work graduate is  $85,000-100,000 plus super.

(Source: Fair Work Enterprise Agreement 2025).

What can you do with a Master of Social Work?

Master of Social Work graduates can expect high employment prospects due to increasing demand. Approximately 99% of students secure employment during or soon after graduation from the course (Source: Graduate Survey 2025). Graduates of this course often experience rapid career advancement and promotion to senior positions.

Employers in this field include:

• Human services organisations such as Mission Australia.
• Government programs such as the Community and Social Services Graduate Program.
• Private practice or for-profit social work and case work agencies.
• Hospitals and clinics such as the Royal Children’s Hospital and Royal Melbourne Hospital.
• Not-for-profit organisations such as crisis accommodation centres, homeless shelters, women’s and domestic violence centres.

What accreditation does the Master of Social Work (MSW) provide?

The Master of Social Work (MSW) is one of the first masters degrees accredited nationally by the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) and has been determined to meet the Australian Social Work Education and Accreditation Standards (ASWEAS). A master’s degree in social work is a portable qualification, enabling you to work nationally or internationally.

How does the Master of Social Work help to make industry connections? 

Enjoy a range of opportunities to gain experience and build relationships in industry.

• Enjoy a diverse range of placement opportunities in metropolitan and rural Australia: Alice Springs, Darwin, Shepparton and rural Victoria.
• Study abroad with our overseas placements in Michigan, Toronto, India, and Hong Kong.
• Learn from highly qualified and accessible experts in the field with strong ties to the profession.
• Attend social work career nights and networking panels.

What career support services are available for Master of Social Work students?

The Master of Social Work offers a range of career support services to aid students on the path to a fulfilling career.

Support includes:

• Social Work Alumni network to connect with established alumni of the course
• Specially designed interview simulation rooms to practice your skills in a safe environment before commencing your placement.
• Personalised career advice and training
• Pre-placement compliance checks
• Placement wellbeing checks

University of Melbourne alumni profile

Meet Rachel Blance-Palmer, a social worker at Royal Melbourne Hospital and an alum from The University of Melbourne’s Master of Social Work. Learn how studying at the university has assisted Rachel to advance her career in health and has helped make an impact on people’s lives.

What further study options are available after this course?

Make a difference through graduate research

Build on your masters qualification to pursue a graduate research degree. Supported by a globally connected research community, you’ll collaborate with supervisors, experts and peers who share your passion for discovery and impact.

Through regular connection with peers, researchers and our global network of industry partners, you’ll develop strong connections with community and industry that open the door to an outstanding future.

Explore graduate research