AU · Master's
University of Sydney
Master of Social Work (Qualifying)
University of Sydney
Course Overview
The University of Sydney's Master of Social Work (Qualifying) is accredited by the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) — meaning graduates qualify for full professional membership and registration as a social worker on completion. The 2-year programme is for graduates of any discipline who want to enter social work practice. It includes 1,000 hours of supervised field placement across two settings — typically a statutory child-protection or mental-health service plus a community / NGO setting like the Salvation Army or Anglicare.
Sri Lankan applicants pick this programme because Social Worker (ANZSCO 272511) is on Australia's Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), meaning AASW-accredited graduates have a direct Permanent Residency pathway via the Skilled Independent (189) or State Nominated (190) visa streams. Sri Lanka's National Institute of Social Development (NISD) accepts the AASW qualification for senior NGO and Ministry of Social Services roles, so returnees gain immediate seniority.
Entry Requirements
Academic
- check_circle Bachelor's degree (any discipline) from a recognised Sri Lankan university — minimum Credit average (2:2 / GPA 2.8+).
- check_circle Two relevant Human Biology or Behavioural Science units in your undergraduate degree preferred but not mandatory.
- check_circle Personal statement (1,500 words) demonstrating motivation, awareness of social work as a profession, and reflection on relevant experience.
- check_circle Two professional or academic references.
- check_circle Demonstrated paid or voluntary experience in human services / community work (NGO, hospital, school, youth work) strongly preferred.
English Proficiency
- check_circle IELTS Academic: 7.0 Overall (min 7.0 in each section — Speaking and Listening higher than usual due to fieldwork demands).
- check_circle TOEFL iBT: 100 Overall (min 25 W, 24 R&S, 23 L).
- check_circle PTE Academic: 68 Overall.
- check_circle Waived if your Bachelor's was taught and assessed entirely in English (most Sri Lankan applicants from CHEC, UoM, or international universities qualify).
Estimated Cost of Study
| Expense Category | Amount (AUD) | Approx. LKR |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fee (per year) | AUD 55,000 | Rs. 11,550,000 |
| OSHC Health Cover (per year) | AUD 700 | Rs. 147,000 |
| Living Expenses (per year, Sydney) | AUD 29,710 | Rs. 6,239,100 |
| Student Visa & Setup | AUD 1,800 | Rs. 378,000 |
| Working with Children / Police Checks | AUD 200 | Rs. 42,000 |
| Total Year 1 Investment | AUD 87,410 | Rs. 18,356,100 |
*LKR conversion based on current bank rates. Subject to change.
Career Outcomes & PR
Eligible for the 485 Temporary Graduate Visa (2 years). Social Worker is on the MLTSSL — direct PR pathway via Skilled Independent (189) or State Nominated (190) visa streams. Top hirers: NSW Department of Communities and Justice, Anglicare, Mission Australia, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Headspace, Lifeline. Graduate Social Worker salaries in NSW: AUD 75,000-88,000.
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