Social Services
A course by
Ara Institute of Canterbury
Gain the skills needed to help and support people facing challenging situations and events. Develop professional social work practice attributes in a bicultural, integrated learning environment, and undertake practical placements.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Madras Street Campus, Christchurch
It will take a total of 4 years

Develop the attributes required for professional social work practice, including critical thinking, decision-making, and ethical awareness.

Undertake integrated practice courses each year, including significant time in social work agencies during years 2-4.

Learn to work in Aotearoa New Zealand with a philosophy grounded in bi-culturalism and anti-oppressive practice.
The Bachelor of Social Work at Ara is a four-year degree designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and professional values required for social work practice in Aotearoa New Zealand. The programme emphasizes bi-culturalism, anti-oppressive practice, critical thinking, and professionalism. Each year includes integrated practice courses linked to real-world agencies, with substantial field placements in later years. Graduates become eligible to apply for provisional registration as social workers.
What you need to know first

Social Work
Human Services
Public Sector
Community Organisations
Health and Hospital Services

Social worker in statutory organisations (e.g. Child Youth and Family, Probation Service, Prison Service)
Social Services
A course by
Ara Institute of Canterbury
Gain the skills needed to help and support people facing challenging situations and events. Develop professional social work practice attributes in a bicultural, integrated learning environment, and undertake practical placements.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Madras Street Campus, Christchurch
It will take a total of 4 years

Develop the attributes required for professional social work practice, including critical thinking, decision-making, and ethical awareness.

Undertake integrated practice courses each year, including significant time in social work agencies during years 2-4.

Learn to work in Aotearoa New Zealand with a philosophy grounded in bi-culturalism and anti-oppressive practice.
The Bachelor of Social Work at Ara is a four-year degree designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and professional values required for social work practice in Aotearoa New Zealand. The programme emphasizes bi-culturalism, anti-oppressive practice, critical thinking, and professionalism. Each year includes integrated practice courses linked to real-world agencies, with substantial field placements in later years. Graduates become eligible to apply for provisional registration as social workers.
What you need to know first

Social Work
Human Services
Public Sector
Community Organisations
Health and Hospital Services

Social worker in statutory organisations (e.g. Child Youth and Family, Probation Service, Prison Service)
University Entrance: NCEA Level 3 (60 credits at level 3 and 20 credits at level 2 or higher) including 14 credits at Level 3 in three approved subjects
Literacy: 10 credits at Level 2 or above
Numeracy: 10 credits at Level 1 or above
OR NZ2860 New Zealand Certificate in Study and Career Preparation (Level 4) BSW Pathway or equivalent
OR NZ2992 New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Level 4) or equivalent
Evidence of good character and personal attributes (two referee reports, 500-word personal statement)
Demonstrated experience in a social work, social services, or helping role
Current Class 1 Drivers Licence (by end of Year 2 or verified exemption)
NZ Police Vetting Consent (upon selection)
Interview may be required
Candidates with alternative qualifications/experience may be considered
Social worker in community organisations
Social worker in health and hospital services
Faith-based social services
University Entrance: NCEA Level 3 (60 credits at level 3 and 20 credits at level 2 or higher) including 14 credits at Level 3 in three approved subjects
Literacy: 10 credits at Level 2 or above
Numeracy: 10 credits at Level 1 or above
OR NZ2860 New Zealand Certificate in Study and Career Preparation (Level 4) BSW Pathway or equivalent
OR NZ2992 New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Level 4) or equivalent
Evidence of good character and personal attributes (two referee reports, 500-word personal statement)
Demonstrated experience in a social work, social services, or helping role
Current Class 1 Drivers Licence (by end of Year 2 or verified exemption)
NZ Police Vetting Consent (upon selection)
Interview may be required
Candidates with alternative qualifications/experience may be considered
Social worker in community organisations
Social worker in health and hospital services
Faith-based social services