Bachelor of Social Work – BSW
Social Services
A course by
Massey University
Become a registered social worker to support the wellbeing of individuals, families, whānau, and communities. The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) offers practical training and theoretical knowledge to prepare you for a rewarding career in social services.
NZ$7,415
inc GST
Enquire about international pricing
Core skills this course teaches
Become a registered social worker
Meet the academic and practical requirements for registration as a social worker in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Develop social work competencies
Gain knowledge and skills to work effectively alongside individuals, whānau, groups, and communities in diverse settings.
About This Course
The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) at Massey University prepares students to become registered social workers, supporting individuals, families, whānau, and diverse communities. You'll develop expertise in theory and practice, participate in supervised placements, and graduate ready to make a positive impact in Aotearoa New Zealand and internationally. The degree is recognised by the Social Work Registration Board and delivers a strong focus on Te Tiriti o Waitangi, cultural competence, environmental sustainability, and social justice. Study is primarily by distance, with some in-person workshops at Auckland or Manawatū campuses.
Course Content
- People and society in Aotearoa New Zealand
- Social policy and history
- Engaging with Māori and Tangata Moana communities
- Environmental sustainability in social work
- Interpersonal and professional helping skills
- Human development
- Social research methods and practice
- Relational frameworks for social work theory and practice
- Ethics, values, and law in social work
- Decolonising social work practice
- Community development
- Leadership and management in social services
- Supervised field education: two 60-day placements
- Personal and professional identity development
- Policy analysis and advocacy
- Preparation for field education
- Advanced integrated professional practice
Entry Requirements
Build towards these roles
Social worker (registered, practice in NZ and recognised overseas)Community development workerChild and family protectionDisability servicesDiversity servicesHospital and health sector social workYouth workIwi and marae-based social servicesJustice sector rolesMental health and addictions
