Te Ata Māhina | Bachelor of Social Work
A professionally aligned, values-led Bachelor preparing graduates for social work practice in Aotearoa New Zealand and beyond, grounded in Te Tiriti o Waitangi and te ao Māori, with a strong focus on field placements and real-world skills.
$ENQUIRE
Interested in this course? Enquire now for Domestic & International pricing
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
To be confirmed
It will take a total of 3 years
$ENQUIRE
Interested in this course? Enquire now for Domestic & International pricing
Core skills this course teaches
Develop social work knowledge and practice skills
Graduate with the knowledge and practical skills required for professional social work in diverse settings, guided by Te Tiriti o Waitangi and te ao Māori values.
Professional registration pathway
Be prepared for professional registration as a social worker in Aotearoa New Zealand (subject to approval), meeting the Social Workers Registration Board's core competencies.
Real-world and relationship-centred practice
Build meaningful connections and hands-on experience via field placements, working alongside individuals, whānau, hapū, iwi and communities.
About This Course
Te Ata Māhina | Bachelor of Social Work at Toi Ohomai is a three-year degree designed to empower students for purposeful careers in the social sector. The programme is grounded in Te Tiriti o Waitangi and shaped by te ao Māori, emphasising values, professional practice, and advocacy for social justice and equity. The degree equips students with knowledge, practical skills, and professional attributes to work in diverse social service settings. Key learning includes field placements, relationship-centred practice, and the ability to support individuals, whānau, hapū, iwi, and communities. Graduates will be eligible to register as social workers in Aotearoa (pending final approval).
Course Content
- Te Tiriti o Waitangi
- Te Ao Māori
- Ko Au Tēnei
- Aotearoa New Zealand Society
- Introduction to Social Work
- Whānau and Families
- Wellbeing Across the Lifespan
- Equity and Diversity in Aotearoa
- Developing Professional Practice: Field Education
- Integrating Social Work Theory into Practice
- Social Work Inquiry
- Social Justice in Action: Hāpori and Community Development Practices
- Social Policy and Law
- Working in Partnership with Whānau and Families
- Special Topic
- Risk, Safety and Recovery in Social Work Practice
- Working in Complex Social Work Practice Situations
- Advancing Social Justice
- Integrating Professional Practice: Field Education
- Consolidating Te Tiriti o Waitangi-Based Social Work Practice
Entry Requirements
17 years of age or over
New Zealand citizen, permanent resident, or appropriate visa
Adequate literacy and numeracy to meet academic and health/safety requirements
For domestic applicants under 20 years: University Entrance as per NZQA specifications OR evidence of recent study at Level 4 or higher on NZQF
For domestic applicants 20 years or over: Demonstrated academic ability at NZQA Level 4 or equivalent, and ability to succeed through personal attributes, work and life experience
Signed consent for police vetting/check of convictions
May require interview if convictions present
Two character references from persons in positions of trust (not friends/family/work colleagues)
Attendance at an information session
Build towards these roles
Social WorkerCommunity Development WorkerPolicy AnalystSocial Services ResearcherSupport WorkerAdvocate
Build skills in these industries
Social ServicesCommunity ServicesPublic Sector
Known for hands-on, industry-aligned education, Toi Ohomai focuses on giving learners real skills that lead to real outcomes. With strong employer connections, supportive teaching, and clear pathways across certificates, diplomas, and degrees, it’s a place where learning stays relevant and confidence grows over time. Courses span trades, construction, business, health, creative industries, technology, and primary industries, helping learners build experience and momentum for whatever comes next.
