Social Services
A course by
University of Canterbury
A four-year honours degree preparing students for a career in social work. The degree integrates theory, practical experience, and field placements, and is recognised across New Zealand and internationally.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Ilam Campus, Christchurch
It will take a total of 4 years

Gain a strong understanding of concepts and frameworks underpinning social work in Aotearoa New Zealand and globally.

Complete extensive supervised placements in social service agencies, preparing for real-world social work roles.

The Bachelor of Social Work with Honours (BSW(Hons)) at the University of Canterbury is New Zealand's most established social work programme. It offers an interdisciplinary education combining theory and extensive fieldwork, including placements in social service agencies. Students learn about mental health, child welfare, criminal justice, community engagement, and more, with a focus on enhancing wellbeing and addressing social issues. Graduates are equipped for various roles in social work and related fields domestically and overseas, especially due to international recognition agreements.
What you need to know first

Social Work
Health and Wellbeing
Community Services

Community development worker
Counsellor
Social worker
Social Services
A course by
University of Canterbury
A four-year honours degree preparing students for a career in social work. The degree integrates theory, practical experience, and field placements, and is recognised across New Zealand and internationally.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Ilam Campus, Christchurch
It will take a total of 4 years

Gain a strong understanding of concepts and frameworks underpinning social work in Aotearoa New Zealand and globally.

Complete extensive supervised placements in social service agencies, preparing for real-world social work roles.

The Bachelor of Social Work with Honours (BSW(Hons)) at the University of Canterbury is New Zealand's most established social work programme. It offers an interdisciplinary education combining theory and extensive fieldwork, including placements in social service agencies. Students learn about mental health, child welfare, criminal justice, community engagement, and more, with a focus on enhancing wellbeing and addressing social issues. Graduates are equipped for various roles in social work and related fields domestically and overseas, especially due to international recognition agreements.
What you need to know first

Social Work
Health and Wellbeing
Community Services

Community development worker
Counsellor
Social worker
Study key topics such as mental health, family violence, criminal justice, child welfare, and indigenous perspectives.
University Entrance or equivalent
UC's English language requirements (if English is not first language)
Competitive application process and satisfactory Police vetting for entry into year 2 and beyond
Youth worker
Policy analyst
Educator
Study key topics such as mental health, family violence, criminal justice, child welfare, and indigenous perspectives.
University Entrance or equivalent
UC's English language requirements (if English is not first language)
Competitive application process and satisfactory Police vetting for entry into year 2 and beyond
Youth worker
Policy analyst
Educator