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Home/ Courses/Community Services / Bachelor of Social Work
Start your career in social work and contribute to supporting individuals, families and groups to resolve their crisis, social, and living situations. Social Workers have the unique opportunity to support and advocate for people in crisis or life transition. You will make a real difference providing support, information and referral for your clients to improve their immediate safety and ongoing well-being.
There has never been a better time for you to qualify as a Social Worker in Australia. As a Social Worker, you`ll be doing what you love with the security of knowing there are many opportunities for employment. The need for Social Workers in our communities is expected to grow very strongly until 2026 with 23.2%* increase in jobs.
We`ve helped people from all sorts of backgrounds work in the helping professions. Our tertiary students come from a variety of backgrounds. Some are seeking a fresh start in a rewarding profession such as social work, while others are starting out in their careers and see the opportunity to embark on a worthwhile career.
The Bachelor of Social Work has been designed and developed by Acknowledge Education, a leading Institute of Higher Education (PRV 12146). AIPC delivers the course on behalf of Acknowledge Education.
The course is also approved for FEE-HELP, provisionally accredited with conditions by the Australian Association of Social Work, and is delivered mostly online with some residential schools at our higher education campuses.
The course is an entry level qualification into the social work profession and has been determined to meet AASW Education and Accreditation Standards. Students enrolling into a provisionally accredited course are eligible for membership of the AASW.
*https://labourmarketinsights.gov.au/occupation-profile/social-workers?occupationCode=2725#outlook
COURSE GUIDE
Please complete this form and we will respond within 24 working hours.
Online, Full-time, Part-time, Blended
48 months (full time)
28 Units
You can apply for entry into the Bachelor of Social Work if you have achieved one of the following:
You must be at least 18 years of age to apply for enrolment.
If English is your second language, minimum English Language requirements apply. Students must demonstrate Academic IELTS test scores with an overall score of 7.0 and a minimum of 7.0 in each band (or equivalent). Please contact AIPC if further information is required.
You can apply for entry into the Bachelor of Social Work if you have achieved one of the following:
You must be at least 18 years of age to apply for enrolment.
Please complete this form and we will respond within 24 working hours.
The Bachelor of Social Work provides a flexible and affordable alternative to traditional tertiary education.
When you graduate, you will be very well prepared to pursue a career in social work – enjoying our strong industry reputation and linkage.
The Bachelor of Social Work is based on the principles of human rights, social justice, and human dignity and develops your knowledge and skills to enable positive social change.
We believe you're better off learning from a specialist than a generalist. Many education providers deliver courses across a variety of industries. At AIPC, we prefer to concentrate on education for the helping professions.
With so many demands on our time it can be difficult to fit study in around other commitments, that's why the Bachelor of Social Work has been designed to maximise your learning from home where you can progress through your studies in a full-time or part-time pace.
Sociology is a discipline dedicated to the study of human social life as found in groups, institutions and societies. Students examine a number of important substantive areas of social life in which we find sociological theory and method at work. The unit provides an historical and contemporary viewpoint of sociology and requires students to think critically about the society in which they live. Students are encouraged to develop a critical perspective on the shape of society, how society has changed and will change over time, and the fortunes and positions of different individuals.
Students are introduced to sociological theories, perspective and methods in order to critically analyse the changing nature of Australian society, social systems and policies, and to interpret new developments and issues which impact on social work client groups. Students acquire a basic understanding of the social, systemic and political factors which create and sustain social disadvantage, marginalisation, and injustice in Australian society. The unit examines the Australian welfare system and the ways in which social work impacts this system in order to advocate on behalf of individuals, families and communities.
This unit orientates students to the social work profession. Students are introduced to the knowledge base of social work practice and to the various contexts in which social workers are located. Key topics include: history and development of social work as a profession; knowledge, theories and methods for social work; the values and ethics of social work; human rights and social justice foundations; and the development of professional identity.
This unit introduces students to theories about diversity in social work. Diversity refers to traditions over generations, ideologies, beliefs and religions, race, ethnicity, gender, and sexual orientation. Aspects of diversity impacted by political, professional and organisational factors are considered, and evidence based methods are used to inform learning about diversity. The unit also considers human rights social work practice models for work with diverse client backgrounds, including linguistically diverse, Aboriginal and Torres Straits Islanders, migrants, refugees, and LGBTI+.
The history, evolution and influence of international human rights, basic principles of social justice, and the influence these have had on the social work profession. Students analyse the key principles of the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights and the ways in which they intersect with social work’s professional objectives, ethics, and practice. These concepts are explored in relation to social work practice across a range of fields and groups experiencing disadvantage, including children and families, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and minority and marginalised groups.
This unit provides students with the knowledge of the development of human lifespan. It introduces students to the fundamental theories of development that lead students to developing an understanding of the interplay of biological, sociological and psychological forces in human development. Students develop knowledge on the diverse influences relevant for supporting healthy development, including attachment theory, cognitive and social development and the role of families and wider communities.
This is the first of two units introducing students to key social work theories for practice. Students consider the role of social work in the context of key theoretical paradigms. Students then apply theory to practice in group-based assessments allowing a dynamic appraisal of the strengths and limitations of theory in practice.
This introductory unit explores the fundamental principles underpinning the study of human psychology. It covers the philosophical, historical, theoretical and methodological background of the discipline of psychology. The unit provides foundational knowledge of the five key domains in psychology: Behavioural psychology; Developmental psychology; Humanistic; Personality; and Social Psychology. Primary topics include biological bases of behaviour, learning and memory, emotion and motivation and developmental psychology.
Students learn how the process of colonisation in Australia continues to shape the contemporary Australian context and impact on First Nations people. Students are exposed to both the implications and opportunities this brings to social work in working towards dismantling oppressive practices. Key concepts such as racism, cultural safety, structural violence, cultural competence, social justice, human rights and Indigenous rights are covered.
Sociology is a discipline dedicated to the study of human social life as found in groups, institutions and societies. Students examine a number of important substantive areas of social life in which we find sociological theory and method at work. The unit provides an historical and contemporary viewpoint of sociology and requires students to think critically about the society in which they live. Students are encouraged to develop a critical perspective on the shape of society, how society has changed and will change over time, and the fortunes and positions of different individuals.
Students are introduced to sociological theories, perspective and methods in order to critically analyse the changing nature of Australian society, social systems and policies, and to interpret new developments and issues which impact on social work client groups. Students acquire a basic understanding of the social, systemic and political factors which create and sustain social disadvantage, marginalisation, and injustice in Australian society. The unit examines the Australian welfare system and the ways in which social work impacts this system in order to advocate on behalf of individuals, families and communities.
This unit orientates students to the social work profession. Students are introduced to the knowledge base of social work practice and to the various contexts in which social workers are located. Key topics include: history and development of social work as a profession; knowledge, theories and methods for social work; the values and ethics of social work; human rights and social justice foundations; and the development of professional identity.
This unit introduces students to theories about diversity in social work. Diversity refers to traditions over generations, ideologies, beliefs and religions, race, ethnicity, gender, and sexual orientation. Aspects of diversity impacted by political, professional and organisational factors are considered, and evidence based methods are used to inform learning about diversity. The unit also considers human rights social work practice models for work with diverse client backgrounds, including linguistically diverse, Aboriginal and Torres Straits Islanders, migrants, refugees, and LGBTI+.
The history, evolution and influence of international human rights, basic principles of social justice, and the influence these have had on the social work profession. Students analyse the key principles of the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights and the ways in which they intersect with social work’s professional objectives, ethics, and practice. These concepts are explored in relation to social work practice across a range of fields and groups experiencing disadvantage, including children and families, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and minority and marginalised groups.
This unit provides students with the knowledge of the development of human lifespan. It introduces students to the fundamental theories of development that lead students to developing an understanding of the interplay of biological, sociological and psychological forces in human development. Students develop knowledge on the diverse influences relevant for supporting healthy development, including attachment theory, cognitive and social development and the role of families and wider communities.
This is the first of two units introducing students to key social work theories for practice. Students consider the role of social work in the context of key theoretical paradigms. Students then apply theory to practice in group-based assessments allowing a dynamic appraisal of the strengths and limitations of theory in practice.
This introductory unit explores the fundamental principles underpinning the study of human psychology. It covers the philosophical, historical, theoretical and methodological background of the discipline of psychology. The unit provides foundational knowledge of the five key domains in psychology: Behavioural psychology; Developmental psychology; Humanistic; Personality; and Social Psychology. Primary topics include biological bases of behaviour, learning and memory, emotion and motivation and developmental psychology.
Students learn how the process of colonisation in Australia continues to shape the contemporary Australian context and impact on First Nations people. Students are exposed to both the implications and opportunities this brings to social work in working towards dismantling oppressive practices. Key concepts such as racism, cultural safety, structural violence, cultural competence, social justice, human rights and Indigenous rights are covered.
Students learn the key principles and practices of effective communication, specifically relevant for social work practitioners. The fundamental nature of effective communication is covered along with the perception, attitudes, values, cultural issues and social barriers that can complicate the communication processes. Students develop practical skills including listening and non-verbal communication, conflict resolution and reflective skills, and preparing to work with diverse cultural groups and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
This unit provides an overview of mental health in Australia. The attitudes and values central to working with mental health consumers are explored, along with the knowledge and skills social workers utilise in practice. Key topics include the prevalence of mental health problems, models of intervention and assessment for social work practice in mental health, and attitudes/values pertaining to mental health in Australia.
Building on Social Work Theories for Practice 1, students to research regarding effective practice, exploring some theoretical paradigms that have been researched in practice-based settings. A number of practice theory paradigms are explored, focussing on the development of theoretical knowledge and skills required for social work, with an emphasis on the conceptual components of practice frameworks.
This unit examines child and family wellbeing in the context of children’s rights, developmental needs and child protection from both an individual and systemic perspective. Key aspects such as assessment, early intervention and out of home care are covered. Students are introduced to the basic attitudes and values, knowledge and practice skills required by social workers to promote the wellbeing of children, young people, families and caregivers, and to prevent or respond to child abuse and neglect.
This unit overviews the theory and practice of group work. Students gain conceptual understanding of group dynamics and how group work is a powerful medium for individual growth and social change. Students learn to recognise the power balance in therapeutic groups, explore effective small group skills, how to manage conflicts and diversity in groups, facilitate group communication and planning. Different stages of group work are examined, and students learn how to evaluate within the groups.
This unit builds on the fundamental concepts of the community services framework. It examines the community development’s conceptual approach to building active and sustainable communities in order to enhance social, economic and environmental objectives. The values, principles and practical skills of capacity building are examined and students learn models of innovative community development programs.
This unit focuses on the role of social workers in a variety of health settings, including ageing and disabilities. Students are introduced to the eclectic nature of work in health, along with the theories and research that inform intervention in this context. Social work in health care settings is explored with a focus on family violence, palliative care, hospital-based trauma work and vulnerable populations.
Building on Skills for Social Work Practice 1 and Social Work Theories for Practice 1 and 2, this unit presents direct practice skills for social work, supporting both the student’s development of these skills and the processes to assist with application. Students are introduced to some of the challenges and opportunities social workers face in practice, and examine engagement, the helping relationship and assessment in detail.
The unit explores specific legal contexts in social work practice concerning child protection, human rights, mental health, criminal law, domestic violence and mental health as well as the nature of multidisciplinary practice with lawyers. It offers students insights into how the different areas of law interact with and impact upon social work practice. Students also obtain knowledge on the legal aspects and requirements of social work practice such as duty of care, ethics, confidentiality, record keeping, attendance at courts and tribunals, interaction with interpreters and giving of evidence.
Students learn the key principles and practices of effective communication, specifically relevant for social work practitioners. The fundamental nature of effective communication is covered along with the perception, attitudes, values, cultural issues and social barriers that can complicate the communication processes. Students develop practical skills including listening and non-verbal communication, conflict resolution and reflective skills, and preparing to work with diverse cultural groups and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
This unit provides an overview of mental health in Australia. The attitudes and values central to working with mental health consumers are explored, along with the knowledge and skills social workers utilise in practice. Key topics include the prevalence of mental health problems, models of intervention and assessment for social work practice in mental health, and attitudes/values pertaining to mental health in Australia.
Building on Social Work Theories for Practice 1, students to research regarding effective practice, exploring some theoretical paradigms that have been researched in practice-based settings. A number of practice theory paradigms are explored, focussing on the development of theoretical knowledge and skills required for social work, with an emphasis on the conceptual components of practice frameworks.
This unit examines child and family wellbeing in the context of children’s rights, developmental needs and child protection from both an individual and systemic perspective. Key aspects such as assessment, early intervention and out of home care are covered. Students are introduced to the basic attitudes and values, knowledge and practice skills required by social workers to promote the wellbeing of children, young people, families and caregivers, and to prevent or respond to child abuse and neglect.
This unit overviews the theory and practice of group work. Students gain conceptual understanding of group dynamics and how group work is a powerful medium for individual growth and social change. Students learn to recognise the power balance in therapeutic groups, explore effective small group skills, how to manage conflicts and diversity in groups, facilitate group communication and planning. Different stages of group work are examined, and students learn how to evaluate within the groups.
This unit builds on the fundamental concepts of the community services framework. It examines the community development’s conceptual approach to building active and sustainable communities in order to enhance social, economic and environmental objectives. The values, principles and practical skills of capacity building are examined and students learn models of innovative community development programs.
This unit focuses on the role of social workers in a variety of health settings, including ageing and disabilities. Students are introduced to the eclectic nature of work in health, along with the theories and research that inform intervention in this context. Social work in health care settings is explored with a focus on family violence, palliative care, hospital-based trauma work and vulnerable populations.
Building on Skills for Social Work Practice 1 and Social Work Theories for Practice 1 and 2, this unit presents direct practice skills for social work, supporting both the student’s development of these skills and the processes to assist with application. Students are introduced to some of the challenges and opportunities social workers face in practice, and examine engagement, the helping relationship and assessment in detail.
The unit explores specific legal contexts in social work practice concerning child protection, human rights, mental health, criminal law, domestic violence and mental health as well as the nature of multidisciplinary practice with lawyers. It offers students insights into how the different areas of law interact with and impact upon social work practice. Students also obtain knowledge on the legal aspects and requirements of social work practice such as duty of care, ethics, confidentiality, record keeping, attendance at courts and tribunals, interaction with interpreters and giving of evidence.
Following on from Skills for Social Work Practice 2 and 3, this unit focuses on skills for change and intervention with individuals, families and communities. The concept of working from an evidence-based perspective is introduced, along with contemporary intervention models of social work intervention. Students apply intervention models to case scenarios, and develop skills in managing difficult clients, barriers to change and working with reluctant clients.
Students cover both quantitative and qualitative methods of research, and the process of social research. Students develop the ability to plan a research project and formulate research questions and gain an appreciation of a variety of research methods including, quantitative and qualitative research, focus groups, surveys and sampling, questionnaires, and conducting structured and unstructured interviews. A clear understanding of ethical issues in a research context is also covered.
This unit prepares students for transition into professional practice as a new graduate. It examines the transition framework based on the Schlossberg’s Theory and highlights the barriers for transition to professional work. Students learn practical skills on preparation for employment, team and partnership working, conflict resolution, and managing communication in the digital age. Students further develop skills on managing reflective and professional development processes.
Field education is a core component of the Bachelor of Social Work course. In Field Education 1, the students undertake a 500 hour professional practice placement in a human services organisation under the supervision of an experienced social worker.
The focus of this unit is on working with family groups (2 or more family members). The unit provides students with an understanding of a range of theories and models of family therapy and research relating to their effectiveness. It introduces students to a collaborative family work model and to practice using the model through role play exercises.
This unit aims to extend students’ current knowledge of systems and policy to the main principles of social policy development in a comparative, historic and contemporary context. It explores the sociological perspectives, theoretical concepts, values and alternative approaches of social policy development. It also covers key models of social welfare service provision and social protection.
Following on from Skills for Social Work Practice 2 and 3, this unit focuses on skills for change and intervention with individuals, families and communities. The concept of working from an evidence-based perspective is introduced, along with contemporary intervention models of social work intervention. Students apply intervention models to case scenarios, and develop skills in managing difficult clients, barriers to change and working with reluctant clients.
Students cover both quantitative and qualitative methods of research, and the process of social research. Students develop the ability to plan a research project and formulate research questions and gain an appreciation of a variety of research methods including, quantitative and qualitative research, focus groups, surveys and sampling, questionnaires, and conducting structured and unstructured interviews. A clear understanding of ethical issues in a research context is also covered.
This unit prepares students for transition into professional practice as a new graduate. It examines the transition framework based on the Schlossberg’s Theory and highlights the barriers for transition to professional work. Students learn practical skills on preparation for employment, team and partnership working, conflict resolution, and managing communication in the digital age. Students further develop skills on managing reflective and professional development processes.
Field education is a core component of the Bachelor of Social Work course. In Field Education 1, the students undertake a 500 hour professional practice placement in a human services organisation under the supervision of an experienced social worker.
The focus of this unit is on working with family groups (2 or more family members). The unit provides students with an understanding of a range of theories and models of family therapy and research relating to their effectiveness. It introduces students to a collaborative family work model and to practice using the model through role play exercises.
This unit aims to extend students’ current knowledge of systems and policy to the main principles of social policy development in a comparative, historic and contemporary context. It explores the sociological perspectives, theoretical concepts, values and alternative approaches of social policy development. It also covers key models of social welfare service provision and social protection.
The purpose of Field Education 2 is to enable students to consolidate learning and skills gained in the first placement, further develop their understanding of the social work role, and develop a professional identify under the supervision of an experienced social worker. Field Education 2 provides experiential learning in which students’ knowledge and skills are applied and assessed in a workplace context.
The purpose of Field Education 2 is to enable students to consolidate learning and skills gained in the first placement, further develop their understanding of the social work role, and develop a professional identify under the supervision of an experienced social worker. Field Education 2 provides experiential learning in which students’ knowledge and skills are applied and assessed in a workplace context.
This unit examines the prevalence of violence against both women and men as well as the impacts it has on the perpetrators, the victims and on children. The occurrence of family and domestic violence in cases involving vulnerable groups is also examined.
This unit focuses on the interactions of children and young people with the Australian criminal justice system. How children and young people are understood and responded to in the criminal justice system are explored along with the range of criminal justice responses from early intervention to tertiary responses including detention.
This elective unit provides students with the opportunity to develop the basic knowledge and skills required to work in the Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) sector. Students gain knowledge of a range of the most commonly abused drugs and their impacts on individuals, families and communities in terms of physical and mental health, and social functioning. Approaches to working with clients, rehabilitation approaches, and case management are also explored.
Experiences of loss and grief in contemporary society are shaped by many factors, including the globalization of culture, the popular culture of the mass media, and changing views on spirituality. The experience of loss and grief is examined, and students explore the diversity of people’s experiences of loss, trauma and grief and the differing meanings given to these experiences, along with approaches and interventions.
This unit equips students with adequate understanding and knowledge with regard to working with asylum seekers, refugees and migrants. Students develop an understanding of the refugee experience, including the trauma, loss and separation. The core principles of empathic relationships and working with refugees and asylum seekers in an ethical, respectful, client- centred and strengths-focused manner is also covered.
*Attending and passing a 5-day Residential School is required for successful completion. Residential School locations are in Brisbane, Sydney or Melbourne.
**The course requires completion of 2 field education placements, each requiring 500 hours of working in social work contexts.
Below are the upcoming intake periods for the Bachelor of Social Work.
Trimester 1, 2026
May Intake
Trimester 2, 2026
Trimester 3, 2026
Bachelor of Social Work (28 Subjects)
$2,490 x 26 subjects + $4,980 x 2 placements
$77,700
On your Application Form, you chose one course payment option to pay for your course. You are able to:
If your application is successful and you accept your placement, the investment for each subject is payable via the following methods after accepting your placement:
If accepted into the course, you nominate your preferred payment method on your Confirmation of Acceptance form to confirm your place in the course. Please note that the subject fees, and any other associated fees, are current only for the subjects in which you are presently enrolled, and can be reviewed and changed at the Institute’s discretion for future trimesters.
Subjects where credit is granted
Students are able to apply for credit of previous studies and experience as described in the RPL and Credit Transfer Policy and are not required to pay the subject fee for each subject in which credit is granted.
Additional and Non-Tuition Costs
The following additional and/or non-tuition costs apply:
Current textbook lists are found on the Higher Education Learning Portal which can be accessed upon enrolment. Students are encouraged to submit their online textbook order through Booktopia prior to commencing their studies for the trimester. Students are able to source textbooks from other suppliers if they choose. Students are able to choose from textbooks or e-books, depending on availability, and further information is provided each trimester as to where these can be sourced from.
Residential Schools teach you to apply your theoretical knowledge to social work scenarios. Residential Schools provide you with an ideal teaching forum to handle practical social work issues. You also meet and share ideas and experiences with fellow students and have the opportunity to reflect on the development of your social work skills.
Residential Schools are held at our academic rooms in Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne, Australia and are scheduled at the end of each semester. Depending on the numbers of subjects you have undertaken during the semester, Residential Schools are up to one or two weeks’ duration. If studying full time, you complete between 2.5 and 10 days at a Residential School at the end of each semester. Not all subjects include a Residential School component. If you are studying part time, you only need to attend the days of the Residential School allocated to the specific subject.
Students are required to meet personal expenses such as travel, accommodation and meals. Travel includes travel costs to and from where the Residential School is held and travel to and from the Institute's premises each day.
When attending a residential in a city in which you do not live, you should allow approximately $300 per day for accommodation, meals and incidentals. This daily allocation has been determined by the ATO's recommended allowance rates for Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney, available at: http://law.ato.gov.au/atolaw/. You should also add the cost of return airfares, or cost for another mode of travel, from your place of residence to the Residential School location.
Students have access to comprehensive online library of texts and resources.
External students borrowing hard copy library resources will need to pay for postage to return the borrowed item/s to the Institute at Locked Bag 15, Fortitude Valley 4006. Please refer to the Australia Post postage calculator for current indicative pricing: http://auspost.com.au/apps/postage-calculator.html.
For students living overseas, please check postage costs with your chosen postal or courier service. Overdue items are charged at $1- per day until the item is returned.
Current textbook lists are found on the Higher Education Learning Portal which can be accessed upon enrolment. Students are encouraged to submit their online textbook order through Booktopia prior to commencing their studies for the trimester. Students are able to source textbooks from other suppliers if they choose. Students are able to choose from textbooks or e-books, depending on availability, and further information is provided each trimester as to where these can be sourced from.
Residential Schools teach you to apply your theoretical knowledge to social work scenarios. Residential Schools provide you with an ideal teaching forum to handle practical social work issues. You also meet and share ideas and experiences with fellow students and have the opportunity to reflect on the development of your social work skills.
Residential Schools are held at our academic rooms in Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne, Australia and are scheduled at the end of each semester. Depending on the numbers of subjects you have undertaken during the semester, Residential Schools are up to one or two weeks’ duration. If studying full time, you complete between 2.5 and 10 days at a Residential School at the end of each semester. Not all subjects include a Residential School component. If you are studying part time, you only need to attend the days of the Residential School allocated to the specific subject.
Students are required to meet personal expenses such as travel, accommodation and meals. Travel includes travel costs to and from where the Residential School is held and travel to and from the Institute's premises each day.
When attending a residential in a city in which you do not live, you should allow approximately $300 per day for accommodation, meals and incidentals. This daily allocation has been determined by the ATO's recommended allowance rates for Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney, available at: http://law.ato.gov.au/atolaw/. You should also add the cost of return airfares, or cost for another mode of travel, from your place of residence to the Residential School location.
Students have access to comprehensive online library of texts and resources.
External students borrowing hard copy library resources will need to pay for postage to return the borrowed item/s to the Institute at Locked Bag 15, Fortitude Valley 4006. Please refer to the Australia Post postage calculator for current indicative pricing: http://auspost.com.au/apps/postage-calculator.html.
For students living overseas, please check postage costs with your chosen postal or courier service. Overdue items are charged at $1- per day until the item is returned.
RPL
Students whom have been accepted into the Bachelor of Social Work are able to apply for recognition of prior learning and/or credit transfer after accepting their offer of a place in the course.
If you would like apply for RPL or credit transfer, please contact the Institute on 1800 570 511 or email support@aipc.net.au
Please note that as per the Australian Social Work Education and Accreditation Standards (ASWEAS) Standards & Guidelines, RPL is not permitted towards the core units of this course, but may be sought towards the elective units.
Credit Transfer
Credit Transfer refers to obtaining credit towards another course on the basis of having completed previous study of an equivalent subject or unit. Students who have completed similar units to those included in the Bachelor of Social Work are welcome to apply for Credit Transfer.
Students who have completed the following qualifications are automatically eligible for six (6) subjects credit as specified below. The maximum number of credits available is six (6).
Students who have completed
Will receive these subjects' credit (6 total)
Below is a list of policies and procedures that apply to students enrolled in the Bachelor of Social Work.
Applying is easy using our simple online application process.
Your application for enrolment holds you a place, but is non-binding.
Cancel before your census date and you won't be charged any fees.
Zero Risk
We understand that sometimes you may find yourself in a situation where you are unable to continue with your studies. If you need to withdraw from a subject, simply follow our formal withdrawal process prior your census date and you will not be charged the subject fee.
Please complete this form and we will respond within 24 working hours.
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In the spirit of reconciliation, AIPC acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
This policy provides a set of principles that regulate Acknowledge Education’s approach to managing student academic complaints and appeals and utilises information and feedback from appeals to improve the student experience at the Institute.
This policy enables students to request assessment and/or subject results to be reviewed and complaints on academic matters to be submitted for resolution/recourse.
Procedure
The complaints and appeals procedure can be used by complainants to submit a complaint of an academic or non-academic nature. Complaints of an academic nature include issues related to assessment; awards in a course of study; curriculum; and student progress.
During all stages of this procedure the Institute will take all steps to ensure that:
Stages One and Two - Appeals Against an Assessment Result
Students should initially contact their Lecturer and seek further information regarding the reason for their assessment result within 15 days from the day on which their result was released. The appeal should be forwarded in writing with a copy of the completed assessment/s including the Lecturer’s assessment comments to the Dean at dean@aipc.net.au.
Upon receipt, the Program Leader will review the result and notify the student in writing of the outcome, including reasons for the decision, within 10 working days of receipt of the appeal. If the assessment was originally marked by the Program Leader, the assessment is to be independently reviewed by another academic staff member not involved in the original marking of the assessment. If the student is still not satisfied with the decision of the Program Leader, they may then appeal the decision as described in Stage Three below.
Stage Three – Appeal Against Review Outcome
If the complainant is not satisfied with the outcome of the Internal Formal Resolution, they may lodge an appeal in writing by completing and lodging the Internal Appeal Form. This form is available at https://aeworkflow.meshed.online/FormBuilder/FormSubmit/8142e2ae-203f-4a3c-8d37-9b8204fd8d75 and at any Acknowledge Education campus.
An Appeal Panel, consisting of the three senior staff members not directly involved in the dispute, will convene within 10 days of the form being lodged to consider the appeal. The Appeal Panel will conduct all necessary consultations with the complainant and other relevant persons.
The appealing complainant may elect to present their case in person or through a representative by making a nomination on the Internal Appeal Form. In this case the Appeal Panel will contact the complainant to arrange a date for hearing the appeal.
The Appeal Panel will determine the outcome of the appeal and advise the appealing complainant in writing of their decision within 20 working days of lodgement of the Internal Appeal Form, including a full explanation of the reasons for the decision if requested.
If the outcome of the process is favourable to the appealing complainant, Acknowledge Education will immediately advise the appealing complainant and implement any decision and/or corrective and preventative action required.
The appealing complainant will be advised of their right to proceed to Stage 3 of the grievance procedure if they consider the matter unresolved. There will be no cost associated with the appeal.
Stage Four – External Appeals Process
If the appealing complainant is not satisfied with the outcome of the Internal Appeals Process, they have the right to access an external appeals process at minimal cost. The purpose of the external appeals process is to consider whether the complaints and appeals procedure has been followed, and not to make a decision in place of Acknowledge Education.
Institute of Arbitrators and Mediators Australia (IAMA)
Location: Level 1, 190 Queen Street, Melbourne, Victoria
Postal address: PO Box 13064, Law Courts, Melbourne, Victoria 8010
Telephone: (03) 9607 6908
Fax: (03) 9602 2833
Email: national@iama.org.au
Web: www.iama.org.au
If the outcome of the process is favourable to the appealing complainant, Acknowledge Education will
give due consideration to the implementation of recommendations of the External Review body. If the
outcome of the process supports Acknowledge Education’s original decision, that decision will be promptly implemented.
Acknowledge Education will ensure the complainant is given a written statement of the outcome of the internal appeal including detailed reasons for the outcome. This will be kept on file.
At any time, a complainant may refer a grievance to an external agency, such as the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission, National Student Ombudsman, or Consumer Affairs Victoria. This policy does not remove or preclude any right to take action under Australian Consumer Protection laws or to pursue other legal remedies.
Assessment is an integral component of student learning and the teaching at Acknowledge Education. The purpose of assessments should be to engaging students in learning while measuring their achievement against the learning objectives of the unit of study.
Student Assessment and Awarding of Grades in Higher Education Courses Policy
Assessment is the methods and procedures used to measure a student’s academic progress and standard at a given time. There are three types of assessment employed at Acknowledge Education and two modes of assessment as detailed below:
|
Awarding of Credit (credit transfer, RPL, advanced standing) |
Identifies the level of understanding/ performance/knowledge attained by a student before commencing learning in a course/unit but does not contribute to the student’s final grade. |
|
Formative |
Assessment specifically designed to provide feedback to the student during the learning experience. Formative assessments may include self-assessment, peer-assessment and lecturer or tutor assessment. |
|
Summative |
Assessment that is focused on measuring the outcomes of the learning experience and concerned with evaluating the final outcomes of the learning experience. |
All assessments conducted at AE must be completed in English.
Fair, Incorporated, Valid, and Efficient Assessment
AE is committed to ensuring that assessments are conducted fairly, incorporated, valid and efficient.
Fairness
Assessment must demonstrate fairness in multiple dimensions. It should:
Incorporation
Assessment should be seamlessly incorporated into the learning process. It should:
Validity
Assessment must possess validity to ensure meaningful evaluation of student learning. It should:
Efficiency
Assessment should strive for efficiency while maintaining its effectiveness. It should:
Equity
All assessment processes must be equally accessible and equitable for all persons, considering individual needs relevant to the assessment.
Providing Student Feedback
Grading
Qualifications are awarded only when all the requirements of the course of study have been fulfilled, and the study undertaken leads to the award for the course of study undertaken. Awardees of qualifications are issued with authorised certification documentation, including a testamur.
Assessment Grading Scale
Acknowledge Education applies the following grading scheme to the marks achieved by the student:
|
Grade |
Code |
Percentage Marks |
Description |
|
High Distinction |
HD |
80% – 100% |
Outstanding performance demonstrating an exceptional level of understanding and achievement. |
|
Distinction |
D |
70% – 79% |
Excellent performance demonstrating an advanced level of understanding and achievement. |
|
Credit |
C |
60% – 69% |
Good performance demonstrating a high level of understanding and achievement. |
|
Pass |
P |
50% – 59% |
Performance satisfies learning requirements. |
|
Pass Supplementary Exam |
PSA |
50% |
Awarded a Pass after successfully passing a supplementary exam |
|
Fail |
N |
Less than 50% |
Unsatisfactory performance, fails to satisfy basic learning requirements. |
|
Resit |
R |
- |
Interim grade pending result of supplementary assessment. Success in the supplementary exam will result in a PSA, unsuccessful result, N. |
|
Deferred Result |
ND |
- |
Interim grade pending result of a deferred exam |
|
Did Not Sit Exam |
DNS |
0-60 |
Completed some assessments of the unit but did not attempt final exam |
|
Did Not Attempt Unit |
DNA |
0 |
Enrolled in unit, did not withdraw but did not attempt any unit assessments |
|
Did Not Make Terms |
Q |
0-100 |
Failed unit for any other reason |
|
Withheld Result |
W |
- |
Results withheld for non-payment of fees, outstanding library books other administrative reasons |
|
Withdraw – Not Fail |
WNF |
- |
Withdrawal from unit prior to Monday of Weeks 9 (week 5, in block mode) – no academic penalty |
|
Withdraw Fail |
WF |
0-60 |
Withdrawal from unit on or after Monday of Week 9 (week 5, in block mode). Equivalent to N and counts towards GPA |
|
Credit Transfer |
CT |
- |
Credit transfer is a process that provides students with agreed and consistent credit |
This policy provides a set of principles that regulate the Institute’s approach to managing non-academic student complaints and appeals and utilises information and feedback from complaints to improve the student experience at the Institute.
This policy enables students make complaints on non-academic matters to be submitted for resolution/recourse.
For the purpose of this policy and procedure, a non-academic complaint can be submitted by a student enrolled or a person seeking to enrol to express dissatisfaction with any aspect of the Institute’s services and activities. The complaint may be an expression of dissatisfaction with, but not limited to:
At any time during the process, the student can seek independent professional advice and/or have another person or third party communicate or advocate on their behalf. Confirmation from the student that another person or third party is communicating or acting on their behalf is required in writing.
Before an Issue Becomes a Formal Complaint
The Institute strives to deal with complaints as soon as they emerge to avoid further disruption or the need for a formal complaint.
In the first instance, students or potential students who are dissatisfied with an Institute service or activity are encouraged to speak immediately with Student Support Staff or an Academic staff member to resolve the issue. Please note that it is not mandatory for complainants to raise a complaint informally.
Procedure
The complaints procedure can be used by complainants to submit a complaint of a non-academic nature, including complaints in relation to personal information that the Institute holds in relation to a student.
During all stages of this procedure the Institute will take all steps to ensure that:
Stage One – Formal Complaint
The following procedure can be utilised by complainants to submit a complaint of a non-academic nature. Students who wish to appeal an assessment result should use the procedure outlined in Academic Complaints and Appeals in lieu of the information below.
Formal complaints must be submitted in writing to the Head of Operations at feedback@aipc.net.au.
Receipt of the complaint will be acknowledged in writing within seven (7) days. The complaint handling process will commence within ten (10) working days of the receipt of the formal complaint and all reasonable measures will be taken to finalise the process as soon as practicable.
The Head of Operations, or their nominee, (who must be independent of the complaint) will then assess the complaint; determine the outcome; and provide a written response to the complainant, including detailed reasons for their decision, within twenty-eight (28) working days.
The complainant will be advised of their right to access Stage Two of this procedure if they are not satisfied with the outcome of Stage One.
Stage Two – Appeal Against Complaint or Review Outcome
If a complainant is dissatisfied with the outcome of Stage One, they may lodge an appeal in writing to the Provost or delegate within twenty (20) working days of receiving notice of the outcome of their Stage One complaint or appeal at provost@aipc.net.au.
Receipt of the complaint will be acknowledged in writing withing seven (7) days. The assessment of the Stage Two appeal will commence within ten (10) working days of being received. The complainant will be advised in writing the outcome of their Stage Two appeal, including detailed reasons for the decision, within twenty-eight (28) days of lodgement of the appeal.
The complainant will be advised of their right to access Stage Three of this procedure if they consider the matter unresolved.
Stage Three – Appeal Against Complaint or Review Outcome
If the complainant is not satisfied with the outcome of the Internal Formal Resolution, they may lodge an appeal in writing by completing and lodging the Internal Appeal Form. This form is available at https://www.acknowledgeeducation.edu.au/forms and at any Acknowledge Education campus.
An Appeal Panel, consisting of the three senior staff members not directly involved in the dispute, will convene within 10 days of the form being lodged to consider the appeal. The Appeal Panel will conduct all necessary consultations with the complainant and other relevant persons.
The appealing complainant may elect to present their case in person or through a representative by making a nomination on the Internal Appeal Form. In this case the Appeal Panel will contact the complainant to arrange a date for hearing the appeal.
The Appeal Panel will determine the outcome of the appeal and advise the appealing complainant in writing of their decision within 20 working days of lodgement of the Internal Appeal Form, including a full explanation of the reasons for the decision if requested.
If the outcome of the process is favourable to the appealing complainant, Acknowledge Education will immediately advise the appealing complainant and implement any decision and/or corrective and preventative action required.
The appealing complainant will be advised of their right to proceed to Stage 3 of the grievance procedure if they consider the matter unresolved. There will be no cost associated with the appeal.
Stage Four – External Appeals Process
If the appealing complainant is not satisfied with the outcome of the Internal Appeals Process, they have the right to access an external appeals process at minimal cost. The purpose of the external appeals process is to consider whether the complaints and appeals procedure has been followed, and not to make a decision in place of Acknowledge Education.
Institute of Arbitrators and Mediators Australia (IAMA)
Location: Level 1, 190 Queen Street, Melbourne, Victoria
Postal address: PO Box 13064, Law Courts, Melbourne, Victoria 8010
Telephone: (03) 9607 6908
Fax: (03) 9602 2833
Email: national@iama.org.au
Web: www.iama.org.au
If the outcome of the process is favourable to the appealing complainant, Acknowledge Education will
give due consideration to the implementation of recommendations of the External Review body. If the
outcome of the process supports Acknowledge Education’s original decision, that decision will be promptly implemented.
Acknowledge Education will ensure the complainant is given a written statement of the outcome of the internal appeal including detailed reasons for the outcome. This will be kept on file.
At any time, a complainant may refer a grievance to an external agency, such as the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission, National Student Ombudsman, or Consumer Affairs Victoria. This policy does not remove or preclude any right to take action under Australian Consumer Protection laws or to pursue other legal remedies.
AE ensures that the credit decision-making process is transparent, consistent, and guided by explicit outcomes communicated to students in writing. AE is committed to maintaining the integrity of qualifications awarded and ensuring that the granting of credit does not disadvantage students or compromise the educational standards expected.
Principles of Awarding Credit
The following principles underpin all AE decisions for awarding credit.
Eligibility for Credit
To be eligible for credit at AE, a student must meet the following criteria:
Assessing Applications for Credit Transfer
Assessing Applications for Recognition of Prior Learning
**Students can only obtain credit for a total maximum of 8 subjects inclusive of whether this credit has been obtained via RPL or credit transfer.
Applying for RPL or Credit Transfer
Students are able to apply for RPL or Credit Transfer by completing an AE Credit Exemption Request Form by emailing studentservices@ae.edu.au. Students can apply for credit transfer at any time after acceptance into their Bachelor course and prior to enrolling into the subject/s for which credit is sought.
To enrol into the Bachelor of Social Work, applicants are required to submit their enrolment via the AIPC website www.aipc.net.au, along with any supporting documentation that is required for entry to the course.
Course Application Forms are to be received at least four weeks prior to the commencement of the course. This allows ample opportunity for assessment of the prospective student’s application and provision of the necessary materials for the student to commence their first Trimester of studies. Successful applicants will be advised at least two weeks prior to their first Trimester of study of the acceptance of their application.
Standard Admission Requirements:
Applicants are required to have either:
You must be at least 18 years of age to apply for enrolment.
If English is your second language, minimum English Language requirements apply. Students must demonstrate Academic IELTS test scores with an overall score of 7.0 and a minimum of 7.0 in each band (or equivalent). Please contact AIPC if further information is required.
Applicants are to supply a certified copy of the qualification or high school certification with their Course Application Form.
Upon receipt, the Student Support Team will screen the application for its completion and correctness. Applications that do not contain all necessary supporting documentation will not be processed until all documentation is supplied.
All information about the applicant is then passed to the Program Leader who is the approving authority for an applicant’s entry to the course.
The application and selection process will enable applicants to be rated on the following:
The application is rated by the Program Leader who then determines if the applicant will be offered a place in the course.
In the event that student numbers have been exceeded for the course, the applications of those applicants who have met all selection criteria but not been offered a place will be held on file for consideration at the next intake. Applicants in this situation will be advised in writing of this outcome.
Once accepted, the new student will be advised in writing of their offer of a place in the course. This written notification will be sent with a Course Enrolment Pack.
Statement of Tuition Assurance
Under the provisions of the Higher Education Support Act 2003 (HESA) and the associated Higher Education Provider Guidelines the Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors Pty Ltd is required to provide a tuition assurance arrangement for persons, other than international students[1], who are enrolled in higher education courses it offers. This requirement is to protect students in the event that the Institute ceases to provide a course of study in which a student is enrolled.
The meaning of ‘ceasing to provide a course of study’ is set out in the HEP Guidelines which can be found at: https://www.legislation.gov.au/Details/F2012L02136.
In the event that the Institute ceases to provide a course of study in which a student is enrolled the student is entitled to a choice of:
or
The Institute has met the tuition assurance requirements of the HESA through the Australian Government’s Tuition Protection Service (TPS) for students utilising FEE-HELP to pay their tuition fees. Students paying their own fees are also covered by the TPS.
Activation of Tuition Assurance Arrangements
If the Institute ceases to provide a higher education course of study, each student enrolled in the course of study will be sent a Written Tuition Assurance Offer (“the Offer”) advising the student of the options available under the tuition assurance requirements. The Offer will include directions that the student must follow in order to notify of the choice they have made for each affected unit. This Offer is provided within twenty business days after notification by the Institute to the TPS.
A student may choose either:
The Course Assurance Option
Under the course assurance option, a student will be offered a place in a similar course of study. If the student accepts this option, the necessary arrangements are made to ensure a student is able to enrol with the Second Provider in a similar course of study. This offered course will lead to the same or a comparable qualification without any requirement on the part of the student to pay the Second Provider any student contribution or tuition fee for any replacement units (that is, units that the student had commenced but not completed because the course ceased to be offered). A student will receive full credit from the Second Provider for any units of study successfully completed at the Institute.
The Second Provider nominated may have different contribution amounts or tuition fees to the amounts or fees the student would have paid for units of study which were part of the course of study that the Institute ceased to provide.
A student is not obliged to enrol in a course of study with a Second Provider under the Course Assurance Option. However, if they enrol with any other provider there is no obligation on that provider to offer full credit transfer for the units of study completed with the Institute or to offer any replacement units free of charge.
OR
The Student Contribution/Tuition Fee Repayment Option
Under the Student Contribution/Tuition Fee Repayment Option, the TPS undertakes to refund the student’s HELP debt, or pay the student the total of any up-front payments already paid by the student, for any units of study that the student has commenced but not completed because the Institute has ceased to provide the course of study.
Students selecting this option who have applied for FEE-HELP assistance will have their FEE-HELP balance re-credited for uncompleted units.
[1] As defined by the Education Services for Overseas Students Act 2000
Tuition assurance protects students in the event a course of study provided by an approved HELP provider ceases to be provided after it starts but before it is completed.
As an approved higher education provider under the Higher Education Support Act 2003, Acknowledge Education Pty Ltd ABN: 15 005 596 565 ACN: 005 596 565 must meet the tuition assurance requirements or be exempt from those requirements.
It is intended that, from 1 January 2018, Acknowledge Education will be exempted from the requirement to meet the tuition assurance requirements. Instead, Acknowledge Education Pty Ltd is required to comply with interim arrangements which ensure similar tuition assurance protection is provided to students. This statement sets out the interim arrangements for tuition assurance that will apply from
1 January 2018 and Acknowledge Education Pty Ltd's obligations from that date. If any changes occur to the proposed arrangements outlined below, a revised statement will be provided on the Acknowledge Education Pty Ltd website and advised to all students that have enrolled in the intervening period.
What happens if Acknowledge Education Pty Ltd's ceases to provide a course of study?
Information for affected students
Acknowledge Education Pty Ltd will notify affected students in writing that a course of study is no longer provided within 2 business days after Acknowledge Education Pty Ltd ceases to provide the course. As soon as practicable, Acknowledge Education Pty Ltd will also update its website to reflect that the course is no longer being delivered and to give students information about the tuition assurance arrangements. Affected students may choose either course assurance arrangements or apply to Acknowledge Education Pty Ltd for a re-credit of their HELP balance.
Course Assurance
The Commonwealth Department of Education and Training (the Department) (or a consultant engaged by the Department) will work with affected students to identify a replacement course and arrange for students to be placed with a second provider. Replacement courses must meet the following requirements:
Affected students will be offered a replacement course and may seek a review about whether the course offered to them meets the requirements for replacement courses. A student who accepts the replacement course offered will not be required to pay the second provider for the replacement components of the replacement course. However, the fees payable for the remainder of the replacement course may be different from the fees payable for the original course.
The student will also receive course credits for parts of the original course successfully completed by the student, as evidenced by a copy of a statement of attainment or other Australian Qualifications Framework certification document issued by the course provider or an authorised issuing organisation in accordance with the Australian Qualifications Framework.
Each affected student will have a period of six (6) months in which to accept the replacement course offer. The Department may extend that period in circumstances that justify an extension. If an affected student enrols in a course that is not a replacement course, the student may be required to pay additional tuition fees and might not receive the course credits the student would have received if the student had enrolled in a replacement course.
Re-credit of HELP balance
Where the student prefers to apply for a re-credit of their HELP balance for the affected parts of
the original course, the student may nominate the Department (or a consultant engaged by the
Department) to make the application on the student’s behalf.
Acknowledge Education Pty Ltd will consider students’ applications as soon as practicable and notify them of the decision about the application, together with a statement of reasons for the decision. If an application for a re-credit is accepted, the amount re-credited will be equal to the amount of HELP assistance received by the student for the affected units of study.
Record keeping
It is suggested best practice for students to retain assessments, records of competencies or
statements of attainment that they receive from their education provider.