Bachelor of Applied Social Work
Social Services
A course by
NorthTec
A workplace-focused degree preparing you for registration and practice as a social worker in New Zealand, emphasising cultural competence, reflective practice, and professional supervision.
Blended study
This is a mix of online learning & face-to-face sessions
Available in 4 locations
It will take a total of 4 years
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Bi-cultural and Treaty of Waitangi Practice
Demonstrate the ability to work in a bi-cultural context and acknowledge the centrality of Te Tiriti o Waitangi in social work.
Anti-Oppressive Practice
Apply anti-oppressive social work values, knowledge and skills to complex situations to stimulate personal and social change in a range of contexts.
Working with Diverse Populations
Work with individuals, families/whānau, communities and groups from diverse ethnic, cultural and indigenous backgrounds.
What You're Signing Up For
The Bachelor of Applied Social Work equips you to work as a professional social worker in a range of settings in New Zealand. The programme focuses on cultural competency, critical reflection, self-care, and ongoing supervision. You will learn theory and undertake a minimum of 120 days of field placement across multiple settings. The programme emphasizes the bi-cultural context of Aotearoa New Zealand, Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and global issues that impact local practice. Graduates will be eligible to apply for Social Worker registration.
Course Content
- Bi-cultural social work practice and Te Tiriti o Waitangi
- Anti-oppressive social work values and skills
- Working with individuals, whānau, groups, and communities
- Resilience and conflict management in social work
- Development of New Zealand social work in a global context
- Professional literacy, scholarship, and research skills
- Critical thinking and information analysis
- Autonomous and collaborative work in multidisciplinary teams
- Reflective practice and professional supervision
- Sustainability and integration of contemporary social, political, and legal issues
- Fieldwork education (minimum of 120 placement days)
- Ethical and accountable practice
What you need to know first
Be at least 16 years old at programme commencement
Meet English language requirements (IELTS 6.5 in all bands if applicable)
Hold NCEA Level 3 with University Entrance including 14 credits in an English-rich subject
Or: B-grade passes in relevant Level 3 Foundation Programme
Or: Evidence of recent successful study at tertiary level
Or: Two years’ relevant work/life experience (with interview and approval)
Submit referee report(s)
Submit to Police check/Vetting and make required disclosures
Full and unrestricted NZ driver's licence (or approved exemption for disability)
Complete additional application forms
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Social Services
Community Services
Health and Wellbeing
Future employment opportunities might be
Social Worker
Community Support Worker
Whānau Ora Worker
Community Advocate
Health Worker
Drug and Alcohol Social Worker
Mental Health Social Worker
Housing Support Worker
Kaiawhina in Māori communities
Family Support Worker
Coming Soon: Nexties Explorer
Our AI-powered Explorer is almost ready. Soon, you’ll be able to build a dynamic profile of your skills, goals, and strengths, and get a curated selection of courses just for you.
More details