This highly regarded interdisciplinary degree will engage you in both theory and practice, equipping you for a wide range of people-related work.
The Bachelor of Social Work with Honours (BSW(Hons)) at UC is Aotearoa New Zealand’s most established Social Work programme. The BSW(Hons) is ideal for those with a commitment to working with others in overcoming personal and institutional barriers to wellbeing, and promoting the full potential of people.
How do I plan my degree?
Typical degree structure for Bachelor of Social Work with Honours
Each small block represents a 15-point course. However, some courses may be 30 points (or more).
For full course requirements, see the Regulations for the Bachelor of Social Work with Honours.
The BSW(Hons) requires a total of 480 points:
- 405 points of compulsory Social Work courses
- 75 points from a prescribed list of courses
The degree takes 4 years full-time study, or can be studied part-time for up to 8 years.
It is highly recommended that first year students begin their BSW(Hons) degree in February. Students wanting to begin in July will need to contact the BSW(Hons) Coordinator to organise their programme schedule.
For study planning help, contact the UC Liaison Office | Te Rōpū Takawaenga o UC (new students) or a College of Arts | Te Rāngai Toi Tangata Student Advisor (advancing students).
Limited entry into second year and beyond
Entry to Social Work courses at 200-level and above is competitive. Students applying for entry into the second year of the BSW(Hons) will need to meet criteria identified through an application process and satisfactory Police vetting. Students with English as a second language will also need to provide evidence of their English language ability.
For entry into the third year of the BSW(Hons), students must have completed 240 points from the 100 and 200-level requirements of the degree, and have approval from the programme to continue with the degree.
Applications into the fourth year of the BSW(Hons) must be made by 30 September during the third year. Students must have completed SOWK 301 and SOWK 308, provide attestations of character and suitability for practice, and agree to observe the Code of Ethics of the Aotearoa New Zealand Association of Social Workers (Inc.) and the Code of Conduct of the New Zealand Social Workers Registration Board.
For more information on the entry process for each year of the BSW(Hons), see the Regulations for the Bachelor of Social Work with Honours or contact a College of Arts | Te Rāngai Toi Tangata Student Advisor.
Completed courses can be credited to a Bachelor of Arts if you are unable to, or choose not to, continue with a BSW(Hons).
Contact us
For the full degree requirements, see the Regulations for the Bachelor of Social Work with Honours.
For study planning help, contact the UC Liaison Office | Te Rōpū Takawaenga o UC (new students) or a College of Arts | Te Rāngai Toi Tangata Student Advisor (advancing students).
For more information on facilities, resources, and staff, see the College of Arts | Te Rāngai Toi Tangata.
For more general information, email [email protected] or freephone 0800 VARSITY (827 748).