Monash University Handbook 2010 Postgraduate - Course

The Master of Social Work (Forensic Studies) degree provides an opportunity for social work and human service professionals who have already completed a four year undergraduate degree in the social services field to enhance and develop specific knowledge and skills in forensic studies to more effectively work in the areas of mental health, child protection, disability, corrections, drug and alcohol.

On completion of this course, a student should be able to:

• provide education about the specific knowledge and skills in forensic studies to more effectively work in the areas of mental health, child protection, disability, corrections, drug and alcohol
• promote research and critical evaluation in social work and human service practice in these fields
• encourage students to become critical thinkers and engage in lifelong learning and professional development
• provide students with a broad understanding of the cultural and other differences that exist in our community and their relationship to its individuals within the mental health, corrections, child protection, disability and drug and alcohol systems
• further the professional development of students by providing the opportunity for engagement with colleagues and lecturers who are experts in the field.

This course consists of six units.

Students complete the 6-point core unit:

• FBS9001 Fundamentals of forensic behavioural science

Students also choose units from the following diploma and degree as outlined.

Chose two of the following Master of Social Work units (24 points):

• SWM5120 Criminology and social work
• SWM5220 Social work and aged care
• SWM5160 Child abuse, child protection and the child in society
• SWM5241 Mental health practice

Choose three of the following Graduate Diploma of Forensic Behavioural Science units (18 points):

• FBS9002 The role of mental health in criminal offending
• FBS9004 Developmental aspects of forensic behavioural science
• FBS9005 Assessment and management of problem behaviours
• FBS9006 Advanced risk assessment and management 2
• FBS9003 Mental health and the correctional system

Master of Social Work (Forensic Studies)