Monash University Handbook 2011 Postgraduate - Unit

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Synopsis

The Master of Social Work (Qualifying) has a focus on educating potential leaders in human services. The unit provides an opportunity for specialisation in a specific field of policy and practice. Although the content of the degree includes study of a number of specific fields of practice, as required by the AASW, the unit is an opportunity for students to study one area in-depth.

The unit provides transferable skills in information-seeking, knowledge building, formulating questions and scholarly writing. It is relevant for students with no experience in social work who may be considering a career in a particular field, as well as for students with social work practice experience who wish to extend and deepen their knowledge.

The unit builds on studies undertaken in Year 1 of the degree, including field placement. The unit offers choices for students from existing MSW Coursework units and will be offered in the off-campus mode, except where on-campus arrangements are made for international students studying in Australia.

Objectives

At completion of the unit, students should be able to:

1. Articulate the current debates and challenges in a given field of social work policy and practice
2. Describe the major theories underpinning social work and social policy approaches in a specific field of practice
3. Demonstrate a thorough knowledge of the literature relevant to a particular field of policy or practice
4. Critically analyse an aspect of policy and/or practice related to a specific field
5. Demonstrate the ability to locate and organise information about an aspect of policy or practice
6. Plan and implement scholarly writing tasks

Assessment

Formative and summative written assessment tasks (6000-9000words) according to the requirements already approved for existing MSW Coursework units (to total 100%).

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Robyn Mason

Off-campus attendance requirements

The unit runs for 13 weeks. For a 12 point unit, off-campus students are expected to spend 4 hours per week completing set tasks outlined in the Unit Guide, undertaking set readings and private research. Online contact such as discussion groups will be initiated by staff.

Prerequisites

SWM5100, SWM5101, SWM5102, SWM5103, SWM5104

Prohibitions

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
SWM5260 Gender, Climate Change and Social Sustainability

Additional information on this unit is available from the faculty at:

http://www.med.monash.edu.au/socialwork/