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15 Universities offering Social Work Online/Distance Courses in New Zealand

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Are you looking for Social Work courses? Here you can find course providers offering full-time, part-time, online or distance learning options. Choose the right institution in New Zealand for you or alternatively, try using our course matcher tool to identify the best institution for your study criteria.

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University of Auckland

THE World Ranking: 150

University of Otago

THE World Ranking: 301

The University of Waikato

THE World Ranking: 401

Victoria University of Wellington

Massey University

THE World Ranking: 501

Otago Polytechnic

Southern Institute of Technology

Unitec Institute of Technology

Wellington Institute of Technology

Whitireia New Zealand

New Zealand Skills and Education College

• Care Of The Elderly
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Social Work

Social work is an area where you can help others and improve their lives. It involves understanding people and the systems that surround them, and how you can influence those systems to achieve positive outcomes.

Life is full and there is always so much going on that it is hard to keep study as a priority, which is what it needs to be if you want to do well. But the prospect of being a successful social worker outweighs the struggle by far. Alex Wong, social work graduate.

Bachelor of Social Work - Closed to new learners

Our current programme, OP7400 Bachelor of Social Work, is available for re-enrolling learners, however it is closed to new learners. A new version of the programme will be available for enrolment in 2024.  If you would like to be notified when the new programme is available, please click this link.

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Education and Social Work

Bachelor of Social Work BSW

Find solutions to social challenges, create positive change and build fairer, stronger communities.

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Programme overview

This programme will equip you with the knowledge and experience to make a difference in the community as a practising social worker.

Taught by registered social workers and internationally recognised academics, you will learn through an integrated approach that combines a variety of disciplines – including psychology, sociology and law. You will also spend approximately 24 weeks out on practicum, experiencing first-hand what it’s like to be a social worker.

This is a professional qualification, recognised by the New Zealand Social Workers Registration Board. This means you will be eligible to apply for registration here and overseas.  

Programme structure

• Entry requirements
• Fees and scholarships

This is a four-year degree programme in which you’ll have the opportunity to enter into the Bachelor of Social Work (Honours) programme in Year 4. The sample programme structure outlined below is for the Bachelor of Social Work. For its unique programme structure in Year 4, please see the Bachelor of Social Work (Honours)

Most students need to take one or two General Education courses .

Students should also be aware of the University’s Academic English Language Requirement .

Sample programme structure

Year 1 120 points.

• Code: SOCWORK 100 Name: Ko Wai Au, Ko Wai Koe, Ko Wai Tātou? Type: Compulsory core course Points: 30 pts
• Code: SOCWORK 101 Name: Social Work and Social Justice Type: Compulsory core course Points: 30 pts
• Code: SOCWORK 102 Name: He Tāngata: People in Context Type: Compulsory core course Points: 30 pts
• Type: General Education course Points: 15 pts

Year 2 120 points

• Code: SOCWORK 200 Name: Ngā Pou for Mana-enhancing Practice Type: Compulsory core course Points: 30 pts
• Code: SOCWORK 201 Name: Culturally Responsive Practice Type: Compulsory core course Points: 30 pts
• Code: SOCWORK 202 Name: Law, Policy and Social Action Type: Compulsory core course Points: 30 pts
• Code: SOCWORK 221 Name: Social Work Theories and Skills Type: Compulsory core course Points: 30 pts

Year 3 120 points

• Code: SOCWORK 311 Name: Social Work Process and Practice Type: Compulsory core course Points: 15 pts
• Code: SOCWORK 312 Name: Applied Social Research Type: Compulsory core course Points: 15 pts
• Code: SOCWORK 315 Name: Organisations and Management Type: Compulsory core course Points: 15 pts
• Code: SOCWORK 317 Name: Supervised Field Practice and Professional Development 1 Type: Compulsory core course Points: 30 pts
• Code: SOCHLTH 313 Name: Mental Health in Social Practice Type: Compulsory core course Points: 15 pts
• Code: SOCCHFAM 332 Name: Working with Children and Families Type: Compulsory core course Points: 15 pts
• Type: Elective course Points: 15 pts

Year 4 120 points

• Code: SOCWORK 426 Name: Practice with Communities Type: Compulsory core course Points: 15 pts
• Code: SOCWORK 411 Name: Social Work Interventions for Best Practice Type: Compulsory core course Points: 15 pts
• Code: SOCWORK 413 Name: The Social Work Discourse Type: Compulsory core course Points: 15 pts
• Code: SOCWORK 414 Name: Research and Evaluation in Social Practice Type: Compulsory core course Points: 15 pts
• Code: SOCWORK 415 Name: Supervised Field Practice and Professional Development 2 Type: Compulsory core course Points: 30 pts
• Code: SOCHLTH 432 Name: Working with Grief and Loss Type: Compulsory core course Points: 15 pts
• Code: SOCWORK 401 Name: Statutory Social Work Type: Compulsory core course Points: 15 pts

2024 entry requirements

My highest qualification is from:, secondary school qualifications.

If you're joining us from secondary school, here's what you need to enter the programme.

You are guaranteed entry to this programme if you meet these requirements.

• First, you must meet the University Entrance (UE) standard .
• You must also meet the rank score for this programme. Not sure about your rank score? Use our rank score calculator .
• You may need to have studied certain subjects or achieved credits in particular subjects.
• Some programmes have additional requirements, such as an interview, portfolio or references.

Guaranteed rank score, subject and other requirements

If your rank score is slightly lower than the guaranteed score, we encourage you to still apply. We will consider your application if places are available. If you don’t meet the requirements, you may be able to apply under our Undergraduate Targeted Admission Schemes.

• Qualification NCEA National Certificate of Educational Achievement Score required 150
• Qualification CIE Cambridge International Examinations Score required 150
• Qualification IB International Baccalaureate Score required 26

Read more about entry requirements for New Zealand secondary school applicants .

Further requirements

Admission is subject to a police check/s, safety checks* and referees’ reports. You may be required to attend an interview.

You will be required to sit literacy tests if you have been out of the New Zealand school system for more than one year.

You will need to hold a full driver’s license by the end of Year 2 in order to go on your Year 3 practicum.

*Read the  Compliance with the Vulnerable Children Act 2014 .

Tertiary qualifications

If you've studied at a tertiary institution, here's what you need to enter the programme.

You can transfer from another tertiary institution, or another University of Auckland qualification, if you meet these requirements.

Minimum grade requirements

These are the likely grades required, but they do not guarantee entry. Applicants may require higher grades to gain entry to this programme.

Calculate your Grade Point Average

Calculate your Grade Point Equivalent

You must have completed one semester of successful bachelor degree study from a New Zealand tertiary institution, or one year of successful study as part of an acceptable sub-degree qualification from a New Zealand tertiary institution.

Admission is subject to a police check/s, safety checks* and referees’ reports. You may be required to attend an interview. 

You will need to hold a full driver’s license by the end of the second year in order to go on your third year practicum.

*Read the Compliance with the Vulnerable Children Act 2014 .

Transfer of Credit - You can apply for transfer of credit for tertiary courses completed elsewhere as part of your Application for Admission. For more information, see External transfer of credit .

If you have completed study at another New Zealand University, get an estimate of the transfer credit you may be eligible for, using our Transfer Credit Calculator .

See information about prior tertiary study requirements

Other pathways to study

You could be eligible for another programme , or check out these alternative pathways:

• See if you meet the criteria for the Undergraduate Targeted Admission Scheme (UTAS) .
• Bridge your educational gap with a preparation and foundation programme .
• If you are 20 on or before the first day of semester, have no formal University Entrance (UE) qualification, and are a New Zealand or Australian citizen or permanent resident you can apply for special admission .
• If you are under 20, have no formal University Entrance (UE) qualification, and are a New Zealand or Australian citizen or permanent resident you can apply for discretionary entrance .
• If you can demonstrate outstanding academic achievement and maturity, we offer admission to applicants under 16 .

My highest qualification is from this country or region:

You need to have one of the following:.

• International Baccalaureate Diploma  with a minimum total score of 24.
• General Certificate of Education (GCE) Advanced Level . You must have completed a minimum of three A-Level subjects. 
• Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) . You must have completed a minimum of three A-level subjects.

GCE ‘A’ Level requirements apply to ‘A’ Level qualifications examined by bodies such as AQA, OCR, Edexcel, WJEC, CCEA and Pearson Education Limited taken outside of New Zealand.

Minimum grade, subject and other requirements

Minimum requirements listed here are the likely grades required and do not guarantee entry. We assess each application individually and applicants may require a higher grade to be offered a place. Your CIE/GCE A level score is calculated on the best three academic subjects and General Studies cannot be included.

No bands less than 6.5.

See alternative English language requirements

Admission is subject to a police check/s, safety checks and referees’ reports. You may be required to attend an interview.

You can transfer from another tertiary institution if you meet these requirements.

You need to have the following:

One year successful bachelor-degree level study at a recognised university (or similar institution) overseas. 

Admission is subject to a police check/s, safety checks and referees’ reports. You may be required to attend an interview.

You will need to hold a full driver’s license by the end of the second year in order to go on your third year practicum. 

• If you have an offer of place from us that is conditional on meeting English language requirements, you may be considered for English Pathway courses from the University of Auckland English Language Academy (ELA)

How much does a Bachelor of Social Work cost per year?

Fees are set in advance of each calendar year and will be updated on this website. Fees are inclusive of 15% GST, but do not include the Student Services Fee, course books, travel and health insurance, or living costs. Amounts shown are indicative only. In addition to the tuition fees, there is a Student Services Fee of $8.38 per point, estimated at $1,005.60 for full-time study (120 points). Fees will be confirmed upon completion of enrolment into courses.

*Please note: amounts shown are indicative and estimates only.

See course fees for each faculty

Find out about financial support information

Scholarships and awards.

Find out about the scholarships you may be eligible for.

Student loans and allowances

Are you a New Zealand citizen or resident? You could be eligible for a student loan or allowance.

Cost of living

Get an idea of how much accommodation and general living in Auckland will cost.

International applicants should submit their application as soon as possible to allow sufficient time to apply for a visa.

Application closing dates

Start dates.

Here are the start dates for the programme.

Other important dates

See important dates for the academic year , including orientation, enrolment, study breaks, exams, and graduation.

How to apply

Applying for an undergraduate programme? Check out our step-by-step guide.

Where could this programme take you?

There is a high demand for social workers in New Zealand and overseas. With a Bachelor of Social Work you will be qualified as a social worker and able to work in a wide range of fields. This degree is recognised by the Social Workers Registration Board, allowing you to apply for social work registration here and overseas.

Jobs related to this programme

• Social worker, including in a hospital, school or aged care setting
• Youth worker
• Mental health and addiction support worker
• Child protection officer; family/whānau worker
• Manager or supervisor; researcher
• Community development coordinator
• Disability support worker; elder abuse and support worker; refugee and migrant case manager
• Working in the justice system as a probation officer, youth justice worker or prison social worker

Further study options

• Master of Social Work
• Postgraduate Diploma in Professional Supervision
• Postgraduate Diploma in Social Work
• Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling Theory
• Master of Counselling

Eunice Amante - Therapeutic care worker

After completing her practical placement at Stand Tū Māia, Eunice managed to secure a job there as a therapeutic care worker.

Student career planning service

Once you become a student at the University, you can get help with planning and developing your career from Career Development and Employability Services .

Key Information for Students

Compare qualifications and academic information across different New Zealand institutions.

Experience the University

Why social work is my career choice

Four BSW graduates tell us why social work is a rewarding career.

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Your online help and support centre. Search our frequently asked questions.

Can’t find the answer in AskAuckland?

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Ngā Poutoko Whakarara Oranga

Bachelor of bicultural social work.

Location & start dates

Programme overview:.

Every day in the news we're reminded of the need for services that help us have a thriving society in Aotearoa. We need qualified practitioners who have what it takes to become fully registered social workers.

Do you want to learn how to make a difference in people's lives? Social work is challenging, rewarding and makes a vital contribution to the wellbeing of our society. Get the qualifications you need for a professional career in working with others to make a difference.

On successful completion of this degree you might be eligible to apply to register with the Social Workers Registration Board (SWRB).

When you pass this degree, you'll get this qualification:

•  Bachelor of Bicultural Social Work (Level 7)

You’ll learn about:

• different world views
• Te Tiriti o Waitangi 
• takepū (principled positions) and their application
• applying a bicultural lens to your practice
• Māori and non-Māori theories, models and practice

How you'll study:

This is a full-time programme that consists of 120 credits per year (total 4 years full-time study consisting of 480 credits).

Throughout the first year of the degree you will be required to attend:

• 8 x noho marae (25 hours each)
• 1 x wānanga whāiti per week (4-6 hours)

Additional learning will also need to be completed outside of class time for approximately:

• 22 hours per week

Some learning activities will need to be completed online. You'll need to have access to an internet-connected device for this programme.

*Years 2, 3 and 4 commitment requirements will be discussed towards the completion of each year.

Entry criteria:

To enrol in this programme, a potential student must:

• be at least 18 years of age
• be a New Zealand citizen (or citizen of Australia, Tokelau, Niue, Cook Islands) or permanent resident 
• reside in New Zealand
• Manaaki Tāngata - Certificate in Bicultural Social Services Level 4
• or any Level 4 qualification of at least 120 credits
• or have two years full-time work experience within the field of social services
• provide supportive references from two appropriate people within the field of social services 
• consent to undergo police vetting
• demonstrate personal suitability

Where will this take me?

You can take this further by enrolling on our Postgraduate Diploma in Bicultural Professional Supervision  or applying for our master's degree, He Waka Hiringa - Master of Applied Indigenous Knowledge .

With skills at this level you can work in child protection, health, justice, welfare, or other social service providers.

The 2024 fees for this Degree are:

• Year 1: $4,468
• Year 2: $3,998
• Year 3: $3,999
• Year 4: $4,003

GST inclusive.

Are you eligible for fees-free study?

First-time tertiary students studying fee paying programmes may be able to study fee free in their first year. To find out whether you are eligible visit: feesfree.govt.nz .

Kōnae Ako (Learning Modules):

Year 1 Kaupapa Wānanga 1 (Te Whakaohonga Ake) | 15 Credits

Select and examine the impacts and influences of change on Te Wānanga o Aotearoa. Define and locate a personal position using Kaupapa Wānanga as a framework for practice within your chosen field of study. Reflect on the purpose and obligations of Kaupapa Wānanga as a model of application in your chosen field of study. 

Tōu Ao | 15 Credits

Explore the impact of the settlement history of Aotearoa New Zealand. Examine and articulate the identity of different cultural groups within Aotearoa New Zealand. Explore and articulate principled-based relationships fundamental to biculturalism. Demonstrate application of reflective practice regarding personal application of principles in social work practice. 

Te Mahi Whakatau (He Āria) | 15 Credits

Explore the bicultural history of social work in Aotearoa New Zealand. Compare and contrast different fields of social work practice in Aotearoa New Zealand. Examine and apply relevant theory, frameworks, values and ethics that inform social work practice when working with individuals. Reflect on current critical issues and discuss their impact on social work practice. Compare and contrast Māori and non-Māori assessment models and related tools.  

Kaupapa Rangahau 1 (Te Whakaemi Pūkenga) | 15 Credits

Identify the key features of research, rangahau and Kaupapa Rangahau. Demonstrate the relationship between research, rangahau, and Kaupapa Rangahau. Examine a body of information to generate new findings. 

Te Tango Mana | 15 Credits

Explore the impacts of settlement periods of Aotearoa New Zealand. Explore, identify and discuss the development of legal systems in Aotearoa New Zealand. Explore and identify the cultural hegemonic practices throughout the history of Aotearoa New Zealand. Reflect on colonial practices in Aotearoa New Zealand and identify the impacts on social work. 

Te Whakamana | 15 Credits

Examine historical and contemporary forms of resistance in Aotearoa New Zealand. Identify and locate historical and contemporary forms of emancipation in Aotearoa New Zealand. Reflect and articulate the historical and contemporary forms of emancipation to inform a whakamana model of social work practice.  

Tōku Ao | 15 Credits

Explore and articulate worldview formation. Examine and apply knowledge of Māori theories as a contribution to development of self and one’s worldview. Examine and apply knowledge of non-Māori theories as a contribution to development of self and one’s worldview. Examine how reflective practice and principles can be applied in social work practice. 

Te Mahi Whakatau 1 (He Pūkenga) | 15 Credits

Distinguish appropriate written communication methods for establishing, maintaining and advancing relationships in a social work practice. Select and apply appropriate oral communication methods for establishing, maintaining and advancing relationships in a social work practice. Compare and contrast cultural factors used in the transmission of various communication methods. Demonstrate knowledge of the relationship between takepū and communication methods for a social work context. Reflect on critical issues in communicating to Māori, bicultural and multicultural audiences when engaged in social work practice.  

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Social Work

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Social workers support, empower, and advocate for individuals, families, whānau, and communities. Wintec provides both the qualifications and practical skills needed to work successfully as a social worker in New Zealand.

The Bachelor of Social Work combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on learning. Students will gain the knowledge base, skills, and attributes required to practice in a variety of social work fields such as schools, hospitals, community groups, or government organisations.

Applicants who do not meet the entry requirements to the degree programme can apply to study  Te Ara Pūtake My Academic Pathway (Social Service pathway)  to help prepare them for enrolment in the programme. 

"I have known for a long time that I wanted to work in a field where I could help youth. I was lucky to have a sports coach who was a social worker – he inspired me to consider it as a career path. Both his influence and the loss of my friend when I was younger were driving influences on my career choice. In the future, I want to help and inspire kids at school with both their academic and sporting pursuits."

Read Tipene's story

Our programmes

Te ara pūtake my academic pathway, new zealand certificate in health and wellbeing (social and community services) (level 4), bachelor of social work, postgraduate certificate in health and social practice, postgraduate certificate in professional supervision, postgraduate diploma in health and social practice, master of professional practice, professional programmes/short courses, introduction to supervision (level 7), mental health first aid training, career guidance workshop.

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To check what you need to gain entry to a course, review the entry criteria available on each programme page. These assist you in understanding what qualifications or experience are typically required to gain entry. You can contact our team at [email protected] or 0800 2 Wintec at any time for further guidance.

About the faculty

In the Centre for Health and Social Practice, we provide practical interprofessional education that prepares students for a future in the health and social practice industry. If you have a passion for people, nursing, social work and counselling, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, or midwifery are all challenging but rewarding choices. Our courses and programmes are a great way to start your career, supported by experienced and registered academic staff.

Read more about the Centre .

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Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)

Ready to enrol.

• Social Work Pre-professional (BA), Dunedin, 2024
• Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), Dunedin, 2024

The Social Work programme at the University of Otago offers two main qualifications designed for different career stages of professional social workers:

• The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree is designed for students wishing to obtain a first qualification in Social Work that qualifies them to apply for registration as social workers in New Zealand.
• The Master of Social Work (MSW) degree is designed for mid-career social workers who are already registered but wish to undertake further professional development in a more focused area of professional practice.

Entry into the BSW programme via one of two pathways:

• Students can undertake a four-year undergraduate programme by first enrolling as Social Work Pre-professional students (under the BA programme) and then applying for entry into the third-year stage of the BSW programme (the Social Work Pre-professional years count as the first two years of a four-year BSW programme).
• If students have already completed another bachelor's degree majoring in a relevant subject such as Psychology or Sociology (other options may be suitable), they can apply for admission directly into the third-year stage of the BSW programme.

For more information about Social and Community Work:

Social and Community Work programme

Email   [email protected] Website   otago.ac.nz/social-community-work

• Social Work

Requirements

Regulations for the degree of bachelor of social work (bsw), admission to the programme.

• Admission to the programme shall be determined by the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Humanities) on the advice of the Social Work Admissions Committee.
• To be admitted to the programme at the Third Stage, an applicant must have passed papers worth 234 points from the First and Second Stages as specified in the schedule of papers for the degree, or have completed the requirements for the degree of Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Theology, Bachelor of Science (majoring in Psychology), or Bachelor of Education Studies, or have completed a degree at another tertiary education institution (in the same, or similar, subject areas) and have taken an approved course in Maori language and tikanga.
• Candidates will be selected on the basis of their academic record, personal suitability and proven experience in the social services. The Social Work Admissions Committee must be satisfied that applicants meet the requirements of the Social Work Registration Act 2003.
• an IELTS (International English Language Testing System) score of 7.0 in the academic band (with no band score lower than 7.0), or
• a TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) Internet-based test (iBT) score of 95 or higher with a writing score of 22.

These tests must have been completed in one sitting within the previous two years, and evidence must be provided by way of certified results.

Structure of the Programme

• Every programme shall consist of papers worth not less than 480 points, as prescribed in the programme requirements above.
• The Head of the Social and Community Work Programme may approve variations from the normal sequence of papers.

Prerequisites, Corequisites and Restrictions

Every programme of study shall satisfy the requirements for prerequisites, corequisites and restrictions set out in the Prescriptions (published in the Guide to Enrolment ).

Duration of the Programme

A candidate shall follow a programme of study for not less than four years of full-time study, or the equivalent in part-time study.

Cross Credits

A candidate who is enrolled for the degree of Bachelor of Social Work concurrently with another degree, or who has completed one of the two degrees and is proceeding with the other, may cross credit 100- and 200-levels papers which are common to both degrees up to a maximum of 180 points.

Withdrawal from the Programme

• A student who withdraws from the programme and wishes to be readmitted at a later date shall be required to reapply for entry under the normal application process.
• A student who has been admitted to the programme but does not complete any papers for three consecutive years shall be deemed to have withdrawn.

Review and Exclusion from the Programme

• failed a fieldwork placement or the prerequisite SOWK 320;
• failed any of the other compulsory papers of the programme at a second attempt;
• not been placed in a fieldwork placement due to concerns relating to competency or suitability raised by at least three different fieldwork organisations;
• committed a criminal offence (whether or not a conviction has been entered);
• engaged in unethical conduct;
• significant and ongoing physical or mental health difficulties that may prevent them from being able to demonstrate competence in practice settings;
• failed to declare a matter covered by (iv)-(vi).
• have mandated tasks to complete;
• be excluded from the programme for a period of time; or
• be permanently excluded from the programme by the Divisional Board of the Division of Humanities on the recommendation of the Social and Community Work programme.

The Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Humanities) may in exceptional circumstances approve a course of study which does not comply with these regulations.

This information must be read subject to the statement on our Copyright & Disclaimer page.

Regulations on this page are taken from the 2023 Calendar and supplementary material.

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Social Work

Tauwhiro hapori, introduction.

Social workers help people to overcome personal and institutional barriers to wellbeing and achieve their full potential. They work with individuals, families, groups, and organisations in a wide range of contexts.

Studying Social Work is a great option to consider if you are interested in working in a people-focused career. Professionally trained people are needed in increasing numbers to work in the social services, nationally and internationally.

What will my study involve?

• Learn about a wide variety of topics such as mental health, child welfare, criminal justice, ageing, violence and abuse, and gender and sexuality.
• Small, interactive classes so you can work closely with staff and other students.
• Practical learning throughout the degree, with 80% of your final year in fieldwork placements within social service agencies around Aotearoa.
• The Bachelor of Social Work with Honours is recognised by Kahui Whakamana Tauwhiro | New Zealand Social Workers Registration Board (SWRB) and internationally so you can work overseas.
• See all Social Work courses

Bachelor of Social Work with Honours

UC offers a Bachelor of Social Work with Honours , which focuses on human services, policies, and social development and behaviours.

The third and fourth years of the degree include advanced courses in social work theory and method, research methodologies, mental health, law, and Indigenous social work. In third year, the skills course assists you to identify and develop interpersonal helping skills using role-plays, video equipment, and small group discussions.

In the final year, you will also undertake a research project and two fieldwork placements in social service agencies. During this time, you are supervised by field educators who help you integrate the knowledge, values, and skills taught at UC with social work practice in the community.

Limited entry to each year of the degree

Entry to the second, third, and fourth years of the Bachelor of Social Work with Honours is limited to those who have successfully completed the compulsory 100-level courses and who have been accepted into the programme following an application process each year.

If you are unable to or decide not to continue with a Social Work degree, you can credit completed courses to a Bachelor of Arts .

Career opportunities

The combination of theory and practice sets you up with the values, knowledge, and skills needed to work in the social work profession. You may go on to working directly with affected people, or on to social sector policy and make changes within the overall system.

Career pathways could include:

• counselling
• iwi social work
• community development work
• case management.

Find out more about what you can do with a degree in Social Work .

Related brochures

Undergraduate prospectus 2024, whakatairanga ākonga, international prospectus 2024/25, student stories, 20 july 2023.

"Social Work is a degree that will take you to places you have never thought of going to before..."

Annette Paulsen

"EDS without a doubt has helped me to achieve my goals of getting a degree..."

Frederica (Freddie) Duncan

"The Social Work degree teaches students to communicate in ways that are understanding, effective and empowering..."

Hayley Saunders

"Helping people to thrive is very rewarding..."

"I get to meet the most interesting and amazing people and I have the privilege of hearing their stories..."

Jasvin Lala

"If you are passionate about making a difference, Social Work is for you..."

Karl Belcher

"I saw Social Work as a framework to support my beliefs in human nature, and the importance of supporting those around you..."

Olivia LaMontagne

"Social Work gave me a way to translate my passion for social change into action..."

Tom Reveley

"My fieldwork placements are currently giving me a great platform to apply and refine my skills..."

Related subjects

Choose an area that you are interested in and learn how UC’s range of study options can let you study what you want to.

Social Innovation

Criminal justice.

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Social Work

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It takes a special kind of person to work with people.

Now more than ever, our communities need social workers and support workers.

Get the special skills you need to help people of all ages and cultures, from individuals to families and whānau. Learn specialist techniques in communication, dealing with challenging situations through self-awareness and self-insight, and gain the tools to safely work with a diverse range of clients in a social services environment.

Our classrooms are supportive learning environments that promote independence and confidence.

Be the change you want to see in your community.

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• Less than six months
• February, July
• More than one year

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Health and counselling programmes, recognition of prior learning, meet the team, see why more people choose social work at mit.

From the beginning, you’re in a position to get to know a lot of interesting people and form relationships with not only the students but with the lecturers.

I wanted to actually do something, not just be in an office. Now I can do something good for the community, helping people make the most of their lives. Helping them help themselves I love that.

My advice is don’t be afraid, just do it."

Liam Dades MIT graduate

I enjoy being together with other students, also the learning support centre helps us so much, especially when it comes to assessments. I get help and any kind of support that I need from MIT.

My advice to someone considering social work is if you want to do it, just go for it. It’s very challenging but those challenges make you want to keep on going. For me, I don’t want it to end, I want to keep on going. I really enjoy it. I would like to say I have enjoyed every single thing on my journey at MIT."

Ana Tovo Mafilao MIT student

I quite enjoy the fact that MIT has an online study education option and the opportunity to come on campus. Everyone is really down to earth. The lecturers really want to get to know you and help you out on your journey at MIT. What I enjoyed in my student journey is the fact that it’s closer to home for me and the environment. It’s a very diverse institute."

Peter Lafo MIT student

I had my own children, so I wanted to help my own, especially in my community. I’ve been the class rep for year 3 and I’m the first Island student to be class rep for our class.

Being with different cultures has made me proud of my culture. When I see MIT, it’s not only one culture but different cultures – but we’re all like one family."

Miliano Peti MIT student

At MIT everything they teach us is really hands-on. We learn how to apply the theory and the practice within a real-life environment when we go out and do community work. It’s also a friendly environment. They treat everybody as equal, you’re not judged in any way. They just really, really make you feel like you’re somebody.

My advice is to go for it. You don’t want to get to an age when you’re looking back thinking I should have just done it when I was younger. Just go ahead and do it. You’re never too old. You won’t regret it, you’ll enjoy studying at MIT. We’re studying with diverse people from different ethnic backgrounds. They have quite a diverse culture here at MIT. You meet people from all different backgrounds. You’re able to develop different perspectives and I think that’s really important when you go out into the real world."

Lisa Ratahi MIT student

Marie Hilikehetute MIT student

"I chose social work because I want to see positive changes within our communities and our Pasifika youth. What I enjoy most is MIT is local. We literally only live a couple of roads down.

MIT’s hands-on learning has improved my overall growth and development as a person because I learn better hands-on, I don't learn from a book. The environment itself has a huge impact on our learning, just seeing it every day is what motivates us to actually do better for ourselves and our family."

Sheridan Tohiniu MIT student

Being a teen Mum, you don't know what you want to do, and sometimes being a benefit statistic hurts. For me, the goal was to have a career and not a job. I came into social work to get that career. I'm in my dream job now because of social work. I am working at an education centre, working with young mums and helping with their social needs like getting them houses, getting them on the benefit if they need a benefit, and helping where I can.

Don’t think about it. Just do it. Honestly, you won't regret it."

Davinia Waite MIT student

I highly recommend Manukau Institute of Technology to anyone who wants to begin their social work journey. You will experience social work theory, proficiency and skills, and you get the opportunity to go out into placement.

My lecturers are open, honest and transparent, and they have helped and motivated me to complete my degree. We are like one big family.

Everything about MIT is unique; the people, the friendliness, the helpfulness, I can't say enough about the Institute. They've bent over backwards to help me, and I've watched them help other students too. I highly recommend you come and study here.

Come and do the social work degree, you won't regret it. This will actually be the kind of job where you will love getting up in the morning to come to work."

Melanie Peakman MIT student

My favourite part of MIT is the tangata whenua. All the different people come together as a family at MIT, allowing us to still have that importance of our identity. They encourage us in learning about the tangata whenua and the history of this land. It’s important that we understand the history of the people in this land.

My advice for people is to come and study at MIT. It's closer to home. Easy to find parking, and the bus stop is just around the corner. MIT people are very lovely, lecturers and students are all very supportive."

Tapaita Matekuolava MIT graduate

We also take on board student placements, particularly for MIT. We're based in the south so our focus is being able to support our practices, who want to be able to work for our South Auckland families. Every semester we take two students.

MIT is probably one of the most diverse places to study, the commitment by cultural practices and diversity is important. What makes MIT special is the freedom that the students have to be able to locate themselves in their practice, and share that with everyone else.

Demand for practitioners is ever increasing. When I graduated from MIT, I was able to gain employment straight away."

AK Seri MIT graduate

What I enjoy most about studying at MIT is the tutors, the support our tutors actually gave us, and the camaraderie in terms of our class, our brotherhood, our sisterhood. That's the biggest thing. You go on your own journey and you have your own goals, but you need the support. And that support usually starts with your class."

Scott Matapakia MIT student

In the first two years of study, the students learn social work theory, and in the final two years, students start applying theory into practice while out on placement. I believe anyone who has a passion for people in their community can do this qualification. Even if you have no social work experience, knowledge from your surroundings will be an advantage in this space.

What I love about MIT, are the diverse cultures here. We all have one thing in common and that is to provide support to our communities. We are the best people to do it because we live and know what goes on in our community.

The opportunities for this qualification are endless. You can work with youth, Oranga Tamariki with children and Whānau, disabilities, corrections, hospital social worker, school social worker, mental health worker, and the list goes on. Most of our students come in with a narrow view of what area they want to work in, but by the time they finish the degree, their lens is widened for their chosen field they want to work in. Our job as lecturers is, to create a pathway to their chosen area of expertise. I like to call them 'diamonds in the rough' our job is to take off rough edges and shine them up.

What is also important to note is that MIT social work students are employed by organisations for the cultural content they take into organisations and out into the field because our statistics for the most disadvantaged in Aotearoa, New Zealand are Māori and Pasifika."

Lois Naera MIT lecturer

The teachers are super helpful, the students are always willing to help you learn and be a better version of yourself. Don’t wait to take that step, you will not regret your decision. No matter what stage of life you’re in, MIT is for everyone.”

Sarah Cornwell MIT student

At MIT people are friendly and the facilities are really useful, there’s everything on campus.

My favourite part of my course was the presentations. I love talking and even though English is my second language I was able to do my best.

I’m 55 and I would advise for those in my age, that it's not too late to learn. You can go to lecturers, and they will help you. Learning is good for you, good for your family, and good for the culture."

Apifoon Pelikani MIT graduate

1 Distance Learning Bachelor Programs in Social Work in New Zealand 2024

Social work is a career field that focuses on providing help and support to those in need. After completing a program or course, professional social workers may have the education necessary to develop community programs, provide counseling and legal support for families, or advocate for children’s rights during divorce and custody cases.

New Zealand is a country of stunning and diverse natural beauty. Kiwi are not only one of the national symbols – the others being the silver fern leaf and koru – but also the name New Zealanders usually call themselves. Overseas students will need to pay the full tuition fees and their own living costs while studying at a New Zealand institution.

A bachelor's degree is given to students who fulfill the necessary requirements given by the college or university they are attending. The requirements include three to seven years of focus on a subject, typically referred to as a major or concentration.

Online learning refers to use of electronic media and information and communication technologies (ICT) in education. With online learning one has the flexibility to access their studies at any time and from anywhere they can log on.

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Bachelor of Social Work

Massey university.

• Auckland, New Zealand
• Palmerston North, New Zealand

Full time, Part time

Distance Learning, On-Campus

Massey is the longest-serving (since 1976) four-year Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree in New Zealand. Our highly sought-after, internationally recognised degree will offer you a lifelong career that can take you across the country and around the world to countries such as the United Kingdom, Ireland, Canada, Australia, Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Hong Kong and the United States. Just to name a few.

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• Bachelor Degrees
• Palmerston North

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