The social work degree at Central Queensland University is an innovative four year program which is offered in flexible delivery mode. Students, (social workers in training) are encouraged to become self-directed and active learners through the community focused learning curriculum. Community focused learning affords participants opportunities for experiential learning and provides challenges based on everyday social work practice.

Distance education includes resource packages, the use of information and communication technology and residential schools on the Rockhampton campus. Social workers in training form learning groups to maintain contact with each other and to work collaboratively on group projects. University staff members work with the learning groups offering support and facilitating learning.

All participants are required to attend two week-long residentials each year and to have access to information and communication technology.

In third and fourth years of the degree program social workers in training complete a fourteen week fieldwork placement supervised by a qualified social worker.

The social work program is accessible to candidates living anywhere in Australia and is particularly suited to people living in rural and remote areas. It incorporates a strong emphasis on rural practice and is inclusive of social workers in training from diverse backgrounds.

As part of the fieldwork and residentials, social workers in training are required to participate in groupwork and individual self-development exercises. The program may challenge personal values and attitudes as social workers in training develop both personally and professionally.

With a social work qualification, it is possible to work in many different fields including: public service departments, community health centres, hospitals, local government authorities, non-government welfare agencies, industrial environments and the private practice. Social workers are involved in a diverse range of activities including: counselling, needs assessment, community development, groupwork, policy formation, research and administration.

To satisfy the requirements of the award, students must complete 28 courses or 192 units of credit as outlined below.