Social Practice Unitec Institute of Technology

Overview

The Social Practice programme at Unitec Institute of Technology provides a comprehensive pathway for those dedicated to empowering individuals and communities. This degree integrates theoretical knowledge with practical experience to prepare graduates for professional registration and diverse roles in the social sector.

Students can tailor their learning journey to align with specific career goals in either social work or community development. The curriculum emphasises inclusive practice, ensuring graduates can work effectively with culturally diverse groups. There is a strong focus on promoting human rights, social justice, and the legal rights of all citizens.

The teaching approach combines academic rigour with real-world application to ensure students are work-ready upon graduation.

Why Social Practice at Unitec Institute of Technology?

This programme leads to essential industry recognition, making graduates eligible to apply for registration with the Social Workers Registration Board. Such accreditation is vital for those seeking a professional career in mental health, education, or community services. The curriculum maintains a critical focus on addressing inequality and supporting community wellbeing.

A distinctive feature of the degree is the emphasis on practical application through extensive work placements in years three and four. These placements occur within established social work or community organisations, providing invaluable hands-on experience. Additionally, elective courses allow students to customise their study plan based on personal interests or future postgraduate goals.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: NZD 26415 per year
• National fee: NZD 8300 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Level 5

• Fields of Practice
• Social Practice with Migrant and Refugee Background Communities
• Whanau/Family and Social Practice
• Social Practice
• Ripene Tahi
• Talanoa Pasifika
• Sociology for Social Practice: Inequality and Social Change
• Enquiry and Communication

Level 6

• Psychology
• Assessment in Social Work
• Advocacy
• Discourses of Social Practice
• Professional Practice
• Community Development
• Child Protection Studies
• Disabilities and Mental Health
• Gender Studies
• Creative Social Practice

Level 7

• Family Violence Studies
• Social Practice in Action
• Social Policy
• Research Methods
• Advanced Social Practice Theory
• Management and Organisational Change
• Just Practice
• Te Tiriti o Waitangi and Social Practice in Aotearoa/New Zealand
• Counselling

Level 8

• Applied Research Proposal

Careers with Social Practice

Graduates are prepared for a variety of impactful roles within the social and community sectors. Common career paths include working as a child protection social worker, community developer, or family worker. These roles are essential for supporting vulnerable populations and fostering resilient communities.

Opportunities also exist in specialised fields such as health and mental health social work or as social workers within schools. Graduates may find employment in government agencies, non-profit organisations, or educational institutions. The broad skill set acquired also allows for roles as general social practitioners or social policy advocates.