The degree can be studied full time over four years, or part time up to eight years. The minimum a student should enrol per year is 60 credits. A full-time student would complete an average of 120 credits per year.
For new learners, we recommend enrolling in one or two courses to begin with.
Please ensure you read the admission information under the Entry requirements tab before applying.
Current learners
Taking a break from study?
If you do not enrol in the programme for two consecutive trimesters you will need to give evidence that you still meet the entry requirements before you can apply for your next course. You will need to provide recent references, complete a new police vet, and having an interview with a member of the social work team.
Your acceptance back into the degree may be provisional for the first trimester. Continued enrolment will be dependent on satisfactory progress and successful completion of the courses studied in this trimester. You must contact social.work@openpolytechnic.ac.nz at least 6 weeks prior to the start date of the trimesteryou wish to resume study in.
Qualification Structure
This qualification has 20 compulsory courses in the following learning areas:
social, cultural and organisational contexts
lifespan, transitions and wellbeing
practice skills
Professional practice.
Enrolment in 2023 courses
Update for new learners
OP7400 Bachelor of Social Work is closed to new learners for enrolment in 2023.
A new degree, Te Ata Māhina Bachelor of Social Work, is currently being developed by Te Pūkenga. This degree will be offered online and in person at Te Pūkenga campuses. We expect it will be available later in 2023.
If you would like to be notified when Te Ata Māhina Bachelor of Social Work is available please provide your details here
Update for re-enrolling learners
If you are a current learner in OP7400 Bachelor of Social Work, up to and including Trimester 3 2022, you can continue to enrol in your courses as usual. We will contact you shortly to provide further information relating to the time frames to complete the degree and transition arrangements (if applicable) to Te Ata Māhina Bachelor of Social Work.
Need help choosing your courses?
Our student advisors can help you choose the right courses to suit your needs.
How much time will you need each week for study?
On each course page look for the Workload heading in the grey box. This will give you the approximate hours needed each week to study that course.
Do you have enough time?
To check if you have enough time in your life for study, try our handy time calculator tool.
