What is AASW accreditation – and why does it matter?
AASW accreditation is an independent, profession-led process that ensures a social work course meets the national standards for ethical, safe and professional practice. It has real-world impact – for students, graduates, employers and the public – and helps build a strong, trusted profession.
When a degree is accredited, it means the curriculum, assessments and student experience have been reviewed by the AASW to confirm that graduates are ready to work safely with individuals, families and communities.
It also helps preserve the integrity of the profession by ensuring programs are academically rigorous, guided by social work values, and assessed against consistently high standards.
Every AASW accredited program includes at least 1,000 hours of supervised placement, giving students the opportunity to apply theory in real-world settings and develop critical practice skills.
For students and graduates, an AASW accredited course shows employers, clients and the sector that the qualification meets the highest professional standards – and supports public trust in social work.
What accreditation means for students
Use your digital student badge to show you’re on an accredited path to practice.
Add it to your LinkedIn profile, student CV or email signature to highlight that you’re studying a nationally recognised degree.
Many social work employers – especially in health, government and community services – list AASW eligibility as a requirement.
The only way to be eligible is by studying an AASW accredited course.
An AASW accredited qualification means your social work degree is nationally recognised and demonstrates that your course meets the profession’s standards for education and practice. Accreditation involves an independent review of academic quality, curriculum and practice readiness – ensuring graduates are well prepared for safe and competent practice.
You’ll be taught and mentored by qualified social work educators who model the values and skills essential to professional practice. You’ll also complete at least 1,000 hours of supervised placement – giving you the chance to apply theory in real-world settings and develop the skills needed for ethical, competent practice.
Studying an AASW accredited course also makes you eligible for AASW student membership – supporting your professional identity and lifelong recognition from day one.
Not a member yet? Discover how AASW student membership supports your social work journey from day one.
What accreditation means for graduates
Many employers – especially in health, government and community services – require eligibility for AASW membership when hiring.
Graduating from an AASW accredited course is the only way to meet that requirement.
Your degree is nationally recognised and meets Australia’s professional standards for social work education.
Accreditation confirms that your course covered the required knowledge, ethics and practice readiness to enter the profession safely and competently.
You’re now eligible to become an AASW member – supporting your career development, professional identity and ongoing professional recognition.
Not a member yet? Discover how AASW membership supports your career, development and connection to the profession.
Use your digital graduate badge to show employers you’ve completed an AASW accredited course - and that you are eligible for roles where AASW membership is listed as a requirement.
Add it to your resume, job applications or LinkedIn profile to show that you’ve graduated from a nationally recognised social work degree.
What accreditation means for employers
Workforce-ready. Professionally recognised.
AASW accredited degrees produce graduates who meet national standards for knowledge, ethics and practice readiness.
Accreditation ensures consistency across universities – giving you confidence in the preparation and capability of early career social workers.
When hiring, look for candidates who’ve completed an AASW accredited degree.
Eligibility for AASW membership is another key indicator of professional commitment and alignment with industry standards.
What accreditation means for the public
Trusted education. Safer practice.
AASW accreditation helps protect the public by ensuring that social work degrees meet national standards for ethical, safe and competent practice.
It’s an independent process that reviews curriculum, learning outcomes and graduate readiness – confirming that new professionals are equipped to work responsibly with individuals, families and communities.
Accreditation builds confidence that social workers have been properly prepared to support people, especially those in vulnerable circumstances.
It’s one of the ways the profession maintains strong, trusted standards – for those who rely on social work every day.
FAQs
What is accreditation and why does it matter?
Accreditation is how the AASW confirms that a university degree meets national standards for social work education. It helps ensure graduates are ready to practise ethically, safely and professionally – and builds public confidence in the profession.
Accreditation also matters when applying for jobs – many social work employers require AASW eligibility, and completing an accredited course is the only way to meet that requirement.
Enrol in an AASW accredited course → Graduate → Eligible for AASW membership → Apply for job (many require eligibility)
Is accreditation the same as AASW membership?
No, they are separate. Accreditation is about the quality of your degree. Membership is a professional pathway that supports you once you’re studying or working in the field.
How can I check if my course is accredited?
You can ask your course coordinator or check the list of AASW accredited programs.
How does AASW decide which degrees are accredited?
All courses are assessed against the Australian Social Work Education and Accreditation Standards (ASWEAS) – a nationally agreed set of benchmarks covering curriculum, ethics, practical learning and graduate outcomes. More info.
What does the digital badge represent?
The badge shows that you’re studying – or have graduated from – an AASW accredited social work course. It signals national recognition and is designed to support your career, especially in job applications and online profiles.
Why does accreditation matter to the public?
Accreditation protects the public by ensuring social workers are properly prepared to practise safely, ethically and competently – particularly when working with vulnerable people or in complex settings.
Do I have to be an AASW member to use the badge?
No – you don’t need to be a member to use the badge. The badge recognises that you’re studying – or have graduated from – an AASW accredited degree.
While membership isn’t required, joining the Association is a great way to support your profession and stay connected as you enter practice.