Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences
Graduate Profile
Bachelor of Social Work, BSW
2009
Introduction
The Graduate Profile is a statement of the generic and specific attributes and skills of graduates of
the programme including the body of knowledge attained (CUAP Functions and Procedures, 20132014). The framework for graduate outcomes in the Graduate Profile may vary depending on the
award, however attention should be paid to the development in graduates of lifelong learning skills.
A Graduate Profile may contain the personal attributes, interactive attributes and specific
programme attributes which should ideally be displayed by graduates.
Bachelor of Social Work
A Bachelor of Social Work graduate will have:
Learning Outcomes
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Sound knowledge of social work practice, based on:
o an understanding the values and ethics of the profession;
o the acquisition and critical application of theoretical frameworks for understanding the
development and interactions of individuals and human systems;
o a reflective use of self;
o a commitment to ongoing development of skills and knowledge;
o a clear grasp of requirements and responsibilities particular to Aotearoa.
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An understanding of the forms and mechanisms of discrimination and structural inequalities
in society, particularly as they impact on Māori and Pacific peoples.
An understanding of the issues around biculturalism and obligations under the Treaty of
Waitangi.
Awareness and knowledge of cultural perspectives that influence the behaviour of social
workers, their agencies and those they assist.
Commitment to alleviating social disadvantage and to addressing contemporary social issues
in New Zealand society.
Basic knowledge of legal processes, including a familiarity with laws affecting social work
fields of practice.
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Ability to articulate the role of policy in framing social work practice and in understanding
the impact of welfare policies on service users.
Capacity to critically analyse social science research.
Demonstrated ability to undertake a basic research project.
An understanding of and be able to analyse current systems of social service organisation
and delivery through an integrated understanding of theory and practice contexts.
An understanding of and be able to analyse the construct of mental health, familiarity with
the major categories of disorder and the impact on individuals and across social systems.
Awareness and knowledge of social work within both statutory and non-statutory contexts,
and an understanding of the requirements of each.
Life-long Learning Skills, Attributes and Dispositions of Graduates
A Bachelor of Social Work graduate will have:
Skills acquisition
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Sensitivity and competence to engage appropriately with individuals and their families or
whanau from diverse age, gender and cultural backgrounds.
Skills in qualitative and quantitative social science research methods, including ethical
considerations, relevance to and application in social work practice.
Developed skills in assessment with individuals, families, groups, and in community
settings.
Basic skills in intervention across all client system levels.
The reflective and reflexive use of self in work with service users at all system levels.
Ability to analyse policy processes as they relate to social service provision and delivery in
New Zealand.
Advanced capability in integrating theoretical and empirical dimensions of social policy and
in predicting their effect on social work agencies and practice.
Ability to advocate for and to apply just, effective and humane strategies and
implementation processes that are responsive to diversity.
Ability to formulate well-reasoned and well informed judgements based on professional
values and ethics, critical self-reflection, research, and the appropriate use of supervision
and consultation.
This Graduate Profile is reviewed annually and was last reviewed in 2013.
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