Online Courses Handbook 2003

306360 v.1 Master of Community Development

MComDev(Curtin)

Introduction
Community practice is enacted within diverse settings, and reflects different approaches and expectations. This course prepares graduates from a variety of areas for community focused practice. Rather than promoting a particular approach, model or philosophy, it facilitates the acquisition of knowledge and practice skills, and prepares graduates for challenges of contemporary practice. Core units explore perceptions of community, the numerous roles involved in community practice, and expectations of 'community' in changing contexts. Key principles include human rights, participation, empowerment, and reflective practice, which are reframed through discussion of current initiatives and debates. The 'new communitarians' are explored, alongside related themes including globalisation, social entrepreneurship and community partnerships.

Course Entry Requirements/Prerequisites
Applicants from allied disciplines other than social work require a degree or equivalent degree. Three-year degree holders with relevant work experience of not less than two years may apply to the Head of the School for determination of equivalence. Students should note that only students with a four year social work degree may be admitted to the similar Master of Social Work.

Recognition of Prior Learning
Applications for recognition of prior learning are assessed on an individual basis.

Duration and Availability
This fee paying course is three semesters full-time or equivalent part-time study.

Course Organisation
Students in this course will have common core units and also the flexibility to undertake options in other streams towards the degree. The final semester requires students to complete a written research project or a supervised field project. Core units in social inquiry, professional evaluation and advanced reflective practice prepare students for undertaking a major project in the final semester. A flexible course structure enables students to focus on personal or employment priorities. Students choose a variety of options and electives, or may negotiate an independent study program.

Additional Course Expenses
Students may be expected to purchase a number of textbooks, readers and other vital study materials. In addition, students may also need to contribute some of the cost of consumables, which varies depending on the area of study.

Course Structure Hrs/Wk Credit

Year 1 Semester 1

11462 v.2 SW 534 - Advanced Practice - Reflexivity in Practice 3.0 25.0

307046 v.1 SW 601 - Introduction to Community 2.0 25.0

5800 v.5 Community Studies 502 3.0 25.0

SELECT OPTIONAL UNITS TO THE TOTAL VALUE OF: 25.0

100.0

Year 1 Semester 2

306343 v.1 Social Work 595 - Community Development 2.0 25.0

7522 v.8 Research Methods 602 2.0 25.0

7818 v.5 Professional Ethics 501 2.0 25.0

OR

307043 v.1 SW 604 - Human Rights and Ethics 2.0 25.0

7830 v.5 Social Work 592 3.0 25.0

100.0

Year 2 Semester 1

306341 v.1 Social Work 693 - Project 4.0 50.0

OR

307045 v.1 # SW 694 - Research Project 1.0 100.0

SELECT OPTIONAL UNITS TO THE TOTAL VALUE OF: 50.0

100.0

Optional Units (No Year Level Specified) Hrs/Wk Credits

5802 v.5 Family Studies 501 2.0 25.0

7535 v.6 Social Policy 503 3.0 25.0

12669 v.2 The Arts in Counselling 521 3.0 25.0

13294 v.2 Communication Skills 511 2.0 25.0

300722 v.2 Professional Evaluation 602 2.0 25.0

301851 v.2 Social Policy 603: Independent Study 2.0 25.0

304385 v.2 SW 697 - Independent Study 6.0 25.0

304392 v.2 SW 698 - Independent Study 6.0 25.0

# Students selecting this unit are not required to undertake two options.

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