Marina Tomic Hensel

Marina Tomic Hensel is a Professor at the University of Applied Sciences St. Pölten, Austria, working within the Department of Social Sciences. She teaches across multiple programs including Social Work (BA/MA), Social Pedagogy (BA/MA), and Digital Media-related programs. Her academic journey began with a Diploma in Social Work from Munich (1998-2003), followed by professional experience as a social educator, and advanced studies culminating in a Master's in Gender Studies (2008-2010).

Her research interests focus on critical perspectives in social work education, particularly examining the economization of social professions, educational policy, diversity issues, and gender studies. Her work consistently engages with theoretical frameworks that challenge market-driven approaches to social services while advocating for critical pedagogical approaches.

Analysis of her recent publications (2023-2025) reveals a strong thematic focus on the concept of 'Bildung' (education/formation) within social work contexts, with particular attention to political dimensions, competing knowledge forms, and gaps in current discourse. Her work demonstrates a consistent critical stance toward the marketization of social services and higher education.

Professor Tomic Hensel has been actively involved in conference presentations at major international forums including the IFSW European Conference and Social Work Science Day events. Her collaborative work, particularly with colleagues like Renner and Zahorka, demonstrates engagement with diversity initiatives and efforts to repoliticize social work practice.

Her academic trajectory shows progression from practical social work experience to scholarly engagement with foundational questions about the purpose and direction of social work education and practice in contemporary society. Current projects include continued research on diversity implementation in higher education and critical analysis of educational concepts within social work.