MSc Social Work

To produce qualified social workers able to work in challenging areas of complexity and risk, to promote wellbeing and effectively safeguard vulnerable children, young people and adults.

1. Theory, Assessment and Methods
2. Legal and Policy Contexts of Practice
3. Contemporary Issues in Statutory Social Work Practice
4. Skills, Creativity and Communication
5. Safeguarding: Research Informed Practice
6. Comparative Social Work
7. Inter-Professional Working
8. Dissertation

The programme will include two supervised practice placements: 80 days in the first year and 120 days in the second year. Students are matched to placements by a dedicated practice team and supported by practice educators. The two placements will be in different fields of social work.

Graduates can go on to work in Adult Services, Children’s Services, Mental Health Trusts, with the Youth Justice Board and in a range of independent voluntary sector organisations. Social work is a regulated profession. As a social work student you will be expected to register with the General Social Care Council, the social work profession's regulator and adhere to the standards set out in the Code of Practice for Social Workers. As well as regulating individual social workers and students, the GSCC also regulates the performance of social work courses, the reports of which are published on its website. For more information visit www.gscc.org.uk.

Students are equally assessed in practice settings and in academic contexts. The programme’s student-oriented approach to teaching is reflected in assessment strategies that relate learning to social action and practice, for example in case studies, simulations, reflective commentaries and community-based projects.

As part of the degree, students will receive training in research methods and produce a 10,000 word dissertation based on primary research that allows them to critically analyse a social work issue of their choice.

1. Good undergraduate degree (normally 2:1 or above)
2. Grade C or above in GCSE (or equivalent) Maths and English
3. Relevant prior experience in social care, education or health sectors (voluntary or employment)

All applications to the programme are evaluated according to the same criteria and applicants should ensure that their application demonstrates:

• Academic readiness for postgraduate study
• Understanding of social work
• Motivation/interest to study social work
• Relevant social care experience and ability to reflect upon it
• Strength of reference (academic or professional).

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview between January and April 2012 where they will discuss their application with members of the social work teaching team and sit a short written assignment. Shortlisted applicants will also have to pass screening processes in terms of professional suitability: criminal record checks; health declaration; professional references.

For further information about fees, scholarships and bursaries please see our Fees & Funding pages.

Fees and Funding