COURSE CURRICULUM

The two-year full-time MA in Social Work combines academic study with extensive practical experience, leading to both a professional qualification and an advanced degree. In the first year, students complete 100 days of placements while engaging with core modules designed to develop foundational knowledge and practical skills. These modules cover social science perspectives on the life course and society, understanding and applying social research, and the principles and context of statutory social work, including working with adults, children, and families. Students also study social work theory and practice, learning essential skills and interventions, and apply this knowledge directly through supervised practice learning placements. Year one provides a solid base in both theoretical and applied aspects of social work, fostering critical thinking, professional reasoning, and reflective practice. In the second year, students complete another 100 days of placements and select a specialist pathway in either adults or children and families. Core modules focus on working with individuals, families, groups, and communities, collaboration within and across organisations, and advanced social work practice. Students also undertake a dissertation, developing research skills and expertise in a specific area of social work. Through this combination of taught modules, placements, and research, students gain the knowledge, practical experience, and professional competence required to enter the social work profession.