COURSE CURRICULUM

The Social Work MA program includes a range of compulsory modules designed to develop professional knowledge, practical skills, and research abilities. The Law and Policy module introduces students to the legal and policy frameworks that shape social care and social work practice in England, encouraging critical analysis of how laws and policies influence service provision and empower service users and carers. The Children module focuses on theories related to children and young people, examining risk, harm, assessments, and interventions within family settings using research-informed evidence. The Adults module explores theories, legislation, and best practices for working with adults, including people with mental health issues, physical disabilities, older adults, homeless individuals, and other marginalised groups. In the Skill Development and Professional Communication module, students participate in a five-day skills pathway that strengthens communication and professional practice through practical and experiential learning activities. Mandatory Practice Days provide additional opportunities to build placement-related skills through up to 30 specialist skills days. MA students also complete Applied Research Methods, which introduces research methodologies used in health and social care, and a Dissertation module, where students conduct an independent research project under supervision, linking research findings to professional practice, policy, and future social work development.