COURSE CURRICULUM

The MA Social Work program is structured over two years, combining academic study with extensive practical experience to prepare students for professional practice. In the first year, students gain a solid foundation in the principles and skills of social work, including understanding the social, political, and legal contexts in which social work operates, professional safeguarding responsibilities, and the development of practice skills. Core modules include Introduction to Social Work, Social, Political and Organisational Context for Social Work, Law for Social Work Practice, Life Course and Social Relationships, and Groups and Power. Students engage in 20 days of professional skills development and a 70-day practice placement, alongside simulated learning environments and experiential workshops to develop teamwork and practical competence. The second year builds on this foundation, providing in-depth understanding of social work processes and interventions across diverse service user groups, with an emphasis on applying relevant theories and evaluating risk in safeguarding practices. Key modules include Safeguarding Children, Adults and their Families, Contemporary Social Work Interventions in Practice, and Foundations of Research, preparing students to complete an independent dissertation. Students also complete 10 days of professional skills development and a 100-day practice placement. Graduates acquire both the theoretical knowledge and practical expertise required for professional registration and effective practice in varied social work settings.