Postgraduate taught programme

MA

Social Work (Pre-Registration)

Make a positive impact as a social worker. Gain the skills and knowledge to support people through supervised placements. Study law, values, theory, research and professional practice, while peer learning builds your reflective, ethical practice.
MA Social Work (Pre-Registration)
About Details Careers, industry and research Postgraduate student life Fees and funding Apply Register for open evening

About

MA Social Work (Pre‑registration) prepares you to make a meaningful and lasting difference in people’s lives. Throughout the programme, you’ll meet regulatory standards while building the knowledge, values and practical experience essential for professional registration. High‑quality placements in adult and childcare settings give you the confidence to apply theory in real‑world practice, while ongoing engagement with service users and carers strengthens your ability to work ethically and effectively. You’ll also develop evidence‑informed research interests and the professional skills needed to thrive as a reflective, capable social worker.

Qualify for professional registration

Meet regulatory standards throughout your studies, positioning you to apply for registration with Social Work England on successful completion.

Real‑world placements

Build confidence and capability through quality‑assured placements in adult and childcare settings, gaining hands‑on experience across diverse interventions.

Learning shaped by lived experience

Engage with service users and carers at every stage, developing the reflective, ethical and evidence‑informed practice essential for effective social work.

Details

Year 1

You will study 6 modules covering legal literacy; values and ethics; social work theory/methods/models and preparing for your research dissertation. You will complete 30 days readiness for practice plus a 70 day practice placement. Study groups across both years promote peer learning and provide a safe space to explore your developing professionalism. 
Coastal Communities social policy, social workers, teenage youth group therapy

Core modules

SW714
Professional Practice

This module enables students to develop knowledge and skills that inform social work practice, including methods and models of evidence-informed social work, human growth and development, the key components of effective professional relationships, and communication skills with a range of service users, carers and professionals, both in group settings and individually.

SW715
Values and Ethics

This module explores the interrelationship between theory, practice and core values as critical in the delivery of care. Account is taken of basic humanitarian principles in social work. Major social philosophies and virtue ethics underpinning care are considered and the moral dilemmas arising from conflicts between personal, professional and organisational norms.

SW716
Legal Literacy

This module introduces students to key contemporary legislation and policy underpinning social work practice. Students explore the application of law and policy to anti-oppressive practice and the organisation and delivery of social care.

SW717
Critical Social Work

This module critically examines contemporary theories, methods and models that support practice. Social issues are considered that clarify the behaviour and/or functioning of individuals and communities most relevant to social work practice. Students are expected to examine their own relationship to these issues and consider which theories, methods, models support their developing professional self.

SW718
Practice Learning 1

This module enables students to develop their professional identity through the integration of theory, methods, skills, knowledge and values within practice. Combining classroom and practice-based learning and opportunities, it provides students with a repertoire of critical knowledge, skills, evidence-informed responses and interventions congruent with working with people and situations across society.

SW719
Research for Practice

This module enables students to develop a critical understanding of evidence-informed practice. Students will develop their understanding of social work research and the develop their own research proposal in readiness for the dissertation in year 2.

Final year

You will complete 100 days practice learning in a placement with a statutory function, such as a local authority setting; mental health agency; hospital; multi-agency setting or voluntary organisation supporting statutory service provision. Alongside this, you will complete a research dissertation to promote evidence-informed social work practice.
Social work students

Core modules

SW720
Practice Learning 2

The module enables students to consolidate their professional identity through integration of theory, methods, skills and values in practice. Teaching and practice learning provide students with a repertoire of evidenced informed responses congruent with complex practice situations. The module seeks to prepare students for the socio-legal and procedural aspects of statutory social work.

SW721
Dissertation

This module enables students to incorporate their learning in relation to a critical understanding of evidence-informed practice. Students will develop their understanding of social work research further by completing a social work dissertation.

The modules shown for this course or programme are those being studied by current students, or expected new modules. Modules are subject to change depending on year of entry.

Careers, industry and research

 
 
 

Supporting people through life's challenges

Social workers play a vital role in supporting people through challenging circumstances, advocating for those who are vulnerable, and safeguarding their rights. They work with individuals and families across all ages and backgrounds, helping to create safe environments, ensuring children’s voices are heard, and guiding adults facing issues such as homelessness, addiction, disability, or poor mental health. 
Using social care legislation and evidence‑informed practice, social workers promote independence, dignity and wellbeing. Their work spans a wide range of settings, from adoption and family support to criminal justice and refugee services, offering a diverse and meaningful career path within a profession committed to social justice and positive change.
Within the social work profession there are a multitude of job opportunities. Social workers work in statutory and non-statutory roles. In a statutory position, you would adhere to laws that exist to protect vulnerable clients. In non-statutory roles, social workers still work with similar client groups but are not specifically responsible for enforcing the law, such as within the charity or specialist sector. 
For example:
  • Social service departments
  • GP surgeries
  • Hospitals and hospices
  • Children’s homes
  • Prisons
  • Residential and nursing homes
  • Charities and independent agencies
  • Education and academia
  • Research.
 
 

Practice-based learning

The programme provides you with 200 days of real world social work experience while on practice placements. Placements are in a variety of settings with a range of user groups in both statutory and voluntary sectors. In addition to practice supervisors supporting your learning on placements, your own assigned practice educator will help put classroom learning into practice in a supportive and nurturing environment. 
Further support includes student study groups facilitated by an academic tutor. You will be encouraged to reflect on your practice experiences to develop effective skills and knowledge.
Social work students simulate home visit to service users.
 
 
 
Jonathan Mair - First year BA (Hons) Social Work student (2023)

The importance of relationships is paramount to be a good social worker, as it’s very much a person-facing role. The University has a really good approach to getting people ready for practice and bring real service users into the course, which is a great way to break barriers down. You really get to experience behind the scenes work of social work, and to see the amount of support social workers offer each other in practice.

Jonathan, BA (Hons) Social Work graduate

 
 
 
 
 

Learn from experienced social work educators

Our social work team brings a wealth of expertise drawn from frontline practice, research and international engagement. Their work spans areas such as child protection, adult safeguarding, mental health, disability and youth justice. You’ll benefit from their deep understanding of the profession and develop a strong foundation across the diverse and evolving landscape of social work. Whatever your career aspirations, our academic staff will support your development through integrated learning, real-world placements and collaborative study – preparing you to make a meaningful impact from day one.

Meet your lecturers

Dr Bartosz Zaniewski Lecturer in Social Work


Lecturer in Social Work

Miss Katy Else Lecturer in Social Work


Lecturer in Social Work

Mr Lawrence Badman-Richards Lecturer in Social Work


Lecturer in Social Work

Show all

Postgraduate student life

Postgraduate study at the Â鶹´«Ã½ is about more than just getting a qualification — it’s a chance to explore your subject in greater depth, challenge yourself intellectually, and grow both personally and academically.
With a supportive learning environment and flexible study options — including part-time and January start dates — you can shape your studies around your personal and professional commitments. Our supportive teaching, and welcoming student community, means you’ll be part of an environment that encourages curiosity, collaboration and independent thinking. Whether you're continuing from undergraduate study or returning to education, Â鶹´«Ã½ offers the space, resources and inspiration to help you thrive.
 
 
 
 
Joyita - student blogs web page

The University takes every single step to ensure that students are supported. There are continuous workshops on referencing, a writing café and peer-supported learning sessions. Furthermore, lecturers are generally aware and sensitive to transitioning to university therefore they are always offering support when needed.

Joyita
Postgraduate student

 
 
 

Your Â鶹´«Ã½ community

At the Â鶹´«Ã½, you get the same access to support, sports, and societies as undergraduate students. That means everything available to undergraduates is open to you too, whether it’s joining a sports club, attending events, taking part in student societies, or accessing health and wellbeing services.
You’re a full member of the Â鶹´«Ã½ community, and that comes with all the benefits. So take advantage of what’s on offer — get involved, stay connected, and make the most of your time here.
 

Enrich your studies with the Postgrad Society

The Postgrad Society welcomes all postgraduate students – whether full-time, part-time, taught or research-based – offering a supportive space to connect beyond academic pressures. Join a vibrant community where you can unwind, celebrate achievements and meet likeminded peers through a wide range of activities – from pub quizzes, movie nights and beach cleans to trips along the South West coastal path and the annual Postgraduate Christmas Ball.
Events are thoughtfully planned around key postgraduate milestones and often in collaboration with other societies, so you can try new things and make the most of your university experience.
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Group of postgraduate students on the Hoe on a sunny day

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

 
 
 
 
Tuition fees for UK students starting in 2026-2027 academic year
Full-time study
£9,790 per year
Module fees for repeated or part-time study
£815 per 10 credits
 
 

Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about Fees and costs of studying. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year
Full-time study
£20,150 per year
 
 

Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and costs of studying. 
UK Government announcement on tuition fees
The UK Government has announced that a levy on tuition fee income in the region of 6% of an international student’s tuition fees may be introduced. If implemented, the University reserves the right to increase your tuition fees accordingly. The Government has made it clear that it has not officially decided on its stance and it is possible that the eventual levy amount or arrangements may differ from the initial proposal. Therefore, the University reserves the right to adjust tuition fees in accordance with the Government’s final position on this levy.
We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies. Therefore, please note that the tuition fee shown on this page may change as a result of the introduction of a levy. We advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.
 
 
 

Fund your studies

As a postgraduate at Â鶹´«Ã½, there are plenty of funding options available, including postgraduate masters loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
 

Postgraduate Masters Loans (PGML)

You may be eligible to apply for a to help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate masters course.
 

Tuition fee discount for Â鶹´«Ã½ graduates

If you studied your undergraduate degree at Â鶹´«Ã½, you may be eligible for a fee discount if you complete your postgraduate studies here as well.
  • 10% or 20% discount on tuition fees for home students 
 

Supporting students with the cost of living

The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
 
Careers Hub

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Entry requirements

All candidates are interviewed before an offer is made.
All applicants must have GCSE (or equivalent) Maths and English at Grade C/Level 4 or above OR for applicants where English is not their first language, IELTS or equivalent qualification is required with an overall score of at least 7.0, and a minimum of 6.5 in any component (listening, reading, writing and speaking). Read more about English language requirements 
Normal minimum entry requirements for MA Social Work is a first degree with pass at 2:2 or above.
Candidates are required to show some engagement in formal study within the last 5 years.
They are expected to have a minimum of twelve months experience working with vulnerable or disadvantaged people in a social welfare capacity/setting (statutory, voluntary or independent sector, waged, unwaged or part-time, in the UK or overseas).

Extended entry requirements

  • a suitable English language qualification.
  • evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
  • a personal statement of approximately 250-400 words about the reasons for your interest in the course and outlining the nature of previous and current related experience. You can write this into the online application form, or include it as a separate document
  • your curriculum vitae or résumé, including details of relevant professional/voluntary experience, professional registration/s and visa status for overseas workers
  • proof of sponsorship, if applicable.

Ready to apply?

After you apply

You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeks of us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.
We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail.
Programme code
L502
Duration

2 years
(with placements)
Course type

Full-time
Study location
Â鶹´«Ã½
 

Entry requirements

We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
 
 
 

BSearch entry requirements for your country

5

Extended entry requirements

  • a suitable English language qualification. The minimum IELTS score for acceptable English proficiency for entry is 6.5 (with a minimum of 5.5 in each element). English language requirements 
  • evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), with translations if not in English, to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
  • a personal statement of approximately 250-400 words about the reasons for your interest in the course and outlining the nature of previous and current related experience. You can write this into the online application form, or include it as a separate document
  • your curriculum vitae or résumé, including details of relevant professional/voluntary experience, professional registration/s and visa status for overseas workers
  • proof of sponsorship, if applicable.

Ready to apply?

As an international student, you can apply for this course directly through the Â鶹´«Ã½ or through an agent in your country.
 

Need support with your application?

  • Personal statement guidance
  • Student visa support
  • Travel and arrival information
  • and more
 

After you apply

You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeks of us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview (which in the case of overseas students may be by telephone or video conference) and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.
We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail.
Programme code
L502
Duration

2 years
(with placements)
Course type

Full-time
Study location
Â鶹´«Ã½
 
 
 

Visit us at a postgraduate on-campus open evening

Visit us on campus to find out more about postgraduate study, speak to academic staff, and take a look around our campus and facilities.
 
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Student in art classroom in Roland Levinsky Building