Programme structure

This is a two year Masters Programme designed to comply with University requirements, QAA guidelines at master's Level and with the requirements of Social Work England and the Department of Health. In addition, all students are required to meet professional requirements in accordance with the Professionals Capabilities Framework (PCF) (owned by BASW) which supports social work students and social workers throughout their career in social work.

The course offers a generic professional social work qualification which means that you are qualified to work with both adults and children. It is structured around core units in the first year with an opportunity to explore topics in more advanced and critical depth in the second year as your knoweldge and practice experience develops. There is a workshop programme which covers specialist and contemporary topics and a selection of two-day courses covering, in particular, social work methods such as cognitive behavioural and family systems approaches.

Year One

Introduces students to the general principles of social work; developing an understanding of oppression and considering the importance of social work values and ethics. Students will develop insights into the social context of social work considering contemporary social work questions within the fields of social work with children and families, adult social care, homelessness, domestic violence, substance misuse and mental health. A critical appreciation of social work methods and skills will also be established and students will develop a critical understanding of applied social science including developmental psychology, social policy and the law. In addition, students will consider the role of interagency and professional practice and the importance of the role of community and community networks in social work practice. Students will undertake 70 days assessed practice placement in a social work setting.

Year Two

This year provides opportunities for students to further develop and demonstrate the importance of evidence based practice with adults or social work with children and families. This covers a range of topics, including adult mental health, child and adolescent mental health, adult care services, community practice, and children looked after. Students will also undertake a number of research methods workshops. They will be required to complete a 15,000 word dissertation. Students will undertake 100 days assessed practice placement in a social work setting. 

Assessment

Most of the units are assessed by extended essays and case studies which are designed to apply theory and research to practice and policy. There are two examinations: one in law and one in human development. Practice placements are assessed jointly by a skilled and experienced practice educator and a member of the university staff.

You will be required to compile a portfolio of work based on a holistic model of assessment informed by the nine domains of the Professional Capabilities Framework (BASW) and the Professional Standards as identified by Social Work England. This will include your practice with service users and carers, including critical reflections and structured observations of your work. The programme concludes with a research-based dissertation project.

Registration with Social Work England

Social Work England are the regulators for the social work profession. On successful completion of the programme you will be eligible to apply for registration with Social Work England. Should you leave the programme prior to completition of the MSc or Post Graduate Diploma you will not be elgible to register. For further information please visit www.socialworkengland.org.uk.