MA Social Work at University of Essex

Programme overview

The MA Social Work is a full-time programme for graduates in any subject that combines academic study with practice-based learning to prepare qualified social workers. Study draws on psychology, sociology and social policy, with input from practitioners and people with lived experience through the Service User Reference Group, and includes two placements (70 days in year one and 100 days in year two). Successful completion leads to eligibility to register with Social Work England as a social worker.

Department: School of Health and Social Care | Duration: 1 year 9 months full-time | Intake: October 2027 | Study mode: full-time | Location: Colchester, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Year 1 core modules are Foundations of Social Work Theory and Practice, Law, Policy and Ethics, Life Span Development and Using Research and Evidence in Social Work Practice (15 credits each) and Practice Placement 1 (30). Year 2 covers Critical Issues in Contemporary Social Work (15), Practice Skills and Placement 2 (30), Global Social Work (15) and a 30-credit core-with-options module (HS657 or HS659).

Career pathways

Graduates can pursue a wide range of social work career pathways in local authorities and in private, independent and voluntary-sector settings.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

A 2:2 honours degree in any subject, or international equivalent; successful performance at interview (via Zoom); a personal statement of at least 500 words; one satisfactory academic or work-based reference. Applicants with a lower degree are considered case by case with significant relevant work experience (CV required). A satisfactory enhanced DBS check and Occupational Health check are required, with registration for the DBS Update Service; an Overseas Criminal Record Check is required if lived outside the UK for 6 months or more in the last 5 years. Interviews and offers are made first-come-first-served until places are filled. English: IELTS 7.0 overall with a minimum of 6.5 in each component.

Domestic applicants: GBP 11,600 a year. Per year; fees increase for each academic year of study Source

International applicants: GBP 25,075 a year. Per year; fees increase for each academic year of study Source

Intake: October 2027

Duration: 1 year 9 months full-time

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