MSW Social Work at University of Strathclyde

Programme overview

Two-year full-time Masters in Social Work providing an initial qualifying programme in social work, validated by the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) and based on the Standards in Social Work Education. It blends university teaching with agency-based learning, including 90-day placements in each year.

What you will study

Year 1 includes Law for Social Work in Scotland, Theory and Practice 1, Methods of Professional Enquiry, Individuals, Families and Structures in Society and Practice 1; Year 2 includes Risk & Protection in Organisational Contexts, Theory & Practice 2 and Practice 2; work on the Masters dissertation is mostly scheduled after Year 2.

Career pathways

Qualified social workers work in local authorities, voluntary organisations and the private sector, with services for children, young people and vulnerable adults.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Second-class honours degree, preferably in a social science discipline, though graduates in other disciplines with an understanding of social sciences are welcome. National 5 Maths C or Applications of Mathematics National 5 C (or equivalent), with demonstrated numerical, statistical and budgetary competence. An English qualification at SCQF level 5 or equivalent (or an honours degree); where English is a second language, IELTS (Academic) 6.5 overall with no score below 5.5. At least six months directly relevant experience in social work, social care, community work or a closely related activity at the point of application (or twelve months equivalent part-time) is compulsory. Applicants without a degree may be considered in exceptional cases with extensive professional experience and demonstrated postgraduate-level academic ability. Successful applicants must register with the SSSC including the PVG Scheme.

Domestic applicants: GBP 8,350 a year (2026/27). Full-time MSW rate; Scotland and rest of UK Source

International applicants: GBP 20,150 a year (2026/27). Full-time MSW rate Source

Intake: September

Duration: 24 months full-time

Explore more study programmes

Health Sciences