Possess an undergraduate honours degree at 2:1 or higher in any discipline. We will also consider applicants who hold a Masters level qualification.
Demonstrate that, by the time they start the course, they will have acquired current and relevant underpinning knowledge from psychology, sociology and social policy, at a level, which will allow them to complete the MA (Social Work). Applicants who have not acquired such knowledge in completing their first degrees or who obtained their degrees several years ago should consider what further study and/or reading is required as well as study skills revision to prepare them for this level of study. They may need to consider enrolment on foundation level courses at their local university or distance learning packages, such as the Open University’s ’Introducing the social sciences’ module DD102.
Demonstrate that they have relevant work experience equivalent to a minimum of 6 months full-time work (approximately 910 hours). This may be paid or voluntary work and could have been undertaken on a full-time or part-time basis. Applicants are usually expected to have had a substantial part of such experience during the past 2 years and to have had experience which includes working with vulnerable groups in Britain. Applicants who have limited experience or who have had little or no relevant experience during the past 2 years should consider seeking relevant employment or volunteering via organisations, such as their local Council for Voluntary Services, local Children’s or Adult Services Departments or local voluntary sector agencies.
Demonstrate that their understanding of social work is informed both by underpinning knowledge and by reflection on their experience.
Hold certificated qualifications in Maths and English which are, at least, equivalent to GCSE (at grade C or above).
The minimum level of English Language attainment for entry to MA Social Work is IELTS 7 or equivalent.
Have Information, Communication Technology (ICT) skills which are sufficient to allow them to begin both study and practice and that they will be able to develop these skills during their progress through the course. (Applicants without such relevant skills will need to demonstrate that they have plans in place to acquire them prior to starting social work training).
Complete a health disclosure form.
Complete a declaration form regarding matters that include criminal convictions, cautions and reprimands and any disciplinary action by employers, in order to satisfy the programme that they are suitable to work with vulnerable children and adults.
All information obtained from the admissions process is used to assess a candidate's potential to successful complete the social work programme and to eventually practice as a qualified worker in accordance with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) regulatory standards for Social Work and the College of Social Work’s (TCSW) Professional Capabilities Framework.
