Master of Social Work
Social Services
A course by
University of Canterbury
UC's Master of Social Work (MSW) is a research-based thesis degree aimed at practitioners with specialist practice, supervisory, management, or policy analysis and development responsibilities in social work. The programme is flexible to meet professional needs and interests and can be studied full-time or part-time.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Ilam, Christchurch
It will take a total of 1 year
Coming Soon: Nexties Explorer
Our AI-powered Explorer is almost ready. Soon, you’ll be able to build a dynamic profile of your skills, goals, and strengths, and get a curated selection of courses just for you.
More detailsUnlock these abilities
Advanced Research Skills
Ability to design, conduct, and complete a significant research thesis in social work.
Specialist Practice Knowledge
Enhanced knowledge in specialist social work practice areas, suitable for supervisory or management roles.
Policy Analysis and Development
Skills to critically analyze and contribute to social work policy formulation and development.
What You're Signing Up For
The Master of Social Work (MSW) at the University of Canterbury is a thesis-based postgraduate degree designed for professional social work practitioners seeking advanced knowledge and research skills. Candidates complete a thesis on a full-time (1 year) or part-time (up to 3 years) basis, focusing on specialist practice, supervision, management, or policy analysis and development. The programme is tailored to individual professional interests and requires prior professional social work qualifications and fieldwork. The degree may be awarded with Distinction or Merit. International enrolments are currently closed for this degree. The MSW provides excellent preparation for advanced professional roles in social work and can lead to progression to PhD studies in Social Work.
Course Content
- Thesis research project in social work (SOWK695 MSW Thesis)
- Advanced specialist practice in social work
- Supervisory and management responsibilities in social work
- Policy analysis and development in social work
- Professional and research skills tailored to individual interests and needs
What you need to know first
Professional qualification in Social Work with completed fieldwork requirements
Bachelor of Social Work with First Class or Second Class Honours Division I
Any bachelor’s degree plus Graduate Diploma in Social Work
Any bachelor's degree plus Postgraduate Diploma in Social Work with a B+ GPA or equivalent
Approved qualifying course to the standard of prerequisite courses
English language requirements for non-native speakers
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Social Work
Health Care
Community Services
Future employment opportunities might be
Specialist Social Worker
Social Work Supervisor
Social Work Manager
Policy Analyst
Coming Soon: Nexties Explorer
Our AI-powered Explorer is almost ready. Soon, you’ll be able to build a dynamic profile of your skills, goals, and strengths, and get a curated selection of courses just for you.
More details