Master of Social Work (Applied)
Social Services
A course by
University of Canterbury
A two-year professional master's degree designed to provide students with a recognised qualification in social work, integrating taught courses, research, and fieldwork placements.
Blended study
This is a mix of online learning & face-to-face sessions
University of Canterbury Ilam Campus, Christchurch
It will take a total of 2 years


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Gain a professional qualification in social work
Graduates will be equipped to practise as professional social workers in New Zealand and internationally.

Apply advanced knowledge in social work theory and research
Develop a strong understanding and ability to integrate theory and research into social work practice.

Demonstrate practical competence through fieldwork placements
Undertake and reflect on extensive supervised field education placements in real-world social work settings.
What You're Signing Up For
The Master of Social Work (Applied) at the University of Canterbury is designed for students with a social science background who wish to obtain a recognised professional social work qualification. The programme runs for two years full-time and up to six years part-time, with flexible options for those with other commitments. The curriculum includes eight compulsory courses covering social work principles, mental health, research, Māori perspectives, and two significant fieldwork practicums. Graduates are prepared for a range of advanced social work roles and future doctoral study.
Course Content
- SOWK611 Mental Health
- SOWK612 Tino Rangatiratanga and Mana Motuhake in Practice
- SOWK614 Social Work Theory, Research and Practice
- SOWK615 Social Work Principles and Skills
- SOWK640 Practice Research for Social Work
- SOWK671 Field Education 1
- SOWK672 Field Education 2
- SOWK673 Practice Research Integration
What you need to know first
A bachelor's degree with a B average at 300-level courses
Prior study in social research and human development, or relevant practice experience, or another qualifying programme
English language proficiency for non-native English speakers

What sort of industry will this job lead to
Social Work
Health and Wellbeing
Community Services

Future employment opportunities might be
Professional social worker in a variety of health and community settings
Specialist roles in social services agencies
Entry into higher-level/research roles in social work


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