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

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

Develop a strong understanding and ability to integrate theory and research into social work practice.

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.
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

Social Work
Health and Wellbeing
Community Services

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
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

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

Develop a strong understanding and ability to integrate theory and research into social work practice.

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.
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

Social Work
Health and Wellbeing
Community Services

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
Undertake and reflect on extensive supervised field education placements in real-world social work settings.
English language proficiency for non-native English speakers
Undertake and reflect on extensive supervised field education placements in real-world social work settings.
English language proficiency for non-native English speakers