Social Work Staffordshire University

Overview

The MA Social Work programme at Staffordshire University is an essential pathway for those seeking to enter the rewarding field of social work. This pre-registration postgraduate degree is meticulously crafted to prepare individuals for a meaningful career, with a strong emphasis on human rights and social justice principles. The course is regulated by Social Work England, ensuring that graduates meet the standards required for professional registration as social workers.

This accelerated course is ideal for graduates who hold a degree in any discipline and wish to qualify as social workers in approximately two years, rather than the traditional three to four years. This unique structure allows students to transition into the social work profession swiftly while being eligible for the NHS Social Work bursary, providing financial support during their studies.

Throughout the programme, students engage in a critical learning approach that examines both structural and individual factors affecting the lives of those requiring social work intervention. The curriculum includes 200 days of practice-based learning, which is a crucial component of the training. Students will undertake placements in various social welfare settings, gaining hands-on experience that is vital for their professional development.

The teaching methodology incorporates simulation techniques, allowing students to practice their skills in a controlled environment that replicates real-life scenarios. This innovative approach ensures that graduates are not only knowledgeable but also highly employable, equipped with practical skills needed to navigate the complexities of social work.

Staffordshire University boasts an award-winning team of experienced faculty members who are dedicated to supporting students throughout their educational journey. The university maintains strong partnerships with local agencies, providing high-quality placements and fostering a collaborative learning environment. Students will also participate in interprofessional working within a growing community of Health and Social Care postgraduate students, enriching their educational experience.

The MA Social Work programme is structured to include various modules that cover essential topics in social work practice. These modules include:

• Core Skills for Social Work Practice
• Social Work Law
• Critical Theory for Social Work
• Critical Perspectives on Social Work and Society
• Evidencing Capability – Practice Learning 1
• Evidencing Capability – Practice Learning 2
• Social Work in Context
• Research for Contemporary Social Work Practice
• Evidence-based Decision Making Across the Lifespan
• Dissertation

In the first semester, students acquire foundational skills and knowledge essential for supervised practice. The second semester involves an 80-day practice-based learning placement, followed by a focus on critical analysis and safeguarding in the second year. The final semester culminates in a 100-day placement and the completion of a dissertation, allowing students to engage in independent research relevant to their field.

Graduates of the MA Social Work programme are well-positioned to pursue a range of career opportunities within social work and related fields. Many find employment with organisations that provided their placements, while others may choose to further their studies at the doctoral level. The course equips students not only with practical skills but also with the theoretical knowledge necessary to excel in various roles within the social work sector.

For those interested in pursuing this transformative journey, applications for international students for the January 2026 intake will close on 8 October 2025. Don't miss the chance to make a difference in people's lives through a career in social work.

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.