International Social Work & Community Development, MA

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold at least a 2:2 degree in a related discipline such as social care, social policy, sociology, economics, health studies, history or politics. Consideration will also be given to applicants with a first degree of Honours Classification of 2:2 or above in other disciplines.

Candidates with a professional qualification in social care or a related area who do not have a first degree may be asked to demonstrate their suitability for postgraduate study on the basis of an essay of 2000 to 2500 words on a relevant topic and candidates may be asked to attend an interview.

A detailed admissions procedure will be forwarded on application.

Candidates with professional qualifications and/or work experience are considered on a case by case basis and will be asked to attend a 45-minute interview to discuss their background and interest in the course.

For students where English is not their first language a score of at least 6.5 on IELTS or equivalent.

This course will involve you working with vulnerable groups of individuals, this may include children. In order to ensure that the University offers places on their programmes to suitable candidates you will be required to obtain a satisfactory Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service clearance (formerly termed CRB).

Months of entry

September

Course content

The MA in International Social Work and Community Development is designed to address the pressing global challenges confronting social and community professionals. Students explore the interconnectedness of global and local issues, bridging perspectives from around the world with community-based approaches.

• Gain insight into the interconnectedness of global and local issues.

• Undertake placements in social welfare or community settings to build experience in an area of practice that interests you.

• Develop critical and analytical skills through research on topics that are meaningful and important to you.

What You'll Do:

• Engage in a blend of lectures, seminars, and workshops.

• Participate in practical placements to support your knowledge and grow your experience.

• Develop a range of critical and analytical skills.

• Undertake a diverse range of activities for assessment, including a community research project that you will choose and develop.

Key Topics Covered:

• Develop your understanding and explore emerging issues in international social work.

• Cover topics including pandemics, health challenges, inequality, poverty, global migration, indigenous rights, human trafficking, and the social impacts of climate change.

• Utilise historical, conceptual, and practical tools to understand community development from an international and comparative perspective.

• Examine the complexities of working in conflict zones and how power dynamics shape avenues for change.

• Enhance your knowledge of social policy and bridge theory with real-world application.

• Gain expertise in qualitative and quantitative research methods, fostering independence and critical thinking.

• Develop a global perspective on community leadership, managing a community research project.

• Consider ethical issues and the effectiveness of different methodological approaches and potential risks associated with carrying out quality research in a community setting.

Outcomes:

Graduates emerge equipped to address global challenges with a nuanced understanding of international social work and community development. They possess the skills and knowledge to make meaningful contributions in various social welfare settings, both locally and globally.

This comprehensive programme offers a robust foundation for students seeking to make a positive impact on communities worldwide.

Learning and assessment

Full-time students will have six hours per week class contact time, with three taught modules per semester.

For part-time students, it’s normally between two to four hours per week class contact time. You will study one or two modules per semester, depending on your chosen programme of study. Through your tutor you can negotiate additional tutorial support.

You will be assessed in a number of ways including essays, seminar presentations, reflective portfolios, data analysis and a dissertation.

Fees and funding