MSc Accounting and Finance
Cardiff University’s MSc in Accounting and Finance is designed to develop advance...
MSc Social Science Research Methods (Social Work)
Cardiff
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The MSc in Social Science Research Methods (Social Work) at Cardiff University offers students a specialized and rigorous training in research methods while providing a deep understanding of the social work field. This program is designed for those aiming to become skilled researchers and practitioners in social work. Students will develop expertise in qualitative and quantitative research methods and learn how to apply these methods to various social issues, such as child protection, mental health, housing, and social care. The program also emphasizes the importance of evidence-based practice in social work, preparing graduates to contribute to the development of policies and practices that improve the lives of individuals and communities.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the MSc in Social Science Research Methods (Social Work) blends theoretical knowledge with practical research skills, ensuring students gain a comprehensive understanding of social work issues and research methodologies. Core modules focus on key areas such as social work theory, ethics, and professional practice, alongside essential research techniques in both qualitative and quantitative methods. Students will explore the complexities of social care systems, welfare policies, and the challenges faced by marginalized groups. The program also offers optional modules that allow students to specialize in areas like social care, child protection, or mental health, depending on their career interests. The final dissertation enables students to conduct original research on a topic of their choice within social work, demonstrating their ability to address real-world issues in the field.
Research Focus: The research focus of the MSc in Social Science Research Methods (Social Work) centers around understanding social work practice and policy through empirical research. Students will explore a range of topics, including social justice, inequality, family dynamics, and the provision of welfare services. Emphasizing both theoretical and applied research, the program encourages students to critically examine how social policies and interventions impact vulnerable populations. The focus is on producing research that can influence the improvement of social work practice, including interventions for child welfare, mental health services, and community-based care. Students will engage in research projects that tackle contemporary issues in social work, equipping them with the skills to analyze and influence policies and practices effectively.
Industry Engagement: Cardiff University has strong links with local and national social work agencies, providing students with valuable industry engagement opportunities. Through collaborations with public sector organizations, social care providers, and advocacy groups, students are given the chance to apply their research skills to real-world social work challenges. Students may have the opportunity to undertake placements or internships that allow them to work alongside professionals in social work and related fields. Additionally, Cardiff’s partnerships with social work institutions and professional networks help students connect with potential employers, while guest lectures and practical workshops with industry experts enhance their learning experience.
Global Perspective: The MSc in Social Science Research Methods (Social Work) offers a global perspective by exploring how social work practices and policies vary across different countries and cultures. The program examines the impact of global issues such as migration, healthcare access, and international social policies on social work practices. Students are encouraged to consider how global social work challenges, like poverty, human rights, and social exclusion, can be addressed through research and policy. This international perspective is integrated throughout the program, helping students understand the global landscape of social work and preparing them to work in diverse settings, including international NGOs, global social services, and cross-cultural environments.
Location
Cardiff
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 23200
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 60% or equivalent.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 or 7.0 with no individual component below 6.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 100.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 76.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
Cardiff University offers a range of scholarships to support international students pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate studies. These scholarships are designed to attract high-achieving students from around the world, easing the financial burden and recognizing academic excellence.
Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship: Cardiff University’s Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship is a merit-based award that provides partial funding for exceptional international undergraduate and postgraduate students. This scholarship rewards high academic achievement and study, making it ideal for students with strong academic backgrounds.
Global Wales Postgraduate Scholarship: This scholarship offers substantial funding to international postgraduate students from certain countries, including the USA, India, Vietnam, and EU nations. The scholarship covers part of the tuition fees and is awarded based on academic merit and potential for success.
Chevening Scholarship: Offered in collaboration with the UK government, the prestigious Chevening Scholarship is available to international students who demonstrate leadership potential and academic excellence. The award covers tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and other allowances, supporting future leaders and influencers in various fields.
Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships: For students from Commonwealth countries, the Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships provide funding for postgraduate students who would otherwise be unable to study in the UK. The scholarship includes full tuition, living expenses, and airfare, ensuring accessibility for students from developing nations.
British Council GREAT Scholarships: Cardiff University partners with the British Council to offer the GREAT Scholarships for students from specific countries, including China, India, Malaysia, and Thailand. These scholarships provide financial assistance for tuition fees and are intended to encourage bright students to pursue postgraduate studies in the UK.
Subject-Specific Scholarships: Certain academic departments at Cardiff University offer additional scholarships tailored to specific fields of study, such as engineering, business, and life sciences. These scholarships provide partial funding and are aimed at attracting talented students to specific programs.
Financial Aid and External Scholarships: In addition to Cardiff University scholarships, students can explore external funding options such as loans, grants, and scholarships provided by their home countries or private organizations. The university’s financial aid office offers guidance to help students find external financial support.
Graduates of the MSc in Social Science Research Methods (Social Work) from Cardiff University have a wide array of career opportunities within the social work and social services sectors, both in the UK and internationally. The program equips students with the research skills and theoretical knowledge required to influence social policy and improve practice in areas such as child protection, mental health, and community care.
Social Work Researcher: Graduates can work as researchers in academic institutions, think tanks, or research organizations, focusing on social work and social care topics. They can conduct evaluations of social work programs, assess policy effectiveness, and contribute to the development of evidence-based practices.
Social Work Practitioner: Many graduates choose to become qualified social workers in local authorities, hospitals, or community-based organizations. With their research training, they can provide insights into effective interventions and use evidence-based methods in their practice, particularly in areas such as child protection, adult social care, or mental health services.
Policy Analyst: Graduates can take on roles as policy analysts in governmental and non-governmental organizations. They can assess the effectiveness of social work policies, suggest improvements, and contribute to shaping social welfare and child protection legislation. Their research expertise will be vital in developing policies that address social issues such as poverty, homelessness, and healthcare access.
Social Care Consultant: With specialized research skills, graduates may work as consultants for social care providers, helping organizations improve service delivery, implement best practices, and assess the effectiveness of their interventions. They can work in areas such as community outreach, elderly care, or rehabilitation services.
Advocacy and Campaign Officer: Graduates can pursue roles in advocacy, lobbying, or campaigning organizations that work to promote social justice and support vulnerable populations. Their research skills will help in crafting evidence-based campaigns on critical issues like domestic violence, disability rights, or mental health awareness.
Community Development Officer: Graduates may work with local governments, charities, or community organizations to design and implement community-based programs that address social issues such as housing, unemployment, or community cohesion. Their research training helps them evaluate the effectiveness of these programs and ensure they are responsive to community needs.
Project Manager (Social Services): Graduates can take on project management roles in social service organizations, leading initiatives that aim to improve social welfare programs. Their ability to design, implement, and evaluate research-based projects will be critical in improving service delivery and addressing social challenges.
Humanitarian Aid Worker: With a focus on global social issues, graduates may choose to work for international NGOs or humanitarian organizations. They can conduct research to assess the needs of communities in crisis, develop interventions to provide aid, and help design sustainable social programs for refugees, displaced persons, or communities affected by conflict or natural disasters.
Mental Health Specialist: Graduates interested in mental health may work as researchers or practitioners within mental health services, focusing on the development and evaluation of mental health care policies and programs. They may assess the effectiveness of mental health interventions, improve service accessibility, and work towards reducing mental health stigma.
Educational and Training Coordinator: Graduates may take on roles in training and educating future social workers or other professionals in the social care field. They can develop curricula, deliver training programs, and provide insights into best practices and emerging trends in social work.
Academic or Research Fellow: For those interested in academia, the MSc program provides a foundation for further doctoral research in social work. Graduates may pursue a career as university lecturers or research fellows, contributing to the development of social work knowledge and educating the next generation of social workers.
