MA Social Research (Social Work and Professional Practice)

Program Overview

The MA Social Research (Social Work and Professional Practice) at the University of Birmingham is designed for those aiming to pursue a career in social research within the field of social work. The program is structured to provide both a theoretical understanding of social work practice and a rigorous training in qualitative and quantitative research methods. Students will explore a variety of topics, such as social policy, social welfare, child protection, mental health, and community development, with a strong emphasis on the ethical considerations involved in social research. The program offers a combination of taught modules and a dissertation, allowing students to tailor their studies to their specific research interests. It is ideal for those who wish to combine academic research with practical social work applications to make a significant impact in the field.

Curriculum: The MA Social Research (Social Work and Professional Practice) program offers a robust curriculum that integrates core research modules with specialized content in social work. Core modules typically include Social Work Theory and Practice, Research Methodologies in Social Work, Qualitative Research Methods, and Quantitative Research Methods. These modules provide students with a comprehensive foundation in both the theoretical and practical aspects of social work research. Optional modules allow students to focus on specific areas of social work, such as Child and Family Social Work, Mental Health and Social Work, and Community Development and Social Policy. The curriculum ensures that students gain proficiency in the key research techniques necessary for social work practice, including interviews, surveys, case studies, and data analysis. The program culminates in a research dissertation, where students can explore an area of interest in depth, applying the research skills developed throughout the course.

Research Focus: The MA Social Research (Social Work and Professional Practice) program places a strong emphasis on research in social work and professional practice, focusing on areas that are directly relevant to improving the lives of vulnerable individuals and communities. The program encourages students to engage with contemporary issues in social work practice, such as social justice, advocacy, child welfare, mental health, and domestic violence. The research focus is grounded in the ethical challenges faced by social workers, including issues related to power, inequality, and human rights. Students are also encouraged to engage with the development of evidence-based practices in social work, which are vital for improving outcomes in social services. The program incorporates critical analysis of the existing literature, enabling students to contribute to the field's growing body of knowledge through their independent research projects.

Industry Engagement: The MA Social Research (Social Work and Professional Practice) program at the University of Birmingham fosters strong connections with the social work sector, ensuring that students gain practical experience and industry insights during their studies. The university has established partnerships with a wide range of social service providers, charities, and government agencies, providing students with opportunities to engage with professionals in the field. Students may have the chance to undertake work placements or internships, which allow them to apply their research skills in real-world social work settings. These placements also give students a better understanding of the challenges faced by social workers in practice and provide valuable networking opportunities. Additionally, guest speakers and professionals from the social work sector frequently contribute to the program, offering students the latest insights and developments in social work practice and research.

Global Perspective: The MA Social Research (Social Work and Professional Practice) program incorporates a global perspective, acknowledging the international dimensions of social work practice. Social work is a profession that addresses universal issues such as poverty, inequality, human rights, and access to healthcare, which are experienced in various forms around the world. The program encourages students to explore the global context of social work, considering how social welfare systems differ across countries and how international social work standards and policies influence practice. Students are also encouraged to examine the global challenges of social justice and human rights, particularly in relation to vulnerable populations. By fostering a global understanding of social work, the program ensures that students are well-prepared to work in international settings or contribute to global social work research and policy development.