MA Social Work

Program Overview

The MA Social Work at the University of Birmingham is designed for students who want to pursue a career in social work while gaining a deep understanding of the social, psychological, and legal aspects of the profession. The program is structured around core modules that cover social work theory, ethical practice, research methods, mental health, child protection, and social justice. A key feature of the program is the integration of practical placements, which allow students to gain hands-on experience in real social work environments. Over the course of the program, students are expected to complete two significant placements, where they will work alongside experienced professionals in different social work settings. This real-world experience is complemented by academic learning, ensuring that students are well-equipped to apply theoretical knowledge to practice. The MA Social Work program is designed to foster critical thinking, reflective practice, and a commitment to ethical, person-centered care.

Curriculum: The MA Social Work program follows a well-rounded curriculum that includes both academic and practice-based components. Core modules typically cover subjects such as Social Work Theories and Methods, Research Methods for Social Work, Ethical and Legal Issues in Social Work, Mental Health and Social Work, and Child Protection and Safeguarding. Additionally, students can choose from a range of optional modules that allow for further specialization in areas such as Adult Social Care, Disability and Social Inclusion, and Social Work with Older People. Throughout the program, students will engage in a combination of lectures, seminars, case studies, and practical skills training. The curriculum emphasizes the development of key social work skills, such as assessment, intervention, and communication, while also promoting critical reflection on the complexities of social work practice.

Research Focus: The MA Social Work program at the University of Birmingham places a strong emphasis on research and evidence-based practice. Students are encouraged to engage with contemporary social work research, including studies on social justice, inequality, mental health, and community engagement. The program incorporates research modules that teach students how to design, conduct, and analyze research, ensuring that they can apply research findings to inform social work practice. The dissertation element of the program allows students to focus on an area of social work practice that interests them, such as child welfare, family support, or adult social care. The research focus within the program equips students with the skills to critically evaluate policies and interventions, ensuring they can make informed decisions in complex social work situations.

Industry Engagement: The University of Birmingham’s MA Social Work program has strong ties with a wide range of professional organizations and agencies in the social work sector. These partnerships ensure that students benefit from practical placements, professional mentorship, and opportunities to collaborate with social work professionals during their studies. Students have access to placement opportunities in diverse social work settings, including local authorities, charities, healthcare settings, and voluntary organizations. The program also benefits from the involvement of guest speakers, workshops, and seminars led by experienced social work practitioners and policymakers. This direct engagement with the social work industry ensures that students gain insights into current practice, trends, and challenges in the profession, as well as the opportunity to build a network of professional contacts.

Global Perspective: The MA Social Work program at the University of Birmingham also incorporates a global perspective, recognizing that social work is a profession that addresses social challenges both locally and internationally. The program explores the differences and similarities in social work practices around the world, with particular emphasis on global social issues such as migration, human rights, poverty, social justice, and mental health. Through the program, students are encouraged to consider the global context of social work and understand how policies and practices in different countries can inform their approach to practice. This international perspective helps students gain a broader understanding of the profession and prepares them to engage with social work issues in a globalized world.