Master of Social Work (Applied)
- Degree Structure - Start In
- Semester 1 (February)
UC's Master of Social Work (Applied), MSW(App), offers an opportunity to complete a recognised professional qualification over two years. Learn more about studying a MSW(App) through Te Kaupeka Oranga | Faculty of Health at the University of Canterbury.
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The Master of Social Work (Applied) offers the opportunity for students with an approved social science degree to complete a recognised professional qualification over two years.
The programme is able to be completed on a part-time basis, which offers some flexibility to those with family or employment commitments.
UC also offers the Master of Social Work involving thesis work.
You must have completed any bachelor’s degree with a B Grade Point Average in your 300-level courses, and have completed either courses in social research and human development, or have relevant practice experience or another qualifying programme.
If English is your additional language, you are also required to meet UC's English language requirements.
A special application is required – see 'How to apply' below.
For the full entry requirements, see the Regulations for the Master of Social Work (Applied) or use the admission requirements checker.
The programme has a limited number of places available, and you will need to complete a formal application to the Social Work department in addition to their application to enrol.
Late applications for February entry to the programme can be made up until 30 September. After this date, further late applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
The full-time programme consists of two parts, and will normally be completed in 2 consecutive years. A part-time programme consists of three parts, and must be completed within 6 years.
The MSW(App) requires 8 compulsory courses. The courses are a combination of distance and on-campus block courses. There is also a research project and two fieldwork practicums.
For full requirements, see the Regulations for the Master of Social Work (Applied).
Part I involves the following taught courses:
Part II involves practical fieldwork and research:
You will complete Part I before proceeding to Part II. The fieldwork courses in Part II are taken simultaneously.
2024 tuition fee estimate: $8,184 per 120 points
2025 tuition fee estimate: $8,675 per 120 points
2024 Special Programme Fee: $61,800 (240 points)
2025 Special Programme Fee: $64,800 (240 points)
Postgraduate study can bring many career benefits eg, specialist skills and enhanced knowledge, entry into specific occupations, higher starting salary/progression rates, research capability/achievement, and evidence of high academic attainment/self-discipline.