Social Work

Entry requirements

This course is designed for those with an undergraduate degree in a non-social work subject that are:

• considering a career in social work or other humanitarian work in the UK or overseas
• looking towards a career in social work and social care research or leadership

The entry requirement is an upper second-class (2.1) honours degree classification or higher. Applicants with a 2:2 degree classification may be considered, on a case-by-case basis, if they have further related postgraduate study or extensive professional experience. Normally, this would be a minimum of 2 years of significant and relevant social work or social care experience.

We also require GCSE Mathematics and English at grade C/4 or certificated equivalent level two numeracy and literacy qualification.

A minimum of 30 days related practice-based experience. This can be in a variety of fields and does not have to be in a social work setting. Personal experience may count towards your practice-based experience but it is important that you are able to evidence some practice-based experience alongside this. This must show a sustained commitment, evidenced by a practice-based reference. If you do not fulfil these requirements or want further advice, please contact us directly.

Please note that work experience is not considered in lieu of meeting the academic entry requirements. You will be required to meet the practice element in addition to meeting the academic criteria.

IMPORTANT: Please view our course page for further information on Admission Requirements

Find out more about the University of Birmingham's Code of Practice on Admissions.

Months of entry

September

Course content

The University of Birmingham Social Work MA degree will provide you with a practice-focussed and eye-opening learning experience. Learn from expert academics and gain first-hand experience from service users, carers and practitioners, and graduate prepared to start an incredibly rewarding and fulfilling career.

In these recent challenging times, social workers have had a vital role to play. They engage with vulnerable individuals, families and communities on a daily basis to promote human rights and make a meaningful difference in people’s life outcomes.

Our course will prepare you for the profession through research-informed teaching, value-based learning and practice placements. The modules of the course incorporate the key skills, expertise and values for contemporary social work practice, complimented by two placements providing the opportunity to put your knowledge into practice. Located within Muirhead Tower, you will benefit from modern, hi-tech teaching facilities.

Graduating with a social work degree offers a variety of opportunities for practising social work and other humanitarian work in the UK and overseas. Our degrees are recognised globally in countries such as Australia, Canada and Hong Kong amongst others, where social workers are also in demand.

Please note that you will be required to complete an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and Declaration of Suitability for Social Work form, before registration onto the programme.

Why Study Social Work at Birmingham?

• The Department of Social Work and Social Care produces world leading research in both children's and adult's social work. Alongside generating knowledge and educating future and current practitioners, the department has direct engagement with providers, commissioners and policy makers regarding their work to design and deliver new models of support.
• The University of Birmingham is embedded within a diverse, multicultural and thriving city and region, with strong civic connections, providing a range of experiences for our students to gain hands-on experience.
• Our course places lived experience at the forefront of our teaching, research and impact and we collaborate with a wide range of service users, carers and practitioners to provide students with a broad range of experiences.
• We are a multi-disciplinary university, with a clear focus on collaborations which includes learning with students from other health and care related areas.

Information for international students

You can satisfy our English language requirements in two ways:

• by holding an English language qualification to the right level (IELTs: 7.0 with no less than 6.5 in any band).
• by taking and successfully completing one of our English courses for international students.

• IELTS 7.0 with no less than 6.5 in any band
• TOEFL: 95 overall with no less than 22 in any band
• Pearson Test of English (PTE) including online: PTE Academic 76 with no less than 67 in all four skills
• Cambridge English (exams taken from 2015): Advanced or Proficiency – minimum overall score of 185, with no less than 176 in any component

Fees and funding