At a glance
24 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
€31k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 9thin the UK for Social Work (Complete University Guide 2026)
- 11thfor Social Policy and Social Work Research Quality (Times Higher Education REF 2021)
- 2 yearsfull-time duration
- 2 placementsin diverse social work settings
- Eligible to registerwith Social Work England upon completion
This two-year Master of Arts (MA) in Social Work program offers a pathway to becoming a registered social worker. It is designed for graduates from diverse academic backgrounds who are dedicated to improving the lives of others. The course provides both a Master's degree and the essential professional qualification required for social work practice. You will gain comprehensive skills and knowledge to excel in contemporary social work roles. The curriculum emphasizes professional practice, including two significant placements in different social work settings, under the guidance of qualified professionals. This hands-on experience is crucial for developing effective practice and understanding the complexities of social work.
Curriculum
The MA Social Work program is structured to build your expertise progressively over two years. You will cover core areas of social work knowledge, skills, and practice, focusing on human behaviour, critical analysis, and effective communication in complex situations. The course includes significant practical experience through placements and a research-based dissertation.
- Year 1
- Social Work Practice SkillsSPY00074H
- Social Work Across the Life Course - Part 1SPY00177M
- Law and Policy for Social WorkSPY00134M
- Social Work Across the Lifecourse Part 2: Knowledge into PracticeSPY00176M
- Practice Learning Placement ISPY00073H
- Year 2
- Applying Knowledge in Social WorkSPY00165M
- Practice Learning Placement IISPY00178M
- Research DissertationSPY00074M
Careers
Graduates will be equipped with the skills and qualifications to pursue a rewarding career in social work. There is strong demand for professionally qualified social workers across both statutory and voluntary sectors.
- Social Worker (Statutory Sector)
- Social Worker (Voluntary Sector)
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the MA Social Work programme?
- You should hold an undergraduate degree or be in your final year of study. The University accepts a wide range of international qualifications, with specific requirements available on their international applicant pages. Mature students with relevant experience are also considered.
- How much does the MA Social Work programme cost for international students?
- The tuition fee for international students is £26,900 per year. Estimated living costs are available on the University's fees and funding pages for international students.
- How long is the MA Social Work programme?
- This is a full-time Master of Arts programme with a duration of two years.
- What are the career prospects after completing the MA Social Work?
- Graduates are equipped to pursue rewarding careers as Social Workers in both statutory and voluntary sectors, with strong demand for professionally qualified individuals.
- Is this programme accredited or professionally recognised?
- Upon successful completion, graduates are eligible to apply for registration as a social worker with Social Work England.
- What practical experience is included in the MA Social Work programme?
- The curriculum includes two significant placements in diverse social work settings, providing crucial hands-on experience under the guidance of qualified professionals.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate DegreeApplicants should have a degree or be in their final year of study.
The University accepts a wide range of international qualifications. Specific requirements can be found via the 'Find the accepted requirements for your country' link on the University of York's international applicant pages. The University also considers applications from mature students with relevant experience and those who may not meet standard academic qualifications but demonstrate potential.
Fees
Tuition (international)£26,900 per year
Tuition (home)£12,000 per year
LivingEstimated living costs are available on the University's fees and funding pages for international students.
Tuition fees for future years are subject to confirmation. The stated fees are for the first year of study.
How to apply
1. Check Entry RequirementsReview the academic and any other specific entry criteria for the MA Social Work program.
2. Prepare Application DocumentsGather academic transcripts, degree certificates, and any other required supporting documents. For international applicants, this includes evidence of English language proficiency if applicable.
3. Submit ApplicationApply via the designated application portal, likely UCAS for postgraduate taught courses. Ensure all sections are completed accurately.
4. Attend Interview (if required)Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview to assess their suitability for the program.
5. Receive OfferSuccessful applicants will receive an offer of a place.
6. Accept Offer and Prepare for ArrivalAccept the offer and begin preparations for your move to York, including visa applications (if applicable) and accommodation.
Accreditation
Upon successful completion of this MA program, graduates are eligible to apply for registration as a social worker with Social Work England.
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the MA Social Work programme?
+
You should hold an undergraduate degree or be in your final year of study. The University accepts a wide range of international qualifications, with specific requirements available on their international applicant pages. Mature students with relevant experience are also considered.
How much does the MA Social Work programme cost for international students?
+
The tuition fee for international students is £26,900 per year. Estimated living costs are available on the University's fees and funding pages for international students.
How long is the MA Social Work programme?
+
This is a full-time Master of Arts programme with a duration of two years.
What are the career prospects after completing the MA Social Work?
+
Graduates are equipped to pursue rewarding careers as Social Workers in both statutory and voluntary sectors, with strong demand for professionally qualified individuals.
Is this programme accredited or professionally recognised?
+
Upon successful completion, graduates are eligible to apply for registration as a social worker with Social Work England.
What practical experience is included in the MA Social Work programme?
+
The curriculum includes two significant placements in diverse social work settings, providing crucial hands-on experience under the guidance of qualified professionals.