CITY UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG · HONG KONG
Master of Social Work
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
6.0
IELTS
€21k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 55Minimum Credits Required
- 75Indicative Intake Target
- 2 yearsFull-time Study Period
- 3 yearsPart-time Study Period
- Eligible for RSW registrationProfessional Qualification
The Master of Social Work (MSW) program aims to train highly competent and ethically-minded social work professionals. Upon graduation, students are eligible to apply for the status of Registered Social Worker (RSW) in Hong Kong. The program emphasizes a reflective and practice-oriented approach, equipping graduates with the necessary skills and knowledge for recognized social work practice at the master's level. It focuses on developing practitioners who are not only skilled but also grounded in social work values and professional ethics.
Curriculum
The MSW program requires a minimum of 55 credit units, comprising 15 core courses (49 credits) and 2 electives (6 credits). It includes extensive fieldwork training (900 hours) and practical workshops. Special attention is given to social work values, ethics, theories, and practice, with specific modules on working with individuals, families, groups, and at the community and macro levels. Students without a social science background will undertake foundational workshops. The curriculum also covers human behavior, social environment, legal aspects, and mental health.
- Year 1 (Full-time)
- Social Welfare Policy System and ReformSS5111
- Social Welfare ManagementSS5112
- Legal Issues for the Social WorkerSS5114
- Social Work as a ProfessionSS5117
- Social Work Theories and Practice I: Working with Individuals and FamiliesSS5209
- Social Work Theories and Practice II: Working with GroupsSS5210
- Social Work Theories and Practice III: Community Work and Marco-level Social Work PracticeSS5211
- Human Behaviour and DiversitySS5212
- Social Work Research MethodsSS5213
- Practicum Related Workshop ISS6219
- Practicum Related Workshop IISS6220
- Practicum Related Workshop IIISS6221
- Fieldwork ISS6291
- Integrative Social Work SeminarSS6293
- Year 2 (Full-time)
- Fieldwork IISS6292
- ElectiveElective 1
- ElectiveElective 2
Careers
Graduates of the MSW program are prepared for a range of professional roles in social work. The qualification enables them to practice as Registered Social Workers in Hong Kong, contributing to various sectors of society.
- Registered Social Worker
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition fees for international students in the Master of Social Work program?
- The non-local student tuition fee is HK$190,000 for the 2026/27 academic year, which applies until the end of your study if approved. Living costs are estimated between HK$50,000 – HK$60,000 per academic year, and accommodation costs are separate.
- How long does the Master of Social Work program take to complete?
- The full-time study period for the Master of Social Work program is 2 years. Part-time study is also available and takes 3 years to complete.
- What are the entry requirements for the Master of Social Work program?
- Applicants must hold a recognized bachelor’s degree. English proficiency is required, with minimum scores of 79 for TOEFL (Internet-based) or 6.0 for IELTS overall. Applicants whose degrees were not taught in English must meet these requirements.
- What are the career prospects after completing the Master of Social Work program?
- Graduates are prepared for professional roles as Registered Social Workers in Hong Kong. The qualification enables practice in various sectors of society.
- How do I apply for the Master of Social Work program and are there any deadlines?
- Applications are processed on a rolling basis. The application deadline is January 16, 2026. For non-local students, the application fee is HK$450 and an acceptance fee of HK$15,000 is required to secure a place.
- Is financial aid or scholarships available for international students?
- The Hong Kong Future Talents Scholarship Scheme for Advanced Studies is available, but it is for local students nominated by the program. Details on scholarships specifically for international students are not provided.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's DegreeHold a recognized bachelor’s degree from a university in Hong Kong or an overseas institution recognized by the University, or equivalent qualifications.
TOEFL79 (Internet-based)
IELTS6.0 overall
CET-6450
Applicants may be required to pass an admission interview and an English proficiency interview if their IELTS score is 6.0. TOEFL and IELTS scores are valid for two years. Specific versions like 'TOEFL iBT Home Edition', 'TOEFL MyBest Score', ‘IELTS Indicator’, ‘IELTS One Skill Retake’ and ‘IELTS Online’ are not accepted. Applicants whose entrance qualification was not taught in English must meet the English proficiency requirements.
Fees
Tuition (international)HKD190,000 per academic year
Tuition (home)HKD47,000 per academic year
LivingHK$50,000 – HK$60,000 per academic year
Tuition fees are subject to annual review. The non-local student tuition fee of HK$190,000 is for the 2026/27 academic year and applies until the end of the student's study if approved. Living costs are estimates and can vary based on lifestyle. Accommodation costs are separate (Student Residence: HKD$20,800 for two semesters; Off-campus: HK$50,000-60,000 for two semesters).
How to apply
1. Submit ApplicationComplete the online application form. For non-local students, the application fee is HKD450 for up to 3 program choices.
2. Attend InterviewShortlisted candidates will be invited for an admission interview, which may include an English proficiency interview if required.
3. Receive OfferSuccessful applicants will receive an admission offer.
4. Accept OfferPay the acceptance fee to secure your place. For non-local students, this is HKD15,000, which will be credited towards your tuition fee upon enrolment.
Scholarships
Hong Kong Future Talents Scholarship Scheme for Advanced StudiesVaries
Accreditation
Graduates are eligible to apply for Registered Social Worker (RSW) status granted by the Social Workers Registration Board in Hong Kong.
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for international students in the Master of Social Work program?
+
The non-local student tuition fee is HK$190,000 for the 2026/27 academic year, which applies until the end of your study if approved. Living costs are estimated between HK$50,000 – HK$60,000 per academic year, and accommodation costs are separate.
How long does the Master of Social Work program take to complete?
+
The full-time study period for the Master of Social Work program is 2 years. Part-time study is also available and takes 3 years to complete.
What are the entry requirements for the Master of Social Work program?
+
Applicants must hold a recognized bachelor’s degree. English proficiency is required, with minimum scores of 79 for TOEFL (Internet-based) or 6.0 for IELTS overall. Applicants whose degrees were not taught in English must meet these requirements.
What are the career prospects after completing the Master of Social Work program?
+
Graduates are prepared for professional roles as Registered Social Workers in Hong Kong. The qualification enables practice in various sectors of society.
How do I apply for the Master of Social Work program and are there any deadlines?
+
Applications are processed on a rolling basis. The application deadline is January 16, 2026. For non-local students, the application fee is HK$450 and an acceptance fee of HK$15,000 is required to secure a place.
Is financial aid or scholarships available for international students?
+
The Hong Kong Future Talents Scholarship Scheme for Advanced Studies is available, but it is for local students nominated by the program. Details on scholarships specifically for international students are not provided.