UNIVERSITY OF AUCKLAND · NEW ZEALAND
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
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Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
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Language
Master's
Level
The Master of Social Work (MSW) is a postgraduate program designed for qualified social workers. It focuses on developing advanced professional skills, knowledge, and the ability to critique and conduct social work research to enhance practice. This program allows practitioners to delve deeper into subjects related to their professional work and undertake research in an area of special interest. It is important to note that this MSW is for those already qualified; if you aim to become a qualified social worker, you should consider the Master of Social Work (Professional) program.
Curriculum
The programme offers two pathways: a 120-point research masters and a 240-point research masters. The structure allows for a thesis or a research portfolio, with options to include elective courses.
- 120 points
- ThesisSOCWORK 796
- 120 points
- Elective Courses
- Research PortfolioSOCWORK 797
- 240 points
- Courses
- ThesisSOCWORK 796
- 240 points
- Courses
- Research PortfolioSOCWORK 797
Careers
This programme prepares qualified social workers for advanced professional roles and can lead to further academic study.
- Community development worker
- Hospital/medical social worker
- Industrial relations officer
- Policy analyst
- Probation officer
- Social researcher
- Social worker
- Youth worker
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the Master of Social Work (MSW)?
- To be eligible for the MSW, you must be a qualified social worker. It is important to consult the University Calendar for general admission requirements and the Curriculum Catalogue for detailed course information.
- How long does the Master of Social Work programme take?
- The MSW programme is offered in two pathways: a 120-point research masters and a 240-point research masters. The duration will depend on the pathway chosen and the structure, which may include a thesis or a research portfolio.
- What are the tuition fees for international students in the MSW programme?
- Tuition fees for international students are calculated based on the subjects enrolled in each semester. You should refer to the Postgraduate fees for international students section on the University's website for detailed information.
- Are there any additional costs I need to consider for the MSW programme?
- Yes, additional costs include a Compulsory Student Services Fee, estimated at NZ$1,108.80 for full-time study, and mandatory Overseas Student Health Cover.
- What career paths can I pursue after completing the MSW?
- This programme prepares you for advanced professional roles in social work, such as a Community development worker, Hospital/medical social worker, Policy analyst, or Social researcher. It can also lead to further academic study.
- How do I apply for the Master of Social Work programme as an international student?
- International students need to secure a student visa, obtain health and travel insurance, complete the application for the MSW program, and pay the required fees by the specified due dates before proceeding with enrolment.
Entry requirements
Previous QualificationMust be a qualified social worker.
Prospective students should consult the Curriculum Catalogue for detailed course information and the University Calendar for general admission and enrolment requirements.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition fees are calculated based on enrolled subjects each semester. For detailed information, refer to the Postgraduate fees for international students section on the University's website. For PhD students living in New Zealand, the 2026 tuition fee is NZ$8,847.60 per year.
Tuition (home)—
LivingEstimated living costs are not specified but include accommodation, food, weekly bills, and leisure activities.
Additional costs include a Compulsory Student Services Fee (estimated at NZ$1,108.80 for full-time study) and mandatory Overseas Student Health Cover. Fees are due at the start of the first semester for full-year programmes.
How to apply
1. Obtain Student VisaSecure the appropriate student visa to study and live in New Zealand. Holders of other visa types must ensure their visa permits study. A copy of the visa must be provided to the University at the start of each academic year.
2. Obtain Health and Travel InsuranceAll international students must have approved health and travel insurance for the duration of their study in New Zealand.
3. Check Enrolment TermsRead and understand the University's Statutes, Regulations, Rules, and Policies. These form part of the agreement between you and the University.
4. Complete ApplicationSubmit your application for the Master of Social Work program.
5. Pay FeesPay tuition fees by the specified due dates. For full-year programmes, fees are typically due at the start of the first semester. Payment can be made via methods like Flywire.
6. EnrolOnce accepted and all conditions are met, proceed with enrolment. Full-time study typically involves courses totalling up to 120 points per academic year for visa purposes.
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the Master of Social Work (MSW)?
+
To be eligible for the MSW, you must be a qualified social worker. It is important to consult the University Calendar for general admission requirements and the Curriculum Catalogue for detailed course information.
How long does the Master of Social Work programme take?
+
The MSW programme is offered in two pathways: a 120-point research masters and a 240-point research masters. The duration will depend on the pathway chosen and the structure, which may include a thesis or a research portfolio.
What are the tuition fees for international students in the MSW programme?
+
Tuition fees for international students are calculated based on the subjects enrolled in each semester. You should refer to the Postgraduate fees for international students section on the University's website for detailed information.
Are there any additional costs I need to consider for the MSW programme?
+
Yes, additional costs include a Compulsory Student Services Fee, estimated at NZ$1,108.80 for full-time study, and mandatory Overseas Student Health Cover.
What career paths can I pursue after completing the MSW?
+
This programme prepares you for advanced professional roles in social work, such as a Community development worker, Hospital/medical social worker, Policy analyst, or Social researcher. It can also lead to further academic study.
How do I apply for the Master of Social Work programme as an international student?
+
International students need to secure a student visa, obtain health and travel insurance, complete the application for the MSW program, and pay the required fees by the specified due dates before proceeding with enrolment.