Social Work MSc
School of Humanities, Social Sciences and Law
Learn how to support individuals, families, and communities, while working towards the professional accreditation required for a career in social work
This postgraduate qualification combines theory and practice to provide you with the professional accreditation needed for a career in social work or a related profession.
Aimed at graduates from all disciplines, it reflects the multi-disciplinary, professional context of 21st century social work.
The course will provide you with a fundamental understanding of the theory and practice that underpins professional social work as a profession. Over the course of your studies you will split your time between learning on campus and learning in practice placements.
A key aspect of the course is how we engage and involve people who have experience of using services and social work professionals in our teaching.
We emphasise research-based practice and our teaching team includes leading researchers in a broad range of areas, including health and social care integration, disability, criminal justice, and child protection. Their expertise informs every aspect of our teaching.
We will help you develop a strong professional identity, enabling you to function competently and confidently in multi-disciplinary settings, and to strive for social justice.
Placements are an integral part of this course. On placement you will be attached to a social work practice setting and will be under the supervision of a practice educator. Throughout your studies you will have three practice placements comprising a total of 200 days on placement. You will also have periods when your return to the University and your personal tutor will provide regular support, including visiting you, while on placement.
We have links with a wide range of agencies across the statutory, voluntary, and private sectors. This allows us to provide you with practice learning opportunities that not only enable you to apply your learning in practice, but also introduces you to a network of professional contacts.
A small number of bursaries are available for Scottish students via the Scottish Social Services Council. The bursary consists of a tuition fee grant, a means-tested grant and allowance, and placement travel expenses. The bursary currently does not cover the full cost of your fees, and it is your responsibility to pay the difference.
We nominate students who are eligible, but this doesn't guarantee that a bursary will be awarded. If you wish to be considered for nomination you need to submit your course application for the course by the end of April.
Professional accreditation

Professionally accredited by the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) and recognised by the corresponding regulators of social work in England, Northern Ireland, and Wales.
Those who successfully complete the course are eligible for registration with the SSSC as a Newly Qualified Social Worker.

Martha Umeh Ude-Eze, MSc Social Work
Sandra Ofori, MSc Social Work student 2019
Rankings
The Times & The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024
If you have any questions about the admissions process, studying, or living in Dundee, please contact us