MSc in Mental Health and Mental Capacity Law
A specialised master’s programme preparing social workers for Approved Social Worker roles under Northern Ireland mental health legislation.
Best for:Best for qualified social workers or those with equivalent experience seeking to specialise in mental health and mental capacity law for Approved Social Worker roles.
Overview
This MSc programme at Queen’s University Belfast offers specialised training for social workers aiming to become Approved Social Workers under the Mental Health (Northern Ireland) Order 1986 and the Mental Capacity Act (Northern Ireland) 2016. It combines legal expertise with practical social work experience, ensuring graduates can competently support individuals with mental health disorders or capacity issues. The curriculum integrates academic study with workplace-based learning, supported by employers. Ideal for professionals seeking to advance their careers in mental health social work with a legal focus, this programme bridges theory and practice to meet regulatory requirements.
What you'll do
- Study and apply mental health and mental capacity legislation in a Northern Ireland context.
- Develop competence in assessing and supporting individuals with mental health disorders or capacity issues.
- Engage in workplace-based learning to demonstrate practical social work skills.
- Collaborate with employers to integrate academic learning with professional practice.
- Contribute to research and policy discussions related to mental health and social work.
- Prepare for Approved Social Worker certification through structured training and assessment.
Requirements
Degree required: A 2.2 Honours degree or above in any discipline, or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University. Alternatively, applicants may demonstrate experience and qualifications enabling postgraduate study via a Pre-2007 Post-Qualifying Social Work Award or a reflective assignment (2,000 words).
Degree offered: MSc in Mental Health and Mental Capacity Law
Language: English; IELTS 7.0 overall with no less than 6.0 in any component (or equivalent qualification).
Instruction: English
- Proven experience or qualification in social work or a related field.
- Ability to demonstrate competence in mental health and social work practice.
- Nomination and support from a Health and Social Care Trust or employer.
- Proficiency in English for academic study.
- Must be nominated by a Health and Social Care Trust or employer.
- Employer must commit to providing support and learning opportunities.
- Non-EEA nationals must meet UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) English language requirements for visa purposes.
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
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How to apply
Deadline: 2026-07-31 (Europe/Dublin)
Applicants must apply through Queen’s University Belfast’s official postgraduate application portal. Ensure you are nominated by your Health and Social Care Trust or employer. Submit all required documents, including academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, and a reflective assignment if applicable. Late applications may be considered, but early submission is encouraged.
- CV or curriculum vitae
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS or equivalent)
- Nomination letter from Health and Social Care Trust or employer
- Reflective assignment (2,000 words) if not meeting standard degree requirements
- Three letters of recommendation (if applicable)
Contact
Postgraduate Admissions Office· Admissions Coordinator
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