Master of Social Work (MSW)
A two-year full-time programme combining academic study and fieldwork placements to qualify as a registered social worker in Ireland and abroad.
Best for:Best for graduates with a strong academic background in social sciences, hands-on social work experience, and a commitment to ethical practice and community engagement.
Overview
The Master of Social Work (MSW) at University College Cork is a two-year full-time programme designed to equip students with the academic knowledge and practical skills required to become registered social workers. The curriculum integrates classroom learning with extensive fieldwork placements, ensuring graduates are prepared for professional practice. This programme is approved by CORU, the regulatory body for social workers in Ireland. Applicants are evaluated based on academic performance, social work-related experience, and personal motivation. Graduates gain eligibility to register as social workers in Ireland and internationally, opening doors to careers in community, clinical, and policy-focused social work.
What you'll do
- Engage in a rigorous academic curriculum covering social work theory, practice, and policy.
- Complete 420 hours of supervised fieldwork placements in diverse social work settings.
- Develop and apply ethical frameworks to social work practice.
- Conduct research and write assignments that address real-world social issues.
- Participate in group discussions, workshops, and seminars focused on social work challenges.
- Collaborate with professionals in social work placements to gain practical experience.
- Engage in self-reflection and continuous professional development throughout the programme.
Requirements
Degree required: A Second Class Honours Grade I (or equivalent) in a primary honours Bachelor of Social Science (BSocSc) degree, or completion of an approved conversion programme such as the Higher Diploma in Social Policy with at least a Second Class Honours Grade I.
Degree offered: Master of Social Work (MSW)
Language: English; proficiency meeting university-approved standards (e.g., IELTS 6.5 or equivalent).
Instruction: English
- Demonstrated academic excellence in social sciences or related fields.
- 420 hours of verified social work-related experience by the interview date.
- Ability to secure Garda Vetting (police clearance) for unsupervised work with vulnerable populations.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills for academic and professional settings.
- Commitment to ethical practice and social justice principles.
- Applicants must have graduated with at least a Second Class Honours Grade I in a BSocSc degree or equivalent.
- Current final-year students in BSocSc or equivalent programmes may apply pending final exam results.
- Applicants must secure Garda Vetting for participation in fieldwork placements.
- Applicants must meet the university’s English language requirements if non-native speakers.
- Applicants must not simultaneously apply for both the MSW and Postgraduate Diploma in Social Work Studies.
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
Admissions not verified
A catalogue listing does not mean applications are open or funding is guaranteed. Check the source for your intake.
- Intake
- Not confirmed by the source
- Duration
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- Teaching language
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- Taught / research mode
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- Study mode
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- Campus
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- Prerequisites
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- Application instructions
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- Tuition
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- Funding
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How to apply
Deadline: 2026-02-09
Applicants must submit their application through the University College Cork’s official postgraduate application portal. Required documents include academic transcripts, a CV, a personal statement, proof of social work experience, and a reference letter. Non-EU applicants must follow the international student application procedure. The selection process includes an interview to assess academic performance, research capacity, and suitability for the programme.
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Personal statement or motivation letter
- Proof of 420 hours of social work-related experience
- Reference letter
- Proof of English language proficiency (if applicable)
- Garda Vetting clearance (if applicable)
Contact
Postgraduate Admissions Office· Admissions Coordinator
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