Master of Social Work (MSW)
Prepare for professional social work registration with CORU through a rigorous, practice-focused master’s programme.
Best for:Best for graduates with a social science background and at least 420 hours of relevant practice experience seeking a structured pathway to professional social work registration.
Overview
The Master of Social Work (MSW) programme at Trinity College Dublin is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge required to register as professional social workers with CORU, the regulatory body for health and social care professionals in Ireland. This two-year full-time programme blends theoretical learning with hands-on practice, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for careers in social work. Applicants must demonstrate a strong foundation in social sciences and relevant practice experience. The curriculum emphasizes ethical practice, evidence-based interventions, and community engagement, with a focus on addressing social issues in diverse contexts. Health screening and Garda Vetting are mandatory components of the programme.
What you'll do
- Develop and apply social work theories and methodologies to address social issues in diverse communities.
- Engage in supervised practice placements to gain hands-on experience in social work settings.
- Conduct assessments and interventions based on evidence-based practices and ethical guidelines.
- Collaborate with clients, families, and community organizations to promote social well-being.
- Participate in health screening and Garda Vetting as part of professional registration requirements.
- Contribute to research and policy discussions related to social work and social care.
Requirements
Degree required: NFQ Level-8 social science degree (equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree) with a minimum 2.2 GPA or higher
Language: English; Band C (Higher Entry) proficiency (e.g., IELTS 6.5 or equivalent)
Instruction: English
- Minimum of 420 hours of relevant practice experience (paid, voluntary, or placement-based)
- Proficiency in conducting client assessments and interventions
- Ability to write detailed breakdowns of practice experience for application review
- Strong written communication skills for academic and professional contexts
- Applicants must meet Trinity College Dublin’s health screening requirements
- Applicants must undergo Garda Vetting
- No specific nationality restrictions, but proof of English proficiency is mandatory
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
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- Intake
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- Campus
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- Prerequisites
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- Tuition
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How to apply
Deadline: 2026-02-12
Applicants must submit their application through Trinity College Dublin’s postgraduate portal. Required documents include a breakdown of relevant work experience, one academic reference, one reference from practice experience, and proof of English proficiency. Health screening and Garda Vetting requirements must be addressed during the application process.
- Breakdown and description of relevant work experience (hours/weeks)
- One academic reference
- One reference from practice experience
- Proof of English language proficiency (Band C or higher)
- Health screening documentation (if applicable)
- Garda Vetting clearance (if applicable)
Contact
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