The Master of Arts (Social Work) is a 36-unit program offered by the Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences.

Admission requirements

Applicants must normally hold the honours degree of Bachelor of Social Work from an approved tertiary institution and submit a satisfactory proposal for a study program. However, the Faculty Board may, under certain circumstances and subject to specific conditions, admit others who can show evidence of fitness for candidature. 

Course aims

This course provides an opportunity for independent research into a topic of relevance to the field of Social Work.  At the end of this course students will have developed conceptual and analytical abilities in Social Work theory and practice, including research skills necessary for the successful completion of the thesis.

Learning outcomes

Students successfully completing this course are expected to be able to:

  • clearly conceptualise and articulate research problems and questions
  • understand and implement research methodologies relevant to the exploration of social issues and Social Work interventions
  • develop and implement sound social research that contributes to Social Work theory and knowledge
  • provide research leadership to students and colleagues in the field of Social Work.

Program of study

To qualify for The Master of Arts (Social Work) a student must complete 36 units with a grade of P or NGP or better in each topic, comprising:

SOAD9002 Individual Study (4.5 units)
SOAD9001 Research for Thesis (4.5 units)
SOAD9927 MA Social Work Thesis (27 units)

The two coursework topics are designed to prepare students for the thesis and the precise content will be negotiated with the Director of Higher Degree Studies.

The proposal for a thesis must identify a well-defined subject of study, in an area in which the School is able to provide supervision.

It must indicate the candidate's present level of knowledge in that area, clarify the aspects on which further study will be concentrated, and indicate the methodology to be used.

Except with permission of the Faculty Board:

  • the program must be completed within six consecutive semesters
  • no topic may be attempted more than once.
The award of a grade of Fail (F) in either coursework topic may constitute prima facie evidence of unsatisfactory progress for the purposes of the University's Policy on Student Progress.