Course summary
Our Social Work MA degree will provide you with a practice-focussed and eye-opening learning experience. Learn from expert academics and gain first-hand experience from service users, carers and practitioners, and graduate prepared to start an incredibly rewarding and fulfilling career. Why study this course at the University of Birmingham? Benefit from a truly unique, practice-led experience that puts lived experience and real-world impact at the heart of your studies. You’ll learn from leading academics, work directly with service users, carers, and practitioners, and complete two placements that bring your knowledge to life. Ranked among the UK’s top social work courses, our programme leverages Birmingham’s vibrant, diverse community connections to offer hands-on experience, and its global recognition means you’ll graduate ready to make a difference—locally and worldwide.
- Study with top academics and learn directly from those with real experience.
- Develop essential skills through two practical, community-based placements.
- Build professional links through Birmingham’s strong partnerships across health and social care.
- Enjoy a variety of opportunities for practising social work and other humanitarian work in the UK and overseas
- Social Worker (children and families, adults, mental health)
- Social Work and Social Care Leadership
- Social Researcher
- Advanced Mental Health Practitioner (AMHP)
- Education Welfare Officer
- Youth Offending Team
- Community Development Worker
- Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Officer
- Advocate
Modules
Visit our website for more information on the modules available as part of this programme.
Entry requirements
This course is designed for those with an undergraduate degree in a non-social work subject that are: considering a career in social work or other humanitarian work in the UK or overseas looking towards a career in social work and social care research or leadership The entry requirement is an upper second-class (2.1) honours degree classification or higher. Applicants with a 2:2 degree classification may be considered, on a case-by-case basis, if they have further related postgraduate study or extensive professional experience. Normally, this would be a minimum of 2 years of significant and relevant social work or social care experience. We also require GCSE Mathematics and English at grade C/4 or certificated equivalent level two numeracy and literacy qualification. A minimum of 30 days related practice-based experience. This can be in a variety of fields and does not have to be in a social work setting. Personal experience may count towards your practice-based experience but it is important that you are able to evidence some practice-based experience alongside this. This must show a sustained commitment, evidenced by a practice-based reference. If you do not fulfil these requirements or want further advice, please contact us directly. Please note that work experience is not considered in lieu of meeting the academic entry requirements. You will be required to meet the practice element in addition to meeting the academic criteria. If your qualifications differ from those listed here, please contact the central Admissions team for guidance. More detailed information may be found on the university course page.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
No fee information has been provided for this course
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
Provider information
University of Birmingham
Edgbaston
Birmingham
B15 2TT