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Social Work MSci

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Start Dates

21 September 2026

Duration

4 years full-time

UCAS Tariff

120

Recent Awards For Excellence

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About this course

Overview

Why choose Huddersfield for this course?

  • Gain confidence using our state-of-the-art skills labs and immersive simulation facilities on our National Health Innovation Campus.
  • You’ll learn from experienced health professionals and service users whose real-world insights bring teaching to life.
  • Build communication, leadership and teamwork skills through our Health and Wellbeing Academy’s community-focused work experience opportunities.

Accreditation and Professional Links

Recognised connections to give you an extra edge when you graduate. Read More

Approved by Social Work England, this integrated Master’s degree in Social Work is a professional qualifying course, designed to equip you with the necessary skills, abilities and knowledge to succeed in a future career in social work.

The four-year programme combines undergraduate and postgraduate study into a single degree, helping to prepare you to work in all social care settings – within statutory, voluntary, private sectors, and in multidisciplinary settings and work teams – including residential, field, day care, healthcare, and education.

The course is managed and delivered by long-standing partnerships between the University and local social work agencies, including statutory, voluntary, and service user-led organisations, and aims to produce practitioners who can critically reflect on their practice. Social work can be a challenging but rewarding profession, and we take pride in helping you to develop the thoughtful, considerate, and professional qualities you’ll need to succeed in your chosen career in social work.

Why study Social Work MSci

In the National Student Survey 2025, Social Work at Huddersfield is ranked top 5 in the UK (top in Yorkshire) for learning resources, assessment, and feedback. Over 94% of students on this course who participated in the 2025 National Student Survey also agreed that teaching, learning opportunities, and academic support on this course was high quality.

This course will introduce you to anti-discriminatory and anti-oppressive practice within a complex and multi-cultural society, and within the context of professional and agency standards and requirements. You’ll be taught by experienced staff with a variety of backgrounds in social work and social care.

Also, our Public Partnership Group (PPG) and Health and Wellbeing Academy work together to support your development as a compassionate, person-centred professional. You’ll engage with service users and carers through lectures, discussions, and simulations. Their lived experiences will help to build your communication skills, empathy, and the critical thinking needed to deliver outstanding care across diverse communities. While our Health and Wellbeing Academy offers hands-on placement opportunities through initiatives like Get Set Goal and Restart a Heart. These experiences will help you build skills in communication, public health, leadership, and teamwork while making a real impact in the community.

To enhance your studies, you’ll undertake work placements in your third and fourth year, in a social work or related setting. This will help to increase your future employability prospects and give you the chance to make useful contacts in industry. You may also have the opportunity to work and study abroad via the Turing Scheme.

Working closely with local authority partners ensures you’ll be supported to make the transition to social work practice. It will also ensure you’re aware of available employment opportunities and post-qualifying social work progression pathways.

The course is part of the Yorkshire Urban and Rural Teaching Partnership, an accredited Social Work Teaching Partnership between local authority employers and the Universities of Huddersfield and York. The partnership develops and delivers innovative and creative approaches to social work education and training for students, ensuring social workers are confident and creative practitioners with the skills required for working in statutory social work. The Partnership also offers high- quality student placements and a social work curriculum that is co-developed and co-delivered by social workers and service users.

Following the course, you'll be eligible to apply to register with Social Work England, which is the regulatory body for social workers in England. You might go on to work with a range of service user groups, including vulnerable adults, children and families, young people, people with learning disabilities or people with mental health issues, in either statutory or non-statutory settings.

Who can apply?

Entry Requirements

BBB at A Level.
DDM in BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma.
120 UCAS tariff points from a combination of level 3 qualifications.
Merit at T Level.
NCFE CACHE Technical Level 3 Extended Diploma / Level 3 Extended Diploma: Grade B.
Access to Higher Education Diploma 30 Level 3 Credits at Distinction and 15 Level 3 credits at Merit.
120 UCAS tariff points from International Baccalaureate qualifications including a Higher Level at grade 6.

In addition you must have GCSE English Language or English Literature at grade 4 or above or grade C if awarded under previous GCSE grading scheme or equivalent Ofqual regulated qualification (IELTS is accepted in place of English GCSE grade 4). You do not require GCSE/Level 2 Maths for entry onto this course. However, please be aware that some employers may require this in addition to your completed degree.

You will also need satisfactory enhanced Disclosure Barring Service (DBS) and occupational health clearances prior to registration on the course and applicants will be required to attend an interview. Read our guidance on what to expect from your interview. We arrange these as part of the application process. You will be required to sign a self-declaration at the start of each year. All police contact during the course must be reported to the course leader as a matter of urgency and may lead to suspension or termination. We will request an Overseas Police Check if you have lived in a country outside of the UK for 6 months or more (whether continuously or in total) in the last 10 years before applying to us and whilst aged 18 or over.

Applicants must possess basic IT skills, including word processing, internet browsing and use of email.

Applicants should be able to demonstrate the potential to become confident, reflective and safe practitioners eligible for registration with Social Work England as a social worker who is able to uphold a positive image of the social work profession.

If your first language is not English, you will need to meet the minimum requirements of an English Language qualification. The minimum for IELTS is 7.0 overall with no element lower than 6.5, or equivalent. Read more about the University’s entry requirements for students outside of the UK on our International Entry Requirements page.

Other suitable experience or qualifications will be considered. For further information please see the University's minimum entry requirements.

What will you learn?

Course Details

The module will introduce you to relevant English legislation and social policy underpinning health and social care practice. You'll cover topics including economic and political context of law and social policy, legislation and policy that applies to health and social care practice, the criminal justice system, work with children and families (including risk and safeguarding issues), work with adults (including risk and safeguarding issues), human rights and the political impact and influence upon law and social policy. The application of law and policy to the practice context will also be explored.

This module introduces you to sociological and psychological theories that can help us to understand people’s lives and circumstances. You'll have the opportunity to develop your understanding of these approaches and consider the ways in which they impact upon professional practice in a range of social care settings.

You'll be supported to develop the key skills required for undergraduate study, professional social work development and life-long learning. You'll also have the opportunity to develop autonomy in planning, managing and evaluating your own learning through discussions and debates in seminars. Your tutor will complete a report on your readiness to practice.

You’ll have the opportunity to develop an understanding of what it is like to be a service user or a carer in today’s society. Your understanding of particular groups will be supported through a series of sessions delivered by service users, service providers and carers.

This module introduces you to a number of the methods used to assess communities and their needs. You'll consider and appraise needs assessments, community audits and community profiles as methods of assessing community needs and assets. You’ll also consider ways in which a community can organise and participate in such assessments. There will also be consideration of the ethics of such assessment.

You'll be introduced to key issues in research, exploring a range of research designs and examining the concepts of reliability, validity, trustworthiness and ethics at different stages of the research process. This module will help you to develop the necessary skills to understand and undertake research projects, and to engage with, use and critique published research.

In this module you'll examine human development across the life course and look at how professionals intervene in order to support people during these changes. This involves looking at some of the contemporary approaches that social work and social care professionals use that support individuals and families. You’ll be encouraged to critically consider how methods of intervention can be applied in practice. This module will help to prepare you for how you can work with people when you are on your placement.

This module will provide you with the opportunity to develop your understanding of the roles and responsibilities of social workers, and of the challenges and opportunities that come with changing contexts of practice. The module reflects the importance of inter-professional and inter-agency working and you'll develop your understanding of how your practice is influenced by collaborating with service users, different professionals and agencies.

This module will provide the opportunity for you to examine the complexity of the relationship between legislation, health and social care, and social work practice. You’ll have the chance to enhance your knowledge of a wide range of professional social work laws and examine how legislation sets the boundaries for social work practice.

You’ll be encouraged to critically explore the underpinning theory and methods of assessment, which will enable you to develop the ability to hypothesise, assess and analyse situations. You’ll also be supported to learn how to construct support plans and explore ways of assessing children, families and adults.

This module will provide you with the opportunity to apply and develop your knowledge, skills and values in a practice setting. You’ll complete 70 days of assessed practice in a social work/care setting where you will be supported by a practice educator. You’ll be required to demonstrate that you can practice in accordance with the Professional Capabilities Framework for social work. Throughout the placement you will produce coursework in the form of a portfolio, which details your development and includes a final report from your Practice Educator, who will recommend a pass or fail in practice.

This module introduces two approaches that underpin much of current social care and social work policy and practice in the UK; Think Family and Strength Based approaches. You’ll be encouraged to develop your awareness, knowledge and understanding of the importance of practitioners taking account of the wider family circumstances, needs and responsibilities when working with an individual adult or child and when developing services within a community. You’ll be supported to develop a systematic understanding of the impact of issues such as mental health, domestic abuse, substance misuse, disability, illness and dementia on individuals, family members and communities. You’ll have the opportunity to develop your skills in formulating judgements and framing questions to achieve solutions.

This module provides you with the opportunity to critically apply and develop your knowledge, skills and values in a practice setting. You’ll complete 100 days of assessed practice in a social work setting where you’ll be supported by a practice educator. You’ll also be required to demonstrate that you can practice in accordance with the Professional Capabilities Framework for social work.

This module will provide the opportunity for you to reflect upon and develop the knowledge, skills and attitudes needed to be effective in leadership roles in health and social care. You'll be encouraged to think strategically and to develop a vision that will inspire and motivate others. As well as explore theories around leadership and reflect upon your own leadership skills. You'll also be supported to explore your own professional development.

This module examines the international context of social work and the contested concepts of social work within the UK. You'll be encouraged to develop a critical awareness of the issues, policy and organisational changes that impact on the role, functions, responsibilities and duties of social workers working in adult and children’s services and the multi-disciplinary contexts in which many social workers operate. You'll examine the policy, legal and practice contexts that frame adult and children’s social care, including the tensions, dilemmas and debates that exist between balancing social work activities aimed at supporting individuals and their families.

Teaching and Assessment

Discover what to expect from your tutor contact time, assessment methods, and feedback process.

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Global Professional Award

At Huddersfield, you’ll study the award-winning Global Professional Award (GPA) alongside your degree* — so you’re ready for the career you want, whatever subject you choose.

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Interested in a placement?

Placements

During the course you'll undertake two placements (in your third and fourth year) which provide statutory learning opportunities. We work closely with the Local Authorities in the Yorkshire Urban Rural Teaching Partnership, where the majority of placements are provided by Kirklees and Calderdale Council.

You'll be given the opportunity to work in statutory social work settings with a wide range of service user groups. You may have the opportunity to work with vulnerable adults, children and families, young people, people with learning disabilities or people with mental health issues. Placements are also available in the voluntary sector, with previous students placed in national charities, drug and alcohol services, hospices and a wide variety of other sectors.

Also, our Health and Wellbeing Academy at the University of Huddersfield provides dynamic, interprofessional placement opportunities, enabling you to gain real-world experience in schools, community settings, and across various sectors. Through initiatives such as Get Set Goal and Restart a Heart, you’ll have the opportunity to apply your learning in practical ways, delivering health checks, wellbeing support, and CPR training to diverse audiences. Supported by experienced academic staff, these placements help you develop a wide range of skills including communication, public health education, leadership, teamwork, data capture, and audit, preparing you for future professional practice.

I completed my first placement in an enhanced mental health setting for adults. This was extremely enjoyable and helped me to put the theory I had learnt into practice. I also developed various skills including communication, confidence and time management, which I feel will help benefit my career.

- Natalie Stuart
Studying Social Work Msci

Where could this lead you?

Your Career

Previous Huddersfield Social Work graduates have gone on to roles relating to education, healthcare, community and social services in organisations including the NHS, Bradford Council, Calderdale Council, Kirklees Council and Wakefield Council.

100%
Graduates from this course were in work or further study 15 months after graduation.

* HESA Graduate Outcomes 21/22, UK Domiciled

The lecturers were all Social Workers with their own experiences which they drew upon to underpin learning. The course explored all area of practice, as well as values and ethics. This prepared me well for my current role, as it provided me the skills, knowledge and experiences to go into practice as a confident and reflective newly qualified social worker.

- Clodagh Wall
Graduated Social Work BSc(Hons), now a Child Protection Social Worker

How much will it cost?

Fees and Finance

£9,790 per year

This information is for Home students applying to study at the University of Huddersfield in the academic year 2026/27.

Please note that tuition fees for subsequent years may rise in line with inflation (RPI-X) and/or Government policy. 

From January 2027 the UK government is launching a new student funding system for people starting university education. Read more about the Lifelong Learning Entitlement (LLE).

For detailed information please visit https://www.hud.ac.uk/study/fees/

£17,600 per year

This information is for international students applying to study at the University of Huddersfield in the academic year 2026/27.

Please note that tuition fees for subsequent years may rise in line with inflation (RPI-X) and/or Government policy. 

For detailed information please visit https://www.hud.ac.uk/international/fees-and-funding/

Find out more about the national Social Work bursary offered by the NHS Business Services Authority.

Social Work funding - University of Huddersfield

Scholarships and Bursaries

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What’s included in your fee?

We want you to understand exactly what your fees will cover and what additional costs you may need to budget for when you decide to become a student with us.

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If you have any questions about Fees and Finance, please email the Student Finance Team.

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What does the univsersity offer?

Gallery

Simulated home visit allows students to apply theory to practice.

Simulated home visits in our community house.

Simulated hearings in our mock courtroom offer hands-on experience

Simulated hearings in our mock courtroom.

Practising a home visit scenario in our kitchen.

Students learning about home-based engagement.

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Daphne Steele Facilities Tour

Join student Ruth as she takes you on a tour of the University's state-of-the-art Daphne Steele Building, part of our National Health Innovation Campus. Explore cutting-edge learning spaces, including immersive simulation rooms, clinical labs, and real-world training environments. Designed to prepare the next generation of healthcare professionals.

Natalie's Story

From Social Work Student to Senior Management Consultant. At the University of Huddersfield, you gain more than a degree, you gain the experience, confidence, and support to reach new heights. Natalie, a Social Work graduate, shares her inspiring journey as the first person in her family to go to university.

The Real Story of Social Work

We're proud to support the next stage of Social Work England's Change the Script campaign, aiming to boost positive perceptions of social workers across society by sharing the real story of the profession. Watch this film featuring award-winning author Beth Moran meeting social workers and people they've supported to tell the real story of social work.

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Why Hud

Explore the unique opportunities and resources that make our institution a top choice for students seeking a well-rounded and future-focused education.

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Explore Huddersfield

Make Huddersfield your home. A Yorkshire town, surrounded by beautiful countryside, with easy access to neighbouring cities; Leeds, Manchester and Sheffield. You’ll find plenty of places to eat, drink, shop and socialise, there’s ambitious plans for future development. Our campus is situated next to the town centre - making your commute a breeze.

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Your Student Experience

Get involved in great opportunities helping you to make friends from all across the world and create lifelong memories. Join one of over 100 societies with the Students’ Union, experience new cultures through global events, earn whilst you learn and build your skills via our Global Professional Award.

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Budget Friendly

Huddersfield is not only one of the friendliest towns, it also offers you a lower cost of living than most big cities. This means you could have more money to spend, making your uni experience even better. On campus you’ll also find plenty of facilities and services to help you budget and make your money go further.

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Sustainability Matters

We’re committed to sustainability and aim to be carbon neutral by 2030. Our plan includes reducing emissions, enhancing biodiversity, and improving wellbeing through sustainable buildings. We’re investing in digital solutions, low-impact travel, and embedding sustainability into teaching and research, investing over £1m in carbon reduction.

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Committed to Your Future

Since 2015, we’ve invested £198 million to create spaces where you can learn, collaborate and thrive. We’re continuously investing in our campus with your wellbeing in mind—adding features that make our buildings healthier, more supportive and better places for you to succeed.

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Careers support

We know you’re coming to university to study on your chosen subject, meet new people and broaden your horizons. However, we also help you to focus on life after you have graduated to ensure that your hard work pays off and you achieve your ambition.

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Student support

At the University of Huddersfield, you’ll find support networks and services to help you get ahead in your studies and social life. Whether you study at undergraduate or postgraduate level, you’ll soon discover that you’re never far away from our dedicated staff and resources to help you to navigate through your personal student journey.

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Teaching Excellence

Great teaching is engaging and inspiring — it helps you reach your full potential and prepares you for the future. We don’t just teach well — we excel — and we have the awards and recognition to prove it.

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Inspiring Academics

Our researchers carry out world-leading work that makes a real difference to people’s lives. Staff within the Department of Allied Health Professions, Sport and Exercise may teach you on this course.

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Research Excellence

You’ll be taught by staff who want to support your learning and share the latest knowledge and research.

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Accommodation

Looking for student accommodation? Huddersfield has you covered. HudLets has a variety of accommodation types to choose from, no matter what your preference. HudLets is the University’s approved accommodation service, run by Huddersfield Students’ Union.

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Further Study

If you want to continue your learning beyond your undergraduate degree, there is a range of financial support available for postgraduate study, including discounts for Huddersfield graduates.

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Legal information

When you enrol as a student of the University, your study and time with us will be governed by our terms and conditions, Handbook of Regulations and associated policies. It is important that you familiarise yourself with these as you will be asked to agree to them when you join us as a student. You will find a guide to the key terms here, along with the Student Protection Plan.

Although we always try and ensure we deliver our courses as described, sometimes we may have to make changes for the following reasons:

Changes to a course you have applied for but are not yet enrolled on

If we propose to make a major change to a course that you are holding an offer for, then we will tell you as soon as possible so that you can decide whether to withdraw your application prior to enrolment. We may occasionally have to withdraw a course you have applied for or combine your programme with another programme if we consider this reasonably necessary to ensure a good student experience, for example if there are not enough applicants. Where this is the case we will notify you as soon as reasonably possible and if you are unhappy with the change we will discuss with you other suitable courses we can transfer your application to. If you do not wish to transfer to another course with us, you may cancel your application and we will refund you any deposits or fees you have paid to us.

Changes to your course after you enrol as a student

Changes to option modules

Where your course allows you to choose modules from a range of options, we will review these each year and change them to reflect the expertise of our staff, current trends in research and as a result of student feedback or demand for certain modules. We will always ensure that you have an equivalent range of options to that advertised for the course. We will let you know in good time the options available for you to choose for the following year.

Major changes

We will only make major changes to non-optional modules on a course if it is necessary for us to do so and provided such changes are reasonable. A major change is a change that substantially changes the outcomes, or a significant part of your course, such as the nature of the award or a substantial change to module content, teaching days (part time provision), type of delivery or assessment of the core curriculum. For example, it may be necessary to make a major change to reflect changes in the law or the requirements of the University’s regulators or a commissioning or accrediting body. We may also make changes to improve the course in response to student, examiners’ or other course evaluators’ feedback or to ensure you are being taught current best practice. Major changes may also be necessary because of circumstances outside our reasonable control, such as a key member of staff being unable to teach due to illness, where they have a particular specialism that can’t be adequately covered by other members of staff; or due to pandemics, other disasters (such as fire, flood or war) or changes made by the government.

Major changes would usually be made with effect from the next academic year, but may happen sooner in an emergency. We will notify you as soon as possible should we need to make a major change and will consult with affected groups of students and any changes would only be made in accordance with our regulations. If you reasonably believe that the proposed change will cause you detriment or hardship we will, if appropriate, work with you to try to reduce the adverse effect on you or find an appropriate solution. Where an appropriate solution cannot be found and you let us know before the change takes effect you can cancel your registration and withdraw from the University without liability to the University for any additional tuition fees. We will provide reasonable support to assist you with transferring to another university if you wish to do so and you may be eligible for an exit award depending on how far through your course you are.

In exceptional circumstances, we may, for reasons outside of our control, be forced to discontinue or suspend your course. Where this is the case, a formal exit strategy will be followed in accordance with the student protection plan.

The Office for Students (OfS) is the principal regulator for the University.

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