Master of Social Work (MSW)
Course details
| NZQF Level | 9 |
|---|
About the course
The MSW is a postgraduate qualification designed to enable you to engage with current debates, research, policy, and practice in your chosen field. It consists of four postgraduate papers (including one compulsory paper on research methods) and a 60-point dissertation (20,000 words).
Traditionally, the MSW required at least two years of study (full-time or equivalent part-time). However, the programme can now also be completed on an accelerated full-time basis over 12 months. To meet this requirement, you must enrol in all four available papers as well as the research component, SOWK590. These include:
- HUMS 502
- SOWK 509*
- SOWK 506*
- SOWK 516*
(*You may choose to replace one of these papers with another course, subject to programme regulations.)
The Master of Social Work (MSW) is also available through Distance Learning within New Zealand.
Please note: The MSW does not entitle you to registration as a social worker. It is a post-professional degree for people who already have a registration qualification plus two years' experience.
Entry requirements
General entry requirements
A university entrance qualification is essential for admission to the University of Otago for all types of programmes. You must also be at least 16 years of age by the first day of classes in your period of study and meet English language requirements.
Domestic students
You need to have met the New Zealand University Entrance standard, based on your achievement in secondary school or other prior study. Learn about the different categories for achieving University Entrance and what information you may need to provide with your application.
International students
Check recognised entry qualifications by country, and find out what documents you need to provide for a successful application.
English language requirements
All students must be proficient in the use of English. If your first language is not English, there are several ways you may provide evidence of English proficiency, including through prior secondary or tertiary study, internationally recognised English language tests, and foundation language programmes.
The level of English proficiency required for undergraduate study is equivalent to an overall IELTS score of 6.0, with no individual band below 5.5.
About the provider
The University of Otago, New Zealand’s first university, was founded in 1869 and offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes with a strong emphasis on research and academic excellence. Ranked in the top 1% of universities globally and 2nd in New Zealand, it is also 214th worldwide according to QS rankings. Recognised as the top university in New Zealand for student academic performance by the Tertiary Education Commission, 96% of its graduates either enter the workforce or pursue further study shortly after graduation.
Located in Dunedin, a vibrant student city where students make up 20% of the population, the University benefits from a unique atmosphere. Dunedin, on the south-eastern coast of New Zealand’s South Island, is known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, featuring Victorian and Edwardian architecture, picturesque hills, and wildlife reserves.
The University’s campus is ranked the 5th most beautiful in the world by THE Student Voice, enhancing the educational experience. The Otago region offers diverse scenery and is close to popular destinations such as Queenstown. New Zealand is rated the 1st most beautiful country by Rough Guides 2024, is renowned for its natural beauty, Māori heritage, and multicultural society, providing a friendly, inclusive environment for students and residents.