Programme details

Master of Applied Social Work - MAppSW

Massey’s Master of Applied Social Work will prepare you for practice and registration as a social worker in Aotearoa New Zealand and other English-speaking countries, contingent on their specific registration regulations.

Course description

If you aspire to become a registered social worker without holding a bachelor’s degree in social work, this qualification is ideal for you.The Master of Applied Social Work caters to individuals with relevant practice experience or a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as psychology, education, law, medicine, nursing, sociology, anthropology, theology, case management, or other similar disciplines.

This program equips you for practice and registration as a social worker in Aotearoa New Zealand and other English-speaking countries, subject to their registration regulations. You will make significant contributions to your discipline through our practical, research-informed, forward-thinking, and academically credible courses, which support knowledge-building in Aotearoa New Zealand and internationally.

With small class sizes, our interactive and transformative teaching methods will challenge your attitudes and beliefs. You’ll also have opportunities to participate in field trips and Noho Marae. There are no exams; all assessments are through assignments that cater to various learning styles.

You can work part-time while completing this qualification. The program can be completed in two years of full-time study or up to six years of part-time study. The Master of Applied Social Work includes two supervised field experiences, organized and overseen by Massey. You will spend a minimum of 120 days in social services settings, gaining practical experience in social work practice. If you are already employed in social services, one of your placements can be at your current workplace.

Immigration benefits

This course may qualify for the following visa rights:
In-study work rights
Partner visitor rights
Partner work rights
Post-study work rights

This course qualifies for 5 points if applying for residency under the Skilled Migrant Category.

Career Prospects

A social work degree opens up a wide range of career opportunities. The options are vast and profoundly impactful. Social workers make a difference in various sectors around the world, including:

  • Hospitals and primary health care
  • Mental health and addictions
  • Voluntary, community, and government organizations
  • Child protection
  • Youth justice
  • Housing
  • Offender rehabilitation
  • Residential care
  • Management and supervision
  • National and international non-government organizations
  • Tertiary education
  • Community work and community development
  • Refugee and migrant support
  • City councils
  • Schools
Entry requirements

To enter the Master of Applied Social Work program, you must:

    • Have an undergraduate degree in social sciences (such as social and cultural studies, psychology, human development) or an alternative degree with substantial relevant experience in a social or community setting.
    • Personal Statement: Provide a personal statement explaining your motivation for entering the social work program and profession.
    • Character References: Provide two character references (excluding family or friends).
    • Curriculum Vitae: Submit a CV detailing your academic and work history
    • Interview: Participate in an interview.
    • Provide official academic transcripts for studies taken at all universities other than Massey University.
    • Meet the University’s English Language proficiency requirements. Recognised English language examinationsInternational English Language Testing System (IELTS) – academic scores only
      Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
      Cambridge English Qualifications
      NZCEL
      Pearson Test of English (Academic)
      LanguageCert. 

Credits
240

Duration
2 years full-time

Intakes

Feb

International fees
About $53030 to $66150

Location

Qualification Type

Study level