Social Work

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 2 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Next Intake TBA

Course Overview

The Master of Social Work (MSW) at the University of Galway is designed for aspiring professionals committed to promoting social justice and human rights within diverse communities. This postgraduate degree equips you with the essential knowledge, skills, and practical training required to become a registered social worker, addressing complex social problems and advocating for vulnerable populations. You will delve into critical areas such as social policy, child protection, mental health law, and contemporary social issues, preparing you for impactful practice.

This full-time, on-campus Masters programme, studied over two years, integrates theoretical learning with extensive practical experience through two substantial placements. You will develop your abilities in social work practice, supervision, and management, working alongside experienced professionals and service users. By engaging with research methods and completing a dissertation, you will hone your analytical and research capabilities. Upon graduation, you will be eligible for registration with CORU and prepared for a rewarding career in statutory, voluntary, and community settings.

[[ ## completed ## ]]

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program provides a comprehensive foundation in social work principles and practices across two years. Year one introduces core concepts such as social work practice, theory, methods, policy, and research, alongside practical experience through Placement I. Year two builds upon this foundation with advanced topics including social work law, human rights, contemporary issues, and management within diverse settings, culminating in a research dissertation and Placement II.

1 Year 1

Social Work Practice
Theory and Social Work I
Methods of Social Work
Support and Protection across the Lifecourse
Social Policy
Mental Health and Applied Law
Placement I
Research Methods

2 Year 2

Social Work, Law and Human Rights
Contemporary Social Issues
Social Work, Supervision, Management & Administration in a Culturally Diverse Setting
Theory and Social Work II
Criminal Justice System, Probation & Social Work
Research Dissertation
Placement II

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 23,409.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 23,409.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 46,819.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 864.00 - USD 1,085.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,807.00 - USD 4,491.00
Transport USD 702.00 - USD 1,684.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,404.00 - USD 2,105.00
Estimated Total USD 4,913.00 - USD 8,280.00

Living cost estimates are based on Galway Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

96%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Commercial & Industrial ConstructionEdTech & E-LearningEvent Promotion & ManagementFilm & Television ProductionHome Health & Long‑Term CareMental Health & CounselingQuantity Surveying & Cost EstimationRehabilitation & PhysiotherapySports & AthleticsStreaming & Digital Content

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Centre for Talented Youth, Ireland (CTYI) at DCU

Dublin City University

European commission

Health Service Executive (HSE)

S3 Connected Health

St. Vincent's University Hospital

Trinity College Dublin

Tusla - Child and Family Agency

Why Study Social Work at University of Galway

What makes this program stand out

Top 20 in UK For Computer Science

Exeter's Computer Science department consistently ranks among the top 20 in the UK for both teaching quality and research output.

Fast Offers Quick turnaround

Exeter typically responds to applications within 2-3 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Flexible Intakes September start

Primary intake in September with January start available for some pathways through the INTO foundation program.

Accredited Industry recognized

Accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, meeting requirements for Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status.

Life at University of Galway in Ireland

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Social Work at University of Galway

Can I work while studying?

International students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during the term and up to 40 hours per week during breaks. No separate work permit is needed as long as students are enrolled in a full-time program.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English language requirements, international students can provide scores from TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. Specific score thresholds vary by test, so be sure to check the details for each.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue roles such as registered social worker, community development officer, child welfare advocate, and mental health counselor.

What will I actually study in this course?

The MA in Social Work equips graduates with essential skills to address social problems and promote human rights and social justice. Students engage in both in-class and practice-based learning, benefiting from partnerships with various organizations.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The intake month for the Social Work course is September. Make sure to apply early to secure your place in the program.
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
 
Account
  • New student?

Search for universities & courses

ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️