Social Work (M.S.W.)

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 in Social Work (M.S.W.) at Trinity College Dublin is an accredited postgraduate programme designed for individuals committed to social justice and the ethical practice of social work. You will gain the essential knowledge and skills to address complex societal challenges, working with diverse populations and advocating for vulnerable individuals and communities. This two-year full-time programme prepares you for a meaningful career, equipping you to make a tangible difference in people's lives and contribute to positive social change. It is ideal for those seeking a rigorous academic foundation combined with practical experience in social work settings.

This full-time, on-campus M.S.W. programme spans two years, integrating 14 weeks of academic study with a 14-week professional practice placement each year. You will explore core areas such as child and family law, community development, and mental health, alongside contemporary social policy and research methods. Throughout your studies, you will develop crucial skills in reflective practice and the use of self in social work. Upon successful completion, you will be eligible to apply for registration as a professionally qualified social worker with CORU, opening pathways to roles in child welfare, mental health services, disability support, and community organisations.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Master of Social Work program provides a comprehensive foundation in social work practice, covering essential areas such as reflective practice, counseling, group work, and community development. Students will explore human development within social contexts, child and family law, and issues of equality, rights, and power. The curriculum delves into contemporary social policy and research methods, preparing students for diverse roles. Advanced modules in the second year focus on specialized practice areas including child welfare, domestic violence, mental health, addictions, and working with specific populations like the elderly and individuals with disabilities, alongside further development in research and professional practice.

1 Year 1 modules include

Introduction to social work
Introduction to reflective practice & use of self in social work
Social work & counselling practice approaches
Group work
Community development
Human development in social contexts
Supporting children and families-approaches to prevention and intervention
Child and family law
Equality, rights, identities & power in social work practice
Preparation for practice
Contemporary discourses in social work
Contemporary social policy
Introduction to social work research and evaluation

2 Year 2 modules include

Families and children: practice in a child welfare context
Social work and gender based domestic violence
Criminology, probation and social work
Applied law
Social work in diverse settings
Mental health
Addictions
Youth mental health
Health related social work
Ageing
Disability
Systemic and social constructionist approaches with children and families
Professional development
Working in human service organisations
Social work in a global context
Social work research

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,621.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,621.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 49,242.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 864.00 - USD 1,080.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,930.00 - USD 5,613.00
Transport USD 842.00 - USD 1,965.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,404.00 - USD 2,105.00
Estimated Total USD 6,176.00 - USD 9,683.00

Living cost estimates are based on Dublin Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

93%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Animation & Visual EffectsEdTech & E-LearningFilm & Television ProductionGaming & Interactive MediaHealth Technology & Digital HealthMental Health & CounselingMuseums & Cultural HeritageMusic & Performing ArtsPublic Health & EpidemiologyVocational & Technical Training

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Health Service Executive

Irish Rock 'n' Roll Museum

Tusla - Child and Family Agency

Why Study Social Work (M.S.W.) at Trinity College Dublin

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 Trinity College Dublin 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 (M.S.W.) at Trinity College Dublin

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and 40 hours during breaks. No separate work permit is needed if studying full-time.

What English language score do I need for this course?

Applicants must meet specific English language requirements, including scores from tests like Duolingo or IELTS. For example, a Duolingo overall score of 120 and IELTS overall score of 6.5 are required.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as clinical social workers, school social workers, mental health counselors, or social service managers.

What will I actually study in this course?

Course Overview

Social work is challenging and rewarding and requires a personal commitment to the ideals and values of the social work profession. Those considering social work as a career option should be aware of its ethical and value dimensions and, in particular, the commitment of practitioners to the promotion of social justice.

In accordance with Irish statutory regulations this Master in Social Work/Postgraduate Diploma in Social Work programme is

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The intake month for the Master in Social Work program is September. Make sure to prepare your application ahead of time to secure your spot.
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