Entry Requirements & How to Apply
What do I need to be accepted on the programme?
As a postgraduate programme, we are looking for individuals who have the potential to become good social workers and the ability to study at Masters level. We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds and with diverse life experiences. The entry requirements for this Programme are:
- Normally a minimum Upper Second class Honours degree (2:1) is required;
- Students must also have GCSE Mathematics and GCSE English grade C or above or equivalent at the time of application;
- Relevant work experience in a voluntary or employed capacity is also required for entry to this programme.
In exceptional cases, applicants holding a Lower Second class Honours degree (2:2) may be considered where there is evidence of extensive relevant employed work experience in a social care setting.
You will also be required to:
- prepare a personal statement that offers evidence of having tested your motivation for social work through eg:
- i) a sustained period in employment and/or volunteering in social care or a closely related field,
- ii) personal experience of accessing social work services that have offered you clear insights into the roles of social workers.
In preparing your personal statement you should show how your experiences have informed your decision to apply for social work training.
- attend an interview;
- demonstrate fitness to undergo social work training;
- provide evidence that you do not have a criminal record that might restrict your opportunities to work with children or vulnerable adults.
How to apply
The Admissions Tutor gives equal consideration to all applications received before the UCAS January deadline, in accordance with UCAS regulations and University policy. However, we do start assessing applications and interviewing from November onwards, in order to meet the required timescales. It is, therefore, advisable to make an early application.
Applications must be made via UCAS http://www.ucas.ac.uk/
For further information about the Master of Social Work contact:
The Admissions Secretary
School of Applied Social Sciences
Durham University
Room 254, Elvet Riverside II
New Elvet
Durham DH1 3JT
Tel: 0191 334 1473
Fax: 0191 334 1401
Email: sass.pgadmissions@durham.ac.uk
What financial help is available from the University?
The University does not provide financial assistance in the form of grants, loans or bursaries. However, students who encounter financial difficulties are able to apply for small short-term ‘hardship loans’ from their college.
