Analyse social issues and research key issues in social work
2018/19 entry
Find out more about postgraduate study at an online event, a study fair near you, or meet us on campus.
Find out moreThis course is ideal for research training in social work. If you would like to become a qualified social worker you should look at the MA in Social Work.
You'll undertake intensive research training which will equip you with the skills to carry out your own research. You'll also become adept at critically interpreting the research of others.
During this course you'll undertake your own research project in which you'll explore an aspect of social work that you find interesting.
The Department of Social Policy and Social Work at York is a world class research community with the highest ranking in the country for research impact.
This research-based course will give you a foundation of research skills through the taught modules. From a broad introduction to social research methods you'll go on to focus on research in a social work context. You'll follow this with modules that will guide you through advanced research methods.
You'll then progress to developing your own research project.
You'll study a series of taught modules that concentrate on social research techniques and specifically address researching social work. You'll acquire the skills required to develop and carry out your own research dissertation.
Detailed information on each module
Please note, modules may change to reflect the latest academic thinking and expertise of our staff.
You'll also complete a dissertation of between 15,000 and 20,000 words. The dissertation will allow you to demonstrate your skill at independent research and apply your insights from the taught modules to explore and analyse issues in social work. You'll have an individual dissertation supervisor who will provide you with regular guidance.
Your dissertation will require the design, collection and analysis of research data. It may be a self contained project, or you may plan for a subsequent research degree.
Previous dissertations have explored a number of areas of social work, including:
You’ll work with world‐leading academics who’ll challenge you to think independently and excel in all that you do. Our approach to teaching will provide you with the knowledge, opportunities, and support you need to grow and succeed in a global workplace. Find out more about our approach to teaching and learning.
You'll attend lectures and workshops, supported by seminars where you can discuss lectures and readings in small groups. Our modules are designed exclusively for postgraduate students, allowing you to study key issues at a more advanced level.
Our academics are have extensive experience in professional social work and are active researchers.
You'll also be able to attend Department events, including our Making Research Count seminar series.
You will be based in the Department of Social Policy and Social Work which is based on Campus West. The majority of your teaching will take place in Alcuin College on Campus West.
Our beautiful green campus offers a student-friendly setting in which to live and study, within easy reach of the action in the city centre. It's easy to get around campus - everything is within walking or pedalling distance, or you can always use the fast and frequent bus service.
You will be continuously assessed, mainly through essays and reports. You will receive written feedback on all assessed work.
You'll complete a 15,000 - 20,000 word dissertation as part of your own specialist research project. You'll also have the opportunity to present your research as it progresses to a wider audience as part of our dissertation workshops.
| Study mode | UK/EU | International |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time (1 year) | £7,580 | £16,780 |
| Part-time (2 years) Fees for subsequent years are subject to confirmation. | £3,790 year 1 fee | £8,390 year 1 fee |
For courses which are longer than one year, the tuition fees quoted are for the first year of study. Fees for subsequent years are subject to increase (no more than 2% each year).
UK/EU or international fees? The level of fee that you will be asked to pay depends on whether you're classed as a UK/EU or international student.
Discover your funding options to help with tuition fees and living costs.
If you've successfully completed an undergraduate degree at York you could be eligible for a 10% Masters fee discount.
You can use our living costs guide to help plan your budget. It covers accommodation costs and estimated social costs.
This course is a fantastic basis for further study, such as a PhD in Social Work. You will also gain relevant and highly sought-after skills that will qualify you for a research career in academic institutions, local and central government or related organisations.
| Qualification | Grade |
|---|---|
| Degree | You should have at least a 2:1 undergraduate degree or equivalent qualification. |
| Other qualifications | Please see our general guidance on international entry requirements or email international@york.ac.uk. |
You will usually have the equivalent of one year's full-time experience working in social care, health care or related voluntary work.
If you're a non-native English speaking applicant you must provide evidence of your English language ability.
Full list of accepted tests and exemptions.
You can apply and send all your documentation electronically through our online system. You don’t need to complete your application all at once: you can start it, save it and finish it later.
Contact our admissions team if you have any questions
We offer a range of campus accommodation to suit you and your budget, from economy to deluxe.
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