Frequently asked questions

General questions

More detailed questions

General questions

When can I apply for entry?

The deadline for overseas applications is 20 June 2025 and the deadline for home applications is 4 July 2025. 

How do I apply?

Applications are made via the online application system.

Is there an application fee?

No.

I have applied before - do I need to re-apply?

Yes, via the online application system.

Are my undergraduate qualifications appropriate?

We require a 2:1 in any academic discipline. Lesser degrees will be considered if there is evidence of substantial relevant work experience.

What are the English Language requirements for the course?

An English Language test will be required. Please refer to the programme prospectus page for information.

What accommodation is on offer?

Please refer to the University’s main accommodation webpage.

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More detailed questions

How is the University of Bristol programme run?

The MSc programme is planned and managed by University of Bristol. This is a two year master's programme designed to comply with University requirements, QAA guidelines at master's level and with the requirements of Social Work England and Department of Health. In addition, all students are expected to meet professional requirements in accordance with the Professional Capabilities Framework (PCF). 

The programme prides itself on being research-live and practice-near, with academic input given by a staff team who are involved in cutting-edge research. This academic input is consolidated through 170 practice learning days and 30 skills days. Teaching and assessment are provided in collaboration with social work practitioners from partner agencies, and members of the Forum.

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Is the programme an approved professional social work course?

The MSc Social Work has the status of an ‘approved programme’ with Social Work England. This two-year programme is provided under the new framework for Social Work qualifications. It is a joint professional practice and academic award. On successful completion of the programme you will be eligible to apply for registration with Social Work England.

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What are the Bristol University fees?

Please refer to the University's fees and funding pages.

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What is the news about bursary support for MSc students?

Each year, the NHS allocates a certain number of bursaries to students on our MSc in Social Work. Following interview, the University notifies successful students if they are being recommended for an NHS bursary. Our bursaries are restricted to students ordinarily resident in England. If you are interested in being nominated for a bursary, early application to our programme is advised. For full details of eligibility criteria, students should contact the NHS Business Services Authority https://www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/social-work-students.  

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What financial help is available from the University?

Please refer to the Social Work fees and funding page.

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What is the selection procedure?

The following criteria are used when considering applications:

  • academic preparedness and good written English;
  • relevant learning from work and life experience;
  • experience and understanding of social work and social care and appropriate personal and intellectual qualities;
  • understanding of, and commitment to, the values and ethics of social work.

Interviews

Applicants will be asked to complete a short written exercise online. If they complete this successfully, they will then be invited to interview. Interviews will be held regularly from December. Candidates will normally be interviewed by one member of University staff, a social work practitioner, and a representative of the Forum.  

The interview day will consist of an information session and a personal interview. 

Successful applicants will then be offered a place. This may be a conditional offer subject to the applicant meeting certain criteria, such as verification of documents, which will be outlined in the offer letter. 

Applicants who are invited to interview are required to complete a 'Declaration of Suitability for Social Work' indicating their conduct, health and character. 

Please note that the information declared does not necessarily rule out the application. However, if relevant information has been declared, the applicant will be invited to discuss this with the admissions team before a decision is made.  

It is also important for all applicants to know that a new Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check will be required prior to enrolment (see DBS checks section for further information). 

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How is the programme structured?

The organisation of teaching and learning on this course is modular. Assessment is based on written work, direct assessment of practice, various forms of continuous assessment, and participation in classes and workshops.

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Can the programme be undertaken part-time?

No. The MSc Social Work is a full-time programme; it starts in mid September in year one and runs for two years.

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What social work research is happening in the University?

The School for Policy Studies has an outstanding national and international reputation for the quality and quantity of research in social work as well as in social policy. The social work team is actively involved in many research studies.

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Do many mature students undertake the course?

Social work is an exciting career for a wide range of people of all ages, and this is reflected in the breadth of backgrounds of our social work students. The broad age-range represented by our student cohorts is a very positive aspect of our programme as it allows for collaborative exchange of ideas and peer learning.

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How much previous experience do I need and in what fields of work?

Ideally, six months experience is the minimum requirement; this can be from a mixture of full or part time and can be paid or voluntary. See our relevant experience (Office document, 36kB) document for more information.

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How will my work be assessed?

Most of the units are assessed by extended essays, case studies and / or presentations which are designed to apply theory and research to practice and policy. There are two examinations; a Law exam and Human Development exam. Practice placements are assessed jointly by skilled and experienced practice educators, practice supervisors and a member of the university staff. You will be required to compile a portfolio of work based on your practice with service users and carers, including critical reflections and structured observations of your work. These portfolios are reviewed by a Practice Assessment Panel (PAP), a team of people who represent partner agencies, the Forum, and the University. The programme concludes with a research-based dissertation project.

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How is the practice placement organised?

There are two placements, the first is 70 days and second is 100 days. Practice placements are arranged by the practice learning co-ordinator in partnership with social work and social care agencies.

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Where will the practice placement take place?

The placement co-ordinators negotiate placements for students in partnership with local authority, voluntary and independent sector providers. At least one of your placements will be in a practice setting where you will be able to learn about statutory social work tasks and skills and subsequently to demonstrate your capability in these respects. The university’s partner agencies include Bristol City Council, North Somerset Council, Somerset County Council and South Gloucestershire Council. We also collaborate with other neighbouring authorities in the South West and have a number of established links with Voluntary and Independent Sector agencies across the region.

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Can I do a placement overseas?

Opportunities for overseas placements are not normally part of the University of Bristol social work programme.

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How much academic and/or personal support can I expect from both the University and the course staff?

All students are allocated a personal tutor for the duration of the programme. For each practice placement, students have a qualified practice educator, and in some circumstances, a practice supervisor who, together with the student and personal tutor make up the student’s Practice Learning Team. 

The University of Bristol also has a comprehensive network of student services which will ensure you have access to support for all aspects of university life – academic, personal and practical.

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I am an international student, can I apply?

As an international student, you are welcome to apply. It is important for you to note that:

  • The programme prepares you for registration as a social worker in England. Registration procedures differ across the world and separate applications will usually be required with evidence of your qualifications.
  • You will be expected to demonstrate, in your application and interview (which will be carried out online), a basic understanding of social work social work (this could be within the United Kingdom or internationally).
  • The social work bursary is not available to international students. For information about our international scholarships, see the Social Work fees and funding page.
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What support is available for students with young children or other caring responsibilities?

The MSc Social Work is a full-time, intensive and demanding programme. It has been designed, as far as possible, to allow for students to study whilst still meeting family commitments. However, we encourage prospective students to discuss the requirements they may have, together with associated practicalities, particularly in view of placement allocation. Please note that quality placements are at a premium and that it is important to be flexible.

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Will I get any credits for previous academic experience?

If you have successfully completed postgraduate level modules on another social work education programme, you should discuss your situation with the admissions tutor, who may be contacted via sps-pgadmissions@bristol.ac.uk. Please note that you cannot count academic credits gained on a programme for which you have already been awarded a degree.

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Can you recommend any pre application reading?

There are quite a few books about social work on the market, and many interesting articles and papers you can access on the internet, such as:

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