MSW Social Work

All students

Normally five GCSEs at grade C or above, including English language or literature or equivalent*, plus

• an honours degree recognised in the UK at 2.2 or above in any subject, together with relevant personal or professional experience of social care

You may also be able to claim credit points which can reduce the amount of time it takes to complete your qualification at Sheffield Hallam. Find out more

GCSE English equivalents are

• equivalency test from www.equivalencytesting.co.uk

International and European Union entry qualifications

If you are an international or EU student, please visit our international qualifications web page to see the country specific academic qualifications we accept.

IELTS

If English is not your first language you will need an IELTS score of 7.0 with a minimum of 6.5 in all skills, or a recognised equivalent. If your level of English language is currently below IELTS 7.0 we recommend you consider an appropriate Sheffield Hallam University Pre-sessional English course which will enable you to achieve the required level of English. Please note that the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC) require IELTS 7.0 with no element below 6.5 for registration.

Helping your application succeed

Experience

Experience of interacting with members of the public from a range of backgrounds in different settings is essential when applying to a health or social care course. This is so you will have an understanding of the diversity of the population who access health and social care.  It is important to be able to understand and explain how your experiences relate to the activities and qualities which are required for the profession at your interview.

Applying

You can find out more about how to apply to university, and your personal statement here. For social work courses your personal statement should

• Demonstrate some understanding of what social work is and that you are aware of the complex demanding nature of it. Include in your statement evidence of social work values and the legal and safeguarding aspects of social work practice.

• Evidence that you have done some reading and thinking about social work.Try to provide evidence that you are aware of current research and policy initiatives relating to social work. If possible provide examples of how these relate to your own experiences.

• Reflect upon relevant work experiences, drawing out your own skills and knowledge and what you have learned about the experiences that service users have. Try not to list the types of work you have undertaken.This is your opportunity to relate your own experiences to social work practice and values. 

• In preparing your application you should review the Professional Capabilities Framework for social work, which contains information about the expectations for anyone wishing to pursue a career in social work.

You apply directly to UCAS for this course using the UCAS code L508.

For more details on how to apply, download our guide (.DOCX, 16KB)

Interview

If you are shortlisted, we will invite you to an online interview. To confirm your identity on the day please bring a valid form of photo ID with you, preferably a passport or photo driving licence.

View our interview guidance to ensure you understand the interviews process and how you can prepare for this.   

Open day

Our online open days give you an opportunity to chat live to our teaching staff and current students. You can explore the campus and view our facilities virtually as well as asking any questions you may have. To book your place at one of our online open days please follow this link: University open days.

Please note the University will only admit students who are aged 18 at the point of enrolment.

For fees and funding options, please visit website to find out more