Master of Arts in Social Work University of East London - Stratford Campus, UK

This MA Social Work degree equips you with the skills, knowledge and reflective capacity you need to practise as an effective social worker.

You will develop a sound knowledge base that encompasses theory, the ethical and legal bases for practice, social policy and an understanding of how social work fits into organisational contexts.

The course promotes relationship-based practice and is unique because of the link with the Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust.

It is extremely popular, with up to 600 applicants each year for 40 places. The standard for entry is therefore very high, although good experience of practice will be given serious consideration.

The opportunity to study both at the University of East London and the Tavistock allows you to experience university culture and a working clinic. As part of the course, you will participate in a week-long Group Relations Conference as well as weekly work discussion groups.

Because the course attracts students from different cultural backgrounds and a range of disciplines - including psychology, law, sociology, criminology, business studies and even science - the knowledge our students bring enriches the course experience as much as the teaching.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

This full-time two-year course has a distinct theoretical and practical tradition with a focus on developing reflective practitioners.

Theoretical and practical learning are not separate but intertwined. The emphasis is on building a framework of skills and knowledge - communication skills, ethics and values, social policy - within which you can develop your practice.

The Fundamentals of Social Work Practice module is a wide-ranging introduction to theory and practice. This is studied in Year 1 and prepares you for practice.

Once you pass this module, you can move on to the first of two long practice learning placements (for 70 days in Year 1 and 100 days in Year 2). You will also develop your knowledge of social work law via a module where you will begin the process of applying law to practice situations.

You will also study the Human Growth and Development module at the Tavistock. This includes a baby or young child observation, and, to develop your understanding of the social work role, you will study Social Work Law.

In Year 2 you will undertake your dissertation and study the Professional Development modules, which support your placement learning.