MSW Social Work

Second-class Honours degree, preferably in a social science discipline but graduates in other disciplines with an understanding of social sciences are welcome.

Maths National 5 C/Applications of Mathematics National 5 C (or equivalent) or above.

Applicants must be able to demonstrate sufficient numerical, statistical and budgetary competence to deal with the demands of study and placement.

Suitable candidates must be able to demonstrate at least 6 months directly relevant experience in social work, social care, community work or a closely-related activity at the point of application or twelve months equivalent part-time experience. This is compulsory.

In exceptional cases where an applicant does not have a degree, the applicant may be considered if they have extensive professional experience showing career development and can demonstrate academic ability at postgraduate level, equivalent to SCQF Level 10 or above.

Relevant work experience

In general, we expect you to have had at least six months full-time work experience, or its equivalent in part-time work, at the point of the application.

We’re more concerned with the quality of experience than whether or not it’s paid. It’s useful to think about experience in three dimensions – duration, range and depth. While longer and more diverse experience is of great value, depth (or quality) is perhaps more important since this is what allows learning and professional development. Often experience is 'deeper' in contexts where supervision is offered regularly, allowing for in-depth discussion in practice issues and dilemmas. Undertaking relevant reading and training while working often helps people to deepen the quality of their work experience.

Relevant work settings

work may be undertaken in a wide variety of settings eg community-based offices, residential provision, day care services, community organisations

work may be carried out with a range of client groups – commonly people who experience various forms of disadvantage

it should be supervised by a member of staff of the status and experience to provide a reference indicating suitability for entry to social work education

Personal qualities

The kinds of personal qualities which we look for in an applicant include:

ability to convey genuine warmth and interest in people

ability to see strengths and potential in even the most difficult circumstances and people

genuine interest in difference and diversity and an obvious ability to adapt and change

willingness to question conformity and risk discomfort in challenging attitudes which encourage discrimination and complacency

ability to support people who live with difficult, sometimes worsening circumstances

ability to help people set and follow their own agendas while being capable of asserting your authority where their welfare requires it

being level-headed and helpful in the face of people's distress, pain and anger, even when it's turned on you

quiet confidence in your own ability and the capacity to argue and defend your views in a constructive way

satisfaction in helping manage and, where possible, resolve conflict, but never at the expense of sacrificing the interests of vulnerable people

taking enjoyment from both using your own initiatives as well as working accountably as part of team

ability to accept constructive criticism and learn from your mistakes

passion to fight for the rights of disadvantaged people

have a non-judgemental attitude

Communication skills

The communication skills which we would expect applicants to demonstrate would include the capacity to:

engage appropriately with a wide range of people

communicate expressively, fluently and convincingly in verbal and written form

understand, calculate and present accurately, basic numerical and financial information