Program Overview

Introduction to the Master of Social Science in Social Work (MSocSc in Social Work)

The Master of Social Science in Social Work (MSocSc in Social Work) is a two-year program designed for individuals who hold a bachelor's degree and aspire to become registered social workers in Hong Kong. The program aims to equip students with professional skills in social work, enabling them to critically evaluate and address the challenges posed by a constantly changing society.

Program Objectives

The program objectives are to:

• Foster students' ability to integrate theory and practice in social work
• Enhance students' critical thinking and professional judgment
• Develop students' skills in working with individuals, families, groups, and communities
• Prepare students for professional practice in various social work settings

Program Structure

The program consists of:

• 21 credits of core social work courses
• 3 credits of social work electives
• 3 credits of integrative tutorials
• 10 credits of fieldwork practice

Core Social Work Courses (21 credits)

The core courses cover various aspects of social work, including:

• Society and social policy
• Human development and cultural differences
• Social work theory and practice
• Management in human service organizations
• Research and program evaluation
• Social work, law, and social justice
• Community study

Social Work Electives (3 credits)

Students can choose from a range of electives, including:

• Child and adolescent mental health
• Narrative approach to counseling
• Social work project
• Social work with older people
• Social work with youth
• Social work with mental health problems
• Social work with disadvantaged groups
• Special topics in social work

Integrative Tutorials (3 credits)

The integrative tutorials aim to strengthen students' ability to integrate theory and practice, with a focus on:

• Skill competency and integration of knowledge and practice in working with individuals and families
• Skill competency and integration of knowledge and practice in working with groups and communities
• Prominent issues in social work practice, including multi-levels intervention, sensitivity to diversity, social work values, and skills application

Fieldwork Practice (10 credits)

The fieldwork practice consists of two placements, each with a duration of 800 hours. Students are required to participate in concurrent or block mode fieldwork, with a minimum of 100 hours of pre-placement preparation, including workshops, orientation programs, agency visits, and skills training.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must:

• Hold a recognized bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification
• Meet the English language proficiency requirements (e.g., IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL 74)
• Provide proof of registration as a social worker (if applicable)
• Undergo an interview (if shortlisted)

Graduation Requirements

To graduate, students must:

• Complete all program requirements
• Achieve a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or above
• Meet the program's academic and professional standards

Awards and Distinctions

Students who achieve a high GPA may be eligible for awards and distinctions, including:

• Distinction (GPA 3.7 or above)
• Merit (GPA 3.4-3.69)