Master of Applied Social Work – MAppSW

Program Overview

The Master of Applied Social Work (MAppSW) at Massey University prepares students for social work practice in New Zealand and internationally. It emphasizes practical, research-informed, and transformative teaching methods, including field experiences and Noho Marae experiences. The program requires a bachelor's degree and can be completed in two years full-time or up to six years part-time. Graduates are equipped for diverse careers in social services, empowering individuals, families, and communities.

Program Outline

Master of Applied Social Work - MAppSW (Massey University)

Degree Overview:

• Prepares students for practice and registration as a social worker in Aotearoa New Zealand and other English-speaking countries.
• Requires a bachelor's degree, either in social sciences or another field with relevant practice experience.
• Emphasizes practical, research-informed, forward-thinking, and academically credible courses.
• Contributes to knowledge-building in Aotearoa New Zealand and internationally.
• Features small, interactive classes with transformative teaching methods, challenging attitudes and beliefs.
• Includes field trips and Noho Marae experiences.
• Assesses through assignments catering to various learning styles.
• Can be completed in two years (full-time) or up to six years (part-time).
• Offers two supervised field experiences organized and supervised by Massey.
• Requires a total of 120 days over the course of study in social services settings.

Outline:

• Compulsory Courses (210 credits):
• Social Work Theory and Practice (30 credits)
• Wellbeing and Sustainable Development (30 credits)
• Manu tute (30 credits)
• Advanced Study of Fields of Practice in Social Work (30 credits)
• Field Work Practice I (30 credits)
• Organisations, Leadership and Social Work (15 credits)
• Field Work Practice II (30 credits)
• Applied Research in Social Work (15 credits)
• Research Report (30 credits)
• Research Report (30 credits):
• Topics selected from areas relevant to social work, social policy, and/or the social services in the Aotearoa New Zealand context.
• Requires confirmation by the supervisor who assists in planning and managing research.

Assessment:

• Continuous assessment through assignments, course work, and other activities.
• Field placement assessments through field placement reports and supervisor evaluations.
• Research report assessment based on its quality, originality, and contribution to knowledge.

Teaching:

• Emphasis on interactive and transformative teaching methods.
• Utilizes workshops, lectures, field trips, Noho Marae experiences, and online resources.
• Fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Integrates research and theoretical frameworks into practical contexts.
• Promotes ethical and culturally responsive social work practice.

Careers:

• Diverse career opportunities across various sectors, including hospitals, government agencies, community organizations, and international development agencies.
• Potential roles include field operator, policy expert, professional advisor, youth justice worker, housing support worker, and refugee resettlement worker.
• Focuses on empowering individuals, families, and communities, promoting social justice and sustainability.

Other:

• Program welcomes students from diverse backgrounds and experiences.
• Encourages students to actively participate in the learning process.
• Provides support and resources for students to succeed in their studies.
• Recognizes the importance of cultural competence and ethical values in social work practice.