Program Overview
Master of Social Work – MSW
The Master of Social Work is a research-focused master’s degree designed for individuals who already have a professional qualification in social work and wish to improve their practice. This qualification is an advanced study of a specific aspect of social and community work, offering opportunities for both full and part-time study.
Overview
The Master of Social Work qualification is flexible and encourages students to pursue research in a particular field of practice, population, or area of interest. It equips students to develop and use research skills in their practice settings and keeps them current with the latest theories and practices.
Type of Qualification
- Master's degree
- Postgraduate study
- NZQF level 9
Time to Complete
- 2 years full-time (240 credits)
- Part-time available
Where You Can Study
- Distance and online
International Students
- Not open to international students
Key Dates
- Admission application due dates
- Course enrolment dates for accepted students
- Semester dates
Study a Master of Social Work – MSW
Excellent social workers are always striving to gain new knowledge. If you already have a professional qualification in social work and want to improve your practice, this qualification is for you. The Master of Social Work qualification is an advanced study of a specific aspect of social and community work.
Want to Become a Social Worker?
The Master of Social Work is a research-focused master’s degree. If you wish to undertake a professional social work qualification that will prepare you for social work registration in Aotearoa New Zealand, you should study either the Bachelor of Social Work or the Master of Applied Social Work.
A MSW is a Good Fit if You:
- Already have a professional qualification in social work
- Wish to undertake advanced study of a specific aspect of social and community work
- Want to do practice-based social work research
Entry Requirements
Admission to Massey
All students must meet university entrance requirements to be admitted to the University.
Specific Requirements
To enter the Master of Social Work, you will:
- Have been awarded or qualified for the Bachelor of Social Work or Bachelor of Social Work with Honours or equivalent, or
- Have been awarded or qualified for the Postgraduate Diploma in Social Work or equivalent with a B grade average across all courses
You will provide copies of all official academic transcripts for studies taken at all universities other than Massey University.
English Language Requirements
To study this qualification, you must meet Massey University's English language standards.
Time Limits for Honours, Distinction, and Merit
Where your qualification is completed within the stated time limit and to a high standard, you may be able to graduate with a class of Honours.
Prior Learning, Credit, and Exemptions
For information on prior learning, exemptions, and transfer of credit or other questions, review the Recognition of Prior Learning regulations or contact us.
English Language Skills
If you need help with your English language skills before you start university, see our English for Academic Purposes (EAP) courses.
Maximum Time Limits for Completion
There are maximum time limits to complete postgraduate qualifications. If you do not complete within the maximum time, you may be required to re-apply for the qualification if you wish to continue your studies.
Official Regulations
To understand what you need to study and must complete to graduate, read the official rules and regulations for this qualification.
Structure of the Master of Social Work
The Master of Social Work is a parts-based qualification. That means you must complete the first part before moving to the second.
For progression to Part Two of the Master of Social Work, you must achieve:
- A minimum B grade average over the courses completed in Part One, and
- At least a B grade in Advanced Research Methods
Courses and Specialisations
Part One
- Compulsory research methods course: Advanced Research Methods (30 credits)
- Part One courses selected from the Schedule (90 or 120 credits)
Part Two
- Thesis (90 or 120 credits)
Fees and Scholarships
2026 Tuition Fees
- Domestic students: $10,652
- International students: Not applicable
Student Loans (StudyLink) and Fees Free Scheme
You may be eligible for a student loan to help towards paying your fees. The New Zealand Government offers fees-free tertiary study for eligible domestic students.
Scholarship and Award Opportunities
- Cat Pausé Postgraduate Scholarship
- Massey University Postgraduate Overseas Research Grant
- Massey University Postgraduate Scholarship
- Te Pitomata Grants
Careers and Job Opportunities
Professionally trained people working in the social services make a vital contribution to present-day Aotearoa New Zealand society. Their skills are in increasing demand.
The Master of Social Work (MSW) will enable you to practice at senior levels in Aotearoa New Zealand and other English-speaking countries (subject to their regulations) in a wide range of social service fields. These include government services, hospitals, and iwi, hapu, and Pacific Island organisations.
Graduates with the MSW can expect to take up leadership roles in all these settings and may achieve senior positions in a variety of career paths, including roles in:
- Social work
- Social work education
- Management of social service agencies
- Policy analysis
- Social work research
What Our Students Say
“I would recommend Massey’s social work programme for anyone who is interested in addressing global inequalities and promoting the rights of others in a culturally appropriate and strengths-based way.”
“Completing a Master of Social Work has taught me how to do research. It has enabled me to explore what I am passionate about: Whānau Ora, whānau-centred practice, kaupapa Māori practice, and going beyond crisis intervention by focusing on the moemoeā (dreams and aspirations) of whānau.”
“Completing my Master of Social Work with Massey was a life-changing journey for both me and my family. It was challenging but allowed me to explore and discover issues within my community, which has enhanced my social work practice and experiences.”
Related Study Options
Bachelor of Social Work – BSW
- Qualification: Bachelor's degree
- Credits: 480
- Location: Distance and online
Become a registered social worker to support the wellbeing of individuals, families, whānau, and diverse communities by helping them through challenging situations and advocating for environmental sustainability, social justice, and social change.
Master of Applied Social Work – MAppSW
- Qualification: Master's degree
- Credits: 240
- Location: Auckland campus, Distance and online
Develop your passion for helping others. Massey’s Master of Applied Social Work will prepare you for practice and registration as a social worker in Aotearoa New Zealand and other English-speaking countries, subject to their registration regulations.
Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Supervision – PGDipClinSup
- Qualification: Postgraduate Diploma
- Credits: 120
- Location: Distance and online
The Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Supervision offers an advanced qualification for professionally qualified workers in the health and human services to develop their clinical supervision practice.
Postgraduate Diploma in Social Work – PGDipSW
- Qualification: Postgraduate Diploma
- Credits: 120
- Location: Distance and online
Take your social work career to the next level with Massey’s Postgraduate Diploma in Social Work.