Master of Social Work (Thesis)

The masters degree is designed for students to develop advanced skills in carrying out independent and sustained research in social work. The thesis should demonstrate a critical application of specialist knowledge and make an independent contribution to existing scholarship in the area of research. Candidates may advance to the Doctor of Philosophy degree after successful completion of the masters or may apply to convert to the PhD at an earlier stage. Faculty guidelines indicate that the PhD Committee requires substantial evidence of suitability. Further details are available from the School of Social Work and the Department handbook. An honours grade of at least H2B (70%) must be attained to qualify for the award of the masters degree.

Students who complete the masters will:

• acquire advanced research skills;
• undertake a major thesis which is relevant to social work practice and/or social policy.

Thesis 30,000 words (100 points per year)

Students are required to regularly attend the relevant postgraduate research seminars organised by the School of Social Work.

Academic references, documented evidence of employment history and professional membership may be required to assess the applicant's eligibility.

The minimum entry requirement is:

• two years of documented professional social work practice and a Bachelor of Social Work degree, with a grade average equivalent to an H2A (75%) at the University of Melbourne

or

• an undergraduate degree equivalent to a BSW and eligibility for membership of the Australian Association of Social Workers

or

• an undergraduate degree in an approved discipline with an average of at least H2A (75%) at the University of Melbourne and a Diploma of Social Studies

or

• a Postgraduate Diploma in Social Work with a grade average equivalent to an H2A (75%) at the University of Melbourne

Applicants must include a thesis proposal of 600 words with their application.The primary basis for selection is academic merit, however, consideration will also be given to the quality of the thesis proposal, research potential, and the availability of an appropriate supervisor. Academic references may be required to assess the applicant's eligibility.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's courses. This course requires all students to enrol in subjects where they must actively and safely contribute to clinical/field work activities. Students who feel their disability will impact on meeting this requirement are encouraged to discuss this matter with the Course Coordinator and the Disability Liaison Unit.

This course is available to currently enrolled students and will be phased out from 2008. For information on the School's new research training opportunities, please visit http://www.socialwork.unimelb.edu.au/