Master in Social Work (MSW): Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply?
Applications must be submitted online via https://www.tcd.ie/courses
What is the closing date for September 2015 entry?
The closing date for entry in September 2015 is to be confirmed.
What are the entry requirements?
A 2.1 Honours Degree (Level 8) in the social sciences is the minimum requirement. The GPA equivalent to this is 3.2 or higher. We welcome applicants from overseas and the MSW is recognised in several countries internationally . Entry is based on fulfilment of the entry requirements and an interview and it is a competitive process. Last year we had over 100 applicants competing for up to 25 places.
What is the work experience criteria for entry?
You will need a minimum of six months/850 hours supervised (and verifiable) voluntary or paid work experience in the social work/social care field at the time of application and you will find further details of relevant work experience here.
What do I do if I do not have a Primary Social Sciences Degree?
If your primary degree does not include major modules in social policy and sociology and minor modules in subjects such as economics, politics, child and family law, psychology, anthropology, women's studies or equality studies - you may need a transition course to social work such as a Post Graduate Diploma in Applied Social Studies or similar. If you are not clear if your academic qualifications are sufficient, please forward a copy of your course transcripts to the Course Director and we can advise you further. On rare occasions, candidates may be considered who have completed a 'non-standard' Honours social science degree (such as one in sociology, psychology or anthropology) if they have extensive relevant work experience.
How do I know if know if I am an EU or Non-EU Student?
Please visit the Graduate Studies website https://www.tcd.ie/Graduate_Studies/ to establish the criteria used for designating students as eligible for EU or non-EU fees as these are not based on nationality criteria alone. It is the responsibility of individual students to seek all relevant information on fees from the Graduate Studies Office.
How much are the fees?
Information on course fees can be found at https://www.tcd.ie/Treasurers_Office/fees/index.php.
Do you offer any grant support?
Unfortunately we are not in a position to offer any grant support and it is up to each individual student to secure their own funding prior to commencing the course.
Recognition Abroad
Trinity’s Master in Social Work course has been recognised in several other countries, including USA, Canada, Australia and the UK. However, if you are interested in working abroad you should check you own particular circumstances with the social work accrediting body in that country, e.g. if you plan to go to Australia and work as a social worker in the health sector, you have to register with the Australian AASW who look for a four year standard degree in social science as well as the MSW. Applicants with a non-standard degree who have completed a one year post graduate transition course will need at least three years post qualifying social work experience to compensate.
Further Queries?
Please contact the course team.