Master of Applied Social Work – MAppSW

If you want to become a registered social worker, but don’t have a bachelor’s degree in social work, then this qualification is right for you.

The Master of Applied Social Work is designed for those with relevant practice experience, or a bachelor’s degree in a related discipline. That could include psychology, education, law, medicine, nursing, sociology, anthropology, theology or case management, or other related disciplines.

This qualification 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.

Upcoming event

Become a registered social worker within 2 years webinar: 25 September; 7pm – 7:45pm; Online. Register now

Add to social work knowledge

You will be able to make cutting-edge contributions to your discipline. You’ll benefit from our practical, research-informed, forward-thinking and academically credible courses. They’ll help you contribute to knowledge-building in Aotearoa New Zealand and internationally.

Engaging classes

Our interactive and transformative teaching methods will challenge your attitudes and beliefs. In addition, you will have opportunities to participate in field trips and Noho Marae. There are no exams and all work is assessed through assignments that cater for a range of learning styles.

Study while you work

It is possible to work part-time while completing this qualification. This qualification can be completed in 2 years studying full-time or in up to 6 years studying part-time.

Gain experience in the field

The Master of Applied Social Work includes 2 different supervised field education experiences organised by Massey. You will spend a minimum of 120 days over the course of your study in social services settings gaining experience in social work practice. One of your 2 placements may be able to be at your current workplace, if you're already working in social services.

International students

Aotearoa New Zealand is a great place to study. Massey University’s reputation is supported by our international rankings, accreditations and associations. We are rated 5 star plus by the QS World University Rankings.

Our classes are interactive, and our lecturers and staff are friendly and approachable.

As an international student, there are entry requirements that will apply to you. We recommend that you apply at least 6 months before your anticipated start date so your application can be processed in time. There are additional steps you will need to take. These include obtaining a visa and travel bookings if your study is to be in Aotearoa New Zealand.

• Find out more about life as an international student at Massey, applying to Massey and getting help.
• Entry requirements for international students.

Admission to Massey

All students must meet university entrance requirements to be admitted to the University.

• Massey University entry requirements

Specific requirements

The Master of Applied Social Work is a selected entry qualification. This means there are a number of extra requirements you must meet.

To enter the Master of Applied Social Work you will:

• have been awarded or qualified for an undergraduate degree, either in the social sciences (such as social and cultural studies, psychology, human development) or an alternative degree with substantial relevant experience in a social or community setting
• be selected into the qualification on the basis of a process which includes:
  • providing a personal statement explaining why you wish to enter the social work qualification and profession
  • providing 2 character referees – these must not be family or friends
  • providing a curriculum vitae that includes academic and work history
  • undertaking an interview.

You will provide copies of all official academic transcripts for studies taken at all universities other than Massey University.

Once you are successful at gaining a place in the Master of Applied Social Work qualification, you will also need to complete further tasks. These are to meet the requirements set down by the Social Workers Registration Act 2003 for registration as a social worker in Aotearoa New Zealand (to ensure you are a “fit and proper person to practise social work”). You will need to:

• complete the vetting service request and consent form for an Aotearoa New Zealand Police check. Please note that the Criminal Records 'Clean Slate' Act 2004 does not apply to all qualifications.
• provide a current police certificate from any overseas countries you have lived in for 12 months or more in the last 10 years.

If English, Māori or Aotearoa New Zealand sign language is not your first language, you will need to provide official evidence of your English language competency in the form of:

• an IELTS test with an overall academic score of at least 6.5, with no band score less than 6.5, taken within the preceding 2 years, or
• a TOEFL internet-based test (IBT) score of 85 or higher with a writing score of 22, or
• at least 2 years of successful study in a Aotearoa New Zealand secondary school, with at least 10 Level 2 NCEA credits in literacy (5 reading and 5 writing), or equivalent.

A bachelor’s degree from a Aotearoa New Zealand university will meet English language competency requirements.

Application closing date

Applications for this qualification close on 31 January of the year of study (Semester 1).

About referees

We require 2 people who can act as referees for you. A referee should be someone who has known you for 1 year or more in the capacity of employer, educator, work colleague or person of community standing, eg kaumātua, Minister or similar. Your referee should not be a friend, flatmate, relative or someone who has not known you for at least a year. The information your referee supplies is confidential to those involved in the selection process.

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 Distinction or Merit.

• Look for information under ‘Student Progression’ in the General Regulations for Postgraduate Degrees, Postgraduate Diplomas and Postgraduate Certificates.
• Contact us through the Get advice button on this page if you have any questions.

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
• contact us through the Get advice button on this page.

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.