A first or second class honours degree in a relevant subject as well as English (at GCSE Grade C or above or at level 4 with the new grading system) are essential for all candidates. GCSE equivalence within an Access to Higher Education course is acceptable as a substitute for GCSE or Functional Skills level 2. Although Maths GCSE at 4 or above is preferred, applicants will still be considered if this requirement isn't met.
It is also expected that you will have at least six months full-time relevant experience in social care/social work (or its equivalent part-time). This need not be paid work but could be voluntary work or unpaid work caring for a relative with a disability.
Applicants with a 2.2 honours degree may be considered in circumstances where they have a sustained period of relevant experience and/or have work experience at a senior (management) level. Candidates already holding a Master's qualification may also be considered.
If you meet these criteria you can apply through UCAS.
The selection process for an MA degree in Social Work at the University of Kent consists of two stages.
Stage 1: all applicants who are considered to meet the entry criteria for the programme are invited to attend the University to sit a written test. Those applicants who pass the written test are invited to return for the second stage of the process: an interview day.
Stage 2: the interview day is made up of two parts, an individual interview with a lecturer and a practitioner and an observed group discussion.
At interview, each candidate is asked a number of (the same) questions covering issues such as motivation to undertake social work training and postgraduate study, expectations of the degree, background experience and awareness of the social work role, etc.
Some previous experience of understanding people and possession of good communication skills help in interview. Candidates also take part in an observed group discussion with a number of other candidates. The group is asked to discuss a question relating to social work for around 30 minutes. The discussion is observed by a lecturer and two service users or carers.
This selection process is in line with other social work courses and is also consistent with guidance from social work's professional and regulatory bodies.
Students will be required to travel to placements by car due to the geography and transport infrastructure of the locality. As part of the admissions process, applicants will need to declare that they have a driving licence for the duration of the programme, use of a car and appropriate insurance. This does not apply to students who are not able to drive because of a health condition or impairment.
All applicants are considered on an individual basis and additional qualifications, professional qualifications and relevant experience may also be taken into account when considering applications.
International students
Please see our International Student website for entry requirements by country and other relevant information. Due to visa restrictions, students who require a student visa to study cannot study part-time unless undertaking a distance or blended-learning programme with no on-campus provision.
English language entry requirements
For detailed information see our English language requirements web pages.
Please note that if you are required to meet an English language condition, we offer a number of pre-sessional courses in English for Academic Purposes through Kent International Pathways.
