Faculty of Social Sciences

Master of Social Sciences in Social Work

The Master of Social Sciences in Social Work is designed for bachelor's degree graduates who would like to pursue a recognized social work qualification (RSW) at a master's degree level. The programme aims at preparing students for reflective professional practice in social work. The objectives of the programme are:

1.	To educate graduate students to achieve the academic and professional qualification that is considered eligible for registration as Registered Social Workers in Hong Kong on the basis of a recognized social work degree; and
2.	To develop competent professionals who are critical, reflective and capable of generic social work practice and competent to face the challenges confronting social work in the changing society.

Upon graduation, the graduates can:

1.	Assess changing social needs and societal context and practice in line with the values and the ethical principles of social work;
2.	Demonstrate the ability to integrate theory and practice, acquire new theories and innovative practice, and show a commitment to life-long learning and professional development;
3.	Critically evaluate professional activities and service programmes and advocate for appropriate welfare and service reforms;
4.	Be sensitive to and reflective of the power, diversity and social justice in social issues, social work practice and social policy; and
5.	Transfer social work knowledge and skills in one's own profession other than social work.

The 37-unit programme is designed to be completed in two calendar years, including summer terms, by part-time study. Only under exceptional circumstances may students seek extension of the period of study.

Requirements

Social Work Courses				21 units
	SOWK	7040	Research & Programme Evaluation	3 units
	SOWK	7610	Society & Social Policy	3 units
	SOWK	7620	Human Development & Cultural Differences	3 units
	SOWK	7630	Social Work Theory & Practice I	3 units
	SOWK	7641-2	Social Work Theory & Practice II	4 units
	SOWK	7650	Management in Human Service Organizations	3 units
	SOWK	7770	Social Work, Law & Social Justice	2 units

Elective Courses				3 units
	SOWK	7430	Narrative Approach to Counselling	3 units
	SOWK	7670	Social Work Project	3 units
	SOWK	7720	Social Work with the Elderly	3 units
	SOWK	7730	Social Work with Youth	3 units
	SOWK	7740	Social Work with the Mentally Disordered	3 units
	SOWK	7750	Social Work with Disadvantaged Groups	3 units
	SOWK	7760	Special Topics in Social Work	3 units

Integrative Tutorials				3 units
	SOWK	7680	Social Work Integrative Tutorial I	1 unit
	SOWK	7690	Social Work Integrative Tutorial II	1 unit
	SOWK	7780	Social Work Integrative Tutorial III	1 unit

Fieldwork Placements				10 units
	SOWK	7700	Fieldwork Practice I	5 units
	SOWK	7710	Fieldwork Practice II	5 units
				────
				37 units