The Degree of Master of Social Work (Professional) – MSW(Prof)

1 In order to be admitted to this degree, an applicant must have:

a (i) completed the requirements for a Bachelors degree from this University in a relevant subject with a Grade Point Average of 5.0 or higher, or have equivalent prior study

or

(ii) completed the requirements for a relevant Bachelors degree from this University with a Grade Point Average of 5.0 or higher in 60 points above Stage II

or

(iii) passed 60 points towards a relevant postgraduate certificate or diploma (or 60 points of relevant 700 level courses) with a Grade Point Average of 5.0 or higher, provided that the postgraduate certificate or the postgraduate diploma has not been awarded

and

b demonstrated in accordance with the approved selection criteria determined by the Faculty of Education and Social Work the qualities necessary for a person seeking to be a social worker. This will normally require letters of reference and an interview.

2 Equivalence and relevance in Regulation 1 will be determined by the University. Equivalence pertains to the standard as well as nature and level of study.

3 In exceptional circumstances the requirements in Regulation 1 may be waived by the relevant Associate Dean Academic or nominee if they determine that an applicant has at least three years of relevant practical, professional or scholarly experience that provides an equivalent level of preparation.

Notes:

(i) Relevant subjects may include anthropology, education, gender studies, history, politics, public policy, international relations, human geography, law, community development, planning, Māori studies, Pacific studies, nursing, population health, health sciences, psychology or sociology. Students with Science, Communications, Arts degrees (including English) or Creative Arts degrees may be eligible depending upon their degree programme and other relevant experience.

(ii) Applicants will be required to consent to a Police check to ensure they meet the requirements of the Social Workers Registration Act 2003.

(iii) Applicants will be required to undergo safety checks required by the Children’s Act 2014.

(iv) This is a limited entry programme as per the Limitation of Entry Statute 1991 and selection criteria apply. Selection criteria are available from the Faculty of Education and Social Work.

4 A student enrolled for this degree must:

a pass courses with a total value of 240 points

and

b complete within the time limit specified in the General Regulations – Masters Degrees

and

c not exceed 280 points for the total enrolment for this degree.

5 a A student enrolled for this degree must complete the requirements as listed in the Master of Social Work (Professional) Schedule.

b A student will not normally be permitted to enrol for Part II unless Part I has been completed, except for elective courses without prerequisites.

6 A student must complete the University of Auckland Academic Integrity course as specified in the Enrolment and Programme Regulations, Academic Integrity, of the University Calendar.

7 a At the discretion of the Programme Director, a student who does not pass required courses for Part I may be declined permission to re-enrol in this degree.

b Re-enrolment in any of SOCWORK 721, 722, 725 after failing that course requires the permission of the Programme Director.

c A student must continue to meet the requirements of being a fit and proper person for registration by the New Zealand Social Workers Registration Board throughout the duration of enrolment in the programme as outlined in the programme handbook.

8 a If the behaviour of a student in a practice environment is found, after due and fair inquiry, to be disruptive or likely to give rise to a risk of harm to the welfare of any person, the enrolment of the student in the programme may be terminated by Senate or its representative and any application to re-enrol may likewise be declined.

b A student who is subject to any such inquiry may be suspended by Senate or its representative from lectures, classes and any practice placement pending the outcome of the inquiry.

c A student whose enrolment is terminated under Regulation 8a may appeal that decision to the Provost or the duly appointed delegate.

9 This degree may be awarded with Honours as specified in the General Regulations – Masters Degrees.

10 In exceptional circumstances the Programme Director may approve a variation to a student’s programme of study in accordance with the Enrolment and Programme Regulations.

11 These regulations and/or schedule have been amended with effect from 1 January 2025.