Massey University

What you'll study

The programme combines core social work theory, applied practice skills and supervised field education. Typical subject areas include human development and lifespan theory, social policy and welfare systems, ethics and social work law, mental health and addiction practice, kaupapa Māori and bicultural practice, anti‑oppressive and multicultural practice, community development, and quantitative and qualitative research methods.

Practical skill development is central: students learn interviewing and assessment, intervention planning, advocacy, risk assessment and crisis intervention, groupwork and family interventions. The degree includes multiple supervised placements in real agencies so students gain hands‑on experience across different service settings (for example health, child and family services, youth services, older persons, corrections and community organisations).

Students also undertake coursework that builds capability in professional reflection, evidence‑informed practice and critical engagement with social policy. Many programmes include a capstone or practice portfolio demonstrating competence and readiness for professional practice.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to meet Massey University undergraduate entry requirements or equivalent. Domestic applicants normally require university entrance from secondary school or successful completion of recognised tertiary study. International applicants must demonstrate equivalent academic preparation and meet the university's English language proficiency requirement.

Because the programme prepares students for placement with vulnerable people, applicants should be able to satisfy suitability checks required by placement agencies. These commonly include a police vetting (criminal record check), provision of referees, and evidence of currency with any specified vaccinations or health checks as required by host organisations. Some intakes may also include an interview or written statement to assess applicant motivation and suitability for social work practice.

Career prospects

Graduates work as professional social workers across a wide range of sectors. Typical roles include child, youth and family social worker, mental health and addiction practitioner, health/social care clinician, community development worker, social housing or homelessness case manager, iwi and Māori social services practitioner, probation and corrections social worker, and NGO or advocacy roles.

Many graduates pursue statutory practice in government agencies, local health providers and district health boards, while others work in community organisations, iwi providers, schools or private practice. The degree also provides a pathway to postgraduate study in social work, social policy, counselling or public health.

Why study at Massey University

Massey offers a practice‑focused social work programme with strong links to agencies across New Zealand, ensuring placement opportunities in urban, provincial and Māori provider settings. The curriculum embeds Te Tiriti o Waitangi and kaupapa Māori perspectives alongside international approaches to diversity and anti‑oppressive practice.

The university provides dedicated field education coordination, experienced teaching staff drawn from practice and research, and flexible study options including on‑campus and distance learning pathways. Students benefit from supervision, simulation and interprofessional learning opportunities and access to Massey’s support services and career development resources as they prepare for professional registration and employment in the social services sector.