Social Work (M.A.)
What makes this degree programme special?
- Flexible focus system: choice between general studies or specialisation (e.g. leadership and management, research and evaluation, theory and practice development)
- Practical leadership internship: experience in leadership, human resources or organisational development (leadership module)
- State-of-the-art technical equipment: video and podcast lab, media studio and methodology labs for empirical research
What is the structure of the programme?
The 1st and 2nd semesters serve to expand and deepen the knowledge acquired so far. Several specialised modules are offered for this purpose. In one module, the subject area of social work is approached through an examination of current discourses and theories. The aim is to be able to further develop fields of action in social work conceptually and theoretically. As in other sciences, findings in social work are also based on the use of research methods. In several modules, you will become familiar with qualitative and quantitative survey and analysis methods, which are practically implemented in a research and development project under scientific supervision. In den Modulen Personal- und Organisationsentwicklung werden Führungsaufgaben im Studium thematisiert. Management and Law prepare students for the conceptual design of processes, workflows or even facilities. The module International Affairs / Politics is intended to broaden the view beyond the home-state framework.
Modules in the first two semesters are:
- Social work
- Research methods
- Research and development project
- Personnel and organisational development
- Management
- Law
- International / Politics
According to the standard period of study, the 3rd semester is used to write the Master's thesis. In addition, there are further modules in the fields of politics and law. After successful completion of the programme, the academic degree awarded is the Master of Arts.
Module overview
What are the entry requirements?
Bachelor's, Diplom or Magister degree in the field of social work with a minimum overall grade of 2.0 or better. Admission to the Master's programme is based on the final grade of the first academic degree and the presentation of the motivation to study. Applicants with a Bachelor's, Magister or Diplom degree in a social science, behavioural science, humanities or educational science subject and at least two years of professional experience in a field of social work.
What career prospects do I have after completing my studies?
Social changes and problems, as well as the resulting need for socio-political management, have led to an increasing demand for leaders in the field of social work. These leaders must meet the challenges of structuring and restructuring processes in a competent manner. Master's graduates have the opportunity to pursue the following activities, for example:
- Research and development activities
- activities in the higher civil service
- leadership tasks in the fields of social work.
The Master's degree opens up a wide range of career options. For example, a career in academia is conceivable. Building on the Master's degree, a doctorate can be obtained at a university. A civil service career in the higher civil service can also be pursued with this qualification. The majority of graduates find employment in public and private social welfare institutions. The Master's degree qualifies graduates for management positions in these areas. It is conceivable, for example, to work as the head of a day-care centre, as a department head in the public sector or as an executive in social management. Typical fields of work can be found here, among others:
- Care of the elderly
- Working with people with mental and/or physical disabilities
- Family assistance
- Child and youth welfare
- Prison service
Who should I contact if I have any questions?
What other degree programmes might also interest me?
