MSW Student Testimonials

As a mature student, career changer and a parent of two young children who first graduated from Durham 17 years ago, I was initially apprehensive about embarking on the MSW but I needn’t have worried! In the past 2 years I have developed my skills in social work and I am now looking forward to beginning my new career after being offered a position on the team where I did my final placement. I always felt well supported by the staff with academic work, placement and my own personal wellbeing.

Durham get the big things right. Matriculation and all the pomp and ceremony are exciting but the real joy of Durham is the staff. They are so attentive, responsive, considerate and supportive that you feel nurtured in your journey. They’re the best at what they do and without exception. I’ve found them to be open minded, progressive and challenging. They have a culture at Durham to be proud of and I’d recommend studying here to anyone interested in the field. I’ve loved my time with them so far and can’t wait to see what the rest of the course will bring.

Returning to Durham university to study for the MSW has been an exciting challenge! In my first year, I’ve received a theoretical and practical grounding in social work from expert teaching staff and visiting speakers which helped me conceptualise my future in the profession. I’ve also enjoyed learning from the diverse experiences of my year group. In my first placement supporting refugees in the North East I’ve valued the opportunity to apply social work skills alongside linguistic and cultural interests. I look forward to developing these skills and interests further as I complete my first year

As an international student and career changer, the MSW will equip me with values, knowledge, skills and the practice essential to be a social worker. It helps me reflect on how to deliver an excellent service to those in need. We get excellent support from peers, teaching staff and PSS staff. We are able to share and discuss the latest social work issues and take part in 1:1 mentoring with our respective academic and practice tutors. The MSW has strong links with both statutory and voluntary organisations in the NE and this makes me confident that the knowledge and experience gained will be recognised in the social work sector.

It's not surprising that the MA Social Work at Durham University is ranked the best! My experience as a MA Social Work student has been nothing short of amazing! The academic schedule and placement setting is realistically structured in such a way that has enabled me to schedule both home life and academic work. As a mother of very young twins, the structure and support I have been provided by the MA Social Work department has been key, and essential, in my academic progress. This department has offered me access to a consistent support network whenever I encountered a challenge. I feel right at home and could not have chosen a better place to study.