Master in
Master Social Work as a Human Rights Profession Alice Salomon University of Applied Sciences Berlin
Introduction
MA - Social Work as a Human Rights Profession
Alice Salomon Hochschule -UniversityofApplied Sciences- in Berlin, Germany, offers the postgraduate program Master of Arts in Social Work as a Human Rights Profession (MA-SWHR). The program is realized in cooperation with:
- Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus–Senftenberg
- Malmö University, Department of Social Work.
- The University of Gothenburg, Department of Social Work.
- The University of Ljubljana, Department for Social Justice and Inclusion.
- The University of Strathclyde, School of Applied Social Sciences.
Why a program in “Social Work as a Human Rights Profession”?
In recognition of the importance of the global and transnational dimension of social work increasingly discussed with normative references to human rights, the MA-SWHR offers the qualification to cope with the issues and problems linked to the triple mandate of social work – on the local, national and international level.
Graduates will gain a solid understanding of how to implement the idea of human rights into the theory and practice of social work – which includes a research perspective as well as the development and realization of practice projects.
What kind of degree is the “MA in Social Work as a Human Rights Profession”?
It is a four semestral Masters of Arts (MA) by research through thesis and comprises a total of 120 credits which are assigned according to the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS). The ASH is a state-recognizedUniversityofApplied Sciences and the MA-SWHR is in the process of accreditation. Due to the international perspective of the program, it is realized in cooperation with other European universities.
What are the fields of study?
The MA-SWHR is an interdisciplinary, research-based study program, combining international human rights instruments and standards with selected social sciences and the transfer of conceptual knowledge to professional practice. The program’s principal focus is the study of theories and empirical knowledge fundamental for a professional self-conception based on the triple mandate of social work: world society and social development, social problems and human rights violation, international law in a social work perspective; critical social science research. A secondary focus is on the development of human rights-based methods of intervention for different fields of social work. Particular elements of the curriculum will comprise units on health and human rights; migration and racism; poverty and social exclusion; gender, diversity and human rights; children’s rights; human rights education; management of change.
Admissions
Curriculum
How is the program designed?
This international program is taught in English. It brings students together from various backgrounds and cultures to facilitate a cross-cultural learning experience. It is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to recognize issues relevant to human rights in social policies, theory, problem areas and spheres of activity of social work, and promote a professional practice based on human rights.
How is the program structured?
The MA-SWHR is offered once a year, starting each September/October. It is a study program based on classroom teaching and seminars which also include periods of self-depended learning and e-facilitated study time as well as written assignments. It requires a full-time commitment from students. The standard period of study is 24 months to be completed over four semesters.
During the first three semesters, students will attend classes and seminars as well as dedicate themselves to the completion of project elaboration and essay writing.
The final semester is dedicated to the research and writing of the MA thesis (25 weeks).
Scholarships and Funding
Are there any scholarships or grants available?
Once you have been successfully registered as a student with the local authorities, the ASH refunds 50 €. Furthermore, there are many organizations where you can apply for funding.
Career Opportunities
Where might graduates find jobs?
The orientation of the MA-SWHR is suited to the requirements of the job market. Graduates work in social services, free-lance, in international governmental, non-governmental and private sector organizations, particularly in key roles to achieve social change.
What makes Alice Salomon outstanding?
The Alice Salomon University of Applied Sciences (ASH) is Germany's oldest and largest academic training institution in social work. It is recognized as one of Germany's most research-intensive universities of applied sciences in the social field and is committed to international cooperation. Alice Salomon University is located in Berlin, a culturally vibrant, cosmopolitan city.