Overview
The School of Social Work focuses on leading-edge research and innovative, internationally recognised qualifications in social work, social policy, and social service supervision.
We work closely with non-government organisations, Te Whatu Ora – Health New Zealand and Oranga Tamariki Ministry for Children. Our students are placed in these organisations for their practical field education and our graduates have careers with them.
Te Tiriti o Waitangi at Massey
We are deeply committed to being a Tiriti-led university, demonstrating authentic leadership in contemporary Aotearoa New Zealand as we uphold te Tiriti o Waitangi, the founding document of our nation, and its principles through our practice. We embrace this not just as an obligation but as a real opportunity for the nation and its people.
Te Tiriti o Waitangi ki Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa – The Treaty of Waitangi at Massey
Study with us
From addiction support to child protection, aged care to mental health services, Massey prepares you for a rewarding lifelong career in social work. Our Bachelor of Social Work and Master of Applied Social Work both lead to registration as a social worker in New Zealand.
Explore by area of interest
Explore a selection of qualifications relating to your interests.
Study social work
From addiction support to child protection, aged care to mental health services, Massey prepares you for a career helping individuals and whānau.
Useful forms for students and graduates
To study at the School of Social Work, you may be asked to fill out a form. We’ve gathered all forms here.
Entry into the Bachelor of Social Work Part Two, Three or Four
Thesis planning for social work and social policy
Field education planning - Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) distance
Field education planning - Master of Applied Social Work (MAppSW) distance
For Massey graduates applying for registration in another country, the School of Social Work will provide a transcript – the academic certification for your overseas registration process. There is an administration fee.
Meet our graduates
“Completing a Master of Social Work has taught me how to do research. It has enabled me to explore what I am passionate about: Whānau Ora, whānau-centred practice, kaupapa Māori practice and going beyond crisis intervention by focussing on the moemoeā (dreams and aspirations) of whānau. ”
Ko Ngapuhi te Iwi, Ko Ngati Hine te hapu. Māori, Niuean, Samoan, Irish and English.
“Completing my Master of Social Work with Massey was a life changing journey for both me and my family. It was challenging but allowed me to explore and discover issues within my community, which has enhanced my social work practice and experiences.”
Ngā Puhi, Ngāti Whātua, Te-Whānau-ā-Apanui
Meet our graduates
“Studying at Massey University has provided me a broad and sound knowledge of what social work is all about. The day of a social worker is never the same, encountering different situations and people impacted by social and personal issues.”
Ngāti Raukawa rāua ko Ngāti Ruanui
“I had thought about getting a qualification in youth work, but then someone suggested social work as it provided greater scope in terms of areas I could work in.”
“I chose social work without fully understanding the concept, but I knew it was about people and I knew that people mattered.”
Professor Kieran O'Donoghue
Kieran O'Donoghue is renowned nationally and internationally for his research in social work theory and practice, social work supervision, and the social work profession. He is a registered social worker and a member of Aotearoa New Zealand Association of Social Workers (ANZASW).
Research
The school's researchers work on significant issues facing society and social work practice today, spanning the areas of human rights and social justice, social work practice, and social work profession. We engage in international research and consultations across many countries.
Here's an example of how our academics create and share new knowledge.
Relational resources for change: New futures for youth with complex needs
Professor Jackie Sanders, Professor Robyn Munford
A major programme to create culturally responsive resources for practitioners working with vulnerable youth. Researchers will work alongside practitioners and youth, using state-of-the-art methods to design and test resources. The resources will then be integrated into new and existing services.
News article – New research funding will help to address future needs of New Zealand
Accreditation and membership
New Zealand Social Workers Registration Board
Our professional qualifications are accredited by the Social Workers Registration Board. Students who complete the Bachelor of Social Work or Master of Applied Social Work can immediately apply for provisional registration as a registered social worker.
International Association of Schools of Social Work
Massey’s School of Social Work is a member of the International Association of Schools of Social Work (IASSW). We also have staff members on the Asia Pacific Association for Social Work Education (APASWE) committee.
Contact the School of Social Work
School of Social Work – Manawatū campus
- Location
Postal address
School of Social Work
College of Health
Massey University
Private Bag 11-222
Palmerston North 4442
New ZealandUse our Manawatū campus maps or find us on Google Maps.
Looking for a staff member? Visit our staff directory or use Expertise search.