Master of Social Work
(N-DL/0923/7/0010) (06/30) (MQA/PA 18235)
Programme Overview
The Master of Social Work (MSW) program at Lincoln University College, offered in Open and Distance Learning (ODL) mode, is designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and practical skills in social work practice, research, and policy. The program emphasizes professional ethics, social justice, and community engagement, preparing graduates to address complex social issues in diverse settings. With a flexible learning structure, the ODL mode allows working professionals and distant learners to pursue higher education at their own pace, fostering critical thinking, leadership, and evidence-based practice in social services and welfare sectors.
Subject Highlights
| Sl. No. | MQA Subject Code | Subject Name | Credits |
| 1 | MSW 5113 | Philosophical Analysis of Social Work Development | 3 |
| 2 | MSW 5123 | Human Behaviour in Social Environment | 3 |
| 3 | MSW 5133 | Advanced Social Policy | 3 |
| 4 | MSW 5143 | Advanced Social Work Practice | 3 |
| 5 | MSW 5213 | Social Work Research Methodology | 3 |
| 6 | MSW 5223 | Advanced Community Organization and Social Development | 3 |
| Elective Subjects (Choose any 3) | |||
| 7 | MSW 5233 | Social Work with Displaced Populations | 3 |
| 8 | MSW 5243 | Human Services Administration | 3 |
| 9 | MSW 5253 | Spiritual Social Work and its Practice | 3 |
| 10 | MSW 5263 | Understanding Social Change & Issues | 3 |
| 11 | MSW 5316 | Project Paper | 6 |
| 12 | MSW 5419 | Practicum | 9 |
Entry Requirements
i. A Bachelor’s degree [Level 6, Malaysian Qualifications Frameowrk] in related fields with a minimum Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 2.50 as accepted by the HEP Senate; OR
ii. A Bachelor’s degree (Level 6, MQF) in related fields or equivalent with a minimum CGPA of 2.00 and not meeting a CGPA of 2.50, can be accepted subject to rigorous internal assessment*; OR
iii. A Bachelor’s degree (Level 6, MQF) in non-related fields with a minimum CGPA of 2.00 as accepted by the HEP Senate and with relevant working experience**, subject to rigorous internal assessment*; OR
iv. A Bachelor’s degree (Level 6, MQF) in non-related fields with a minimum CGPA of 2.00 as accepted by the HEP Senate and without relevant working experience**, subject to passing pre-requisite courses ***; OR
v. Other equivalent/related qualifications to a Bachelor’s degree (Level 6, MQF) recognised by the Malaysian Government.
English Competency Requirement (International Students)
Achieve a minimum Band 4 in Malaysian University English Test (MUET) OR equivalent to The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) (Mid B2)****.
International Students
Lecture score of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) 500, International English Language Test System (IELTS) 5.0, or other equivalent qualification for international students. If students do not meet these criteria, HEPs must offer English courses to ensure that the student’s proficiency is sufficient to meet the program requirements.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Master of Social Work program have diverse career opportunities in both government and non-government sectors. The program also prepares graduates for leadership roles and further academic research in social work. With a strong emphasis on ethical practice and social justice, MSW graduates are well-positioned to make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals and communities. Career paths include:
- School Social Worker
- Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
- Child Welfare Social Worker
- Substance Abuse Social Worker
- Geriatric Social Worker
- Community Social Worker
- Mental Health Social Worker
Program Aim
The Master of Social Work program aims to develop competent, ethical, and reflective social work professionals equipped to address complex social issues, promote social justice, and empower individuals and communities through advanced knowledge, research, and practical skills in diverse social service settings. The program aims to produce postgraduates who can:
- Provide a comprehensive understanding of social work theories, practices, and policies essential for effective intervention in diverse communities.
- Equip students with critical thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills necessary for addressing complex social issues.
- Enhance competencies in communication, empathy, and cultural competency to foster positive relationships with clients and communities.
- Encourage innovative approaches in research, policy development, and program evaluation to improve social services.
- Instill a commitment to professional ethics, social justice, and advocacy for vulnerable populations in a global context.