ObjectivesThis unique course is comprehensively European in its curriculum, its academic staff, its students and its location. The academic focus of the course is the comparative study of social, youth and community work in which European institutions, frameworks and policies are central. The location for study is the Hogeschool Zuyd in Maastricht. The teaching team is drawn from a network of 35 institutions of higher education, while the student body extends to the countries beyond the EU.
Entry requirementsYou should possess a professional qualification in social work or youth and community work, plus a BSc or BA in social science. People with appropriate experience and knowledge of the social professions and human services, but without a professional qualification will be considered. UK applicants should apply to London Metropolitan University. Applicants from other countries should apply to the Hogeschool Zuyd in Maastricht in the first instance (see fact panel for contact details).
Academic titleMA Comparative European Social Studies
Course descriptionCourse structure
The course comprises six taught modules plus a comparative research project to be undertaken in another EU country, which will form the basis of the dissertation.
Core modules:
-Introduction to European Institutions and Policy
-Comparative Social Policy
-Comparative Social Research
-Social Professional Practice in Europe
Options from:
-European Network Development and Intercultural Theories
-European Law in a Social and Welfare Context
-Management of Change in a European Context
-Marginalisation and Social Exclusion in Europe
-Political Philosophy and European Welfare
Dissertation
A 20,000-word comparative study written in English and based on work undertaken in a three-month research period during the course. The dissertation is submitted in August.
Assessment
Coursework, essays, written and oral examinations and group presentations.
Career opportunities
Excellent for professionals in social work or youth and community work who are looking to broaden their skills base and develop a more European perspective. Graduates can also progress to further study.
Attendance & duration
Full-time: one year consisting of 6 months in Maastricht and 6 months of research
Part-time: two years