![SocialWorker.com SocialWorker.com](https://www.socialworker.com/api/design-7202a466d3c57305685eaa2e66a9f37a/newswlogo700jpg.jpg)
![](http://serviteca.online/777/templates/cheerup2/res/banner1.gif)
Graduate School Admissions: Writing an Effective Personal Statement
By: David C. Prichard, Ph.D.
This article focuses on the central role that the personal statement plays in the MSW application process. Strategies are presented for writing an effective statement that will highlight and emphasize applicant strengths congruent with the values of particular Schools of Social Work. The author has chaired the MSW Admissions Committee at the University of New England (UNE) over the past three years, and has assisted in the review of several hundred MSW application packages. During this period, the application procedures were completely revamped, and UNE was subsequently acknowledged in 1995 by the Council on Social Work Education in its Site Visit Report for reaffirmation of accreditation as having developed an admissions process that is "one of the more elaborate, perhaps, in social work education," and for using " . . . as primary sources of decisions, its applicants' personal statements and references." It is from this background that the author offers practical insights and suggestions for writing a personal statement that will increase the likelihood of a good match between student applicant and MSW program.
The Admission Process
Admission policies and procedures among Schools of Social Work vary widely; so too, do the criteria used to evaluate MSW applicants. In general, schools use GRE scores and academic transcripts as quantitative measures to predict academic success. The personal statement, letters of reference, and the application form (including employment and other social work-related experience) are qualitative indicators that may be used to suggest the "fit" between the applicant and the particular school. As the validity of GRE scores comes under increasing criticism (Donahoe & Thyer, 1992), Schools of Social Work, like UNE, are increasingly relying on the personal statement as a qualitative measure of the likelihood of an applicant's "success" with a particular MSW curriculum.
UNE may be representative of a more heavy emphasis on narrative to evaluate MSW applicants. In this approach, two faculty review each student application on the following 6 criteria:
- work-related (paid and volunteer) and life experiences;
- meaning attached by applicant to work-related (paid and volunteer) and life experiences;
- previous academic and professional training;
- composition and content of personal statement;
- references, and;
- experience with and understanding of human dignity, empowerment, social justice, and oppression.
GRE scores are not considered, and the use of undergraduate GPAs is minimized. The faculty reviewers are made familiar in advance with the application materials, particularly regarding where data related to each of the six evaluative criteria may be located within the materials. Reviewers are instructed to consult the student's personal statement for data in all categories but references; the data in all categories are in turn measured against the School's mission statement. Given this approach to evaluating MSW applications, applicants should craft their personal statements carefully, keeping the School's mission statement in mind.
The Personal Statement and the School Mission Statement
The personal statement should reflect careful consideration of the schools to which the applicant has chosen to apply. It gives applicants the opportunity to highlight experiences and reasons for their interest in the field, and allows the school's Admissions Committee to evaluate the compatibility between the values and goals of the applicant and those of the school, while maintaining and assuring diversity within the student body. Without question, well-developed personal statements have contributed to the acceptance of many applicants; poorly written ones to the non-acceptance.
The values and goals of Schools of Social Work vary greatly, and applicants should seek schools whose mission statements fit well with their own values and goals for practice. What are the values and principles that form the foundation of the school? Applicants should reflect upon these carefully. What do they mean? If a school emphasizes the concepts of oppression, social justice, empowerment, dignity, compassion, and respect, what do these mean and how has the life of the applicant been affected in these areas? One of the tasks of the applicant is to tap into her internalized experience of these values to allow the richness of her life to come alive.
The purpose of a well-written personal statement is three-fold. First, it should describe how the applicant's interest in social work developed; second, it needs to consider the applicant's perception of personal strengths and areas in need of development in relation to becoming a professional social worker; and third, it should describe an understanding of the school's mission statement in relation to the applicant's experience and vision of professional social work.
What events in her total life experiences have led the applicant to the field of social work? What is her story, and how did it lead her to apply to this specific school? This is the opportunity to show the link between what may appear on the surface to be disparate life experiences. It is the chance for the applicant to narrate her story and come alive to the faculty reviewer and become a living, thinking, feeling human being with a life full of meaningful experiences.
A Case Example
Using the values of the mission of the UNE School of Social Work, let's examine how an applicant might incorporate the values of the School to carefully craft a summary paragraph in a personal statement. The mission statement of the UNE School of Social Work states, in part, a commitment ". . . to the values of human dignity, individual and cultural diversity, individual and collective self-determination, and social justice . . . to struggle against oppression including all forms of discrimination, social and economic injustice, and violence . . . assessment of social, psychological, economic and organizational oppression, (and) their impact on people's lives, and the strengths people have developed to endure, resist, and change . . . and to promote human relationships grounded in mutuality, compassion, and dignity."
An applicant might present her life and professional experiences using the language and terminology consistent with the values of the stated mission of the School. A paragraph in the personal statement, then, might read as follows:
The values that the School presents in its mission statement are not just words for me. As a lesbian, I have lived the oppression of a society grounded in heterosexist patriarchy, and have experienced firsthand the social and economic injustices suffered by my women and lesbians friends, as well as the working poor. A quiet person by nature, I have discovered a voice that I did not know I had. I have added my voice to those seeking equal rights for same sex partners and continue my struggle to receive health care benefits for my partner of 15 years. I have come to recognize and value the strengths and resiliencies I have developed by necessity to survive the neglect and abuse of my childhood and use these in my ongoing struggle against the discrimination and societal injustices that I experience as a woman and as a lesbian.
Notice how this excerpt from a fictional applicant allows the applicant to come alive to the reader in a passionate, enthusiastic manner while clearly using the language and the values presented in the mission statement of the School. It should be clear that the values of the School and those of the student appear compatible and that there might be a good match here.
In the following fictional excerpt, note the apparent incongruence between the values and goals of the applicant and those of the School, suggesting a poor fit between the School and applicant.
In conclusion, I have always been intrigued by psychological issues, and have actually done quite a lot of reading in the field. I feel that I am an excellent communicator and that I would be able to help clients deal with their problems. My ultimate goal is to become part of a group private practice, and although I am concerned about the current insurance problems and third party reimbursement concerns, I believe that there continues to be a need for MSWs to help people with their psychological and social problems. I believe that the MSW is the most powerful degree to have to provide psychotherapy to clients, and that we will become increasingly recognized by HMOs and managed care companies as the most effective providers. This is the degree that will most aptly enable me, as a psychotherapist in private practice, to help those afflicted with mental illness to become more productive members of society.
Either of these excerpts may be acceptable and, perhaps, even appropriate, depending on the School to which the applicant is applying; however, given the summary of the values of the above School, the first excerpt clearly represents a better fit than the second. In the first we experience a strengths-based perspective and a genuine sense of the struggles and of the "voice" of the applicant-the person behind the words; in the second, we see a more traditional pathology-based perspective and an emphasis on the career ambitions of the applicant.
Recommendations
Four general recommendations are offered to applicants. First, they need to come to a clear understanding of their own values and career goals, and how these are informed by their total life experiences. Second they should come to a clear understanding of the values and goals of the School of Social Work to which they plan to apply. This may be accomplished through faculty, field instructor, and alumni interviews, review of mission statements, review of past core curriculum syllabi, and a library search and review of the literature produced by current faculty. Third, they need to determine which Schools have values that are compatible with their own. Fourth, they need to develop personal statements that reflect the influences in their lives that contributed to an interest in the profession of social work. These statements should reflect a clear understanding of the mission statement of the particular school.
In summary, the purpose of the application process is to give the applicant and the school the chance to screen one another. Applications should be completed only after careful examination of the mission and goals of particular schools, and personal statements need to show a clear understanding of and connection to the values and goals of the school and its curriculum. Perhaps the most useful recommendation for potential applicants is to take the time to reflect on and write out the values and beliefs that guide their lives, inform their behavior, and provide meaning to their life experiences, and to seek out schools that are compatible to these. This done, the personal statement should flow naturally and genuinely, because it will be based on the knowledge, truth, wisdom, and authenticity of personal life experience.
David C. Prichard, Ph.D., is Assistant Professor of Social Work and Chair of the MSW Admissions Committee at the University of New England.
Copyright © 1996 White Hat Communications. All rights reserved. From THE NEW SOCIAL WORKER , Fall 1996, Vol. 3, No. 2. For reprints of this or other articles from THE NEW SOCIAL WORKER (or for permission to reprint), contact Linda Grobman, publisher/editor, at P.O. Box 5390, Harrisburg, PA 17110-0390, or at [email protected] .
All material published on this website Copyright 1994-2023 White Hat Communications. All rights reserved. Please contact the publisher for permission to reproduce or reprint any materials on this site. Opinions expressed on this site are the opinions of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of the publisher. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
![personal statement for postgraduate social worker The College Application](https://thecollegeapplication.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/cropped-TCA-Final-Logo-Transparent.png.webp)
10 MSW Personal Statement Examples (with Commentary)
Get inspired by some of the best MSW personal statement examples below.
These personal statement examples are inspired by actual essays from students with whom we’ve collaborated, essays that contributed to their successful admissions. For confidentiality, key details have been altered.
If you’re looking for Personal Statement Help, Get Started Here !
Table of Contents
Example 1: NYU MSW Personal Statement Sample
Prompt: ‘why i want to be a social worker’ essay.
At the tender age of five, as my family faced the challenges of immigrating to the United States, I quickly became attuned to the complexities surrounding us. This early brush with adversity sparked my quest for understanding, especially in the realm of adolescent experiences. Growing up in a household where my mother tirelessly cared for us, while my father remained emotionally distant, I learned to seek solace in introspection and daydreaming. These experiences laid the foundation for my deep empathy towards others and a commitment to understanding them beyond surface-level perceptions.
My ability to empathize with others, particularly adolescents, has been a guiding force in my life. Working with XXXX as a counselor, I revisited my own teenage years, recognizing the crucial need for guidance during this transformative phase. This realization has fueled my determination to specialize in counseling and therapy for adolescents, a path I am eager to pursue through NYU’s Master of Social Work program. I am convinced that effective counseling during adolescence is pivotal in shaping capable, responsible adults.
My internship at XXXX Health was a turning point. Observing clinical behavioral health therapists and working alongside a psychiatrist specializing in post-incarceration life, I gained profound insights into the long-lasting impact of disrupted adolescent experiences. Hearing the narratives of former inmates underscored the importance of early intervention in defining one’s identity. This experience intensified my desire to work with young individuals struggling to find their place in the world.
Choosing NYU Silver was a natural decision. The school’s esteemed faculty, particularly Dr. Kirk Jae James, resonates with my journey as an immigrant. Dr. James’ dedication to overcoming his challenging past and disproving stereotypes is not just inspiring; it mirrors the resilience and determination I strive to embody. His work with those affected by mass incarceration aligns closely with my aspiration to be a clinical therapist who can bring change to young lives.
New York City, the vibrant and diverse backdrop of NYU Silver, also greatly appeals to me. The city’s rich history of nurturing notable figures like Andy Warhol, Roy Halston, and Jean Basquiat speaks to its capacity to foster self-discovery and belonging. I am excited to immerse myself in this melting pot of cultures and ideas, which will undoubtedly enrich my learning and practice in clinical therapy.
My personal history, particularly my father’s struggle with his traumatic childhood, has taught me that resilience and determination are key to overcoming adversity. His journey, though fraught with challenges, has instilled in me the belief that embracing the unknown and being steadfast in one’s goals can lead to remarkable achievements. Carrying this lesson with me, I step into NYU Silver poised to embark on a journey towards becoming an influential clinical therapist for adolescents.
My path to NYU Silver is more than an academic pursuit; it is a commitment to my dream of guiding adolescents through their most vulnerable years. By combining my personal experiences with the comprehensive training at NYU Silver, I am ready to make a meaningful impact in the field of clinical therapy, helping young individuals navigate their formative years with understanding and resilience.
Commentary:
- Personal and Cultural Background : Effectively connects early experiences as an immigrant to developing empathy, crucial for social work.
- Professional Aspirations : Clearly links past experiences with seniors and an internship to a focused interest in clinical therapy for adolescents.
- Academic Motivation : Draws a parallel between personal experiences and the inspiration found in NYU Silver’s faculty and New York City’s diversity.
- Resilience and Determination : Reflects on lessons learned from family, particularly the father, instilling a belief in achieving ambitious goals.
- Career Vision : Articulates a strong desire to impact adolescent lives, demonstrating an understanding of the field’s challenges and opportunities.
Verdict: The personal statement is heartfelt and well-structured, showing a clear link between the candidate’s background, their professional drive, and their chosen academic path. The reflection on personal and family resilience adds depth, positioning the candidate as a motivated individual ready to leverage their experiences for meaningful social work.
Example 2: Columbia MSW Personal Statement Sample
- Part 1: Reflecting upon your decision and motivation to pursue the MSW, describe how attending CSSW will enable you to meet your goals as a social worker. What are your immediate and long-term social work goals?
- Part 2: Describe a social problem of significance to you. Please discuss it in regard to societal contributions to the origin of the problem, experiences that have contributed to your identification and understanding of the problem, and possible ways of addressing the problem.
- Part 3: Choose two attributes and provide examples as to how you exemplify these traits. Choose one attribute you would like to improve. How will attending the MSW program at CSSW help you in doing so?
1. Motivation and Goals for Pursuing MSW:
From a young age, I have been acutely aware of the disparities and injustices in my community. Growing up in a low-income neighborhood in Chicago, I witnessed firsthand the detrimental effects of poverty, limited access to quality education, and the cycle of violence. These early observations fueled my passion for social work, specifically my desire to develop community-based programs aimed at youth empowerment and education. My immediate goal is to work in a non-profit organization focused on urban youth development, while my long-term ambition is to establish a foundation dedicated to providing educational resources and mentorship programs for at-risk youth.
Attending the Columbia School of Social Work (CSSW) will provide me with the critical skills, knowledge, and network necessary to achieve these goals. CSSW’s commitment to social justice, its comprehensive curriculum, and the opportunity to learn from esteemed faculty and diverse peers will equip me with a nuanced understanding of social issues and effective intervention strategies.
2. A Significant Social Problem:
The social problem that resonates most with me is the school-to-prison pipeline, an issue rampant in many urban communities, including my own. This problem arises from a combination of societal factors such as underfunded public schools, zero-tolerance policies, and systemic racial discrimination. My understanding of this issue deepened through volunteering at a local youth center, where I encountered numerous teens who had been expelled from school and were at risk of entering the juvenile justice system.
Addressing this problem requires a multi-faceted approach, starting with policy reform to prioritize education and rehabilitation over punishment. Community-based intervention programs focusing on mentorship, counseling, and educational support can play a vital role in diverting at-risk youth from the criminal justice system. At CSSW, I hope to explore these interventions in-depth and develop effective strategies to dismantle the school-to-prison pipeline.
3. Personal Attributes and Areas for Improvement:
Empathy : My empathy has been a guiding force in my social work journey. A poignant example was when I volunteered at a local youth center. There, I met a teenager named Marcus who had been expelled from school. By actively listening and engaging with him, I learned about his challenges at home and his struggles with learning disabilities. Understanding his situation, I worked with the youth center staff to develop a personalized educational plan and connect him with a mentor. This experience deepened my ability to empathize with individuals from diverse backgrounds, recognizing the unique challenges they face.
Resilience : My resilience was particularly tested when I spearheaded a community project to revitalize a rundown public park. The project faced numerous setbacks, including funding shortages and bureaucratic hurdles. Despite these challenges, I mobilized the community, organized fundraising events, and negotiated with local officials. The successful completion of the park not only provided a safe space for children but also reinforced my ability to persist in the face of adversity, a crucial trait for a social worker.
Area for Improvement – Policy Advocacy : My experience in grassroots initiatives has been rewarding, but it also highlighted the limitations of addressing social issues without policy change. For instance, while volunteering at the youth center, I realized that individual interventions, though beneficial, could not alone prevent the systemic issue of school expulsions leading to juvenile detentions. This recognition has fueled my desire to improve my skills in policy advocacy, an area where I see great growth potential. CSSW’s program, with its emphasis on policy practice, will be instrumental in helping me acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to advocate effectively for systemic changes.
Conclusion:
Attending Columbia School of Social Work will be a pivotal step in my journey to becoming an impactful social worker. I am eager to engage with the CSSW community, learn from diverse experiences, and contribute my perspective towards creating meaningful change. I am committed to using the knowledge and skills gained from CSSW to fight for social justice and empower the youth in communities like mine.
- Clarity of Motivation : The essay effectively communicates the candidate’s personal experiences and observations of disparities in their community as key motivators for pursuing social work.
- Goal-Oriented : Clearly outlines immediate and long-term goals, demonstrating a focused vision for a career in social work.
- Understanding of a Social Issue : The candidate’s insight into the school-to-prison pipeline, informed by volunteer experiences, indicates a deep understanding of this complex social problem.
- Attributes and Self-Improvement : Demonstrates empathy and resilience through specific examples. Identifies policy advocacy as an area for improvement and connects this to CSSW’s curriculum.
- Personal and Professional Growth : The candidate’s experiences, challenges faced, and the growth they seek align well with the offerings of the CSSW program.
Verdict: The candidate’s personal statement is compelling and well-crafted. It showcases a strong personal connection to the field, a clear understanding of relevant social issues, and a desire for professional growth that aligns with the CSSW program.
Example 3: UC Berkeley MSW Statement of Purpose Sample
Please address each of the following in your statement:
- Describe your aptitude, motivation and preparation for graduate study in the field of social welfare; your future career goals in the profession of social work; and achievements that demonstrate your professional promise and leadership potential as a social worker.
- Describe your academic and professional areas of interest in social work, including your chosen area(s) of specialization.
- Demonstrate your understanding of contemporary issues and challenges in the professional practice of social work by posing a question or identifying a relevant problem/current issue you would like to explore, and how you might address it from the perspective of a masters’-level social worker.
My journey into the world of social work began with a deeply personal experience – caring for my youngest daughter who faced developmental and language delays. This challenge opened my eyes to the struggles of parents with special needs children and sparked my commitment to helping vulnerable groups. I founded a non-profit organization to support children in rural Russian orphanages, which expanded my drive to assist not only children but also adults suffering from trauma and PTSD. This path has led me to pursue the Master of Social Welfare program at Berkeley, where I aim to deepen my knowledge and skills for effective global impact.
My background is richly diverse. As a mother of four bilingual, multicultural children, I developed a keen interest in early bilingualism. For my thesis at XXXX State Linguistic University, I explored bilingual language development in infants and toddlers, focusing on methods used by parents raising bilingual children. This research, recommended for publication as a guide for multilingual families, heightened my awareness of the challenges immigrant families face globally. It solidified my resolve to find research-based solutions to social issues, a commitment I bring to Berkeley’s rigorous program.
Professionally, I thrived as a XXXX Director for XXXX in Russia, where I honed leadership skills by building a team of passionate educators. A notable achievement was our collaboration with XXXX Department, providing educational programs to young patients. This experience was transformative, broadening my perspective on social change and reinforcing my desire to make a meaningful difference.
As a certified life and leadership coach, I focused on assisting Russian-speaking immigrants and refugee women, many confronting dire challenges like domestic abuse and PTSD. These encounters underscored the need for specialized social welfare skills, steering me towards a Master’s in Social Work. My goal is to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, specializing in trauma and PTSD, and to contribute on an international scale, possibly with organizations like Doctors Without Borders.
Recognizing the critical role of language in social work, I have been learning Spanish and French to better connect with diverse patient populations. My linguistic background enhances my ability to engage effectively in multicultural settings. To gain practical experience, I completed a 90-hour training at Crisis Support Services of XXXX and began volunteering on their crisis line. This hands-on involvement, particularly during these challenging times, has further motivated me toward my LCSW goal.
UC Berkeley’s MSW program, known for its diverse student body and commitment to public service, is the ideal environment for me to grow. Surrounded by peers and faculty who share a dedication to social justice, I am eager to expand my understanding and prepare for a career dedicated to improving the lives of vulnerable individuals, families, and communities.
- Personal Experience as Motivation : The statement effectively uses the candidate’s personal experience of caring for a child with developmental delays as a catalyst for their interest in social work.
- Global Perspective : Showcases a strong commitment to international social issues through work with Russian orphanages and immigrant communities.
- Professional Achievements : Highlights relevant professional experiences, including leadership roles and work with vulnerable populations.
- Educational Goals and Alignment : Clearly articulates the desire to specialize in trauma and PTSD, aligning with Berkeley’s MSW program’s strengths.
- Multicultural and Linguistic Skills : Demonstrates an understanding of the importance of cultural competence in social work, supported by multilingual abilities.
Verdict: The candidate presents a compelling mix of personal motivation, professional experience, and academic alignment with the MSW program at UC Berkeley. Their diverse background and specific career goals make them an ideal candidate for the program.
Example 4: Cal State Fullerton MSW Personal Statement Sample
The quality of the writing in the personal statement will be evaluated, as will the applicant’s ability to thoroughly address the questions outlined below:
- Describe how your personal background and life experiences have influenced your decision to pursue a graduate education in social work. Please include any challenges or hardships you may have overcome on your journey.
- What are your expectations of graduate education at Cal State Fullerton in terms of your own development? Indicate any problems or limitations that should be taken into account in planning your graduate program.
- Specify your career objectives as a professional social worker as you now conceive them. Indicate the fields of practice in which you are interested.
- Describe your experiences with diverse populations and groups, and how those experiences have contributed to your interest in social work. Which population (defined by culture, ethnicity, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, psychological and/or physical functioning) would you like to serve and why?
While managing an in-school feeding program, I watched a 7-year-old boy take a modest meal at school, and save half for his siblings at home. Another girl expressed joy for the school meals she relied on. These encounters, and others like them, deeply impacted me, highlighting the critical issue of child hunger and food insecurity. My resolve to expand our school feeding program was fueled by these experiences, successfully growing it from 7 to 1,053 schools over five years.
After graduating, I joined the Philippine XXXXX in 2001, managing the Business and Peace Program in the XXXXX Region. Here, I worked with XXXXXX, identifying young Muslims for internships that fostered leadership and peace.
In 2008, I transitioned to the XXXXX Foundation, developing community programs and managing the in-school feeding program, which fed 40,000 children at its peak. These experiences solidified my commitment to child welfare and my belief in the power of social work.
Managing the feeding program, I faced ethical challenges, like discovering fund misappropriation by a local agency officer. I addressed this by establishing direct communication with schools and conducting random checks, ensuring program integrity.
Then in 2013, I took a break to focus on family and moved to XXXXX. Motherhood enriched my perspective, making me more empathetic, resilient, and dedicated to child welfare. Now ready to re-enter the social work field, I seek an MSW degree to update my skills and knowledge.
Post-MSW, I aim to influence policies and contribute to community-based solutions in the Philippines, aspiring to work with large non-profits and eventually with international agencies like UNICEF.
The COVID-19 pandemic has heightened child poverty in the Philippines, underscoring the urgency of my mission. At CSU Fullerton, I plan to study social work theories, understand child welfare systems, and apply these learnings to the Philippine context.
With a Master of Social Work degree, I am poised to join the effort to advance children’s welfare, equipped to make a significant difference in their lives. The Filipino children cannot wait. They need all the help they can get. And with a Master of Social Work degree from CSU Fullerton, the battle will have been half-won.
- Personal Narrative as Motivation : The statement effectively uses the applicant’s personal experiences with poverty, domestic violence, and addiction to illustrate a deep-rooted motivation for pursuing social work.
- Community Involvement and Professional Experience : Highlights significant community engagement and professional achievements, demonstrating a commitment to social justice and positive change.
- Challenges and Ethical Considerations : Discusses challenges faced during professional work, showing problem-solving skills and ethical awareness.
- Academic and Career Goals : Clearly articulates how an MSW will enrich the applicant’s knowledge and skills, aiming to influence policies and create community-based solutions.
- Personal Growth and Family Perspective : Reflects on the lessons learned from being a stay-at-home mother, tying this to a renewed enthusiasm for child welfare work.
Verdict: The statement presents a well-rounded candidate with a compelling personal connection to social work, reinforced by active community involvement, ethical professional practice, and clear career goals. The applicant’s experiences and aspirations align well with the MSW program at CSU Fullerton- making them a strong candidate.
Example 5: Cal State Long Beach MSW Personal Statement Sample
How did you become interested in social work? What motivated you to choose social work as a profession?
My passion for social work and advocacy for equality is rooted in a fundamental belief: no voice should be silenced in the pursuit of a just society. Throughout my life, I’ve witnessed how advocates for equality are often marginalized, their concerns unheard. This fuels my commitment to actively work towards a just world, where standing up for justice is a right for all.
As a child of Mexican immigrants, I experienced the harsh realities of a low-income household. This upbringing ingrained in me deep empathy and an intimate understanding of the struggles faced by underprivileged communities. My parents’ relentless hard work and sacrifices, despite economic hardships, have been a constant source of inspiration. They taught me resilience, compassion, and the importance of community support.
My professional journey in social work began at XXXX Community Development Corporation, where I took a lead role in organizing a landmark meeting with elected officials. We successfully voiced community concerns, addressing critical issues like infrastructure and public safety. This experience honed my skills in advocacy and highlighted the power of active listening and engagement.
Furthering my commitment, I volunteered at XXXX Volunteers in Medicine, assisting in providing healthcare to those unable to afford it. Here, I learned the critical role of accessible healthcare and the importance of educating communities about healthy living. These experiences have solidified my resolve to pursue a career in social work, focusing on advocating for essential services and support for underprivileged communities.
My aspiration to become a licensed clinical social worker, specializing in children’s mental health, aligns perfectly with the academic rigor and diverse environment offered by the Master of Social Work program at CSULB. As an undergraduate at CSULB, I was captivated by the program’s depth and the diverse perspectives it embraced. The experiences shared with students from varied backgrounds deepened my understanding of the multifaceted challenges in our society.
I am fully committed to investing my time and resources in the coursework and fieldwork placements at CSULB. The opportunity to study in a stimulating environment, surrounded by professionals who share my passion, will provide a solid foundation for my career. I bring with me a wealth of practical insights from working with low-income communities, the homeless, the elderly, and drug users. These experiences, I believe, will contribute significantly to our class discussions and align perfectly with CSULB’s mission of supporting vulnerable and oppressed populations.
My journey in social work is a commitment to those who struggle to be heard. At CSULB, I aim to further my skills, knowledge, and understanding, preparing myself to be a force for change and a voice for the voiceless. My goal is to ensure that every child, family, and community I work with gets the opportunity to thrive, just as I strive to make a meaningful impact in the field of social work.
- Strong Personal Connection : The statement effectively connects the candidate’s personal background as a child of Mexican immigrants to her empathy and understanding of underprivileged communities.
- Professional Experience : Highlights relevant work in community development and healthcare, which demonstrates practical skills in advocacy and community engagement.
- Academic and Career Goals : Clearly articulates the ambition to specialize in children’s mental health, aligning with CSULB’s program.
- Commitment to Social Work Values : Demonstrates a deep commitment to social justice, aligned with the mission of CSULB’s social work program.
Verdict: The personal statement is comprehensive and well-constructed, effectively demonstrating the candidate’s passion, relevant experience, and alignment with CSULB’s Master of Social Work program. The candidate’s background and professional aspirations make them a strong fit for the program.
Example 6: San Jose State University MSW Personal Statement Sample
In the heart of a small migrant community, where the sting of social inequities was a daily reality, my path toward a career in social work began to take shape. My childhood, marked by the challenges of racial discrimination and economic struggle, instilled in me not only resilience but a deep understanding of the complex social fabric that shapes communities. It was these formative experiences, coupled with my time volunteering at a local shelter, that solidified my dedication to advocating for social justice.
Professionally, my experiences have been closely aligned with the values at the core of social work. Serving as a community organizer, I worked alongside local leaders to tackle critical issues like housing affordability and healthcare accessibility, gaining valuable insights into the world of policy advocacy. Another pivotal role was as a counselor for at-risk youth, where I developed a keen understanding of the challenges faced by young people from diverse backgrounds. This role was instrumental in refining my skills in empathy and communication.
Looking ahead, my immediate goal is to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a focus on trauma and PTSD. In the long run, I aspire to establish a non-profit dedicated to providing mental health services to marginalized communities. These ambitions are rooted in a deep-seated commitment to effecting lasting change for those society often overlooks.
San Jose State University’s MSW program, renowned for its emphasis on culturally competent practice, particularly with Latinx and other minority groups, aligns perfectly with both my personal and professional values. The program’s exceptional faculty and comprehensive curriculum stand out as ideal for nurturing my academic and professional growth.
In conclusion, I am confident that my time at San Jose State University will not only refine my existing skills but also expand my perspectives, equipping me to become an effective, empathetic social worker. I am eager to embrace the tools and knowledge that the program offers, to champion social justice and make a tangible difference in the lives of those most in need.
This MSW personal statement sample effectively showcases the candidate’s journey and motivation towards a career in social work. It does well in several key aspects:
- Personal Experience : The statement begins with a compelling narrative about the candidate’s upbringing in a diverse, challenging environment, effectively linking personal background to their interest in social work.
- Professional Alignment : The candidate skillfully ties their professional experiences, like community organizing and counseling, to the core values of social work- to demonstrate a clear understanding and commitment to the field.
- Future Goals & Alignment with the Program : The statement outlines specific short-term and long-term professional goals, aligning them with the strengths of San Jose State University’s MSW program. This demonstrates the candidate’s purposeful choice of program and their understanding of how it will support their career objectives.
- Flow and Clarity : The essay is well-structured, with each paragraph transitioning smoothly into the next, maintaining a clear and engaging narrative throughout.
Verdict: The statement presents a well-rounded, sincere, and focused candidate with a clear vision for their future in social work. It makes a strong case for their admission.
Example 7: Wayne State University MSW Personal Statement Sample
Your statement must address the following items:
- The National Association of Social Workers set forth important guiding principles to address social workers’ ethical responsibility to clients, colleagues, employers and employing organizations, the social work profession, and society.
- Describe how these ethical standards would shape your professional social work practice. How would you reconcile any conflicts between your personal values and the requirements of the profession?
- Describe why you believe you are a good fit with the mission of the Wayne State University School of Social Work, particularly its urban mission.
- Social workers are committed to social justice. Please describe your thoughts on a particular social and economic justice issue and how you intend to use your professional social work degree to address these issues.
As an African American with Native American roots, I have firsthand experience with the challenges faced by underserved communities. This background has deeply influenced my desire to pursue social work, driven by a belief in compassion, commitment, and competence. I aim to amplify my impact in this field by enhancing my skills, and I believe the MSW program at Wayne State University is the ideal setting for this growth.
My life in Detroit has exposed me to the myriad challenges of urban environments, from food deserts to unsafe public spaces and high crime rates. The city’s struggle with deindustrialization has led to job losses, property abandonment, and heightened poverty, which I believe positions me uniquely for Wayne’s urban mission. Understanding these issues firsthand, I feel equipped to contribute meaningfully to solutions.
In my current role with a youth assistance program, I work to prevent youths from entering the juvenile system and help rehabilitate those already involved. Our sessions include group counseling, academic enrichment, and life skills training, aimed at early intervention to improve life quality and academic performance.
My practice as a social worker is grounded in the ethical standards set forth by the National Association of Social Workers. I prioritize service above self-interest, as evidenced by my role as a Direct Care Worker for my sister with Autism Spectrum Disorder. I am committed to social justice and understand the importance of dignity and respect for every individual, regardless of their background. My experience with Wayne State University’s XXXXXX program has further reinforced the value of human relationships in social work.
I recognize the potential conflicts between personal values and professional responsibilities. In such cases, I intend to adhere to the profession’s ethical standards, ensuring that my personal beliefs do not hinder my ability to serve clients effectively.
The Wayne State University School of Social Work’s urban mission resonates with my experiences and aspirations. My understanding of Detroit’s unique challenges aligns with the school’s focus on urban social work. I am particularly interested in addressing issues of poverty and economic disparity, leveraging my post-masters degree to initiate impactful programs like fundraisers for low-income students and collaborations with local food banks.
I am aware of the challenges in understanding certain aspects of social work, such as the dynamics of gang involvement. To address this, I plan to engage in continuous learning about various community issues to enhance my ability to serve diverse populations effectively.
My journey has not been without its challenges. While I have been actively involved in addressing the needs of victims of gang violence, I recognize a gap in my understanding of gang culture. To bridge this gap, I am committed to learning more about gang dynamics, history, and the socioeconomic factors that influence gang membership. This knowledge will be crucial in my work with at-risk youth, allowing me to provide more targeted and effective interventions.
Balancing the demands of graduate studies with work, family, and financial responsibilities will be challenging, but my experience in the Wayne State University XXXXX program has equipped me with valuable skills in time management and prioritization. I am prepared to fully commit to the MSW program, confident that it will transform me into an impactful social work professional aligned with Wayne State’s mission.
- Alignment with University’s Mission : The statement effectively aligns the student’s personal and professional experiences with Wayne State University’s urban mission.
- Ethical Awareness : Demonstrates a clear understanding of social work ethics and a commitment to upholding these standards in practice.
- Conflict Resolution : Thoughtfully addresses potential conflicts between personal values and professional responsibilities, indicating maturity and professional readiness.
- Commitment to Social Justice : Shows a strong dedication to social justice, particularly in addressing economic disparities and poverty.
- Continuous Learning : Emphasizes a willingness to learn and grow, especially in areas like understanding gang dynamics, which is crucial for effective social work.
- Personal Experiences : Successfully uses personal experiences to illustrate a deep understanding of the challenges faced by underserved communities.
- Realistic Approach : Acknowledges and prepares for the challenges of balancing graduate studies with other life responsibilities.
Verdict: The applicant shows a strong alignment with the program’s focus, demonstrates ethical awareness, and possesses a clear commitment to social justice and continuous learning. The statement shows maturity and readiness for the challenges of graduate study in social work.
Example 8: University of Pittsburg MSW Personal Statement Sample
Please describe in your personal statement the following:
- Influences in your life that led you to select social work as a profession
- Why you are applying to the University of Pittsburg School of Social Work
- How an MSW will help you achieve your career goals
- Your special skills and abilities, your strengths as well as your limitations
- How your abilities will contribute to your development as a professional social worker
- Discuss a contemporary issue that is of concern to you
Printed on my grandfather’s funeral brochure was an old Irish proverb: “Death leaves a heartache no one can heal; love leaves a memory no one can steal.” This sentiment has resonated with me deeply, as I have experienced significant loss in my life, from cancer to accidents and suicide. These experiences have not only shaped my understanding of grief but also steered me towards a career in social work, specifically in gerontology and hospice care.
During my final quarter at XXXXXXX State College, I met a hospice social worker whose impact on families dealing with end-of-life situations was profound. Her approach to helping families accept, celebrate life, and find peace in farewells deeply inspired me. It was then that I realized the power of social work in providing comfort and dignity in life’s final stages.
I am applying to the University of Pittsburgh School of Social Work because of its strong gerontology program and its commitment to addressing contemporary issues like the impact of COVID-19 on the aging population. The pandemic has starkly highlighted the disparities in our healthcare system, especially concerning end-of-life care. I aim to contribute to this field by developing solutions to these emerging challenges, ensuring dignity and comfort for all in their final moments, regardless of their racial or socioeconomic status.
My work experience in childcare and hospitality has equipped me with patience, empathy, and a strong work ethic, qualities essential for a career in social work. Additionally, my volunteer work with XXXXXXX and the XXXXXXX has given me valuable experience in community service. However, I recognize my tendency to be overly trusting as a limitation. In the field of social work, discernment is crucial, and I am actively working on balancing empathy with professional objectivity.
At the University of Pittsburgh, I am particularly interested in courses like Grief and Loss: Interventions, Implications, and Understanding, and Direct Practice with Older Adults. These courses, coupled with field education in aging, hospice, or hospital settings, will be instrumental in achieving my career goals.
My commitment to serving the Pittsburgh community stems from my deep-rooted connection to the city. Witnessing the impact of the university’s alumni in the field has further motivated me to pursue my MSW here. I am fully aware of the challenges that lie ahead in the field of social work, but I am confident that the guidance and training offered by the University of Pittsburgh will equip me to tackle these challenges effectively.
My personal experiences with loss, combined with my professional aspirations and commitment to social justice, make me a suitable candidate for the MSW program. I am eager to contribute my skills, work ethic, and unique perspectives to the University of Pittsburgh School of Social Work and to grow into a compassionate and effective social worker.
- Connection of Personal Experience to Career Choice : Effectively links personal encounters with loss to a passion for social work, particularly in gerontology and hospice care.
- Alignment with Program’s Strengths : Clearly identifies why the University of Pittsburgh’s program, with its focus on gerontology, is a strong fit for the candidate’s career goals.
- Discussion of Contemporary Issues : Addresses the impact of COVID-19 on the aging population, showing awareness of current challenges in social work.
- Self-awareness and Growth : Acknowledges personal limitations, like being overly trusting, and the intention to work on balancing empathy with professional objectivity.
- Relevant Skills and Experience : Highlights experiences in childcare, hospitality, and volunteer work, which showcase skills valuable in social work.
Verdict: The statement demonstrates a clear connection between personal experiences and professional aspirations. It aligns effectively with the program’s focus, displays awareness of current social issues, and shows a commitment to personal growth- making the candidate a strong fit for the University of Pittsburgh’s MSW program.
Example 9: Case Western Reserve University MSW Personal Statement Sample
Discuss significant factors influencing your decision to pursue a Master of Science in Social Administration (MSSA).
- Your essay should include information regarding your interest in the social work profession, your intended concentration/specialization, and career goals.
- Please reflect on how any past school, community, volunteer, professional work, and leadership experiences will contribute to your success as a graduate student.
- Describe how you see yourself contributing to the vibrancy of our student body and school community.
- Describe any strengths or limitations that might influence you being successful in your field placement.
- Finally, please include why the Mandel School is a good fit for your educational goals.
My decision to pursue a Master of Science in Social Administration (MSSA) at the Mandel School is deeply rooted in personal and professional experiences that have highlighted the profound impact of social work. My journey began with observing the complexities of mental health within my family, which instilled in me a passion for understanding and advocating for mental health care.
Growing up, I watched a beloved family member struggle with mental health challenges. Witnessing their battle and the ripple effect it had on our family stirred in me a resolve to support others facing similar trials. This resolve only deepened with the birth of my daughter, Eve, when I encountered my postpartum mood disorders. Through receiving treatment and support, I was empowered to overcome these challenges, which further fueled my aspiration to assist women grappling with similar issues.
In my professional role as a Health Coach and Personal Trainer, I’ve had the privilege of supporting clients like John and Anna, whose mental well-being was intertwined with their physical health goals. These experiences have honed my ability to listen empathetically and devise holistic approaches to wellness that I believe will be invaluable in my social work practice.
My immediate career goal is to establish a private practice focused on women’s mental health, particularly addressing postpartum mood disorders. I am inspired to create a space where women can seek help without stigma or silence. In the long term, I aspire to influence mental health policy, advocating for accessible care and support systems that recognize and address the silent struggles many women face.
The Mandel School’s commitment to academic excellence and its vibrant student body resonate with my educational and professional ethos. The school’s innovative approach to social work education, particularly in mental health, makes it an exceptional fit for my aspirations. My compassion, coupled with my professional experience and personal journey through mental health challenges, will contribute to the rich tapestry of the Mandel School community.
Ultimately, I envision my time at the Mandel School as a transformative experience that will not only deepen my understanding of social work but also equip me with the skills to make significant contributions to the field. With a community that fosters diversity of thought and experience, I am confident that my educational journey here will prepare me for a fulfilling and impactful career in social work.
- Personal Connection : The statement effectively establishes a personal connection to social work through the candidate’s family experiences with mental health.
- Professional Relevance : It highlights relevant work experience that translates well into social work competencies, particularly in understanding clients’ holistic needs.
- Clear Career Objectives : The candidate articulates well-defined short-term and long-term goals that align with their personal experiences and professional aspirations.
- School Alignment : There is a strong emphasis on how the Mandel School’s ethos resonates with the candidate’s goals, suggesting a thoughtful choice in their application.
- Contribution to Community : The statement outlines how the candidate’s unique experiences and compassion will add value to the student body and fieldwork.
Verdict: The candidate’s personal statement is compelling, demonstrating a strong, authentic motivation for pursuing an MSSA and a clear vision for how the Mandel School will help fulfill their career objectives.
Example 10: University of Pittsburg MSW Personal Statement Sample
- Influences in your life that led you to select social work as a profession.
- Why you are applying to Pitt’s School of Social Work.
- How an MSW will help you achieve your career goals.
- How your abilities will contribute to your development as a professional social worker.
- discuss a contemporary issue that is of concern to you.
At just seven years old, I witnessed the harsh realities of poverty, domestic violence, and addiction within my family. These experiences instilled in me a passion for social work, especially after seeing how social workers supported our family through my parents’ mental health and addiction challenges. This inspired me to pursue a career in this field to use my background and skills gained from an MSW program to assist individuals and families in their recovery processes.
Growing up, our family was caught up in a custody battle, leading my siblings and me to frequently navigate foster care and courtrooms. My parents’ struggle with addiction was alleviated by the support of social workers and case managers, who provided housing, food assistance, service coordination, and counseling. Tragically, both my parents eventually succumbed to drug overdoses. Though painful, these experiences further reinforced my commitment to social work and helping others facing similar struggles.
In recent years, I have been actively involved in social justice activism. My roles as a community organizer and development director for XXXXX Summer Camp, a non-profit empowering girls and non-binary youth through music and mentorship, highlighted the need for improved mental and behavioral health services. Volunteering as a delivery driver and food packager with XXXXX Aid during the COVID-19 pandemic underscored the importance of community support for those in need.
My experience in event coordination, donor relationship building, and electoral campaign work has enabled me to contribute to meaningful change in my community, such as the successful XXXXX Wage initiative in Oregon, which improved the lives of countless workers. Serving on the XXXXX Democratic Committee for Ward Four, I have amplified community voices and supported candidates who advocate for accessible mental and behavioral health services, safe and affordable housing, and environmental protection.
A contemporary issue that concerns me is the effectiveness of harm reduction techniques in treating mental health and dual-diagnosis clients. I aim to explore how these techniques can be integrated into traditional substance abuse treatment models to better meet the mental health needs of individuals like my parents. Additionally, I am interested in how mental health professionals and addiction treatment providers can collaborate to provide comprehensive care for dual-diagnosis clients.
Obtaining an MSW will empower me to become a skilled, compassionate, and trauma-informed clinician. My goal is to contribute to accessible mental and behavioral health services, particularly for trauma survivors, and advocate for inclusive, culturally responsive, and restorative justice practices.
I am empathetic and easily connect with people, and my resilience in adversity will contribute to my development as a professional social worker. These qualities have supported me in helping my sister Cheyan and in my social justice work.
I chose the University of Pittsburgh’s School of Social Work for its highly-ranked program and specialization in mental health. This program aligns with my goal of employing harm reduction strategies for dual-diagnosis clients. Additionally, its proximity to my family will enable me to support them while pursuing my education.
I am eager to return to the University of Pittsburgh and embark on this transformative journey to become a professional social worker. The MSW program will enable me to make a significant difference in the lives of those who need compassionate and trauma-informed care. I am confident that this program will honor my family’s legacy and empower me to create positive change for countless individuals and families in need.
- Personal Experience as a Motivation : The applicant compellingly uses their personal history of overcoming poverty, domestic violence, and addiction to demonstrate a deep-rooted motivation for pursuing social work.
- Community Involvement : The statement highlights significant community engagement and activism, showcasing a commitment to social justice and change.
- Professional Development : Details about event coordination, campaign involvement, and leadership roles show the applicant’s ability to effect change and work collaboratively.
- Academic and Career Goals : The applicant clearly articulates their interest in harm reduction techniques and their intent to enhance their skills through the MSW program.
- Personal Qualities : Empathy and resilience are emphasized as strengths that will aid in their development as a social worker.
Verdict: The statement presents a well-rounded candidate with a powerful personal connection to social work, backed by active community involvement and clear professional goals. Their commitment to addressing complex social issues, coupled with their personal strengths, shines throughout the statement.
Before you go…
You should be inspired enough to craft your authentic MSW personal statement. But you still need experienced eyes to deeply review it for flow, tone, logical structure, and clarity! See how I can help you below…
I will proofread, polish, edit any personal statement, college application essay or sop.
Related Articles:
Social Work Personal Statement Guide (w/Examples)
Top 8 Cheapest Online MSW Programs
Best Online MSW Programs in California
Leave a Comment Cancel reply
Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.
This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .
![personal statement for postgraduate social worker](https://thecollegeapplication.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/TCA-Web-Logo.png.webp)
Advertise With Us
Advertising Disclosure
Privacy Policy
Cookie Policy
As an Amazon Associate (and a participant of other affiliate programs), this site earns from qualifying purchases.
© 2024 TheCollegeApplication.com, a Delicto Holdings Company | All Rights Reserved
- Applying to Uni
- Apprenticeships
- Health & Relationships
- Money & Finance
Personal Statements
- Postgraduate
- U.S Universities
University Interviews
- Vocational Qualifications
- Accommodation
- Budgeting, Money & Finance
- Health & Relationships
- Jobs & Careers
- Socialising
Studying Abroad
- Studying & Revision
- Technology
- University & College Admissions
Guide to GCSE Results Day
Finding a job after school or college
Retaking GCSEs
In this section
Choosing GCSE Subjects
Post-GCSE Options
GCSE Work Experience
GCSE Revision Tips
Why take an Apprenticeship?
Applying for an Apprenticeship
Apprenticeships Interviews
Apprenticeship Wage
Engineering Apprenticeships
What is an Apprenticeship?
Choosing an Apprenticeship
Real Life Apprentices
Degree Apprenticeships
Higher Apprenticeships
A Level Results Day 2024
AS Levels 2024
Clearing Guide 2024
Applying to University
SQA Results Day Guide 2024
BTEC Results Day Guide
Vocational Qualifications Guide
Sixth Form or College
International Baccalaureate
Post 18 options
Finding a Job
Should I take a Gap Year?
Travel Planning
Volunteering
Gap Year Blogs
Applying to Oxbridge
Applying to US Universities
Choosing a Degree
Choosing a University or College
Personal Statement Editing and Review Service
Clearing Guide
Guide to Freshers' Week
Student Guides
Student Cooking
Student Blogs
- Top Rated Personal Statements
Personal Statement Examples
Writing Your Personal Statement
- Postgraduate Personal Statements
- International Student Personal Statements
- Gap Year Personal Statements
Personal Statement Length Checker
Personal Statement Examples By University
- Personal Statement Changes 2025
Personal Statement Template
Job Interviews
Types of Postgraduate Course
Writing a Postgraduate Personal Statement
Postgraduate Funding
Postgraduate Study
Internships
Choosing A College
Ivy League Universities
Common App Essay Examples
Universal College Application Guide
How To Write A College Admissions Essay
College Rankings
Admissions Tests
Fees & Funding
Scholarships
Budgeting For College
Online Degree
Platinum Express Editing and Review Service
Gold Editing and Review Service
Silver Express Editing and Review Service
UCAS Personal Statement Editing and Review Service
Oxbridge Personal Statement Editing and Review Service
Postgraduate Personal Statement Editing and Review Service
You are here
- Mature Student Personal Statements
- Personal Statements By University
- Accountancy and Finance Personal Statements
- Actuarial Science Personal Statements
- American Studies Personal Statements
- Anthropology Personal Statements
- Archaeology Personal Statements
- Architecture Personal Statements
- Art and Design Personal Statements
- Biochemistry Personal Statements
- Bioengineering Personal Statements
- Biology Personal Statements
- Biomedical Science Personal Statements
- Biotechnology Personal Statements
- Business Management Personal Statement Examples
- Business Personal Statements
- Catering and Food Personal Statements
- Chemistry Personal Statements
- Classics Personal Statements
- Computer Science Personal Statements
- Computing and IT Personal Statements
- Criminology Personal Statements
- Dance Personal Statements
- Dentistry Personal Statements
- Design Personal Statements
- Dietetics Personal Statements
- Drama Personal Statements
- Economics Personal Statement Examples
- Education Personal Statements
- Engineering Personal Statement Examples
- English Personal Statements
- Environment Personal Statements
- Environmental Science Personal Statements
- Event Management Personal Statements
- Fashion Personal Statements
- Film Personal Statements
- Finance Personal Statements
- Forensic Science Personal Statements
- Geography Personal Statements
- Geology Personal Statements
- Health Sciences Personal Statements
- History Personal Statements
- History of Art Personal Statements
- Hotel Management Personal Statements
- International Relations Personal Statements
- International Studies Personal Statements
- Islamic Studies Personal Statements
- Japanese Studies Personal Statements
- Journalism Personal Statements
- Land Economy Personal Statements
- Languages Personal Statements
- Law Personal Statement Examples
- Linguistics Personal Statements
- Management Personal Statements
- Marketing Personal Statements
- Mathematics Personal Statements
- Media Personal Statements
- Medicine Personal Statement Examples
- Midwifery Personal Statements
- Music Personal Statements
- Music Technology Personal Statements
- Natural Sciences Personal Statements
- Neuroscience Personal Statements
- Nursing Personal Statements
- Occupational Therapy Personal Statements
- Osteopathy Personal Statements
Oxbridge Personal Statements
- Pharmacy Personal Statements
- Philosophy Personal Statements
- Photography Personal Statements
- Physics Personal Statements
- Physiology Personal Statements
- Physiotherapy Personal Statements
- Politics Personal Statements
- Psychology Personal Statement Examples
- Radiography Personal Statements
- Religious Studies Personal Statements
- Social Work Personal Statements
- Sociology Personal Statements
- Sports & Leisure Personal Statements
- Sports Science Personal Statements
- Surveying Personal Statements
- Teacher Training Personal Statements
- Theology Personal Statements
- Travel and Tourism Personal Statements
- Urban Planning Personal Statements
- Veterinary Science Personal Statements
- Zoology Personal Statements
- Personal Statement Editing Service
- Personal Statement Writing Guide
- Submit Your Personal Statement
- Personal Statement Questions 2025
Social Work Personal Statement Examples
![personal statement for postgraduate social worker](https://www.studential.com/sites/default/files/Social%20Work%20Personal%20Statement%20Examples%20Banner.png)
Related resources
A level results day.
![personal statement for postgraduate social worker personal statement for postgraduate social worker](https://www.studential.com/sites/default/files/A-level-results-day_39.jpg)
Find out more
![personal statement for postgraduate social worker personal statement for postgraduate social worker](https://www.studential.com/sites/default/files/UCAS-Clearing-how-do-I-enter_40.jpg)
How To Become A Social Worker
![personal statement for postgraduate social worker personal statement for postgraduate social worker](https://www.studential.com/sites/default/files/How-to-become-a-social-worker.jpg)
![personal statement for postgraduate social worker Social Work Degrees](https://www.socialworkdegrees.org/wp-content/themes/edu/images/subhead.jpg)
How to Write an Effective Personal Statement for Grad School
![personal statement for postgraduate social worker](https://www.socialworkdegrees.org/wp-content/uploads/michelle-1-96x96.jpg)
Written by Michelle, Founder of MSW Helper
Schools of social work are looking for your ability to think critically and contribute to the social work field. This is more important than your grades and experience. I know this because I’ve seen people with high grades and a ton of experience get rejected from the program because they weren’t able to articulate their critical thinking skills (and I’ve seen it go the other way too, where applicants with low grades and little experience get accepted because of their strong personal statement).
So, let’s talk about how you can write an effective personal statement for your grad school application.
![personal statement for postgraduate social worker](https://www.socialworkdegrees.org/wp-content/uploads/michelle-1.jpg)
Michelle is the Founder of MSW Helper, where she helps Master of Social Work Applicants write top notch personal statements for grad school. Michelle understands how stressful applying to the MSW can be, and strives to help applicants feel confident about their applications.
Check out her website to learn more: https://www.mswhelper.com/
What schools of social work are looking for
In my experience, most schools of social work ask about these key areas:
- Your experiences that motivated you to become a social worker, including personal, professional, academic, and other experiences
- A discussion of a social problem and how social workers can work towards solving it
- Your goals as a social worker
In addition, schools of social work typically assess your personal statement for the following:
- Evidence of critical and analytical thinking skills
- Potential contribution to the field of social work
- Your ability to communicate clearly and succinctly
This is how you can demonstrate all of the following key areas seamlessly.
Contribution to the field
Let’s look at a personal statement of a past MSW applicant:
Applicant name: Sally ● Experiences : Sally works at a women’s shelter and talks about what she learned there. ● Social Justice Issue : Sally decides to talk about an issue within child welfare. ● Goal : Sally mentions that she wants to get an MSW so that she can qualify for a job at the hospital.
There are a few issues with Sally’s personal statement.
First, there is no cohesion between her experience, social justice issue, and goals, which makes it hard for the reader to understand why she wants to pursue an MSW and how she’ll be an asset to the field.
Second, Sally is talking about how an MSW will be beneficial for her, which comes off as a bit self-serving. When writing a personal statement, it’s important to talk about how pursuing an MSW will allow her to help others.
With this in mind, let’s see an example of how Sally could improve her personal statement:
Applicant: Sally ● Experiences : Sally works at a women’s shelter and talks about what she learned there. ● Social Justice Issue : Sally discusses an insight from her time at the women’s shelter, and backs it up with research that proves that her observation is part of a larger social problem. ● Goal : This issue that Sally noticed at the women’s shelter inspired her to get her MSW so that she can address that issue and support her clients in a different capacity and advocate for women’s rights at the macro level.
Better, right?
In this version of her personal statement, Sally demonstrates a high level of critical thinking by talking about her insights and backing them up with research, and she demonstrates her potential contribution to the field by discussing how a Master of Social Work will allow her to serve others in a greater capacity.
If you’re planning to write a personal statement, a great place to start is to think about insights and problems you’ve observed from your work, volunteer, placement, and personal experiences, and use those insights to develop your social justice problem.
Evidence of critical and analytical thinking
In addition to demonstrating your potential to contribute to the field, there are some tangible ways you can demonstrate your critical thinking skills.
First, make sure you understand what social work actually is.
This might sound obvious, but there are a surprising number of applicants who have a pretty limited understanding of what social work entails. I don’t blame them. The media often portrays a specific image of what social workers look like (usually involving child welfare, case workers, or therapists).
However, social work is so much more than that. Social workers work at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels of society, and can work in many areas at each of these levels.
Also, many applicants pursue social work out of a desire to help others, but it’s not good enough to say that in your personal statement. There are a lot of other jobs you can do that would allow you to help others. Think about how social workers are different from other helping professions (such as nurses, psychologists, police officers, teachers, lawyers, etc.). Why do you want to be a social worker and not another helping profession?
Understanding what social work is will help you provide a stronger and more thorough answer to the question of “why” you want to become a social worker.
Finally, connect your insights to the bigger picture by integrating research into your personal statement .
It’s one thing to talk about the issues you’ve noticed from your experiences, and it’s another to connect your insight to the bigger picture with the help of research.
Let’s look at Sally again.
Sally’s role at the women’s shelter is to help her clients who experienced domestic violence find housing. Sally noticed that many of her previously housed clients got evicted and ended up back at the shelter.
Sally also did some research and found studies to suggest that women who experience domestic violence have an overall higher rate of housing instability due to barriers such as income loss and lack of social support.
This knowledge motivated Sally to pursue a Master of Social Work so that she can move into a policy role to advocate for income and social support for women who experience domestic violence.
Connecting experience to research will demonstrate a high level of critical thinking.
Ability to communicate clearly and succinctly
When it comes to writing your personal statement, it’s not only what you say, but also how you say it. Admissions committees are typically assessing your personal statement for your writing ability.
Make it easy to read : Admissions committees read literally hundreds of personal statements each application season, so it’s likely that whoever reads your personal statement is going to quickly skim through your personal statement to find your answers. With that in mind, it’s important to make your personal statement as skimmable and easy to read as possible.
You can do this by adding headings that match each question or prompt so that the reader can easily see that you did answer each prompt.
You should also be concise and get rid of filler words and sentences that don’t directly answer the prompts.
Finally, you should always try to include an introduction and a conclusion in your personal statement where you summarize your experience, social justice problem, and goals. This will allow the reader to get your whole story in a few sentences, and leave them with a strong impression at the beginning and end of your personal statement.
Treat your personal statement like an academic writing sample: Many applicants don’t realize that the personal statement is a sample of your academic writing and research skills. One way to stand out is to treat your personal statement like a school paper. I often advise applicants to use full APA formatting when writing their personal statement, as this will make your personal statement look more professional and will stand out from the crowd.
Creating Your Own MSW Personal Statement
When writing a personal statement for your MSW, it’s important to demonstrate your potential contribution to the field, critical thinking skills, and strong writing ability. If you follow these tips, you’ll be on your way to writing an effective personal statement that stands out.
Search the Top Programs in Social Work
Specialty msw programs.
Advanced Standing MSW
100% Online MSW
MSW with No GRE for Entry
MSW with No BSW Required for Entry
Full Time Online MSW
Hybrid MSW (Online & Campus)
Campus Based MSW (by State)
![View Online MSW Programs 100% Online MSW Programs](https://www.socialworkdegrees.org/wp-content/uploads/online-msw-programs-three.jpg)
Captivating conversations with social work professionals. Gain insights into your own social work education and career journey in this new series hosted by Anna Shull, LMSW.
- Buy Our Toolkit!
5 hacks for your social work personal statement
0 comments
So, you want to get into social work.
Hold on… it’s not that easy.
But you are in the right place.
In this article, we will show you how to write a personal statement.
Then we will show you an example of the social work personal statement.
In applying for social work, you will need to write a personal statement that explains why you want to study social work.
How to write a social work personal statement
1. set a deadline for your personal statement..
No work will ever be perfect. Yet we often fall into the fallacy of writing and rewriting, editing and re-editing. We think we can make the perfect personal statement that will land us in social work.
We can’t make it perfect. Before you start writing, you need to know when you have to stop and submit.
There is a saying in Chinese that goes, 画蛇添足. It tells the story of an art competition. During that competition, an artist, in his quest for perfection, ended up adding legs to his painting of a snake. Naturally, he lost.
The moral of the story is that there will never be a perfect picture, or perfect personal statement. What matters is that you have tried.
![personal statement for postgraduate social worker Social work personal statement](https://www.savethesocialworker.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/you-are-enough-text-669988-1024x681.jpg)
Start writing your personal statement.
Often, our quest for perfection or plain procrastination stops us from writing. We try planning in detail, without actually writing. In my experience, I was pushed for time.
I had been awarded a scholarship, but no university place offered to me. Due to the urgency of the matter, I had to write quickly. I had to submit.
There was no time to think.
In much the same way, rather than spending too much time thinking, simply start writing. Writing has a magical way of sorting out your thoughts. You can always come back to edit it thereafter.
Include real-life examples of why you want to study social work.
As you can see below, I included examples from my own experiences being helped by a social worker and helping others as a volunteer. The truth is: facts tell, stories sell. Stories give the applications panel another side to you.
They make you real.
In writing your stories, be clear about what your role was. What did you contribute? What did you do? What was your impact? Did anyone praise you?
Secondly, link it to the wider motivation for social work. What did your experience teach you? How did it push you to decide on a career in social work?
Edit your personal statement.
![personal statement for postgraduate social worker social work personal statement](https://www.savethesocialworker.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/man-in-white-shirt-using-macbook-pro-52608-1024x685.jpg)
Grammatical and spelling mistakes are a no-no. they show that you have not spent as much effort as you should have on your personal statement. When editing, print out a copy of your personal statement, and then read it out loud.
Reading it out aloud helps you to hear the arguments. It lets you see if the arguments make sense, flow well, and are cogently linked together.
Give your personal statement to someone else to read.
I was fortunate to have a friend who was a social worker. She agreed to read my personal statement. From that reading, she gave me valuable feedback on what I could improve on.
Having someone else to read removes our blind spots. Having interacted so much with your personal statement, you might be too emotionally invested in it to remove parts that are not as good.
Therefore, having someone else helps to make your essay much better.
Example of social work personal statement
This was the personal statement I wrote that eventually allowed me to be accepted into the University of Nottingham’s BA Social Work course.
Winston Churchill once said, “We make a living by what we get, we make a life by what we give.” Indeed, I have come to see how a life well-lived is one through which we give out of the largesse of our hearts. With a desire to engender positive change in the society around me, contributing to the community that has nurtured me, studying social work develops the expertise needed to aid the communities around me.
![personal statement for postgraduate social worker social work personal statement examples](https://www.savethesocialworker.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/j-w-Ju-ITc1Cc0w-unsplash-1024x683.jpg)
Why social work?
My desire to study social work stems from a wish to help people deal with the befuddling complexities of life, for which there is often no proper problem solving method, and certainly no correct answer.
What piqued my interest in social work was a first-hand encounter with social workers, who inspired me to take up social work myself.
In college, I remembered seeing my mother bent over the toilet bowl, vomiting out the remains of her previous meal.
Days later, she was stripped of her once lustrous, beautiful hair.
Watching my mother buried under blankets, trying to keep warm, I was overcome by a sense of helplessness.
My mother was diagnosed with breast cancer in June.
The months after were a harrowing experience. So often used to the pillar of strength my mother represented, to see her reduced to such a state, ravaged by the destruction of cancer, terrified and frightened me. As the eldest in the family, I had to take on additional responsibilities at home on top of my academic workload. It was arduous juggling the various obligations. There were times when exhaustion overtook me, causing me to fall asleep in my uniform, waking up only to fight another day.
However, I was fortunate to have the guidance of a social worker, who helped me regain emotional balance. She enabled me to stand on my own two feet again, anchoring myself in the midst of the changes that were happening around me.
Just as I have been so helped, I desire to offer lifebuoys of aid to others.
I want to assist them in finding greater emotional stability and eventually soaring towards a more fulfilling life.
My experience
Intrigued by the complexities of social work, I joined YGOS, a welfare organization reaching out to youths from disadvantaged backgrounds, as an intern.
There, I worked with youths who were doing poorly academically and exhibiting behavioral problems.
I enjoyed the opportunity I had to personally mentor these youths, working closely with them to improve their academic grades and attitude towards learning.
Having a hand in molding them positively, revealed the possibilities that social work offered in eliciting real change in the community around me.
![personal statement for postgraduate social worker social work personal statement examples](https://www.savethesocialworker.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/white-framed-rectangular-mirror-159935.jpg)
The myriad of opportunities that an overseas education offers me excites me. Exposure to a different welfare system will further my perspectives on the various welfare models in the world, and broaden my horizons on the pros and cons that each welfare system inherently possesses. Studying overseas will push me out of my comfort zone, forcing me to live independently. Experiencing another culture, environment, and country will open my eyes to the diversity in the world.
I begin seeing the world in a different lens.
Beyond school, I volunteer regularly with the Movement for the Intellectually Disabled of Singapore.
In one of my earliest experiences volunteering, I was teaching a boy to write the alphabet “A”.
After struggling for thirty minutes, he threw up his arms, exclaiming,
“I don’t know how to write this!”
For him, the writing of such a simple alphabet had already prompted so much difficulty. It was a reminder that in the search for the academic “A”s in our lives, it is such a blessing to even have the chance to search.
Volunteering regularly has equipped me with empathy, which will aid me in better understanding my clients’ needs, finding lasting solutions for them.
Through social work, I hope to impact the world, shaping it, one person at a time, community by community, walking with my clients through some of their darkest emotional tunnels, and helping them to find the light again.
![personal statement for postgraduate social worker](https://www.savethesocialworker.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/white-all-we-have-is-now-neon-signage-on-black-surface-1580625-768x1024.jpg)
I hope these social work personal statement examples help you to craft your personal statement better. If you need more help, please look at advice I wrote on writing better personal statements.
You can also write to me at [email protected] .
All the best!
You may also like
5 best books on making case management less painful, 7 of the best social work books for students, subscribe to our newsletter now.
Session expired
Please log in again. The login page will open in a new tab. After logging in you can close it and return to this page.
- Log in
- Site search
Personal statements for postgraduate applications
Your Masters personal statement is an essential part of your postgraduate application as it's this document that will convince admissions tutors that you're worthy of a place on a course. Discover how to write a Masters personal statement and take a look at some examples for inspiration
What is a personal statement?
A Masters personal statement is a piece of writing that you submit as part of your postgraduate application . It's your first real chance to sell yourself to the university and to demonstrate to admissions tutors that you're right for the course.
It's likely that you've already written a personal statement for your Bachelors degree , so this should give you some idea of what to expect. However, don't be tempted to use your undergraduate personal statement as a template. You will have progressed academically since then and admissions tutors will want to see evidence of this.
Your postgraduate personal statement should be unique and tailored to the course that you're applying to. Use the opportunity to show off your academic interests and abilities, and to demonstrate that the programme will benefit from your attendance as much as you'll benefit from studying it.
'Personal statements have a two-way function in the application process,' explains Steve Carruthers, head of postgraduate admissions and student visa compliance at the University of East Anglia (UEA). 'They are critical to demonstrating the student is right for the course, showing their experience, knowledge, background and personality, as well as their interest in the subject. They also enable the admissions team to ensure the selected course is the best fit for the student's aspirations and goals, or to make alternate recommendations to ensure all options have been equally considered.'
How long should a postgraduate personal statement be?
A Masters personal statement should be around 500 words. This equates to one side of A4. However, some universities require more, often two sides. Some institutions also set a character limit instead of a specific word count, so it's important that you check the application guidelines before starting to write your statement.
As they're relatively short, don't waste words on autobiographical information. This isn't necessary in postgraduate personal statements. Instead, focus on why you want to study a particular programme and your potential to successfully complete the course.
What should I include in a Masters personal statement?
'The statement is a snapshot of who you are and why you've chosen your course, so include everything that helps an academic or admissions team see that clearly,' advises Steve.
You should tailor your personal statement to fit the course you're applying for, so what to include will largely depend on the course requirements. However, in general you should write about:
- Your reasons for applying for a particular programme and why you deserve a place above other candidates - 'demonstrate your interest and passion for the course and subject. This tells admissions staff you're more likely to fully engage in your studies,' says Steve. Discuss your academic interests, career goals and the university and department's reputation, and write about which aspects of the course you find most appealing, for example particular modules or work experience opportunities. Show that you're ready for the demands of postgraduate life by demonstrating your knowledge and experience.
- Your preparation - address how undergraduate study has prepared you for a postgraduate course, mentioning your independent work (e.g. dissertation) and topics that most interested you.
- Evidence of your skillset - 'show your writing skills, intellect and ability to succeed academically, as well as the effect and impact you may have on the cohort as a leader, influencer, or enthusiastic team member,' adds Steve. Highlight relevant skills and knowledge that will enable you to make an impact on the department, summarising your abilities in core areas including IT, numeracy, organisation, communication, time management and critical thinking. You can also cover any grades, awards, work placements, extra readings or conferences that you've attended and how these have contributed to your readiness for Masters study.
- Your goals - 'Your long-term plans and aspirations are also important to cover, as they both help ensure you've selected the best course to achieve these, but also give the academic team an understanding of how they might best support you through your studies,' says Steve.
Address any weaknesses, such as lower-than-expected module performance in your undergraduate degree or gaps in your education history. The university will want to know about these, so explain them with a positive spin. Cover how these gaps and weaknesses have been addressed and what will be different in your postgraduate studies.
How should I structure my personal statement?
Your personal statement should follow a logical, methodical structure, where each paragraph follows on from the one before. Make sure paragraphs are short, succinct, clear and to the point. Remember, you only have 500 words so use them wisely.
Capture the reader's attention with an enthusiastic introduction covering why you want to study a particular Masters. Then, engage the reader in your middle paragraphs by summing up your academic and employment background, evidencing your knowledge and skills and demonstrating why the course is right for you.
Your conclusion should be concise, summarising why you're the ideal candidate. Overall, aim for five or six paragraphs. You can use headings to break up the text if you prefer.
The majority of postgraduate applications are submitted online directly to the university. If this is the case, present your personal statement in a standard font such as Arial, Calibri or Times New Roman, text size 11 or 12. If your course application is submitted through UKPASS (UCAS's postgraduate application service) font style won't matter, as personal statements are automatically formatted.
How can I write a good postgraduate personal statement?
- Give yourself plenty of time and don't rush . Your personal statement can make or break your application so it needs to be right. Tutors can tell if you're bluffing, and showing yourself up as uninformed could be costly. Before you start, read the rules and guidelines provided, check the selection criteria and research the course and institution.
- Use AI tools responsibly - 'Remember, this is a 'personal' statement, so make sure it's all about you,' stresses Steve. 'Using AI such as ChatGTP or Google Bard to generate a statement may be easier, but generalised statements that miss out you, your personality and experiences will never be as effective. Personal stories and experiences really bring your statement to life, and this is one of those times it's ok to talk boldly about all you've achieved, and your qualities.'
- Adopt a positive, enthusiastic and professional tone and write in clear, short sentences . Avoid elaborate or overly complicated phrases. Unless otherwise stated, all postgraduate personal statements should be written in English and your spelling, grammar and punctuation must be spot on, as the personal statement acts as a test of your written communication skills..
- Don't use the same supporting statement for every course . Admissions tutors can spot copy-and-paste jobs. Generic applications demonstrate that you have little understanding of the course. In order to stand out from the crowd, Masters personal statements must be unique and specific to the course and institution.
- Draft and redraft your statement until you're happy . Then ask a friend, family member or careers adviser to read it. Proofreading is incredibly important to avoid mistakes. Memorise what you've written before any interviews.
What do I need to avoid?
- follow online examples too closely, use them as a guide only
- use your undergraduate UCAS application as a template
- be negative
- lie or exaggerate
- use clichés, gimmicks, humour, over-used words such as 'passion' or Americanisms
- include inspirational quotes
- make pleading/begging statements
- needlessly flatter the organisation
- include irrelevant course modules, personal facts or extra-curricular activities
- use overly long sentences
- repeat information found elsewhere in your application
- leave writing your personal statement to the last minute.
How should I start my Masters personal statement?
Steve believes there is no right way to start a personal statement so try not to waste too much time coming up with a catchy opening. The more you try, the more contrived you'll sound and the more likely you are to fall into the trap of using clichés. 'A good rule of thumb is to make it interesting, personal (avoiding bland generalisms) and enthusiastic for your choice of study.’
'Your opening lines could include how your current interests (we're less interested in you as a six year old) have led you to apply for this course, and how you see it helping you achieve both your full potential and future aspirations,' says Steve.
Avoid using overused phrases, such as:
- For as long as I can remember…
- From a young age…
- I am applying for this course because…
- Throughout my life I have always enjoyed…
- I have always been interested in…
- I have always been passionate about…
- I have always wanted to pursue a career in…
- Reflecting on my educational experiences…
Admissions tutors read hundreds of applications per course so the opening paragraph of your personal statement needs to get straight to the point and make a real impact. Avoid overkill statements, gimmicks and popular quotes.
If you're really struggling, come back and tackle the opening once you have written the rest.
How should I end my personal statement?
Conclusions should be short, sharp and memorable, and leave no doubt in an admissions tutor's mind that you deserve a place on a course.
The perfect ending should pull all of your key points together without waffling or repeating yourself.
Like the rest of your Masters personal statement, keep the ending simple. Be succinct and make it clear why you'll be an asset to the university and end on a positive note, with a statement about why the institution would be lucky to have you as a student.
What are admissions tutors looking for?
'Passion for the subject, and an understanding of the key challenges and problems it's currently facing, as well as the research being undertaken to solve these or to move the field forwards, really endears you to the academics who you'll be interacting with,' explains Steve.
'Strong writing skills are a gift, so be clear and concise about what you want to say, and always get a second pair of eyes to check spelling and grammar as well as readability.'
Make sure you also provide:
- an explanation of how the course links your past and future
- an insight into your academic and non-academic abilities, and how they'll fit with the course
- evidence of your skills, commitment and enthusiasm
- knowledge of the institution's area of expertise
- reasons why you want to study at the institution.
Personal statement examples
The style and content of your postgraduate personal statement depends on several variables, such as the type of qualification that you're applying for - such as a Masters degree , a conversion course or teacher training . Here are some postgraduate personal statement templates to help you get started:
Business management personal statement
Postgraduate courses in business management are popular among graduates. To make your application stand out your personal statement needs to cover your motivations for choosing a specific course at a particular university, your career goals and how the Masters will help you achieve them. Be sure to mention relevant transferrable skills and work experience. Read up on management courses .
Computer science personal statement
If you'd like to complete a Masters but studied an unrelated subject at undergraduate level you'll need to explain why you'd like to change disciplines. In the case of computer science your personal statement will need to show that you possess the technical, mathematical and analytical skills necessary, as well as demonstrate your knowledge of the subject area. Gain an insight into the information technology sector .
Law personal statement
You'll apply for an LLM the same way you would for any other Masters, directly to the university. Whether you're undertaking a general LLM or a more specific programme, such as an LLM in human rights or international business law, you'll need to convey why you want to study the law in more depth and how this could potentially aid your career. Discover more about LLM degrees .
Nursing personal statement
If you didn't study the subject at undergraduate level but you'd like to apply for a postgraduate course in nursing your personal statement needs to convey your reasons for choosing this career path, as well as demonstrate a specific set of skills, knowledge of the working environment and relevant experience. Find out more about working as an adult or children's nurse .
Psychology personal statement
Applications for conversion courses such as these are fairly straightforward and made directly to individual institutions. You need to explain why you want to change subjects and how your current subject will help you. Explain what experience you have that will help with your conversion subject, and what you hope to do in the future. Learn more about psychology conversion courses .
Social work personal statement
If your Bachelors degree was in an unrelated subject but you now have ambitions to work as a social worker you'll need a Masters in social work (MSW) to qualify. Social work Masters have a substantial work placement element so you'll need to cover what you hope to achieve during this time as well as demonstrate other relevant experience. Find out more about social work courses .
PGCE primary personal statement
As well as detailing why you want to work with this particular age group, a PGCE primary personal statement should highlight the ways in which your educational background has inspired you to teach. You'll need to cover relevant skills you have gained and any related work experience, as well as demonstrate your knowledge of the primary national curriculum. Read up on PGCEs .
PGCE secondary personal statement
You'll need to cover why you want to teach at secondary level while also acknowledging the pressures and challenges of working with older pupils. As you'll be teaching a specific subject, you'll need to evidence your knowledge in this area and demonstrate how your first degree was relevant. It's also essential to highlight any related work or voluntary experience. Learn more about teaching personal statements .
Find out more
- Search postgraduate courses .
- Find out what else you must consider when applying for a Masters degree .
- Completed your application? Discover what postgraduate interview questions you may be asked.
How would you rate this page?
On a scale where 1 is dislike and 5 is like
- Dislike 1 unhappy-very
- Like 5 happy-very
Thank you for rating the page
![personal statement for postgraduate social worker Jacksonville State University](https://www.jsu.edu/_common/_redesign/_files/images/logo/logo.png)
- Future Student
- Current Student
- Parent/Family
- Graduate School
- Forms and Helpful Links
Master of Social Work - Guidelines for Preparing the Personal Statement
Guidelines for Preparing the Personal Statement (~600-800 words)
This statement must be included in your application for admission. The autobiographic statement details your interest in social work, including personal experiences, strengths, values and beliefs that will contribute to your competence as a social worker. The autobiographic statement should be a carefully prepared document that is typed and double-spaced, with 1-inch margins and 10-12 font. Please place your name at the top right hand margin on each page and number pages at the bottom center.
Please address the following:
- Describe in detail your personal understanding of social work as a profession.
- Discuss your interest in rural/non-urban social work practice
- What factors influenced your decision to seek graduate social work education at Jacksonville State University? If you have worked or trained in another field, why are you now considering a career change?
- Describe the intellectual and personal qualifications that will enable you to practice social work successfully in non-urban/rural social work, for example collaboration with others, leadership ability, ability to empathize, communication and language skills. What limitations do you see in your work experiences, skills, or other attributes, including your awareness of your personal biases that you want to address to ensure your effectiveness in practicing social work?
- How will you balance outside responsibilities with academic responsibilities?
- Discuss your notable accomplishments, such as related work experience, military experience, volunteer services, other academic accomplishments, etc.
Clearing Universities & Courses
Clearing Advice
Recommended Clearing Universities
Popular Course Categories
Take our quick degree quiz
Find the ideal uni course for you with our Course Degree Quiz. Get answers in minutes!
Take our full degree quiz
Get more tailored course suggestions with our full Course Degree Quiz and apply with confidence.
Search by Type
Search by Region
Recommended Universities
Search Open Days
What's new at Uni Compare
![personal statement for postgraduate social worker personal statement for postgraduate social worker](https://cdn.universitycompare.com/content/static-images/app-content-cart-2.jpg)
Request Info From Uni's
Get the help you need direct from the university. Ask about accommodation, your course and university societies.
![personal statement for postgraduate social worker personal statement for postgraduate social worker](https://cdn.universitycompare.com/img/app-img2.jpg)
Bulk Order Prospectuses
Bulk order prospectus from universities and have them delivered to your door for free.
Ranking Categories
Regional Rankings
More Rankings
![personal statement for postgraduate social worker personal statement for postgraduate social worker](https://cdn.universitycompare.com/assets/img/Graduate_Career_Rankings_Image_Botton_Web_02.png)
Top 100 Universities
Taken from 131,500+ data points from students attending university to help future generations
![personal statement for postgraduate social worker personal statement for postgraduate social worker](https://cdn.universitycompare.com/assets/img/Rankings_Image_CTA_App_01.png)
About our Rankings
Discover university rankings devised from data collected from current students.
Guide Categories
Advice Categories
Recommended Articles
Popular Statement Examples
Statement Advice
![personal statement for postgraduate social worker personal statement for postgraduate social worker](https://cdn.universitycompare.com/content/images/Article--7jUziilvpRMXkpZ.jpg)
What to include in a Personal Statement
![personal statement for postgraduate social worker personal statement for postgraduate social worker](https://cdn.universitycompare.com/content/images/Article--xMJAqlXP9jcN4LO.jpg)
Personal Statement Tips
PERSONAL STATEMENT EXAMPLES Social work personal statements
Discover personal statement examples written by students accepted onto social work and related courses. Read through the examples to help shape your own personal statement.
Social Work Personal Statements
Submitted by anonymous
BSc Social Sciences Personal Statement
Human behaviour is complex and constantly evolving. Since studying A ...
Submitted by Lola
Social Science Personal Statement
I want to study Sociology at a higher, more advanced level. The reas...
Submitted by Anisa
Social Science (Foundation) Personal Statement
After researching all areas of law, criminal law is one of the aspect...
Want to learn more about a university?
Get your questions answered by sending them an enquiry now.
FIND THE IDEAL COURSE FOR YOU
Degree Course Quiz
Find the ideal university course for you in minutes by taking our degree matchmaker quiz today.
- Personal Statements
- Social Work Personal Statement
Social work Personal Statement Example
Sample statement.
While many of the potential candidates for this course may be drawn to it by painful and difficult personal experiences in their own lives, my motivation is just the opposite. I have been lucky to have a very secure upbringing, in a traditional, two parent home, with the love and support of my family and extended family around me at all times. I appreciate how lucky I am to have had this, and I want to give something back to society by helping others who have been less fortunate.
I have always been a people person and tend to be the first choice ‘shoulder to cry on’ for friends of both sexes. I have been told that I am a good listener and I find it easy to not only sympathise, but also to empathise with other people’s problems. These talents have been recognised at my school, where I have been a student counsellor for the past year. In this role, I help fellow students to talk about their problems and liaise with the relevant parties, such as teachers, house masters and the school pastoral care leaders. I hugely enjoy this work, as I can see how much difference a friendly face can make in times of trouble, as well as the impact of practical help and representation when you are feeling too emotional or confused to act for yourself.
Having decided on a career in social work early on, I have steered my studies towards this field, taking sociology, psychology and geography at A-level. While the geography may not seem immediately relevant, the issues discussed in this subject do have a genuine impact on people’s lives. I enjoy the lively debates that arise in all these subjects, especially sociology, and this has led me to establishing a debating society at my school, which I currently chair.
Outside of school, I am an active member of my local church, and am a youth leader at the out of school club. This club was created to give kids somewhere to hang out where they could feel safe and stay out of trouble. We play pool, darts and card games in the winter, and move outside for more active fun in the warmer weather. The youth group has an annual camp in Wales, and last summer I was chosen as a group leader, responsible for 25 kids aged from 11 to 15.
Although my own life has been comparatively easy, I am under no illusions as to how difficult life can be for others. My village borders a council estate with high unemployment and many deep-rooted social problems, and many of my friends are from this area. I have seen both the worst of these circumstances, in a friend’s mother who took her own life, and the very best, in which social workers have made a real difference in building communities and solving problems to give people much needed hope.
I know that my age and background will be a challenge for me in the field of social work, and that I will have to work hard to gain the trust and respect of the people I work with. However, I believe that I have the patience and abilities to succeed. This course will back those abilities with the knowledge and techniques I need to do well in this field, and so I do hope that you will consider me as a candidate.
![personal statement for postgraduate social worker Applytouni _guides _button](https://www.applytouni.com/media/800185/applytouni_guides_button.jpg)
University Guides
- Accommodation
- + much more!
Sign up for news & advice about applying to uni
- Universities
- Fees & Finance
- For Parents
- International Students
- Terms and Conditions
![personal statement for postgraduate social worker Apply to Uni logo](https://www.applytouni.com/images/logo-greyscale.png)
![personal statement for postgraduate social worker ScholarshipTab](https://www.scholarshiptab.com/images/scholarshiptab-logo.png)
How To Write A Personal Statement For Masters (17 PDF Sample Examples)
Published: 14 Mar 2022 Study Abroad 107,774 views
![How To Write A Personal Statement For Masters (17 PDF Sample Examples) How To Write A Personal Statement For Masters (17 PDF Sample Examples)](https://www.scholarshiptab.com/pictures/blog/700/456497956_how-to-write-a-personal-statement-for-masters.png)
A personal statement for masters program is one of the most important parts of your college application and writing a good one is what’s the exception between receiving an offer and being rejected.
If you’ve been tasked with presenting a personal statement, you should keep in mind that whatever you submit must put you forward as the right candidate for the course. Additionally, it should convince the admissions officers that you deserve a place on your program of study.
Achieving the above, is a skill most postgraduate students are yet to acquire but thankfully this article on How To Write A Personal Statement For Masters covers everything you need to know on doing this.
In this article you’ll learn:
- What is a personal statement?
- Tips for making your personal statement for masters stand out
- How to write a personal statement for masters
- Personal statement for masters sample
- Examples of personal statement for masters
- Conclusion – things to avoid when writing a personal statement for masters
Read: Admission Interview Tips .
What Is a Personal Statement?
A personal statement AKA admissions or application essay or statement of purpose is a type of essay or written statement a candidate presents to a college, university, or graduate school they are applying to, explaining why they want to attend that school, study a particular course, and why they would be a perfect fit for these things.
A personal statement for masters is an essay you submit specifically for your postgraduate application. Writing one presents the opportunity for you to promote yourself to a school and show the admissions teachers that you are the perfect candidate for a course.
Tips For Making Your Personal Statement For Masters Stand Out
Before we get into how you should write a statement of purpose for masters, we would first like to share with you certain tips to include in your essay to make it stand out from that of other applicants and be convincing enough to any admissions officer that reads it. The tips we have mentioned here, cover general things like starting and ending your personal statement, timing, length, and what to include and what not to include in the essay, etc.
1. Starting And Ending A Personal Statement
When starting a personal statement, you would want to right off the bat grab the reader’s attention. To do this, start the statement by writing about your degree of choice, next why you want to study it and then how you got interested in it.
The next 2 sentences after that should cover a summary of your background in the chosen field, and you conclude by saying what you plan to do once you acquire your graduate degree.
Also start with that the evaluators reading want to hear first, then every other information should come second. You will notice we’ve used in the sop examples for masters we will share with you later in this article.
2. Plan Ahead
A personal statement is not something you rush while writing, which means if you want to get something good before you application then you must start to decide things like the length and how long it should take to complete.
Let us throw more light on this…
For length, a personal statement should be brief ranging somewhere between 500 -700 words, although schools often detect how long it should be. So, this is dependent on the institution you are applying to.
In terms of what to say in a statement, you could include personal experiences like why you were driven to apply for the program, an experience you had with a scholar in your chosen discipline, a course you took that inspired you to pursue masters, or a key moment during your studies which further motivated you.
No matter what you decide to write, just keep in mind that you need to take your time to craft something good even if it means creating several drafts before the real thing and do not forget to proofread the statement for errors.
3. Research Your Program Of Study
Researching your program of study is one way to establish that you truly understand the discipline you’re getting into and prove to the admissions officer that you thoroughly thought about it before applying.
And because you want to put yourself forward as a serious candidate, one way to make you research easier is for you to visit the website of the department you are applying to. This page will contain information about faculty members, their specialisation, and publications.
From the intel, you gathered there you can now identify which professors match your interests and which ones you will benefit the most from learning under. After you’ve found this out, relate the same in a sentence or two in your statement of purpose for masters.
Example: “I would be honoured to study under the tutelage of Professor Nadia whose work I found resonated strongly with my beliefs and intended projects in this course”.
4. Avoid Clichés, Junks, And Many Details
When writing a statement of purpose for master degree try to avoid clichés, junks, and unnecessary details so that you don’t lose or bore your readers in between. Be as concise as possible, even if it’s your chance to express yourself.
A personal statement is an opportunity for the admissions committee to get information that tells the that you are suitable for the course. So, when you overpower your statement with too many words, stories, and useless details, you come off as someone who is just trying to meet the word count.
5. Include Your Personal History Only If It Adds To The Statement
Do not include your personal history in your statement of intent for masters if it is not relevant to your purpose of study. This means no need for you to tell that story about that time you helped someone treat a cut and immediately realised that you wanted to be a doctor or nurse or how you developed a taste for reading at a very young age.
We can guarantee you that the hundreds of other applications competing for the same spot you are felt the same way, so saying those things really doesn’t make you unique.
On the other hand, if you are going to add personal history to your statement, you can put in things like an internship you did and the experience you got from the job, a major research project you ran by yourself, publications you’ve read or published, conferences you’ve attended or presentations you’ve done. These experiences are more concrete and are directly related to your program of study. They also set you apart from other applicants.
![](http://serviteca.online/777/templates/cheerup2/res/banner1.gif)
6. Don't Use The Same Personal Statement For All Your Applications
One common mistake applicant make that you shouldn’t is using the same statement of purpose for master degree for all your applications. Using the same information repeatedly even if you are going to change the university names is risky and could land you in a big mistake on a day you forget to be thorough.
All programmes have their own unique set of questions they want to see answered and information they need in your personal statement.
And even if some of them like extracurricular activities, proposal for project, why you are applying to the school, your unique qualities, and research works you’re doing might appear the same, do not use one statement to respond to all of them.
Write a new unique personal statement every time you want to apply.
Check out: How to Write a Good CV for Students - Resume Examples for Students (PDF).
How To Write A Personal Statement for Masters
When writing a personal statement for masters there are several steps and ground rules you need to follow to ensure that it comes out good enough to impress the admissions team of a school, and ultimately convince them to give you a spot on your program of study.
If writing one is something you are currently struggling with and can’t seem to get down the process of it right no matter what, this section on how to write a personal statement for masters, discusses in detail everything you need to get help with yours.
There are 4 parts to consider when writing your personal statement and we have listed them below:
1. Planning A Personal Statement
A personal statement is a piece of writing showing your academic interests and is only for application purposes which means there is no room for any autobiographical information in it about your personal life. Be as to-the-point as possible when writing it and stick to telling the school why you are the right person for the course, plus any other extra information detailing your achievements.
Before You Start:
Allot plenty of time to write your msc personal statement so that you don’t rush it. Remember, this simple piece of writing is your one shot at convincing a school that you are the best applicant they’ve seen and as such can either make or break your application.
Read the information expected of you from the university, rules and guidelines given, selection criteria and understand what they mean. Also research the institution.
Do a thorough research on the course you are applying for; this will help you explain better why you want to study it. The tutors interviewing you can tell when you are lying and presenting yourself as uninformed can cost you the admission.
Ensure that you don’t use the same personal statement for all your applications.
When Writing:
When writing the statement there are some questions to ask yourself that can help you plan it better. Those questions are:
- Why you want to study a master’s and how does it benefit you in future?
- How does the course you have chosen fit into your pre-existing skill set?
- How do you stand out from the crowd as an applicant - e.g., work experiences you’ve had in the same field you are applying for?
- What do you aspire to do or be as a future career and how will the course help you achieve that?
- How can your work or skillsets contribute positively to the department/ university you are applying to, or society at large?
On the other hand, if you are applying for the masters to change from the field you studied in your undergraduate to another field, you should tell the school why you decided to take a different path in your studies.
Questions to ask yourself for this include:
- Your reason for deciding to change your discipline.
- How your undergraduate degree will be material for bringing fresh insights into your masters course.
- How changing your study path will help you attain your future career.
2. Structuring A Personal Statement
Having good structure for your personal statement for master degree is important because it ensures that everything from the beginning, middle, and ending of the statement is written and equally falls in place perfectly.
We’ve left some tips for you below to help you:
Start your personal statement with an attention-grabbing introduction that is not dramatic or cliché. That means you should not begin with any of these over-used phrases we’ve listed out below:
For as long as I remember…
Since my childhood…
I want to apply to this course because I’ve always felt a strong connection to it…
All my life, I have always loved…
My interest in (course) always ran deeper than…
I’ve always been zealous about…
Ever since I was a child, I’ve always wanted to pursue a career in…
My past educational experiences have always…
'My passion for Child Psychology is influenced by my curiosity in how autism affects the personality of children living with this condition. That's why I dedicated the 3rd year of my undergraduate study interning with the Child Rehabilitation Centre in my community, which caters to the patients and work closely with their families in developing care plans that work for their child. |
You would want to be as snappy as possible with your opening because the admission officer has over a hundred applications to read and can’t waste all their time on yours. This means you should avoid overpowering it with unnecessary facts, quotes, and stories from your life.
The middle part of your ma personal statement is where the main content of the write-up should be. This is where you show your dedication to the course you’ve chosen, what motivated you to choose it, and why you are the right candidate for it.
When writing the middle part of a graduate personal statement, you should:
- Give concrete reasons why you want to study a course at the University. The reason could be because of how the course is aligned to your future career or the University’s reputation in teaching that program.
- Mention relevant things like projects, dissertations, or essays you’ve done, and any work experience you have.
- Show proof of your core skills like and how they can contribute to the department.
- Prove what makes you a unique candidate.
- Discuss who your main influences for wanting to study the course are and why.
- Add experiences like memberships to clubs that are related to your field, papers you’ve written before, awards, scholarships, or prizes.
- Draw focus to how the course links to your past and future.
- Mention your academic and non-academic skills and how they fit the course.
For Formatting:
- Keep the statement length between 250 -500 words or as directed by the school.
- Sentences should be no more than 25-30 words.
- Use headings to break up the content – Why this university? Why this subject? Etc.
- Make claims and provide evidence to back each of them up. This can be done by discussing your work experience and academic interests.
Language and tone to use:
- The tone for your masters application personal statement should be positive and enthusiastic, to show you eagerness to learn and so that you convince the evaluators that you have what it takes to succeed.
- Use exciting and refreshing language, and an engaging opening line.
- Ensure you grammar, punctuations, and spellings are accurate.
- Avoid exaggerated claims you cannot backup.
- Don’t use cliché generic terms and keep your focus on the course.
Keep the ending of your essay for master degree application concise and memorable, leaving no doubt in the admission officers mind that you deserve a spot on the program.
To create the best ending summarise all your key points without dragging it our or repeating yourself. The ending should be simple, end on a positive note and make it clear that the school will be lucky to have you on their program.
Personal Statement for Masters Sample
In this section, we have left a masters personal statement example for you, which you can use as material to write yours for any course of study you are applying to a school for.
My passion for Filmmaking, was influenced by my growing up reading novels and plays by my idols William Shakespeare, Tennessee Williams, and Maya Angelou, which graciously provided me with the opportunity to not just hear good stories, but also appreciate great storytellers whose plays still shake the foundations of the film industry. Growing up, I loved movies and found myself fascinated by the stories, the characters and most importantly the realization that the human mind could create something so beautiful and gripping. I studied each film like a guide and whenever they ended, I would act out the scenes on my own, putting on a one-woman show for myself whenever I was alone at home. These things would later form the basis of me writing my first published book which was a drama titled The Reward of Evil Deed. To me, loving literature and chasing it down all these years was something that made me different, but I also enjoyed it because films are more than something I just wanted to watch and forget, it is something that I wanted to be a part of. I didn’t just want to appreciate great films, I wanted to make them. During my bachelor’s degree in India, I had the privilege of taking Literature classes stemming from British, American, and Indian literature to broaden my mind. I was also opportune to read great authors like John Donne, John Milton, Emily Dickinson, Charles Dickens, Mark Twain, Anton Chekov, Virginia Woolf, and of course Margret Atwood who I follow closely on Instagram. Three years later not only did I graduate as one of the best students in the school, but I did so with a first-hand knowledge of what it means to be a passionate storyteller whose art transcends time, language barrier, and location. In addition to devouring Literature and watching satirical films like it’s the news, I am also an avid reader and prolific writer who throws herself into whatever she sets her heart on. I am the proud author of Forgetting Bangalore which is a personal memoir about my three years of studying in India, read amongst my closest friends who I shared those times with. In school, I also wrote the script for a short film for the class Psychology assignment titled The Ordeal which I uploaded to my YouTube page and uploaded to my application form. Apart from writing for myself, I also function as a content creator/marketer for companies I have worked for in the past and is still working for now. I play the Bass guitar well and occasionally dabble in Lead guitar. For far too long, I have aspired to be, but now I want to become a filmmaker and I strongly believe that through your institution that I would be able to learn and master all the aspects associated with filmmaking. I hope to attend Central Film School next year, enrolling in MA Practical Filmmaking under the tutelage of the amazing Faculty members. Although I don’t have the professional skills or much of a background in filmmaking, I am passionate and have a zeal burning strongly that it will set the film industry on fire. I am a good storyteller, I am brilliant, resilient, and determined to succeed, and when I want something, I push until I get it, I am also a fast learner. I strongly believe that these attributes are what will help me successfully complete this master’s program. |
Personal Statement PDF
You can also download this statement of purpose sample for masters degree pdf here and take your time to read it later – Personal Statement For Masters Sample .
See Also: Student CV Template .
Examples of Personal Statement for Masters
We have taken the time to source for some of the best postgraduate personal statement examples, which you can use in addition to the personal statement for masters program example as a template to write yours.
While you scroll through our list, you will find the perfect masters essay example for any field you wish to apply for, from business administration, to Psychology, to information technology, and lots more.
1. msw personal statement
We have found one of the best msw personal statement examples out there for you.
social work masters personal statement .
2. personal statement for masters in public health
mph personal statement examples
3. personal statement for masters in management
Personal statement for master degree sample for masters in management . , 4. personal statement for masters in education example.
personal statement for masters in education example
5. psychology masters personal statement
psychology masters personal statement example
6. sample personal statement for masters in data science data science masters personal statement
7. speech and language therapy personal statement statement of purpose for masters sample: speech and language therapy
8. business administration personal statement personal statement for masters in business administration
9. personal statement for masters in cyber security pdf masters degree personal statement examples for cyber security
10. personal statement for masters in finance msc finance personal statement examples
11. statement of purpose for masters in information technology pdf msc personal statement examples for information technology
12. international development personal statement statement of purpose for masters example
13. msc international business management personal statement international business management personal statement examples
14. computer science masters personal statement
statement of purpose for masters in computer science pdf
15. personal statement for masters in economics statement of purpose sample for masters degree in economics
16. mha personal statement statement of purpose format for masters in health administration
Conclusion – Things to Avoid When Writing A Personal Statement For Masters When writing a personal statement for university masters, there are some things you should avoid, so that you don’t ruin your essay. We have listed out those things below: • Avoid negativity. • Following an online template blindly. • Do not include unnecessary course modules, personal facts, or extra-curricular activities in your personal statement. • Do not lie or exaggerate an achievement or event. • Do not include inspirational quotes to your statement. • Avoid using clichés, gimmicks, humour, over-used word such as 'passion' or ‘driven’. • Do not make pleading statements. • Avoid mentioning key authors or professors in your field without any explanation. • Avoid using sentences that are too long. • Avoid flattering the organisation or using patronising terms. • Do not repeat information in your statement that you have already listed in your application. • Avoid waffling i.e., writing at length. • Don’t start writing your personal statement at the last minute.
Related Articles:
How to Write a Good Letter of Recommendation for Students (10 PDF Sample Examples).
How to Write a Good Financial Aid Appeal Letter (13 PDF Sample Examples).
How to Write a Good Personal Statement for a Scholarship ( 7 PDF Sample Examples).
How To Write A Good Motivation Letter For Scholarship (4 PDF Sample Examples).
How To Write A Letter Of Intent For Scholarship (4 PDF Sample LOI Example).
Latest Blog Posts
- US Visa Types Fees & Requirements
- 20 Free Social Media Marketing Course
- 30 Best Medical Universities In The US 2024
- Tips To Find And Apply For Scholarships Online
- 30 Best Study Techniques To Try This 2024
- 26 Best Country To Teach English 2024
- 26 Best Free AI Chatbot 2024
- 20 Best Countries To Relocate 2024
- Best Scholarships
- Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Program at University of the Western Cape 2025
- The Gates Scholarship for Low-Income Undergraduate Students 2024
- DAAD STEM Study Scholarships for Developing and Emerging Countries 2024
- UK Government Chevening Scholarship for Students Worldwide 2025
- Asian Development Bank 2024 Japan Scholarship Program (ADB-JSP)
- Acorn Foundation Kenneth Perszyk Snr. Adult Learner Scholarship for Undergraduate and Postgraduate Students 2025
- Griffith University 2025 Australian Government Research Training Program Stipend Scholarship (Fully-funded)
- Old Mutual Imfundo Trust Scholarship Programme 2024
Scholarship Tips
Scholarships by country to study.
- United Kingdom
- United States
- South Africa
- New Zealand
- Netherlands
Scholarships by Category
- Postgraduate
- Undergraduate
- College School
- Entrepreneurs
- Bachelors Degree
- Women Scholarships
- Fully Funded
Scholarships by Country of Origin
- African Students
- Developing Countries
Scholarships by Institution / Company
- Flinders University
- German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD)
- University of Edinburgh
- The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS)
Scholarships by School
- University of Melbourne
- University of Kent
- University Of Queensland, Australia
- University of Oxford
- Privacy Policy
- Terms of Use
Scholarships
- Undergraduate Scholarships
- Masters Scholarships
- MBA Scholarships
- Ph.D Scholarships
- Fellowship Scholarships
- Fully Funded Scholarships
- F1 Visa Interview Questions And Answers
- Scholarship Application Letter
- Letter Of Intent For Scholarship
- Personal Statement For Masters
- Motivation Letter For Scholarship
- Scholarship Acceptance Letter
Other Locations
- Scholarships in UK
- Scholarships in Canada
- Scholarships for Nigerian Students
- Scholarships for African Students
- Study Abroad Community
- How To Write Your Postgraduate Personal Statement
Postgraduate study
- Qualification types
- What are the differences between an undergraduate and postgraduate personal statement?
- Why study postgraduate?
What's on this page?
What is a personal statement, preparing to write your personal statement, opening your personal statement, work experience and future plans, ending your personal statement.
Your postgraduate personal statement is your chance to get noticed for your expertise and experience you’ve gathered. It’s an important part of the application process as it allows you to talk about yourself and your passions and prove the value you can bring to your chosen university.
In this article, we’re going to talk you through how to write a postgraduate personal statement that stands out and gives you the best chance of being offered a place on the master’s programme you’re applying for.
Shona Barrie – Director of Admissions, University of Stirling
You’ll have already written a personal statement for your undergraduate study, so you’ll know the importance of preparation. There are two things to think about when you’re planning:
- The practical and factual information you need to get across.
- Then, the more emotional, human parts of you that make you different to everyone else.
Before you start writing, take some time to think about the key things you’d want your chosen university to know about you, and get them down on paper.
Questions to focus your mind
- Why have you chosen this master’s programme?
- Why are you passionate about this subject matter?
- How has your undergraduate study influenced your decision to apply?
- Have you got any work experience that might help you?
- What life experiences have you had that you could talk about?
- What achievements can you talk about to support your application?
- Why do you want to study at this particular university?
- What plans and ambitions do you have for your future career?
![personal statement for postgraduate social worker personal statement for postgraduate social worker](https://www.ucas.com/sites/default/files/styles/content_panel/public/media-brightcove/6312298270112.jpg?itok=MPz_dtre)
Three top tips
Be specific.
Remember that a postgraduate personal statement needs you to talk specifically about the university you’ve chosen.
Demonstrate experience
Universities will be looking for postgraduate students who are able to demonstrate expertise in a particular subject – so include that.
Show what you've learnt
Tell the university about your university life as an undergraduate and include any clubs or societies you were involved in.
Admissions tutors will be reading a lot of personal statements so it’s important to grab their attention right from the start.
You can find a full guide on How to start a personal statement: The attention grabber but here are the main things for you to think about.
- Don’t overthink the opening . Just start by showing your enthusiasm for the subject, showcasing your knowledge and understanding, and sharing your ambitions of what you want to achieve.
- Avoid cliches . Remember, this opening part is simply about introducing yourself, so let the admissions tutor reading your personal statement get to know you.
- Keep it relevant and simple . You’re limited on how much you can include so avoid long-winded explanations. Why use 50 words when ten can make your point?
Talking about the course
Now you’re ready to start talking about the course and subject you’re applying for.
There are four main areas you’ll need to cover in this section of your personal statement.
- Why are you applying for this master’s? Think about your undergraduate study and how this master’s will develop your expertise further. Do you have career aspirations this course will help you achieve?
- Why does the subject interest you? This is your chance to show your passion and really demonstrate who you are. If you have work or volunteering experiences related to the subject, include them here.
- Why do you think you’ll be an asset to the university? Your personal and practical skills combined together create a unique picture of who you are and why you’ll be a successful postgraduate student, so include both.
- How does your previous undergraduate study relate to the course? Showcase your enthusiasm for your current study and take the opportunity to demonstrate your skills and knowledge now, and how you want to build on that.
Next, you’ll need to write about your personal skills and achievements.
Universities like to know the abilities you have that’ll help you on the course, or generally with life at university. Don’t forget to include evidence to back up why you’re so passionate about the programme you’ve chosen.
Your personal skills and achievements
Be bold and talk about the achievements you’re proud of., include positions of responsibility you hold, or have held, both in and out of school., what are the things that make you interesting, special, or unique .
Your work experience and future plans are important to include in your personal statement. You should share details of jobs, placements, work experience, or voluntary work, particularly if it's relevant to your course.
- Try to link any experience to skills or qualities that’ll make you successful on your course.
- If you know what you’d like to do after as a career, explain how you plan to use the knowledge and experience you’ll gain.
It’s always good to connect the beginning of your statement to the end and a great way to reinforce what you said at the start. You want to see the ending as your chance to end in a way that’ll make the university remember you.
This final part of your personal statement should emphasise the great points you’ve already made and answer the question of why you should be offered a place on the course.
Read our full guide on How to finish your statement the right way .
Aakriti Labra – MSc Occupational and Organisational Psychology, University of Surrey
Now you’ve written your postgraduate personal statement, you’ll need to do a couple of final things before you submit it.
- Have you proofread your personal statement? Don’t just rely on spellcheckers. We’d recommend reading it out loud as that’s a great way to spot any errors as well as checking it sounds like you.
- Have you asked for feedback? Ask friends, family or your undergraduate university tutors to have a read through your personal statement and take their feedback on board.
- Check out our personal statement dos and don'ts Have a look at the common pitfalls against your final draft to make sure you haven't made any obvious errors!
Postgraduate
More advice.
Use the UCAS’ personal statement tool alongside this guide to help you structure your ideas.
Do you want to understand the differences between an undergraduate and postgraduate personal statement? Take a look at our guide here.
Why study a postgraduate course? Find out here.
What funding is there for postgraduate courses?
Sponsored articles UCAS Media Service
How to find a job, student finance for postgraduate loans, five reasons to sign up to the ucas newsletter.
- Ask a question Ask
- go advanced Search
- Please enter a title
- Please enter a message
- Your discussion will live here... (Start typing, we will pick a forum for you) Please select a forum Change forum View more forums... View less forums... GCSEs A-levels Applications, Clearing and UCAS University Life Student Finance England Part-time and temporary employment Chat Everyday issues Friends, family and work Relationships Health News Student Surveys and Research
- post anonymously
- All study help
- Uni applications
- University and HE colleges
- University help and courses
- University student life
Postgraduate
- Careers and jobs
- Teacher training
- Finance and accountancy
- Relationships
- Sexual health
- Give feedback or report a problem
- University and university courses
- Universities and HE colleges
- Life and style
- Entertainment
- Debate and current affairs
- Careers and Jobs
- Scottish qualifications
- Foreign languages
- GCSE articles
- A-level articles
- Exam and revision articles
- What to do after GCSEs
- What to do after A-levels
- When is A-level results day 2024?
- When is GCSE results day 2024?
- Studying, revision and exam support
- Grow your Grades
Exam results articles and chat
- Exam results homepage
- A guide to GCSE and A-level grade boundaries
- Year 13 chat
- Year 12 chat
- Year 11 chat
A-level results
- Guide to A-level results day
- Get help preparing for results day
- A-level retakes and resits
- Exam reviews and remarks
- Here’s what to expect on A-level results day
- Six ways to help results day nerves
- Understanding your A-level results slip
GCSE results
- Guide to GCSE results day
- How GCSE combined science grades work
- Stressed about GCSE results day?
- Understanding your GCSE results slip
Finding a uni in Clearing
- Clearing articles and chat
- UK university contact details
- Guide to Clearing
- Seven things people get wrong about Clearing
- How to make a great Clearing call
- Finding accommodation after Clearing
- How Clearing can help you prepare for results day
- All universities
- Applying through Ucas
- Student finance
- Personal statement
- Postgraduate study
- Uni accommodation
- University life
- All uni courses
- Apprenticeships
- Arts and humanities courses
- Stem courses
- Social science courses
Universities by region
- North of England
- South of England
- Greater London
- Distance learning
- International study
University guides and articles
- All university articles
- Applying to uni articles
- Personal statements
- Personal statement examples
- University open days
- Studying law at university
- Student life at university
- Careers and jobs discussion
- Apprenticeships discussion
- Part-time and temp jobs
- Career forums by sector
- Armed forces careers
- Consultancy careers
- Finance careers
- Legal careers
- Marketing careers
- Medicine and healthcare careers
- Public sector careers
- Stem careers
- Teaching careers
- General chat
- Relationships chat
- Friends, family and colleagues
- Advice on everyday issues
- General health
- Mental health
- UK and world politics
- Educational debate
Undergraduate
- Postgraduate Master’s Loan
- Postgraduate Doctoral Loan
- Disabled Students’ Allowances
- Taking a break or withdrawing from your course
Further information
- Parents and partners
- Advanced Learner Loan
- Social work personal statements
Personal Statement:Ba hons social work
BA (Hons) Social Work Social Work Essay: “In what ways does your work and educational experience prepare you for studying an Honours degree in Social Work?”
In my opinion, my work and educational experience has prepared me well enough to study for a degree in social work. Although social care was a completely new direction for me when I first enrolled at college, I feel as though I am continuing to learn and develop the skills which will assist me in my study- should I be successful in gaining a place on the course. At college, learning how to work as part of a team was vitally important and prepared me for employment in a team setting, which I had not had much previous experience of. As I had mainly been a lone worker in the past, I enjoyed being able to discuss and work things out as part of a team and I found it extremely enjoyable and helpful to have others around. Adhering to the SSSC Codes of Practice gave me greater insight in to what was expected of me in a professional manner, and I was able to adopt these codes to assist me in working with both tutors and students alike. Respecting other people’s opinions was a large part of this, and communication played a major role during my study. I contact other agencies regularly regarding clients, and I feel an ability to work well with others helps to provide the service user with the best possible outcome. College also prepared me for multi-disciplinary hearings, and gave me the confidence to attend such meetings. Learning new tools and ways to communicate has enabled me to offer the best possible service to clients within my work, and being an active listener for example has been fundamental in building relationships with others. Social workers duties include being able to protect some of the most vulnerable people in society, and having excellent communication skills is an extremely necessary part of the job. Advocating on behalf of service users who may be less able to speak for themselves requires staff to have the ability to communicate at the highest level. Working to deadlines has played a large role throughout my working life, and this continued during college. I consider myself to be hugely committed to anything I take on and never had to ask for more time to submit any work. I also had a great attendance rate during college, and this has continued during my employment. I feel that reliability is very important in social work, and I am proud of my attendance rates. I have never been late for work, and I regularly turn up more than half an hour early for my shift. Being adaptable and having the skills necessary to prioritise and organise my workload helps me to manage my time effectively throughout my working week. These were skills which I was able to develop during college and being taught different ways to cope with busy times or stressful situations equipped me well for work. Articles discussing poor practice by social workers make the press regularly, and recent cases – including that of Baby P, Victoria Climbie etc. – highlight the fact that social work is an accountable profession and some individuals may be unable to cope with the pressures the job will bring. I have the ability to remain calm in challenging situations, and if I am unsure of anything, I have no problems discussing matters with my colleagues for support, advice or clarification. During college, I was advised by my tutor that social work has a high ‘burn out’ rate for workers, and this can be a direct result of stressful working situations that the job may bring. In my opinion, my own personal experiences, and college education and work experience have equipped me to be able to cope with the pressures I may encounter whilst studying for a degree in social work.
Being non-judgmental, understanding, open, approachable, having a good sense of humour and having the ability to empathise with others are qualities which I feel I possess and I think that these are paramount to any type of work in the social care sector. I genuinely feel that I have a very caring nature, and always like to offer help and support to others. During my time at college, I was always willing to offer my assistance to my classmates and – after being voted class rep - was regularly asked for help or advice which I tried my best to give. My tutor encouraged the class to take an analytical approach when writing essays, and I have continued in this way during my time in employment. I was taught to solve problems in this way and advised to examine things by reading between the lines, before coming to a conclusion. In social work, reflective practice is crucial to the way I work. Having the ability to look back and discuss ways and changes I would possibly make if a similar situation occurred in the future, help me as I strive to offer the greatest service I can. Supervision and weekly team meetings give staff the chance to look at these things and discuss together what we can do individually and collectively to support the service user. Challenging people’s opinions or poor practice is an important part of my work, and I was advised at college that this may play a part in future employment. Being able to inform clients of their rights and learning about relevant legislation during my time in college has been an integral part of my day to day work. I still keep up to date with these legislation's, and like to remain aware of any changes to social policy, something which I feel is essential to any future study or employment in social care. The looming welfare reform highlights how things can change quickly in social care, and this is likely to have a huge effect on the job of social workers. I have attended training on welfare reform and recognise the need for continued professional development within my role as a project worker in any area which may affect the individuals who use the service. Not only do I enjoy the learning, but it means we – as a service – can continue moving forward providing a valuable service.
[ hide ]
- 1 Universities Applied to:
- 2 Grades Achieved:
- 3.1 General Comments:
- 3.2 Comments on the statement:
Universities Applied to:
Glasgow Caledonian University: Unconditional offer - 2nd Year Offer - Firmed Strathclyde University: Unconditional Offer - Rejected
Grades Achieved:
- Subject (AS/A2) - Grade
- Share this story :
- Share on Facebook
- Share on Twitter
- Share on Google+
- Share on Pinterest
- Latest Latest
- Trending Trending
- create my feed
- Edit my feed
- 0 new posts
- Started by: The Joker ~
- Forum: Chat
- Last post: 1 minute ago
- Started by: Saracen's Fez
- Forum: Cambridge Undergraduate
- Replies: 318
- Replies: 20
- Started by: dereksodo
- Last post: 4 minutes ago
- Started by: JoshHartness2908
- Forum: Travel
- Last post: 11 minutes ago
- Started by: Tashsinclair7
- Forum: Applications, Clearing and UCAS
- Last post: 12 minutes ago
- Started by: rebecastern1
- Last post: 14 minutes ago
- Started by: normaw
- Forum: Student Financial Support
- Last post: 16 minutes ago
- Started by: vnayak
- Last post: 17 minutes ago
- Started by: Dave885
- Forum: Ask Student Finance England
- Started by: imloki
- Last post: 21 minutes ago
- Started by: Talkative Toad
- Forum: Forum games
- Replies: 7542
- Started by: Waqar72
- Forum: Lancaster University
- Last post: 23 minutes ago
- Started by: Ionomer
- Forum: Dentistry
- Replies: 803
- Last post: 29 minutes ago
- Started by: KA_P
- Forum: Medicine
- Replies: 980
- Last post: 30 minutes ago
- Started by: Madeleineparke
- Forum: Student accommodation
- Started by: lost-gaslight
- Last post: 31 minutes ago
- Started by: arianafan
- Forum: King's College London
- Last post: 40 minutes ago
- Started by: kayleigh_t.27
- Forum: Grow your Grades
- Replies: 1109
- Last post: 41 minutes ago
- Started by: hunched-fiend
- Last post: 42 minutes ago
- Forum: UK and World Politics
- Replies: 498
- Last post: 6 hours ago
- Started by: reubenn05
- Forum: Medical Schools
- Replies: 976
- Started by: CamembertPaws
- Forum: Scottish Qualifications
- Replies: 85
- Started by: aishaslm
- Forum: Legal careers and training
- Replies: 165
- Last post: 7 hours ago
- Started by: Scotland Yard
- Replies: 316
- Last post: 8 hours ago
- Started by: Sandtrooper
- Forum: Cambridge Postgraduate
- Replies: 8203
- Last post: 10 hours ago
- Replies: 52
- Started by: Lazlay
- Forum: Civil service, public sector and public services
- Replies: 647
- Started by: maiarhysdavies
- Replies: 586
- Last post: 12 hours ago
- Started by: Adam Woodbridge
- Forum: Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games
- Replies: 777
- Last post: 13 hours ago
- Started by: PQ
- Forum: A-levels
- Replies: 792
- Last post: 14 hours ago
- Started by: crimsonrose3205
- Forum: Mature Students
- Replies: 115
- Started by: Oatmilklattepls
- Forum: Performing arts and music
- Replies: 2887
- Last post: 20 hours ago
- Started by: Miss.fcxxx
- Replies: 280
- Last post: 1 day ago
- Started by: asdfjkmel
- Forum: Graduate Schemes
- Replies: 2703
- Started by: miss_nia
- Started by: Lc627183
- Replies: 271
- Started by: Chi chi5
- Replies: 911
- Started by: Fiyero
- Replies: 183
- Great! I exceeded my expectations
- Good, I got what I needed/expected
- Not so good, I didn't get everything I expected
- Terrible, I didn't get any of the grades I needed
- Tell us more about your answer in the thread
The Student Room and The Uni Guide are both part of The Student Room Group.
- Main topics
- GCSE and A-level
- Exam results
- Life and relationships
Get Started
- Today's posts
- Unanswered posts
- Community guidelines
- TSR help centre
- Cookies & online safety
- Terms & conditions
- Privacy notice
Connect with TSR
© Copyright The Student Room 2023 all rights reserved
The Student Room and The Uni Guide are trading names of The Student Room Group Ltd.
Register Number: 04666380 (England and Wales), VAT No. 806 8067 22 Registered Office: Imperial House, 2nd Floor, 40-42 Queens Road, Brighton, East Sussex, BN1 3XB
Study Postgraduate
Phd in social policy and social work (2023 entry).
![personal statement for postgraduate social worker students from the centre for lifelong learning studying PhD in Social Policy and Social Work](https://warwick.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/courses/socialpolicyphd/2021/hp-contents-copy/cll.jpg)
Course code
October, January and April
3-4 years full-time; Up to 7 years part-time
Qualification
Centre for Lifelong Learning
University of Warwick
Find out more about this Social Policy and Social Work research PhD.
The PhD in Social Policy and Social Work allows you to select a topic of your choice linked to our expertise within the broad field of social policy and social work. Warwick's Centre for Lifelong Learning provides a rich, transdisciplinary academic environment supported by a dedicated team including supervision and personal tutoring.
Course overview
This PhD provides an opportunity to undertake in-depth research linked to our expertise in social work and social policy. It spans a diverse range of areas reflecting the multi-disciplinary strengths of our faculty. We support interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary research projects linked to one or more of our main research themes.
Teaching and learning
We provide a pleasant PhD study room and dedicated personal tutor support in addition to the supervisory team. A combined staff and student seminar programme provides a collegiate forum for sharing and discussing current topics and ideas.
General entry requirements
Minimum requirements.
2:i undergraduate degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject; a Master’s level degree in Social Policy, Sociology or other cognate subject.
English language requirements
You can find out more about our English language requirements Link opens in a new window . This course requires the following:
- IELTS overall score of 7.0, minimum component scores of two at 6.0/6.5 and the rest at 7.0 or above.
International qualifications
We welcome applications from students with other internationally recognised qualifications.
For more information, please visit the international entry requirements page Link opens in a new window .
Additional requirements
There are no additional entry requirements for this course.
Our research
Research themes can include:
- Men, masculinity, and health
- Inequalities in health
- Developing knowledgeable and resilient ‘social actors’ through professional training and CPD
- The impact of neo-liberal policies on organisational behaviour, structure, and culture
- The formation of professional identity and professionalism within the context of neo-liberalism
- Social policy
- Comparative welfare state studies
- Labour markets
- Unemployment policy
- Social work training and education
- Childbirth/fatherhood
- Health and social work
- Children and families
- Relationship-based social work
- Social work and structure
- Emotion and social work
- Violence towards children
- Neoliberalism and contemporary social work
Find a supervisor
A wide range of related PhD projects are supervised within CLL. Please visit our website for a current list of available projects.
We have four PhD routes available in our department of which this is one. There is some flexibility in choice of route and applicants are encouraged to discuss this with their potential supervisor. The most important aspect is the nature of your project and its potential for supervision in our department
Information about each route is available on our web pages. Within each route, you will find links to potential supervisors' profiles. You are asked to view your intended supervisor's profile and read their work. Please think about what might make your proposed PhD attractive to your supervisor, and customise the proposal accordingly.
- How does your project relate to your intended supervisor's work?
- How might your project enhance, advance, or develop it?
- Could you take it in a different direction?
- What kind of methods and approaches are likely to appeal to your potential supervisor?
We receive a large number of proposals every year and only have capacity for proposals that are carefully tailored to our specific areas of expertise.
Find a supervisor guidance
Visit our website to explore our PhD routes and areas of expertise. Link opens in a new window
Tuition fees
Tuition fees are payable for each year of your course at the start of the academic year, or at the start of your course, if later. Academic fees cover the cost of tuition, examinations and registration and some student amenities.
Taught course fees Research course fees
Fee Status Guidance
We carry out an initial fee status assessment based on the information you provide in your application. Students will be classified as Home or Overseas fee status. Your fee status determines tuition fees, and what financial support and scholarships may be available. If you receive an offer, your fee status will be clearly stated alongside the tuition fee information.
Do you need your fee classification to be reviewed?
If you believe that your fee status has been classified incorrectly, you can complete a fee status assessment questionnaire. Please follow the instructions in your offer information and provide the documents needed to reassess your status.
Find out more about how universities assess fee status
Additional course costs
As well as tuition fees and living expenses, some courses may require you to cover the cost of field trips or costs associated with travel abroad. Information about department specific costs should be considered in conjunction with the more general costs below, such as:
As well as tuition fees and living expenses, some courses may require you to cover the cost of field trips or costs associated with travel abroad.
For departmental specific costs, please see the Modules tab on the course web page for the list of core and optional core modules with hyperlinks to our Module Catalogue (please visit the Department’s website if the Module Catalogue hyperlinks are not provided).
Associated costs can be found on the Study tab for each module listed in the Module Catalogue (please note most of the module content applies to 2022/23 year of study). Information about module department specific costs should be considered in conjunction with the more general costs below:
- Core text books
- Printer credits
- Dissertation binding
- Robe hire for your degree ceremony
Scholarships and bursaries
![personal statement for postgraduate social worker](https://warwick.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/funding/postgraduate-scholarships-bursaries-555x261.png )
Scholarships and financial support
Find out about the different funding routes available, including; postgraduate loans, scholarships, fee awards and academic department bursaries.
![personal statement for postgraduate social worker](https://warwick.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/funding/edit-contents/living_costs.png)
Living costs
Find out more about the cost of living as a postgraduate student at the University of Warwick.
Centre for Lifelong Learning (CLL)
For more than 30 years, the Centre for Lifelong Learning has been a centre of expertise in the education of lifelong learners in different contexts. It has a focus on enabling adult learners to achieve their personal and professional goals by accessing a Warwick education, irrespective of background.
Our departmental research strategy focuses on four interconnected themes: concepts of lifelong learning; people-focused professions; wellbeing and identity; participation and collaboration. We seek to enthuse staff, students, and the wider community with this vision. More information is available on our website.
Find out more about us by visiting our website. Link opens in a new window
Our Postgraduate Taught courses
- Career Coaching and Counselling (PGA)
- Career Development and Coaching Studies (MA)
- Career Development and Coaching Studies (PGCert)
- Career Development and Coaching Studies (PGDip)
- Career Development Theories (PGA)
- Career Education, Information and Guidance in HE (MA)
- Career Education, Information and Guidance in HE (PGCert)
- Career Education, Information and Guidance in HE (PGDip)
- Challenges of Careers Work in Higher Education (PGA)
- Coaching (MA)
- Coaching (PGCert)
- Coaching (PGDip)
- Psychotherapy and Counselling (MSc)
Our Postgraduate Research courses
- PhD in Adult Education and Lifelong Learning
- PhD in Social Policy and Social Work
- PhD in Social Work
![personal statement for postgraduate social worker](https://warwick.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/apply/edit-contents/taught010518wu-bloggers-53.jpg)
Taught course applications
Here is our checklist on how to apply for taught postgraduate courses at Warwick.
![personal statement for postgraduate social worker](https://warwick.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/apply/edit-contents/start_your_app_for_research.jpg)
Research course applications
Here is our checklist on how to apply for research postgraduate degrees at the University of Warwick.
![personal statement for postgraduate social worker](https://warwick.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/apply/edit-contents/after_you_applied.jpg)
After you’ve applied
Find out how we process your application.
![personal statement for postgraduate social worker](https://warwick.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/apply/edit-contents/portal.jpg)
Applicant Portal
Track your application and update your details.
![personal statement for postgraduate social worker](https://warwick.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/apply/edit-contents/visiting_students.jpg)
Admissions statement
See Warwick’s postgraduate admissions policy.
![personal statement for postgraduate social worker](https://warwick.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/apply/edit-contents/livechat.jpg)
Join a live chat
Ask questions and engage with Warwick.
Postgraduate Open Day
Postgraduate fairs.
Throughout the year we attend exhibitions and fairs online and in the UK. These events give you the chance to learn about our Master's and PhD study routes, and the wider context of postgraduate study.
Find out more
Every week, you can connect directly with representatives from Warwick, who will be answering your questions on applying to and studying postgraduate studies at Warwick.
Sign up for Live Chats
Departmental events
Some academic departments hold events for specific postgraduate programmes, these are fantastic opportunities to learn more about Warwick and your chosen department and course.
See our online departmental events
Connect with us
Want to hear more about postgraduate study at Warwick? Register your interest and find out more.
Learn more about Postgraduate study at the University of Warwick.
Why Warwick
Discover why Warwick is one of the best universities in the UK and renowned globally.
6th in the UK (The Guardian University Guide 2022) Link opens in a new window
64th in the world (QS World University Rankings 2023) Link opens in a new window
5th most targeted university by the UK's top 100 graduate employers Link opens in a new window
(The Graduate Market in 2023, High Fliers Research Ltd. Link opens in a new window )
About the information on this page
This information is applicable for 2023 entry. Given the interval between the publication of courses and enrolment, some of the information may change. It is important to check our website before you apply. Please read our terms and conditions to find out more.
Somerville names Shumeane Benford new police chief
Benford currently serves as head of the boston housing authority’s police department and boston chief of emergency management.
![personal statement for postgraduate social worker Shumeane Benford, Boston Housing Authority chief of police, introduced himself during a community walk against violence at Harambee Park in June. Benford was announced as Somerville's new police chief Thursday.](https://bostonglobe-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/OJGVZQJM4XB7LVECH6WLAIP5YU.jpg?auth=2a86559294af2ed5d636ebcbfc9b6b03ead97a1b9a84ce88ec3e8bc91063b3cf&width=1440)
Somerville has selected a top public safety official with the Boston Housing Authority as its next police chief following a lengthy search to replace the city’s last permanent chief, who retired in 2020, officials said Thursday.
Shumeane Benford currently holds dual positions as chief of the Boston Housing Authority’s police department and as the city’s chief of emergency management. He will take the helm of Somerville’s police department after serving in a range of public safety roles in Boston over the last three decades, officials said in a statement.
Benford’s hiring in Somerville comes at the end of a nationwide search, as city officials sought to bring in a leader who could help shepherd the department through a slate of policing reforms .
Somerville Mayor Katjana Ballantyne called Benford “a change agent.”
Advertisement
“He has been driving fiscal, operational, and community-driven reforms in Boston, along with advancing efforts to support staff morale and investment, transparency, and social equity especially for marginalized and disenfranchised communities,” Ballantyne said in a statement released Thursday.
“We look forward to his deep experience, vision, and love of community undergirding our daily work to keep Somerville safe as well as advancing our efforts to move our Public Safety for All goals forward.”
Benford will take over as Acting Police Chief Charles Femino retires, according to the city’s announcement. Femino has led the department since December 2020, when then-Chief David Fallon announced his retirement.
“We owe an enormous debt of gratitude to Chief Femino for stepping in when we needed him and for not just filling the role but for wholeheartedly working to advance the department, support our officers and community, and move forward our Public Safety for All efforts and goals for community change,” Ballantyne said.
City officials said the search for Fallon’s replacement was delayed by “pandemic disruptions” and restarted in spring 2023 with the hiring of GovHR, a national public-sector executive-recruitment firm.
Last November, Ballantyne and the Police Chief Search Committee, which is made up of residents and city officials, announced that interviews with three candidates for the department’s top job failed to result “in a successful hire.”
Benford began his law enforcement career in Boston in 1994 as a police officer with the Boston Housing Authority. He went on to work for the Boston Police Department and the city while serving as an adjunct professor at Roxbury Community College.
Benford earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Curry College and a master’s degree in political science at Suffolk University, according to the statement. He has also earned certifications from the Police Executive Research Form, Harvard University’s National Preparedness Leadership Initiative, and the Naval Postgraduate School Center for Homeland Defense and Security, officials said.
Benford will officially assume the role of chief in September, the city said.
Nick Stoico can be reached at [email protected] .
![](http://serviteca.online/777/templates/cheerup2/res/banner1.gif)
IMAGES
COMMENTS
Social Worker Personal Statement . My inspiration to study to become a social worker stemmed from my desire to make a positive impact in people's lives. I have always been passionate about the wellbeing of people I come into contact with. Social work is a course I believe would enable me actualise this passion.
social work. This motivates me to evaluate new andexisting intervention strategies in order to ide. ld welfare through the identification of effectiveintervent. ons across home, school, and alterna. in mental health will allow me the opportunity to. develop the skills necessary to achieve this goal.
Once you've uncovered insights, you can talk about a social justice issue related to your experience and goals. Example: "The research shows that people from South Asian cultures are more receptive to social workers from the same background who understand their needs, yet, there is a lack of South Asian social workers to meet this need." Using research in your personal statement shows ...
May, 2024. If you'd like to become a social worker but didn't study the subject at undergraduate level you'll need a Masters to enter the profession. Discover how to write a personal statement that coveys your commitment and passion to social work. Writing a personal statement for a vocational postgraduate course, like the MSc or Postgraduate ...
Prepare an Outline and Conduct Research. Create an outline of the points you want to include. Fill in your points with relevant research and examples from your personal and professional experience. Don't worry about having too much research or too many points in your outline. You can always cut it down later.
This article focuses on the central role that the personal statement plays in the MSW application process. Strategies are presented for writing an effective statement that will highlight and emphasize applicant strengths congruent with the values of particular Schools of Social Work. The author has chaired the MSW Admissions Committee at the ...
Commentary: Clarity of Motivation: The essay effectively communicates the candidate's personal experiences and observations of disparities in their community as key motivators for pursuing social work.; Goal-Oriented: Clearly outlines immediate and long-term goals, demonstrating a focused vision for a career in social work.; Understanding of a Social Issue: The candidate's insight into the ...
In addition, most schools of social work are assessing your personal statement for the following: Your ability to communicate clearly and succinctly. Evidence of critical and analytical thinking. Potential contribution to practice in an area of interest. Complement between social work and the applicant's professional goals and interests
If you are applying to the Master of Social Work (MSW) program, you likely need to write a personal statement as part of the application process. The vast majority of Schools of Social Work ask applicants to discuss what motivates them to become a social worker. In this article, we will be dis
Z. P. Personal Statement:Social work 4 - The Student Room. Personal Statement:Social work 3 - The Student Room. Personal Statement:Social work 2 - The Student Room. Personal Statement:Social work 1 - The Student Room. Personal Statement:Ma social work - The Student Room. Personal Statement:Ba hons social work. Personal Statement:Social Work 4.
Social Work Personal Statement Example 22. I am applying for the course BA (Hons) Social Work in your university as this would help me progress further into my career opportunities to become a qualified social worker. Teenagers are being exposed to gang criminal activity which hinders their life expectancy, and it is vital that social workers ...
Let's look at a personal statement of a past MSW applicant: Applicant name: Sally. Experiences: Sally works at a women's shelter and talks about what she learned there. Social Justice Issue: Sally decides to talk about an issue within child welfare. Goal: Sally mentions that she wants to get an MSW so that she can qualify for a job at the ...
Social Work Personal Statement Example 1. In the vast and dynamic field of social work, where every action holds the potential to transform people's lives in meaningful ways, I find myself both humbled and impassioned by the experiences that have shaped my journey. From my earliest life encounters to my current professional role, the pursuit ...
How to write a social work personal statement. 1. Set a deadline for your personal statement. No work will ever be perfect. Yet we often fall into the fallacy of writing and rewriting, editing and re-editing. We think we can make the perfect personal statement that will land us in social work. We can't make it perfect.
Unless otherwise stated, all postgraduate personal statements should be written in English and your spelling, grammar and punctuation must be spot on, as the personal statement acts as a test of your written communication skills.. ... Social work personal statement. If your Bachelors degree was in an unrelated subject but you now have ambitions ...
The autobiographic statement details your interest in social work, including personal experiences, strengths, values and beliefs that will contribute to your competence as a social worker. The autobiographic statement should be a carefully prepared document that is typed and double-spaced, with 1-inch margins and 10-12 font.
Postgraduate Info on postgraduate study. Student Finance Advice on managing finance. Student Health Physical & mental health advice. ... PERSONAL STATEMENT EXAMPLES Social work personal statements . Discover personal statement examples written by students accepted onto social work and related courses. Read through the examples to help shape ...
Social Work Personal Statement. I am a conscientious, responsible, enthusiastic and open minded young lady with fervour to pursue a career in social work. Over the last two years I have been working in a social care field and I feel that undertaking this degree programme will be the next step in my career. I have chosen social care because I ...
Sample Statement. While many of the potential candidates for this course may be drawn to it by painful and difficult personal experiences in their own lives, my motivation is just the opposite. I have been lucky to have a very secure upbringing, in a traditional, two parent home, with the love and support of my family and extended family around ...
1. msw personal statement. We have found one of the best msw personal statement examples out there for you. social work masters personal statement. 2. personal statement for masters in public health. mph personal statement examples 3. personal statement for masters in management personal statement for master degree sample for masters in management.
Social Work MSc. This Admissions Statement applies to applications submitted for entry to the programme between 1 October 2023 and 30 September 2024. It should be read in association with the University Admissions Principles and Procedures for Postgraduate programmes, the relevant prospectus entry and general application guidance.
Just start by showing your enthusiasm for the subject, showcasing your knowledge and understanding, and sharing your ambitions of what you want to achieve. Avoid cliches . Remember, this opening part is simply about introducing yourself, so let the admissions tutor reading your personal statement get to know you. Keep it relevant and simple.
Social workers duties include being able to protect some of the most vulnerable people in society, and having excellent communication skills is an extremely necessary part of the job. Advocating on behalf of service users who may be less able to speak for themselves requires staff to have the ability to communicate at the highest level.
If you live in England, you can complete a program with Social Work England. The ability to register with Social Work England requires completing an approved degree, postgraduate programme, or apprenticeship. To enter a degree programme in social work across the UK, you will typically need 2 to 3 A levels, preferably including English and Maths.
The PhD in Social Policy and Social Work allows you to select a topic of your choice linked to our expertise within the broad field of social policy and social work. Warwick's Centre for Lifelong Learning provides a rich, transdisciplinary academic environment supported by a dedicated team including supervision and personal tutoring.
On 9 August 2024, Dr. Moumita Debnath, [3] a second-year postgraduate trainee (PGT) doctor [4] at R.G. Kar Medical College in North Kolkata, was reported missing by colleagues.At about 11:30 am, [7] the trainee doctor's body was discovered in one of college's seminar rooms in a semi-nude state with her eyes, mouth and genitals bleeding. She was later declared dead.
Shumeane Benford, Boston Housing Authority chief of police, introduced himself during a community walk against violence at Harambee Park in June.