The Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) has received vital CORU approval for its new Master of Arts in Social Work (MSW) programme at its Athlone campus, accelerating the provision of accredited social workers for the Midlands region and beyond.
This marks the second MA in Social Work to receive CORU approval at TUS, following the successful accreditation of the Moylish-based Masters last year.
Previously, graduates had to leave the area to pursue their studies, but TUS is directly addressing this barrier, strengthening the local workforce and expanding opportunities for future generations of social workers in both the Midlands and Midwest regions.
The approval by CORU, Ireland’s multi-profession health regulator, means that graduates of the MSW based on the TUS Athlone campus, meet the stringent standards of proficiency for the profession and students graduating from either pathway are eligible to apply directly for registration with CORU.
According to CORU, the expansion of the approved programme to both TUS campuses marks a significant development for social work education in Ireland, helping to expand access to accredited training opportunities across both the Midwest and Midlands regions. It is expected to play an important role in supporting workforce planning and recruitment within the social work profession in Ireland.
Dean of the Faculty of Science and Health at the TUS Athlone campus, Dr Don Faller, welcomed the announcement: “We are delighted that the Master of Arts in Social Work at our TUS Athlone campus has secured CORU accreditation. We designed this programme to proactively address the critical shortage of social workers both nationally and regionally. The Programme Team has built strong, collaborative links with social work agencies in the Midlands that provide valuable student practice placements and future employment opportunities.
“This approval is a testament to our commitment to providing programmes that make a positive impact and respond directly to regional and societal challenges in real-time.”
According to the Irish Association of Social Workers, 250 social work students graduate each year in Ireland. However, the sector requires at least twice as many annual graduates to bridge the current skills gap and provide essential support to vulnerable communities.