Social policies and social work
University of Perugia Campus, Italy
Social Policies and Social Work (Politiche Sociali e Servizio Sociale)
University of Perugia (Università degli Studi di Perugia)
Social Work and Social Policy
Program Overview: Social Policies and Social Work
The Master's degree (Laurea Magistrale) in Social Policies and Social Work at the University of Perugia belongs to the LM-87 degree class in Social Work and Social Policy. Housed within the Department of Political Sciences, this program prepares expert professionals capable of operating with a high degree of autonomy in the design, management, and coordination of social policies and social services.
The curriculum addresses key contemporary challenges including socio-health integration, services for individuals and families, migration and intercultural relations, social exclusion and marginality, welfare policies, conflict mediation, and local development cooperation. Students develop advanced competencies that bridge theoretical knowledge with practical applications in both public and third-sector organizations.
Located in Perugia, the historic capital of the Umbria region in central Italy, the University of Perugia is one of the oldest universities in Europe, founded in 1308. The university offers students a rich academic environment combined with the cultural heritage and scenic beauty of the Umbrian landscape, creating an inspiring setting for advanced social science studies.
Key Program Highlights
- LM-87 accredited Laurea Magistrale qualifying graduates for the Specialist Social Worker register (Sezione A dell'Albo degli Assistenti Sociali)
- Interdisciplinary curriculum combining sociology, law, social policy analysis, and advanced social work methodologies
- Strong fieldwork and internship component with public institutions, NGOs, and third-sector organizations across the Umbria region
- Access to Erasmus+ mobility through over 400 EU agreements and 150 extra-EU university partnerships
Curriculum and Modules
The two-year curriculum totals 120 ECTS credits, with 60 credits per year. The first year emphasizes the intercultural dimensions of society and the planning and management of social interventions, while the second year focuses on advanced specialization, research methods, and a final thesis. Modules are organized around thematic areas covering both functional competencies in service management and the broader socio-economic and normative transformations shaping welfare systems.
Sociology of Social Policies and Welfare Systems
12 ECTSExamines the structure and evolution of welfare state models across Europe, analyzing how social policies are designed, implemented, and evaluated in different institutional contexts.
Advanced Social Work Methods and Practice
9 ECTSDevelops advanced methodological competencies for social work practice, including case management of complex situations, community-based interventions, and innovative approaches to social service delivery.
Social Policy Planning and Service Management
9 ECTSFocuses on the planning, programming, and management of social services within public administrations, local authorities, and third-sector organizations, with emphasis on project design and evaluation.
Migration, Interculturality, and Social Inclusion
9 ECTSAnalyzes migration phenomena and intercultural dynamics, exploring policies and practices for the social integration of migrant communities and the management of cultural diversity.
Social Research Methods and Data Analysis
9 ECTSProvides training in qualitative and quantitative research methods applied to social policy evaluation, including survey design, data collection techniques, and statistical analysis for social service assessment.
Law and Social Legislation
6 ECTSCovers the legal frameworks governing social services, welfare rights, and social protection systems in Italy and the European Union, with attention to regulatory changes affecting social work practice.
Elective Modules
Admission Requirements
Admission to the Master's program in Social Policies and Social Work requires a completed undergraduate degree and verification of adequate academic preparation. The program is designed as a natural continuation for graduates in Social Work (Class L-39) but also welcomes graduates from related fields who meet the curricular requirements. All applications and inquiries should be directed through Uni4Edu.
Academic Requirements
- Undergraduate DegreeA Bachelor's degree (Laurea Triennale) or equivalent foreign qualification recognized as suitable under Italian regulations is required.
- Preferred BackgroundGraduates in Social Work (Class L-39) have direct access; graduates from other fields must demonstrate relevant curricular credits in sociology, social work, or related disciplines.
- Curricular RequirementsApplicants must hold adequate credits in sociological, social work, legal, and political science disciplines as specified in the program regulations.
- Personal PreparationA verification of personal preparation is required; the specific format is determined by the program's academic board.
- Foreign QualificationsInternational applicants must have their qualifications recognized as equivalent. A Declaration of Value (Dichiarazione di Valore) or ENIC-NARIC comparability statement may be required.
Language Requirements
- Italian ProficiencyThe program is taught in Italian. Non-native speakers should demonstrate proficiency at B2 level or above (CILS, CELI, or equivalent certification).
- English ProficiencyA working knowledge of English is recommended for accessing international academic literature and participating in Erasmus+ exchanges.
- Language SupportThe University of Perugia offers Italian language courses for international students to support their academic integration.
Required Documents
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
International students at the University of Perugia can access a range of financial support options, including university-based scholarships, regional aid from the Umbria region (through ADISU), and Italian government scholarships. Uni4Edu can guide you through available funding opportunities and help you identify the best options for your situation.
ADISU Umbria Regional Scholarship
The regional agency ADISU Umbria offers merit- and income-based scholarships covering living expenses and accommodation for eligible students, including international applicants enrolled at the University of Perugia.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the Master's in Social Policies and Social Work are prepared for leadership and specialist roles across public, private, and third-sector organizations. The LM-87 qualification grants access to the Specialist Social Worker register (Sezione A), enabling graduates to take on higher-level responsibilities in social service coordination, policy planning, and program management within Italy's welfare system.
Potential Career Roles
Typical Employers
Rankings and Recognition
The University of Perugia, founded in 1308, is one of the oldest and most established universities in Europe. It is recognized across multiple international ranking systems and has been consistently ranked first among large Italian universities by the CENSIS ranking for its quality of research, education, and services.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Social Sciences (General) | QS World Rankings | Contact Uni4Edu for current data |
| Engineering | THE World Rankings | #301-400 |
| Life Sciences | THE World Rankings | #401-500 |
| Natural Sciences | QS World Rankings | #401 |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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