Social Work, BA (Hons)

Course summary

Embark on a career as a social worker and make a positive difference in the lives of vulnerable individuals and communities. As a social worker, you’ll play a vital role in protecting vulnerable individuals, championing human rights and inspiring positive change. You could work with a wide range of people including children, older people, carers or people with disabilities. This is a role that is challenging but also incredibly rewarding.Our BA Social Work degree is designed to equip you with the knowledge, skills and practical experience you need to succeed in this field. From theory to practice you’ll study relevant legislation, policies and guidance for social work practice. You’ll also have the opportunity to shadow social workers and observe their practice.You’ll develop essential skills like communication, building relationships, and report writing. Learn through hands-on experience in the classroom and simulated skills days. You’ll be fully supported in your two placements, enabling you to apply your skills and knowledge in a learning environment.Our course is regulated by Social Work England and prepares you to practice in both adults and children’s services. Successful completion of the course makes you eligible to apply for registration as a social worker with Social Work England. Be empowered to make a lasting positive difference to society.

You will spend the first year based at the University, where you will explore social work's key functions and develop skills for social work practice. You will also study core aspects of sociology and social policy which underpin the profession's knowledge base. In year two, you will be based at the University during the first semester, and study central aspects of social work's knowledge base, including the law, social work theories and human development. You will go out on placement for 80 days during the second semester. In year three, you will again be based at the University during the first semester, and will have the opportunity to focus on studying key issues within social work with adults or children and families. You will also study central themes for all social workers, such as safeguarding. You will go out on placement for 90 days during the second semester.