Social Work

Social work is challenging but also rewarding as the profession aims to protect children and adults from harm whatever their age, nationality, gender or disability. As a social worker, you’ll be working with people who are often in extremely distressing situations. You’ll need to be able to support individuals whatever their circumstances, working closely with other organisations, such as the police, NHS, schools and the probation service to support service users and their families.

If you already work in this field, you can train to be a social worker by studying our BA (Hons) in Social Work Studies (B32) but you will need to be sponsored by your employer. Successful completion will enable you to register with the relevant Care Council.  Afterwards you could specialise in a particular area, such as working with older people; children; young offenders; or people with mental health problems or learning difficulties.

Note that you can’t register yourself: your employer must register you and you must meet entry requirements. For a handbook with course information, please contact our Student Registration & Enquiry Service. Further information is also available from the Health & Social Care website.

If you already hold a Diploma in Social Work (DipSW), topping up to the BA (Hons) in Social Work Studies (B59) by studying two modules at Level 3 is a great way to gain a degree on a part-time basis while continuing to work.

If you do not currently have the support of your employer, you may want to consider studying one of our qualifications or courses in social care.