COURSE CURRICULUM

The Social Care Work BA (Hons) is a professionally accredited degree focused on preparing students for careers supporting vulnerable individuals and groups through a rights-based and person-centred approach. The program combines academic learning with two substantial practice placements, allowing students to apply theory in real social care settings such as child and family services, disability support, homelessness, addiction services and care of older people. In year one, students build foundational knowledge in social care values, sociology, psychology, safeguarding, communication, health, safety, and personal development, alongside introductory skills in research and teamwork. Year two deepens understanding through modules on assessment, intervention, law, sociology, mental health, and family systems, while also introducing the first supervised placement. Year three focuses on advanced practice, leadership, ethics, research methods, social policy, and a major extended placement, helping students integrate theory with professional experience. In the final year, students specialise in areas such as disability, homelessness, residential child care, ageing, addiction, and mental health, while also studying advanced law, management, psychology, and social policy debates. A significant research or evaluation project and reflective practice modules support critical thinking and professional growth. Overall, the course develops competent, reflective practitioners equipped for diverse roles in statutory and voluntary social care services, with strong emphasis on human rights, social justice, and ethical professional practice.