COURSE CURRICULUM

The Social Work Extended Degree at Northumbria University provides a structured pathway to develop the knowledge, skills, and professional attributes required for a career in social work. The foundation year introduces students to key concepts such as personal and professional development, human growth and development, collaborative working, and practical skills essential for professional practice, while also fostering study skills and critical thinking. In the first year, students build on this foundation through core modules that cover the social work profession, skills for intervention, community and social work, social policy and law, and sociological and psychological perspectives, alongside academic information skills and critical reflection. Year two focuses on preparing students for professional practice through a first placement, combined with modules on assessment and intervention, social work law and ethics, risk and resilience, and research for practice, enabling students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. The final year develops advanced competencies for complex social work practice, emphasizing rights-based approaches, safeguarding knowledge, and professional decision-making. Students also complete a critical research project, demonstrating their ability to integrate research with practice. Successful completion of the program equips graduates with the expertise to support diverse individuals and communities effectively and meets the requirements to apply for registration with Social Work England, ensuring eligibility to practice professionally.