COURSE CURRICULUM

The BA Social Work degree is structured to gradually develop students' academic knowledge, practical skills, and professional identity over three years. In the first year, students explore the foundations of social work through four compulsory modules covering child development, key psychological and sociological theories, the profession’s legal and regulatory framework, and the importance of observation. These modules provide a critical understanding of how individuals develop and how social workers fit into complex societal systems. In the second year, students delve deeper into professional practice through modules that integrate academic learning with their first practice placement. They study the legal and policy context of social work, explore service user experiences across various fields—such as mental health, disability, and child protection—and develop their ability to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world situations. The emphasis on reflection, diversity, and the interaction between personal and social factors enhances their readiness for professional engagement. In the final year, students undertake a longer placement where they demonstrate advanced skills in safeguarding and working independently under supervision. Alongside this, they complete a literature-based dissertation on a topic of personal interest, allowing them to explore an issue of relevance in depth. They also specialise in a chosen service user area through optional modules, ensuring they graduate with both a broad understanding of social work and a deeper focus aligned with their career aspirations.