COURSE CURRICULUM

The Social Work programme follows a structured three-year curriculum designed to develop students into knowledgeable, ethical, and professionally competent social workers capable of supporting individuals, families, and communities across a wide range of social care settings. During the first year, students establish strong foundations in social work knowledge, values, and professional practice through modules including Law and Social Policy, Development over the Lifespan, Ethics, Equality and Diversity, Introduction to Professional Social Work, Theories for Social Work, and Intervention and Skills. These modules provide students with an understanding of legal frameworks, human development, social inequalities, ethical decision-making, and the theoretical approaches that inform social work practice. Students also begin developing the communication, assessment, and intervention skills required to build effective professional relationships and support individuals experiencing complex social challenges. In the second year, students gain valuable practical experience through a 70-day Practice Placement while studying modules such as Contexts and Organisations, Professional Knowledge 2, and Rights, Justice and Wellbeing. These modules help students understand the organisational, legal, and social contexts in which social work operates while strengthening their knowledge of human rights, social justice, safeguarding, and professional responsibilities. The practice placement provides opportunities to apply theoretical learning in real social work environments and develop confidence in professional decision-making and service delivery. During the final year, students undertake a more extensive 100-day Practice Placement alongside specialist modules including Children, Young People and Families, Social Work with Adults, Social Work and Mental Health, Professional Leadership, and a Dissertation project. These modules provide advanced knowledge of specialist areas of practice and prepare students to work with diverse service users across different settings. The dissertation enables students to investigate an area of social work in greater depth while developing research and analytical skills. Throughout the programme, strong emphasis is placed on advocacy, safeguarding, anti-discriminatory practice, and promoting social justice and human rights. Overall, the degree prepares graduates for professional registration with Social Work England and successful careers supporting vulnerable individuals and communities while making a meaningful difference in society.