BA Social Work
About this course
Social work is a profession and an academic discipline concerned with promoting human wellbeing, social justice and the dignity of individuals, families and communities. Social workers support people at every stage of life and across every kind of difficulty, from safeguarding children and supporting adults with complex needs to working with people affected by poverty, disability, mental health challenges and social exclusion. The work requires both strong theoretical foundations in sociology, psychology, law and policy and the practical interpersonal skills to build trusting relationships with people in vulnerable circumstances. At the University of Cumbria this three-year, full-time programme is approved by Social Work England, the regulatory body for the profession, meaning that successful completion of the degree makes you eligible to apply for registration as a qualified social worker. The lecturing team brings substantial professional practice experience and real-world knowledge to the classroom, and the programme is supported by frequent engagement with practitioners from local authorities, the voluntary sector and people with lived experience of social work. Practice placements are central to the programme, placing you in real social work settings where you develop the professional competence and ethical judgement the role demands. Registered social workers work in children's services, adult social care, mental health services, youth justice, school social work, hospital social work and a growing range of community and voluntary sector settings. Many social workers develop specialist expertise in areas such as child protection, looked-after children, substance misuse, learning disabilities, older people or domestic violence services. Postgraduate study in social work practice, systemic family therapy, social policy or related disciplines opens advanced practice and leadership roles. The profession offers a career of genuine meaning, and consistent employment across the UK and internationally.
Syllabus & Modules
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