Social Work (Hons) University of Gloucestershire

Overview

Throughout the Social Work (Hons) degree from University of Gloucestershire you’ll study lots of different areas of social work practice including contemporary social issues impacting on people’s lives. You will be prepared for social work practice with children and families, adults and mental health. You will be taught about the importance of social work knowledge, values and skills which will help you form positive working relationships, communicate effectively and promote social justice and human rights. Recognised by the Social Work England (SWE), you’ll be eligible to apply for professional social work registration on graduation.

Learning is interactive – with engaging lectures, lots of group work, discussion and debate, role plays and case study projects. We have a supportive social work learning community which includes students, staff, experts by experience, carers and practitioners. You’ll also undertake practice placements in your second and third year and have an opportunity to make a difference to the lives of people you support and assist.

Developing knowledge of moral and legal frameworks, you’ll learn to make good decisions for the individuals and families you work with, considering law, human rights, risks and responsibilities. You’ll examine people and relationships, attachment and separation-loss theories, as well as human development from childhood to old age. You’ll also explore discrimination, oppression and advocacy, developing skills in anti-oppressive practice to ensure you get the best outcomes for those you work with, empowering people to take control of their situations and live safe and fulfilling lives.

Career opportunities:

Supported professional practice is a core part of the course. We have strong connections with third sector, independent agencies and local authorities – we regularly host social workers in lectures and organise shadowing days in social work teams. You’ll hear from leading practitioners and work with recovering addicts and ex-offenders in lectures and workshops.

This teaching staff, comprised of experienced social workers, bring a wealth of knowledge from various specialties such as child, family, and youth services, adult care, community conflict resolution, mental health, and social work law. This broad spectrum of expertise not only enhances your learning but also opens up diverse career paths.

As a graduate, you could pursue roles such as a social worker, education mental health practitioner, or family support worker – each offering the chance to make a significant difference to individual lives and communities.