PREPARE FOR PROFESSIONAL SOCIAL WORK PRACTICE

BA (Hons) Social Work

The BA (Hons) Social Work course leads to a professional social work qualification, combining campus-based learning with two substantial practice placements.

Award

BA (Hons)

Duration

Four years full-time

Tuition Costs 2026/27

Study Location(s)

,

Course starting dates

September, January, May

Professional social work education

Develop knowledge, values and skills for social work practice

The BA (Hons) Social Work course is a professional social work qualification delivered at UWS Paisley and Dumfries. The course is informed by the Standards in Social Work Education and prepares students for professional practice.

You will develop foundational and specialist knowledge of social work values, ethics, theory, research, law, communication and professional identity. Practice authenticity is embedded throughout the course, with learning linked to work with children and families, adults, older people, mental health, justice and resilience in practice.

The course includes two 80-day practice placements at Levels 9 and 10, helping you apply university-based learning in professional settings and develop your readiness for social work practice.

Who is this course for?

This course is for students who want to qualify as social workers and are committed to supporting people, families and communities with compassion, professional values, ethical practice and strong communication skills.

Where this degree can take you

Graduates can progress into professional social work roles across local authorities, health and social care partnerships, children and families services, adult services, justice, mental health, third-sector organisations and related postgraduate study or professional development.

Course Details

Professional qualification

Study a course accredited by the Scottish Social Services Council.

Practice placements

Complete two 80-day placements at Levels 9 and 10.

Practice-focused learning

Develop knowledge and skills for working with diverse people and practice contexts.

Core modules

  • Foundations to Practice — 20 credits
  • Understanding and Learning from Service Failures — 20 credits
  • ASPIRE Level 7 — 20 credits
  • Psychology Across the Lifespan — 20 credits
  • Applied Sociology for Social Work — 20 credits
  • Development of Social Policy — 20 credits

Core modules

  • Assessment in Social Work — 20 credits
  • Social Work Law — 20 credits
  • Professional Communication — 20 credits
  • Critical and Radical Social Work — 20 credits
  • Reflective Practice — 20 credits
  • Responsivity in Practice — 20 credits

Core modules

  • Advanced Skills: Practice Simulation — 60 credits
  • Professional Practice — 60 credits

Level 9 includes preparation for practice and the first 80-day placement.

Core modules

  • Professional Practice and Inquiry – 120 credits

Level 10 includes the second 80-day placement and research-informed assessment linked to professional development.

Teaching is delivered on campus. Learning reflects the diverse nature of social work practice and includes lectures, seminars, workshops, practice scenarios, case work, reflection, research-informed learning and placement-based assessment.

Students must register with the Scottish Social Services Council as social work students and maintain registration throughout the course. Placement modules have specific attendance and progression requirements.

Entry Requirements

What qualifications do you need?

We welcome Scottish, UK and international students and consider all applicants on an individual basis.

Please visit our  Undergraduate entry requirements page for information on our different entry requirements, including country-specific details for EU and non-EU qualifications.

  • Scottish Highers: BBBB plus English and Mathematics at the required level
  • International Baccalaureate Diploma: 24 points, including specified English and Mathematics requirements
  • Applicants must meet English and Mathematics requirements set by Scottish Government and UWS.

Relevant HNC qualifications such as Social Sciences, Social Care, Social Studies or other relevant disciplines may be considered where graded unit and English and Mathematics requirements are met. Exceptional direct entry to Level 8 may be considered for Dumfries only.

All students must be registered with the SSSC as social work students and maintain registration for the duration of study. Students must disclose previous convictions during application and current charges or convictions during study. English language proficiency requirements apply, with IELTS average standard of 7.0 where relevant.

Due to the competitive nature of admissions, relevant social care employment or voluntary experience, care experience, understanding of the social work role, professional values, compassion, IT literacy and strong communication skills are important.

Careers across BA (Hons) Social Work

Career Prospects

Explore the career opportunities this course can lead to. The skills and knowledge you gain can prepare you for a wide range of roles across your chosen industry and support your long-term professional development.

Our application process is simple and fast.

Our application process is simple and fast.

Ready to apply or just exploring? Follow these simple steps to begin your journey to a career-focused education in one of the world’s most exciting cities.
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