BA (Hons) Social Work

The BA (Hons) Social Work at Bournemouth University is a comprehensive undergraduate programme designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in social work and related fields. This degree provides students with a solid foundation of theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and ethical understanding necessary to support individuals, families, and communities facing various social challenges. Throughout the course, students engage with a wide range of modules covering topics such as human development, social policy, law, mental health, and safeguarding. The programme emphasizes the importance of professional values, anti-discriminatory practice, and respect for diversity, ensuring graduates are equipped to work ethically and competently in diverse settings.

Students on the programme benefit from a blend of academic learning and hands-on experience, including placements in local authority settings, voluntary organizations, and community services. These placements enable students to apply their learning in real-world contexts, develop their practical skills, and build professional networks. Bournemouth University is committed to providing a supportive learning environment, with experienced tutors and mentors who guide students through their academic journey. The course also incorporates the latest innovations in digital learning and research, fostering critical thinking and reflective practice.

Graduates of this programme are well-prepared for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), which is a requirement for practicing social workers in the UK. Upon successful completion, students can pursue a range of careers in social work, including roles in child and family services, adult care, mental health support, and community development. Additionally, the degree provides a strong foundation for further postgraduate study, such as a master's degree in social work or related fields. Bournemouth University's BA (Hons) Social Work is ideal for individuals passionate about making a positive impact on people's lives and committed to promoting social justice and equality.

Social Work is a dynamic and rewarding profession dedicated to helping individuals, families, and communities improve their well-being and social functioning. At Bournemouth University, our BSc (Hons) Social Work programme is designed to equip students with the essential knowledge, skills, and values required to become effective and compassionate social workers. Throughout the course, students will explore a wide range of topics including human development, mental health, diversity, ethics, and legislation, ensuring they are well-prepared to meet the complex needs of service users in various settings. The programme combines academic learning with practical experience, offering opportunities for placements within local authorities, health agencies, and third-sector organizations, enabling students to apply theoretical concepts in real-world contexts. Core modules cover areas such as safeguarding, assessment and intervention, research methods, social policy, and professional practice. Students will learn to critically analyse social issues, develop effective communication skills, and adhere to the values of anti-discriminatory and rights-based practice. Emphasis is placed on reflective practice and ethical decision-making, preparing graduates to work confidently within multidisciplinary teams and to advocate for vulnerable populations. Our supportive learning environment, with access to experienced faculty and cutting-edge resources, ensures students receive a comprehensive education that promotes academic excellence and personal development. Upon successful completion of the programme, graduates will be eligible to apply for registration with social work regulatory bodies and pursue a variety of careers in statutory, voluntary, and private sectors. Join Bournemouth University’s Social Work programme to make a meaningful difference in people's lives and contribute positively to society.

Typical program requirements for the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) at Bournemouth University include a UCAS tariff score of around 112-120 points, which may be achieved through A-levels, BTECs, or equivalent qualifications. Applicants are expected to demonstrate a strong interest in social care, community work, or related fields, often through relevant voluntary or paid experience. GCSE requirements typically include at least grade C/4 or above in English and Mathematics, reflecting the importance of these skills in social work practice. Further, applicants may need to provide a personal statement outlining their motivation, understanding of social work values, and commitment to working with vulnerable populations. References from academic or professional contacts are usually required to support the application. In addition, the university may require a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, ensuring suitability for working with children and vulnerable adults. Entry into the program is competitive, and successful candidates often demonstrate strong communication skills, empathy, resilience, and the ability to reflect critically on social issues. Applicants may also be invited to an interview, which assesses their motivation, awareness of social work responsibilities, and capacity to undertake demanding but rewarding work in the sector. The program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, including placements, hence candidates should be prepared for immersive sector experience. International students may need to meet additional English language requirements, such as IELTS with a score of 7.0 overall, with at least 6.5 in each component. The program aims to develop competent, ethical, and reflective social workers equipped to make a positive impact in diverse communities.

The financing of the Bachelor of Social Work program at Bournemouth University primarily involves a combination of tuition fees, government funding, and potential financial support options for eligible students. Tuition fees for UK/EU students are set annually and are published on the university’s official website, with current figures (as of the 2023/2024 academic year) indicating that domestic students pay approximately £9,250 per year for full-time undergraduate courses. International students are charged a different fee structure, which varies depending on the home country and specific program requirements. Bournemouth University offers a range of scholarships and bursaries to support students financially, including the Vice-Chancellor's Scholarships, which are highly competitive and aim to assist academically talented students. Additionally, students may access government maintenance loans and grants to cover living costs and other expenses during their studies. These financial aids are typically available through Student Finance England or equivalent agencies in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland for eligible students. The university also provides information and advice on part-time work opportunities, both on and off-campus, which students can undertake to supplement their income during their studies. The program’s financing structure considers potential employment after graduation, emphasizing the importance of practical experience and employability skills, which can lead to higher earning potential and financial stability in the social work sector. Bournemouth University collaborates with local authorities and healthcare providers to facilitate placements that sometimes offer stipends or financial support relevant to the work experience component. Overall, the financial landscape for students enrolled in the Bachelor of Social Work program is designed to be accessible, with various funding avenues, support services, and financial planning resources to assist students throughout their academic journey.

The Undergraduate BA (Hons) Social Work degree at Bournemouth University is designed to prepare students for a professional career in social work, equipping them with the essential skills, knowledge, and ethical understanding required to support vulnerable individuals and communities effectively. The program is accredited by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), ensuring that graduates meet the professional standards necessary for registration and practice as qualified social workers across the UK. Throughout the course, students engage in a blend of academic learning and practical experience, gaining insights into areas such as child protection, mental health, adult social care, and community development.

The curriculum integrates core modules that cover social policy, psychology, sociology, law, and ethics, providing a comprehensive foundation for understanding the social contexts and challenges faced by service users. Students also undertake a series of practice placements, which are supervised by experienced practitioners, allowing for the application of theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. These placements are vital for developing practical skills in areas such as assessment, intervention, advocacy, and relationship-building with service users.

Bournemouth University's approach emphasizes a person-centered and inclusive perspective, encouraging students to adopt a holistic view when working with diverse populations. Throughout the program, there is a focus on developing critical thinking, reflective practice, and effective communication skills. The faculty brings significant industry experience, and the university collaborates with local authorities, health agencies, and voluntary organizations to ensure that the curriculum remains relevant and responsive to current professional needs.

The programme typically spans three years for full-time students and offers part-time routes, providing flexibility for mature students or those with prior professional commitments. Graduates of this course are well-prepared to enter social work roles in local authorities, healthcare organizations, and independent practice. Additionally, the qualification can serve as a pathway to postgraduate study, such as Master’s degrees in Social Work or related fields, further enhancing career opportunities.

Bournemouth University also provides dedicated support services, including academic mentoring, career guidance, and access to a range of resources designed to foster student success. The university's commitment to research-informed teaching ensures that students are engaged with the latest developments and best practices within the social work field. Overall, the BA (Hons) Social Work at Bournemouth University aims to cultivate competent, ethical, and compassionate social workers ready to make a positive impact in society.