BA (Hons) Social Work

The Bachelor of Arts with Honours in Social Work at Oxford Brookes University is a comprehensive undergraduate programme designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in social work. This qualification offers a combination of theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and professional development opportunities essential for working with individuals, families, and communities facing complex social challenges. The programme is built on a strong foundation of social sciences, psychology, law, and ethics, ensuring students gain a broad understanding of the social issues that impact diverse populations. Throughout the course, students engage in a variety of learning activities, including lectures, seminars, group work, and hands-on placements, providing real-world experience in a variety of settings such as local authorities, voluntary organizations, and health services.

The curriculum covers key areas such as human development, safeguarding, mental health, and social policy, equipping graduates with the critical thinking and problem-solving skills necessary for effective practice. Emphasis is placed on reflective practice, cultural competency, and ethical decision-making, enabling students to adapt to the dynamic and diverse nature of social work environments. The programme also encourages interprofessional collaboration and communication skills, which are essential for working alongside professionals in health, education, and criminal justice sectors.

Students will undertake a substantial supervised practice placement, typically lasting several months, allowing them to apply their academic learning in real-world contexts under the guidance of experienced practitioners. This integrated approach ensures graduates are well-prepared for registration with the UK’s Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) as qualified social workers. Upon successful completion of the degree, students will be eligible to pursue careers in child and family social work, adult care, mental health services, and community development.

Oxford Brookes University’s social work programme benefits from strong links with local authorities, voluntary organizations, and professional networks, enhancing employability and fostering ongoing professional development. The course is suitable for individuals passionate about making a positive impact in society, committed to social justice, and eager to support vulnerable populations. With a focus on academic excellence, practical skills, and ethical practice, the BA (Hons) Social Work at Oxford Brookes provides a solid foundation for a fulfilling career dedicated to improving lives and promoting community well-being.

The Bachelor of Arts in Social Work at Oxford Brookes University is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in social services and community development. This undergraduate course provides students with a thorough understanding of the fundamental principles and practices of social work, emphasizing ethical considerations, cultural sensitivity, and the importance of human rights. Throughout the program, students will explore key areas such as child and family welfare, mental health, disability, substance misuse, and social policy, equipping them with the skills needed to support vulnerable populations effectively.

The curriculum combines academic learning with practical experience, ensuring students gain real-world insights through placements in varied social work settings. These placements are carefully supervised and structured to enable students to apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills. The program also emphasizes the importance of reflective practice, encouraging students to evaluate their experiences and develop a professional identity grounded in compassion and ethical integrity.

Students will engage with a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, workshops, case studies, and group discussions. The coursework is designed to promote active learning and collaboration, preparing students to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams and diverse environments. As part of the program, students are encouraged to develop research skills and an evidence-based approach to social work intervention, ensuring their practices are informed by the latest research and best practices in the field.

Moreover, the program offers specialist modules that focus on current issues such as anti-oppressive practice, trauma-informed care, and safeguarding, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to handle contemporary challenges faced by social workers. The program also aims to develop core competencies such as communication, advocacy, and ethical decision-making, which are vital for effective practice in complex social contexts.

Graduates of this program are well-positioned to pursue careers in various settings, including local authorities, voluntary organizations, healthcare services, and community groups. They are also prepared to undertake further professional training or postgraduate study in social work or related fields. Overall, the Bachelor of Arts in Social Work at Oxford Brookes University is committed to developing thoughtful, competent, and compassionate practitioners who can make a positive difference in individuals’ lives and society as a whole.

Duration: 3 years full-time or part-time equivalent
Mode of study: Full-time, Part-time, Mixed
Qualification aim: Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Social Work
Accreditations: Accredited by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and approved by the British Association of Social Workers (BASW)
Entry requirements: Typically, students need a minimum of 112 UCAS points, including coursework or prior experience related to social care or health; certain GCSEs in English and Maths at grade 4/C or above are required; some applicants may be considered with equivalent qualifications or relevant work experience.
International students: Requirements include evidence of English language proficiency, such as IELTS at a minimum score of 7.0 overall with no less than 6.5 in any component, plus equivalent qualifications to UK entry requirements.
Academic prerequisites: A-levels, BTEC Level 3, Access to HE Diploma, or equivalent qualifications in relevant subjects; prior experience in social work or social care environment is advantageous but not mandatory.
Selection process: The selection involves application review, assessment of personal statement, references, and, where applicable, an interview or assessment day to evaluate motivation, understanding of social work roles, and suitability for practice.
Course content: The program covers modules such as Introduction to Social Work, Social Work Theories and Methods, Law and Ethics in Social Work, Professional Practice and Placement, Diversity and Inclusion, Mental Health and Wellbeing, Substance Abuse and Recovery, Child and Family Social Work, Adult Social Work, and Research Methods.
Placement requirements: Students are required to undertake supervised placements in approved social care settings, totaling approximately 200 hours per year, facilitating practical experience and professional development.
Assessment methods: A combination of coursework, essays, case studies, presentations, reflective journals, placement reports, and final examinations are used to assess student progress throughout the course.
Graduation requirements: Successful completion of all modules with the minimum required pass grades, accumulation of placement hours, and submission of a final portfolio or dissertation or project work.
Professional standards: Students must demonstrate adherence to the HCPC Standards of Proficiency and BASW Codes of Ethics throughout their studies and placements.
Additional requirements: Students are expected to attend all lectures, seminars, and placements, maintain appropriate conduct, and undertake background checks including a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check before placements.

Funding options for the Social Work degree programme at Oxford Brookes University include a variety of financial support schemes designed to assist both domestic and international students. UK students may be eligible for government-funded loans such as undergraduate student loans provided by the Student Loans Company, which cover tuition fees and living costs. These loans are repayable based on income after graduation. Additionally, students can explore university-specific scholarships, bursaries, and fee waivers which are awarded based on academic achievement, financial need, or particular personal circumstances. Oxford Brookes offers numerous scholarships for home students, including the Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship, which provides financial support to high-achieving students.

International students seeking to fund their studies can apply for a range of scholarships aimed at supporting overseas applicants, including the International Scholarship, which offers a discount on tuition fees. Furthermore, students may obtain funding through external sources such as government-sponsored scholarships from their home country, private foundations, or charitable organizations. Part-time work opportunities are also available on campus, allowing students to earn income while studying, subject to visa regulations where applicable.

Students are encouraged to explore student loan options, grants, and bursaries early in their planning process to determine eligibility and application deadlines. The university's financial aid office provides comprehensive advice on funding options, application procedures, and support for managing study costs. Some students may qualify for special support schemes for mature students or those with disabilities, which can help cover additional expenses related to their studies.

Aside from direct financial assistance, Oxford Brookes University also offers resources to support students in budgeting, financial planning, and accessing external funding sources. It is advisable for prospective and current students to regularly check the university website and contact the financial aid office for updated information on available funding opportunities. Overall, the university aims to make higher education accessible by providing a range of financial support options for Social Work students to help them successfully complete their degree programme.

The Social Work degree at Oxford Brookes University is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for professional practice in the field of social work. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, emphasizing the importance of ethical practice, critical thinking, and effective communication. Students will explore a wide range of topics, including human development, social policy, diversity, mental health, and the legal and ethical frameworks that underpin social work practice. The program is structured to include classroom-based learning, case studies, group projects, and supervised placements in real-world settings, allowing students to gain valuable hands-on experience. Throughout the course, students will develop their abilities to assess complex social issues, design intervention strategies, and work collaboratively with individuals, families, and communities. The program also promotes reflective practice, encouraging students to continually evaluate their approaches and develop their professional identity. Graduates of this program are well-equipped to work in various settings such as child and family services, mental health agencies, community organizations, and local authorities. The program is accredited by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), ensuring that graduates meet the professional standards required for registration as social workers in the UK. Support from dedicated academic staff, access to state-of-the-art facilities, and opportunities for engagement with practitioners and organizations provide an enriching learning environment. The course caters to students from diverse backgrounds and aims to foster social justice and equity through skilled and compassionate social work practice. Graduates are prepared for further professional development or to pursue postgraduate study in related fields. The program emphasizes the importance of lifelong learning and ethical responsibility in social work.