BA (Hons) Social Work

The BA (Hons) Social Work program at Sheffield Hallam University is designed to equip students with the essential knowledge, skills, and professional values required to become competent social workers. This undergraduate course combines academic theory with practical experience, ensuring graduates are prepared for the dynamic and rewarding field of social work. Throughout the program, students will explore a broad range of topics including human development, diversity, mental health, child protection, and community engagement, fostering a comprehensive understanding of the complexities faced by individuals and families in various social contexts. The curriculum is structured to promote critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and effective communication, which are vital in delivering high-quality social care and support.

Students will undertake placements in diverse social work settings, giving them valuable hands-on experience and the opportunity to apply their learning in real-world environments. These placements are integrated into the course to ensure that students develop practical skills alongside their academic knowledge. The program is delivered by experienced faculty members who are experts in social work practice, research, and policy. Sheffield Hallam University’s strong links with local authorities, health services, and community organizations provide students with excellent placement opportunities and professional networking prospects.

The course emphasizes the importance of professional development and lifelong learning, encouraging students to continuously reflect on their practice and stay updated with current social work legislation, policies, and frameworks. Graduates of the BA (Hons) Social Work program are eligible to apply for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), enabling them to pursue a career as a qualified social worker in various settings such as local authorities, hospitals, schools, and voluntary organizations. The program also prepares students for further postgraduate study in social work or related fields, supporting career progression and specialization.

Overall, Sheffield Hallam University’s BA (Hons) Social Work provides a comprehensive and supportive learning environment, fostering the development of socially responsible professionals committed to making a positive impact in society.

You need

* 60 credits for the postgraduate certificate
* 120 credits for the postgraduate diploma
* 180 credits for the MRes

You chose up to 120 credits from

* qualitative methodologies and interviewing skills
* qualitative research designs
* discourse and linguistic theory and analysis
* quantitative and survey research
* multivariate statistical analysis
* survey design
* advanced design and statistics for psychology
* current debates in social work theory and values
* planning and managing social work research and evaluation

You may substitute up to 30 credits from another course in our MRes programme.

For the MRes you complete a 60 credit dissertation, supervised by our staff in an area of your choice. This piece of work displays the skills you have learned and your understanding of the research process and underlying philosophies.

The Bachelor of Social Work at Sheffield Hallam University requires applicants to demonstrate a strong commitment to social justice, community engagement, and supporting vulnerable populations. Prospective students typically need to hold a minimum of 48 UCAS tariff points from relevant qualifications, such as A-levels, BTECs, or equivalent, with at least one qualification gaining points through social sciences, health and social care, or related fields. Prior experience in social work or caring professions can be advantageous but is not mandatory for entry. The programme is designed for individuals who possess excellent communication skills, empathy, ethical awareness, and the ability to reflect critically on their practice. Applicants must also meet the university’s English language proficiency requirements, usually demonstrated through an IELTS score of 6.5 or above, or equivalent qualifications, if applicable. As part of the admissions process, candidates may be invited for an interview, which assesses their motivation, understanding of social work values, and readiness to undertake a demanding professional training. The programme is also open to mature students or those with relevant work experience who can demonstrate their capability to succeed in higher education. Applicants must submit a personal statement outlining their interest in social work, relevant experiences, and career ambitions. Entrance is competitive, and the university emphasizes diversity, valuing applicants from various backgrounds who can contribute to an inclusive learning environment. Once admitted, students are required to undertake core modules covering social work theories, ethical practice, legal frameworks, and intervention techniques. Practical placements are an integral part of the programme, where students gain hands-on experience in social care settings, supervised by qualified practitioners. To progress and graduate, students must successfully complete all theoretical modules, placement requirements, and assessments, including essays, reports, presentations, and reflective journals. Overall, the social work programme aims to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and ethical understanding necessary to become competent social workers committed to making a positive impact in individuals’ lives.

Funding opportunities for the Social Work degree programme at Sheffield Hallam University are diverse and designed to support students throughout their academic journey. Tuition fees for UK students are typically aligned with government fee caps, with an annual fee that can range around £9,250, though this may vary year by year. International students often face higher fees, approximately £14,500 per year, depending on the specific course and residency status. Students are encouraged to explore various funding sources, including government-backed student loans, which are available to UK residents and citizens. These loans cover tuition fees and sometimes provide maintenance support to assist with living costs during their studies. Scholarship schemes are also accessible for both domestic and international students; these may be merit-based or targeted towards specific groups, such as students from underrepresented backgrounds or those demonstrating social commitment. Additionally, the university offers bursaries and awards that can substantially reduce tuition costs or provide financial assistance for additional expenses like textbooks and equipment. Students are advised to consult the university’s financial aid office and official website regularly for updated information on available funding and application procedures. For students undertaking placements or practical work components integral to the Social Work programme, some funding options include specific grants or sponsored placements, which can help offset costs associated with fieldwork. Furthermore, part-time work and work placement opportunities facilitated by the university can serve as additional sources of income, aiding students in managing their finances. It is essential for prospective and current students to carefully plan their finances and explore all available options early in their academic planning process to ensure they can focus on their studies and future career development without undue financial strain.

Social Work at Sheffield Hallam University is a comprehensive undergraduate degree program designed to prepare students for a career in the social services sector. The program combines academic learning with practical experience, enabling students to develop the skills and knowledge required to support individuals, families, and communities facing a range of social challenges. Throughout the course, students engage with contemporary issues such as child protection, mental health, substance misuse, and disability, gaining a deep understanding of social policies and ethical practice. The curriculum includes modules on law, ethics, communication skills, and evidence-based interventions, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to work within diverse social work environments. Practical placements are an integral component of the program, providing students with hands-on experience in real-world settings under the supervision of experienced practitioners. These placements help students to develop professional competence, reflective practice, and a strong ethical framework. The program is accredited by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), which is a requirement for practicing as a professional social worker in the UK. Sheffield Hallam University supports students through dedicated academic advising, access to state-of-the-art facilities, and partnership arrangements with local social services agencies. Upon completion, graduates are eligible to apply for registration as social workers and can pursue diverse career paths including child and family social work, adult social care, mental health services, and community development. The university also offers opportunities for further postgraduate study, research, and Continuing Professional Development (CPD). The program’s emphasis on both theoretical knowledge and practical application ensures that graduates are prepared to meet the complex demands of social work practice and make meaningful contributions to the wellbeing of individuals and communities.