Program Overview

Social work is a rewarding profession which enables you to work with and support individuals, families and communities of all ages who face difficulties or distress in their lives.

Currently accredited by Social Work England1, our MA/PGDip programmes have been developed in line with government recommendations in response to the demand for a highly skilled workforce.

• Grounded in practice, this course will enable you to build on your existing academic, work and life experiences in order to achieve the professional social work qualification1.
• You will undertake two placements2 of 70 days and 100 days (sourced by the university)2.
• Our high-quality teaching emphasises the knowledge, skills and values of social work; especially the importance of research-informed, person-centred and relationship-based practice.

Why you should study this course

• Social work is a highly rewarding profession that requires human compassion. Social workers work with people experiencing difficulties and deal with many complex issues arising, for example, from poverty or relationship problems.
• Your role is to assist individuals, groups and communities to develop practical strategies to improve their situations and make a positive difference – protecting the vulnerable from harm and abuse or supporting people to live independently. It allows you to give something back to society.
• This course engages the head, the heart and the hands because theoretical knowledge, skills and practical experience and values of human compassion are all essential requisites of an effective social worker. The course provides you with rigorous academic study and a professional qualification upon successful completion of the course.
• We have been educating social workers for over 50 years and this course is professionally accredited by Social Work England1. On successful completion of this MA or PGDip in Social Work you will be eligible to apply to register as a social worker. (Additional costs may apply, please see Accreditation1 and Professional Recognition section)
• Recognised internationally, the British social work qualification allows you to apply to register for practice as a professional social worker on completion, working for local government, voluntary and third sector organisations, charities or non-governmental organisations (NGOs) (additional fees may apply).
• Upon graduation you will have the opportunity to apply to work in any area of social work, rather than simply qualifying for one particular area, such as childcare or mental health – a distinct advantage giving you greater flexibility in your career choices.
• This course has been updated to reflect contemporary trends in social work practice, both locally and nationally. The course team have been actively engaged within the West Midlands Teaching Partnership, to improve all aspects of the delivery, including placement and employability.