University of Essex campus

Health Sciences

BA (Hons) Social Work at University of Essex

University of Essex, United Kingdom

Programme overview

BA Social Work is a three-year degree preparing students for a professional career in social work, combining academic study with practice-based learning. Successful completion leads to eligibility to register with Social Work England.

Department: School of Health and Social Care  |  Duration: 3 years full-time  |  Intake: October 2027  |  Study mode: full-time  |  Location: Colchester, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Year 1 includes Introduction to Law and Social Policy, Lifespan Development, Professional Skills 1, Interpersonal Skills for Practice and Introduction to Research Methodologies; year 2 includes Legislation, Regulation and Ethics for Practice, Emotional, Relational and Mental Health Issues and Practice Placement 1 (70 days); the final year includes Independent Study, Research Perspectives, Practice Interventions and Practice Placement 2 (100 days).

Career pathways

Graduates can register with Social Work England and work in local authorities and the private, independent and voluntary sectors.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

GCSE English Language C/4 or an acceptable level 2 equivalent (OFQUAL regulated level 2 English qualifications such as Functional Skills or Key Skills level 2 are accepted if the applicant does not need a Student visa and is a first-language English speaker or has lived in the UK over three years). Plus 112 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of 2 full A-levels; IB: 29 points in the IB Diploma or 112 UCAS tariff points including a minimum of 2 Higher Level subjects. A-levels, AAQs, BTECs, Access to HE Diploma, T-levels and most other tariff-bearing qualifications are accepted; vocational level 3 qualifications are considered and applicants with social activity, lived experience or relevant work experience are welcomed. Some paid or voluntary experience in health or social care or a childcare/education setting is required. A personal statement explaining suitability is needed before an interview invitation. Interview, satisfactory reference, Occupational Health check and DBS check are required. Contextual offer for eligible UK-resident applicants: GCSE English C/4 or equivalent plus 96 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of 2 full A-levels. International applicants: IELTS 7.0 overall with a minimum of 6.5 in each component (or equivalent test).

Domestic applicants: GBP 10,050 a year. Home/UK fee; fees increase for each academic year of study Source

International applicants: GBP 22,575 a year. International fee; fees increase for each academic year of study Source

Intake: October 2027

Duration: 3 years full-time

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