BA (Hons) Social Work at University of Stirling

Programme overview

BA (Hons) Social Work is a four-year full-time on-campus degree accredited by the Scottish Social Services Council, leading to registration as a qualified social worker in Scotland, recognised in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Duration: 48 months | Intake: September 2027 | Study mode: full-time | Location: Stirling, Scotland, United Kingdom

What you will study

Semesters 1-3: introductory Sociology and Social Policy, four modules on social work knowledge, skills, law and policy, one community-based practice module and two optional modules. Semesters 4-8: classroom learning alongside MSc social work students and two assessed practice placements in Semesters 5 and 6.

Career pathways

Qualification to work as a registered social worker, or in other roles supporting people; practice contexts include children and families, criminal justice and community care.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Year 1 entry (four-year honours): Highers AABB; A-levels BBB; IB Diploma 28 points; BTEC (Level 3) DDM. Numeracy and literacy evidenced at minimum by Maths and English at Standard Grade 3, National 5 (C), Intermediate 2 (C), GCSE (C/4) or equivalent; applicants without formal numeracy qualifications may be able to take additional first-year study to meet SSSC requirements. Voluntary, paid or personal experience of social work or related activity is essential. Two-stage paper-based selection: UCAS form screened for social work knowledge, experience and qualifications (personal statement is important), then an additional written piece answering two social work scenarios. Registration with the Scottish Social Services Council is required by the start of semester 2 of Year 1, with a criminal records check and declaration of relevant convictions. Scottish HNC/HND: Bs in graded units; access courses (mature students) pass with 50%+. Advanced entry is not available. English language for international applicants: IELTS Indicator 7.0 with 6.0 in each skill; PTE Academic 67 overall with 60 in each sub-skill; TOEFL iBT 94 overall with 18 reading, 23 writing, 19 listening, 21 speaking.

Domestic applicants: GBP 1,820 a year (2026/27). Scottish students; full time rate Source

International applicants: GBP 19,500 a year (2026/27). International students (including EU); full time rate Source

Intake: September 2027

Duration: 48 months

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