Introduction
Social workers support and protect some of society’s most deprived and vulnerable people; it’s immensely challenging and rewarding work. It requires a high level of motivation and commitment, and you'll also need a qualifying degree. Our BA (Honours) Social Work (England) is approved by Social Work England (SWE), and successful completion entitles you to apply to the regulatory body for registration as a social worker. You'll also need to be working in a social care agency, and be registered and supported by your employer, to take this course.
Key features of the course
- Continue in your employment while you study, earning while you learn
- Study through work-based and distance learning
- Develop the knowledge and practical skills that underpin effective practice
- Learn to deal professionally with complex, difficult and sensitive issues
- Improve your career progression opportunities within social work
Accessibility
We make all our qualifications as accessible as possible and have a comprehensive range of services to support all our students. The BA (Honours) Social Work (England) uses a variety of study materials and has the following elements:
- studying a mixture of printed and online material – online learning resources may include websites, audio/video media clips, and interactive activities such as online quizzes
- working in a group with other students
- using and producing diagrams and screenshots
- undertaking practical work
- finding external/third party material online
In addition to the above, there may be entry requirements for this qualification which include medical criteria; Social Work England (SWE), the regulatory body for the BA (Honours) Social Work. has guidance on health and disability relating to fitness for professional practice.
Program Outcome
This qualification develops your learning in four main areas:
- Knowledge and understanding
- Cognitive skills
- Practical and professional skills
- Key skills
The level and depth of your learning gradually increase as you work through the qualification. You’ll be supported throughout by the OU’s unique style of teaching and assessment – which includes a personal tutor to guide and comment on your work; top quality course texts; e-learning resources like podcasts, interactive media and online materials; tutorial groups and community forums.
Curriculum
Course details
This degree has three stages, each comprising 120 credits.
- You’ll start Stage 1 with a module introducing health and social care followed by a module that introduces social work standards and codes of practice.
- Stage 2 starts with a module covering the law and social work and is followed by a practice module, which includes a 70-day placement.
- At Stage 3, you’ll choose one module from a choice of four and conclude your degree with a practice module where you will undertake a 100-day placement.
Prepare for OU study with an Access module
We offer two starting points depending on how confident you are or how long it’s been since you last studied. Choose to dive straight in at Stage 1, or if you’d prefer some extra preparation, you can get started with an optional Access module.