Program Outcome

See modules and class list

120 credits from the following compulsory modules which must be studied in the order listed below.

You’ll be required to attend compulsory practice skills workshops on these modules.

You should note that the University’s unique study rule applies to this qualification. This means that you must include at least 60 credits from OU modules that have not been counted in any other OU qualification that has previously been awarded to you.

Curriculum

How to Apply

Applicants will be required to have an honours degree with a minimum 2:2 classification in any discipline together with a proven record of the experience of engaging directly with Service Users in a professional setting. Candidates’ experience will be considered individually on application but we would normally expect a minimum of one year's experience – either paid or voluntary – in a setting such as a local authority or a health or social care provider in the private, voluntary or independent sector.

Applicants who do not meet the work experience requirement but hold a 2:1 classification in a cognate discipline will also be considered. Relevant subjects include:

In addition, you must satisfy the following entry criteria:

Complete an OU application form which will include a personal statement, references and employer’s endorsement

Complete a declaration of suitability for social work

Have GCSE grade 9–4 (A*–C) in English and mathematics or certified equivalent

Demonstrate IT competence through self-declaration

Achieve an International English Language Testing Systems (IELTS) score of 7 if English is not your first language

Have an enhanced DBS with lists check (i.e. checks against all registers including both children and vulnerable adults) dated within one year prior to starting the programme

Complete a health check. If in exceptional circumstances, there are serious doubts about your fitness to practice on health grounds, the University’s doctor may ask you to undergo a medical examination. This examination will be at your own expense.

You must be supported by your employer, who must undertake to provide the required practice learning opportunities. Applications for this qualification can only be made via the supporting agency.

Please note that due to the selection process and pre-entry Reflective Practice Activities for this programme, applications close in early August for entry the following January.

Applicants are expected to hold a degree in a relevant health/societal/psychology or other cognate discipline such as:

Holders of other degrees may be considered, depending on the content of their degree, completion of other relevant qualifications, work/volunteer experience etc.

Applicants must have a proven record of experience engaging directly with Service Users in a professional setting. Candidates’ experience will be considered individually on application, but we would normally expect a minimum of one year’s experience – either paid or voluntary – in a setting such as a local authority or a health or social care provider in the private, voluntary or independent sector.

Complete an OU application form including a personal statement and satisfactory references

Be part of a selection process including an interview and written task

Demonstrate that you have appropriate personal and intellectual qualities to train as a social worker

Demonstrate your ability to understand and communicate in written and spoken English

Provide evidence of numeracy equivalent to a minimum SCQF level 5 Core Skills Numeracy at Grade C. The Scottish Qualifications Certificate documents the Core Skills Profile. Numeracy skills may also be evidenced by a numeracy test during the selection process if you do not hold an appropriate qualification.

Register as a student social worker with the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) which includes a check under the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (PVG) scheme

You must also have the support of your employer:

This may involve them sponsoring you on the programme, which involves paying your fees, arranging your placements and supporting you through the programme.

If you are making an individual (Independent) application, you will still be required to obtain a line manager’s/supervisor’s reference which takes the form of a supportive statement, asking them to provide their opinion on your personal qualities and suitability to undertake training as a social worker.

Whether you are an Independent or Sponsored student, any offer of a place is conditional on successful completion of pre-entry Reflective Practice Activities (equivalent to 30 days practice) prior to module registration. This includes a Direct Observation by a Practice Educator and verification by a supervisor/line manager undertaken in your workplace. Further details will be provided to successful candidates.

Your employer would also have to agree to release you for 2 periods of practice learning (170 days in total) during the programme.

Admissions Option 2

Postgraduate Diploma

Master

Social Sciences

Social Work

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Postgraduate Diploma in Social Work

Key Information

Introduction

Key features of the course

Program Outcome

Curriculum

Course details

Admissions

About the School

Questions