Why You Should Study Social Work at Bournemouth University

The Social Work BA (Hons) programme at Bournemouth University is both an academic and professional qualification approved by Social Work England. This means that on successful completion of your degree, you’ll be eligible to apply for registration as a social worker. The title ‘social worker’ is protected which means that only professionals with an accredited qualification can use it and practice as a social worker.

You will participate in learning that will challenge, extend and develop your knowledge about yourself, others and the world around you. Education is transformative, and this is especially true of social work at BU, where you will engage with topics that explore human development, the contemporary context of practice, social justice, theories and research to leading to understanding and action – all of which will enable you to undertake social work with children, families and adults.  

The program also includes 200 days of practice learning where you will become part of independent and statutory sector teams. In addition, you will participate in a range of bespoke skills days. Practice learning provides you with relevant experience and will allow you to apply theoretical knowledge in practical situations. You’ll gain exposure to various aspects of social work, including child protection, fostering and adoption, adult safeguarding, mental health, substance use, hospital discharge, and disability. This combination of specialist knowledge and practical skills equips you to address complex social issues. Whether you’re working with vulnerable children, adults, or families, you’ll be well-prepared to make a positive impact in their lives. 

The teaching team at BU bring their professional knowledge, values and experience to their education practice. We are passionate about social work and education and are proud of our commitment to working with service users, carers and practitioners to create learning opportunities that develop the next generation of practitioners.  Team members are active researchers creating up to date knowledge relevant to your learning on a wide range of subjects. You will also see from team profiles that staff are active within practice, keeping up to date. 

The course has been consistently ranked within the top five in its subject area for the past three years according to The Guardian league tables. This recognition reflects the high quality of education and training provided by the university. 

Bournemouth University maintains close ties with local employers, service users, and care partnerships. As a student, you’ll have the opportunity to develop working relationships with professionals from a diverse range of services. These connections can be invaluable for developing a deeper understanding of the profession as well as enhancing your future career prospects. 

The course consistently receives high satisfaction ratings from final-year students. This feedback underscores the quality of teaching, support, and learning experiences provided by the university. 

8. Bournemouth University’s Social Work BA (Hons) programme is approved by Social Work England.
   Ensuring that it meets the professional standards for education and training.
   Enabling you to demonstrate the professional standards required for social work practice. 

Studying social work at Bournemouth University offers you a successful blend of academic rigor, practical experience, and professional connections, making it an excellent choice for aspiring social workers. We look forward to welcoming you. 

The MA Social Work program is both an academic qualification and a professional qualification approved by Social Work England. Upon successful completion of the course, graduates are eligible to apply for registration as a social worker. In the UK the title ‘social worker’ is protected which means that only professionals with an accredited qualification can use it and practice as a social worker. 

You will participate in learning that will challenge, extend and develop your knowledge about yourself, others and the world around you. Education is transformative, and this is especially true of social work at BU, where you will engage with topics that explore human development, the contemporary context of practice, social justice, theories and research to leading to understanding and action – all of which will enable you to undertake social work with children, families and adults. 

The program also includes 200 days of practice learning where you will become part of independent and statutory sector teams. In addition, you will participate in a range of bespoke skills days. Practice learning provides you with relevant experience and will allow you to apply theoretical knowledge in practical situations. You’ll gain exposure to various aspects of social work, including child protection, fostering and adoption, adult safeguarding, mental health, substance use, hospital discharge, and disability. This combination of specialist knowledge and practical skills equips you to address complex social issues. Whether you’re working with vulnerable children, adults, or families, you’ll be well-prepared to make a positive impact in their lives. 

The teaching team at BU bring their professional knowledge, values and experience to their education practice. We are passionate about social work and education and are proud of our commitment to working with service users, carers and practitioners to create learning opportunities that develop the next generation of practitioners.  Team members are active researchers creating up to date knowledge relevant to your learning on a wide range of subjects. You will also see from team member profiles that staff are active within practice, keeping up to date with the changes in professional practice. 

Bournemouth University’s MA Social Work has consistently been ranked highly and this recognition reflects the high quality of education and training provided by the university. 

The university offers purpose-built facilities, including simulated environments that allow students to learn and practice before going on placement, ensuring they are well-prepared for real-world scenarios.

Bournemouth University maintains close ties with local employers, service users, and care partnerships. As a student, you’ll have the opportunity to develop working relationships with professionals from a diverse range of services. These connections can be invaluable for developing a deeper understanding of the profession as well as enhancing your future career prospects. 

The course consistently receives high satisfaction ratings from final-year students. This feedback underscores the quality of teaching, support, and learning experiences provided by the university. 

Bournemouth University’s Social Work MA programme is approved by Social Work England.
Ensuring that it meets the professional standards for education and training.
Enabling you to demonstrate the professional standards required for social work practice. 

Applicants need a Bachelor’s Honours degree with a 2:1 in any subject. Those with a 2:2 may be considered if they have strong relevant work experience. Additionally, an IELTS (Academic) score of 7.0 (with a minimum of 6.5 in each component) is required for non-native English speakers. 

PG Dip/MA Social Work (Children & Families) | Bournemouth University 

The Step Up to Social Work program offers an intensive full-time training that can lead to a rewarding career as a social worker in just 14 months. This accelerated pathway allows individuals to quickly transition into the field while receiving a Department for Education bursary in addition to covering course fees. 

The program has a specific focus on children and families social work. Participants gain hands-on experience working with children, young people, and their families. Placements in local authorities provide practical learning opportunities in real-world settings. 

Successful completion of the program leads to a postgraduate diploma in social work, which enables registration as a qualified social worker with Social Work England. This qualification covers all aspects of child and family social work, as well as working with adults. 

Bournemouth University collaborates with regional partners, including BCP Council, Dorset Council, and Wiltshire Council, to deliver the program. These partnerships ensure that students receive relevant training and support throughout their journey. 

Eligible applicants receive a tax-free bursary during the program. This financial support makes the program accessible and encourages individuals to pursue a career in social work. 

The program is approved by Social Work England, ensuring that graduates meet the professional standards required for social work practice. Upon completion, students are eligible to apply for registration as social workers. 

For those interested in further academic development, there is an option to continue from the Postgraduate Diploma to a Master’s degree by undertaking a a further two units of study, which includes a dissertation. This self-funded pathway allows students to deepen their expertise.