Venues

Central Campus

Content

Good social work combines an interest in people with a rigorous intellectual attitude and the constant search for better methods of helping, supported by research and development.

Social workers support people in difficult circumstances to improve their wellbeing. They provide protection to people who may be vulnerable, and promote social justice.

Year 1:
You will be introduced to the day-to-day practice of social work in our Year 1, Semester 1 course, Social Work: Making A Difference.

In Semester 2 you will look at how using art and creative methods in social work practice can enhance effective intervention and support social activism.

You will also study two foundational courses in social policy, and option courses of your choice.

Year 2:
You will take the following courses:
Human Rights and Social Justice: Social Work and the Law; From Research into Practice: Landmarks in Social Work Research.

Year 3:
In this year, you will study only social work courses.

Courses include:
Social Work in Communities; Social Work with Individuals and Families; Working with Self and Others: Skills, Theories and Methods; Understanding Care and Control; Professional Practice in Social Work 1 (this includes an 80-day full-time placement).

Year 4:
You will study:
Working with Risk, Trust and Complexity; Professional Practice in Social Work 2 (including a 100-day full-time placement).

You will also complete an 8,000-word dissertation on a subject of your choice.

Entry Requirements

2026 entry requirements

Standard entry:
4 Highers at ABBB (first sitting) or 4 or 5 Highers at AABB/ABBBB (two sittings) plus English and Maths or Applications of Maths at National 5 at C.

Widening access entry:
4 Highers at ABBB (two sittings) plus English and Maths at National 5 at C. Highers at BBB must be achieved in one sitting.

Progression Routes

This degree is accredited by the SSSC (Scottish Social Services Council)