Social Work

Social work is a profession dedicated to promoting human welfare, social justice and the rights of individuals and communities, particularly those who are most vulnerable or marginalised. Social workers intervene in some of the most difficult situations in people's lives, working with children and families, older adults, people with disabilities, those experiencing mental health crises, those in poverty or at risk of harm. The profession requires knowledge, skill, resilience and a genuine ethical commitment to the people it serves.

At Leeds Beckett University, this three-year full-time programme is approved by Social Work England, and successful completion provides eligibility to apply for registration as a qualified social worker. The programme also includes a year abroad, which offers you the opportunity to gain an international perspective on social policy, welfare systems and professional practice, enriching your understanding of how social work operates in different cultural and institutional contexts.

You will study social policy, human development across the lifespan, law and its application in social work contexts, social theories and perspectives on inequality, and the knowledge base underpinning effective practice with different groups and in different settings. Practice placements are integral to the programme, giving you substantial supervised experience across different areas of social work and developing your professional skills alongside your academic knowledge. You will learn to conduct assessments, develop care plans, work collaboratively with other agencies and advocate effectively on behalf of the people in your care.

On qualifying and registering, you will be able to work across statutory, voluntary and independent sector roles in child protection, adult social care, mental health, youth justice and community settings. Career development can lead to senior practitioner, management and leadership roles, as well as specialist and consultancy positions. Postgraduate study and continuing professional development are expected features of a social work career, with routes into social work education and research available to those with experience and interest.