Social Work

Social work is one of the most demanding and socially important of all the caring professions. Social workers support children and families, older adults, people with physical and learning disabilities, individuals experiencing mental health difficulties, and those caught in the criminal justice system. They assess risk, coordinate care, advocate for the people they work with and navigate the legal, organisational and ethical frameworks that govern their professional responsibilities.

The role requires analytical ability, emotional resilience, strong communication skills and a genuine commitment to social justice.

At Leeds, this three-year full-time programme prepares you for registration as a social worker with Social Work England. The programme reflects a commitment to developing reflective practitioners who want to make a difference to society, help people find solutions to their problems and support them to live more successfully. A year abroad is included in the programme, giving you the opportunity to study social work practice in a different national context, which broadens your understanding of how social welfare systems are organised and how social workers practise across different cultural and institutional environments.

You will combine academic study with substantial practice placements, working in statutory and voluntary sector settings under the supervision of experienced social workers. You will develop your knowledge of law, policy, social theory and research alongside the direct practice skills that qualification demands.

On graduating and achieving Social Work England registration, you will be qualified to practise as a social worker in children's services, adult services, mental health social work, youth justice and the voluntary sector. Leadership, advanced practice, management and specialist roles are well-supported longer-term career directions, as is postgraduate study in social work or related fields.