Social Work
Social work is a professional discipline and a commitment to social justice, concerned with improving the wellbeing of individuals, families and communities, protecting people who are vulnerable, and challenging the structural conditions that create and perpetuate disadvantage. It requires practitioners who combine rigorous analytical skills with the ability to form effective helping relationships, to navigate complex legal and organisational frameworks, and to hold the values of human dignity, equality and empowerment at the centre of their practice.
At the University of Dundee this four-year programme is framed from a social justice perspective, developing the skills, values and knowledge you need to understand and address the social challenges faced by vulnerable people. You will study the legal, policy and theoretical frameworks that underpin social work practice in Scotland, the psychological and social dimensions of the problems that bring people into contact with services, the methods of assessment and intervention that evidence supports, and the critical reflective practice that allows you to continue developing as a professional throughout your career. Practice placements in social work agencies are a substantial component of the programme, providing direct supervised experience across different settings and service user groups.
Graduation from an accredited social work degree is required for registration with Social Work Scotland and for entry to professional practice in Scotland. Social workers in Scotland are employed by local authority social work departments, the NHS, voluntary organisations, and the justice system, working with children and families, adults, older people, people with disabilities, and people involved with the criminal justice system. The profession offers genuine career progression, from direct practice to team leader, manager, and specialist roles in areas such as child protection, mental health, or practice education.
Postgraduate study and continuing professional development are expected throughout a social work career in Scotland.