Social Work

Social work is a profession dedicated to supporting individuals, families, and communities experiencing vulnerability, disadvantage, or crisis, and to challenging the social conditions that give rise to those difficulties. It draws on sociology, psychology, law, and ethics to develop practitioners who can engage with complexity, manage risk, and advocate effectively for the people they work with, always within the legal frameworks and professional standards that define the profession. Social work is regulated in the UK, and a qualifying degree is the gateway to professional registration.

At the University of Sussex, this three-year full-time programme includes an integrated foundation year, a sandwich placement year, a year abroad, and work placement opportunities, reflecting the layered and experiential nature of professional social work preparation. Practice placements are central to the programme, giving you direct experience of statutory and voluntary sector social work settings under professional supervision. You will study the law governing social work practice, theories of child development and adult care, anti-oppressive practice, safeguarding, and the skills of direct work with service users across the range of life stages and circumstances.

The typical entry tariff of 136 points reflects the professional demands of the programme.

You will develop into a reflective, principled, and skilled practitioner, equipped to work in one of the most demanding and rewarding of the caring professions.

Graduates are qualified to register with Social Work England and to practise as social workers in children's services, adult social care, mental health, and a wide range of statutory and voluntary settings. Leadership, specialist qualifications, and postgraduate study in social work, mental health, or social policy are well-established routes for those wishing to develop their careers further.