Social Work

Social work is a profession built on a commitment to human rights, social justice, and the empowerment of individuals, families, and communities facing some of the most challenging circumstances of their lives. Social workers work with children at risk of harm, adults with disabilities or mental health difficulties, older people requiring support, families in crisis, and communities affected by deprivation and inequality. The work is demanding and at times harrowing, but it is also among the most meaningful that any professional can do, with a direct and tangible impact on the wellbeing of the most vulnerable members of society.

At UWE Bristol, this three-year full-time programme leads to professional qualification as a social worker and registration with Social Work England. You will study the legal, ethical, and theoretical frameworks that govern social work practice, develop skills in assessment, intervention, and care planning, and engage with the social and political context in which social work operates. Substantial practice placements are central to the programme, placing you in statutory and voluntary sector settings where you work with real service users under the supervision of qualified practitioners, developing the professional competence and reflective capacity that effective social work requires.

UWE's strong connections with local authority and voluntary sector partners in Bristol and the South West provide a rich practice environment.

Qualified social workers work across children's and adults' services in local authorities, the NHS, voluntary organisations, schools, and other settings. With experience, social workers progress into senior practitioner, team manager, practice educator, and policy roles. The profession is in sustained demand across all regions of the UK, and a degree from a well-regarded programme provides the professional qualification and the foundation for a long and rewarding career.