How to qualify as a graduate social worker
A recognised qualification is essential for gaining employment in social work, but don't worry if you don't have an undergraduate degree in the subject. More than 40 universities in the UK offer postgraduate social work courses, which on completion will allow you to register with an official body. The introduction of new undergraduate and postgraduate courses in social work in 2003 has improved the status of social work and placed a career in this area on a par with those of other public service professionals. Most importantly, as a social work student you'll receive a thorough training to enable you to practise effective delivery of services and protection for service users and carers.
A recognised qualification is now essential for gaining employment in this field.
What the courses involve
Most courses are full time and last two years, with part-time options mostly being related to employment-based schemes aimed at those already working in the field. The new training ensures that academic theory and practice skills are effectively integrated. Two hundred days are devoted to academic study, which includes the teaching of key areas such as human growth and development, mental health, disability, assessments, communication skills, law and partnership working. Another 200 days are spent on placements in at least two contrasting settings; one of them has to be within a statutory body. Course providers facilitate placements and make sure that support mechanisms such as appropriate training and assessment are in place.
Entry requirements
Course providers normally ask for a good undergraduate degree, occasionally in a social science or related subject, and some relevant work experience. Candidates must have a GCSE grade C or equivalent in maths and English, have good IT skills, be able to demonstrate a general knowledge of social work services and issues, and pass health and criminal records checks.
Applications and funding
Most universities process postgraduate applications for social work through UCAS, and applications will need to be in by mid-January 2011 to guarantee consideration for a place in September 2011. Social work students are eligible for funding of their tuition fees as well as a bursary of at least £3,000. If students are subject to variable tuition fees they are entitled to a higher bursary but are responsible for paying their fees themselves. Bursaries are higher for students studying at a London-based institution. Postgraduate students can also apply for an additional, means-tested bursary. All social work bursaries are handled by the NHS Business Services Authority (NHSBSA).
Employment prospects
Employment prospects for qualified social workers are excellent. Devolvement in the UK has led to the establishment of four regulatory bodies for social workers; however, social work training is broadly similar thoughout the UK and official regulation of courses means that social workers can, for example, qualify in England but register and work in another UK country.
