Faculty: Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, Department of Social Sciences & Social Work. This Bachelor of Arts (Honours) degree is both an academic and a professional qualification, approved by Social Work England. Upon successful completion, you will be eligible to apply for registration as a social worker in England. The program provides a practical blend of academic study with essential practical experience, including two substantive practice placements (70 days and 100 days) alongside skills days. You will learn about core social work theories, values, ethics, and legal frameworks, and develop crucial communication and relationship-building skills for direct practice. The curriculum is informed by the latest research from a team of research-active staff. Cohorts are small and well-supported, with each student allocated a Personal Tutor. People with lived experience are actively involved in all aspects of the course.

This professionally accredited degree prepares you for a rewarding career as a qualified social worker. Given the national demand for social workers, graduates are highly employable across various sectors. Potential career paths include working in: Local authorities (e.g., child protection, fostering and adoption, adult social care, mental health, learning disabilities, older people's services), NHS trusts, voluntary organisations, charities, schools, and independent practices. Roles often involve working with vulnerable children, families, adults, and the elderly. Graduates can also pursue postgraduate study in specialist social work areas or leadership roles. The practical experience gained through placements is invaluable for securing employment. 15 months after the course, 95% of BU Social Work graduates were in employment or further study.

Bournemouth University offers state-of-the-art equipment across two modern campuses, including the purpose-built Bournemouth Gateway Building for Health and Social Sciences. The university provides work placement opportunities for every undergraduate student, with dedicated support for finding placements and continuous guidance during the experience. The Business School is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), signifying high quality. Bournemouth University is a centre for world-class research in social sciences, with the National Centre for Cross Disciplinary Social Work focusing on improving the lives of vulnerable people. Students benefit from small class sizes, strong relationships with local employers, and learning from research-active staff.