Places still available
Contact our Clearing hotline to discuss your options and secure your place this September
Undergraduate course
BA (Hons)
Social Work
Make a difference – support children, families and adults through key challenges like safeguarding, mental health and justice. Graduate career-ready with over 170 days of hands-on experience in diverse real-life social work placements.
Our typical offer
96 UCAS points
Professional recognition
Graduate with a degree accredited by Social Work England - ready to apply for registration and begin a rewarding career. 95% of graduates are in employment or further study within six months.
Immersive real-world experience
Gain practical skills through diverse placements across adult and childcare settings. Learn directly from service users and carers and work with professionals in partner agencies throughout your studies.
Innovative learning
Benefit from integrated teaching, peer-assisted sessions (PALS), and expert staff with global perspectives. Train in the purpose-built InterCity Place and grow as a reflective, ethical, and internationally-aware practitioner.
About
The importance of relationships is paramount to be a good social worker, as it’s very much a person-facing role. The University has a really good approach to getting people ready for practice and bring real service users into the course, which is a great way to break barriers down. You really get to experience behind the scenes work of social work, and to see the amount of support social workers offer each other in practice.
Jonathan
BA (Hons) Social Work graduate
BA (Hons) Social Work graduate
This course is for you if...
you’re compassionate and driven to support people through life’s challenges
you want to kick-start your career with eligibility to register as a qualified social worker upon graduation
you value learning directly from experienced professionals across a wide network of partner agencies covering every aspect of social work
you are looking to engage with actual service users and carers throughout your training.
Details
Year 1
In your first year, your work will cover the foundations of social work. You’ll start developing your professional identity in the complex environment of social work, learning about everything from the values that underpin theory and practice to the importance of self and identity, and the perspectives of users and carers to the connections between local and global issues. You’ll learn through doing, spending a minimum of 30 days in preparation for practice.
Core modules
SW401
What is Social Work?
20 credits
This module introduces students to the complexities of social work and professional practice. Students explore how social work has evolved into its current professional status. Students are introduced to key social work themes, identifying the multi-dimensional and changing contexts in which social work occurs, and the impacts on service user and carer experiences.
100% Coursework
SW402
Human Development and Wellbeing I
20 credits
This module provides a multi-dimensional perspective of human growth and wellbeing by considering various theoretical frameworks. It engages with concepts such as grief, trauma and loss, vulnerability, stress, resilience and coping. It explores the human life cycle as well as the impact of variables such as socio-cultural change and intergenerational issues.
100% Coursework
SW403
Values and Ethics in Practice
20 credits
Students are introduced to the importance, relevance and impact of values, attitudes and beliefs in social work. They explore key concepts and perspectives underpinning the development of belief systems. The relationship with professional practise, service users, professional regulation and law is considered. Students develop skills in critical self-reflection from a personal and professional viewpoint.
100% Coursework
SW404
Contexts for Social Work: Organisations, Policy and Law
20 credits
This module introduces students to key contemporary legislation and policy underpinning social work practice. Students explore the application of law and policy to anti-oppressive practice and the organisation and delivery of social care.
100% Coursework
SW405
Understanding the Social World
20 credits
This module introduces students to foundational social theory in order to assist them to engage in critical analysis of the person in context.
100% Coursework
SW406
Developing Professional Skills
20 credits
This module provides the opportunity to explore and develop skills relating to the social work role. Skills rehearsal in student groups develops communication skills central to social work. Students engage in teaching and learning activities related to social work assessment. They also undertake 30 days’ ‘readiness for direct practice’ to prepare them for practice learning in stages 2 and 3 of the programme.
HIPL400
Interprofessional Learning 1
Year 2
In your second year you’ll further your professional development, learning how to apply ethical and theoretical perspectives to human development, understanding social sciences in a social work setting and getting to grips with applying legal and social policy in the context of welfare. You’ll explore issues of diversity and difference, reflect on real-life issues that impact users and carers, and develop your skills in collaborative working. You’ll spend a minimum of 70 days on placement.
Core modules
SW501
What is Social Work? II
20 credits
Students develop their understanding of contemporary social work by exploring critical themes and debates which serve to define notions of professional identity. Building on SCW451 content, students engage with knowledge and perspectives congruent with promoting the transition to a professional identity, incorporating global and national perspectives of social work practices.
SW502
Enhancing Professional Skills
20 credits
This module explores how knowledge is applied in direct work with children and families, adults and groups. Building on Stage One, specialist communication skills and assessment strategies are considered to understand how they can inform decision-making. Anti-discriminatory and anti-oppressive principles, methods and models underpinning social work are explored to promote value-based assessment.
SW503
Contexts for Social Work: Organisations, Policy and Law II
20 credits
This module will explore the range of policies and laws that provide the mandate for social work intervention in relation to different service user and carer groups. The module explores organisational contexts and cultures and their relevance to the understanding and application of law and policy in practice
100% Examinations
SW504
Human Development and Wellbeing II
20 credits
Building on learning from the Stage One module ‘Human Development and Wellbeing’, this module will enable students to develop their knowledge base to critically analyse and understand the role of social work in promoting human development and the wellbeing of individuals and their families, groups and communities.
SW505
Evidence-Informed Social Work Practice with People who are Marginalised
20 credits
This module focuses on the social processes that combine to marginalise particular social groups and the impacts of this. Students will develop their skills of critically appraising research studies in relation to a marginalised group of their choice.
100% Coursework
SW506
Integrated Practice I
20 credits
This module will enable students to develop their professional identity through the integration of theory, methods, skills, knowledge and values within practice. Combining classroom and practice-based learning and opportunities it will provide students with a repertoire of critical knowledge, skills, evidenced based and informed responses and interventions congruent with working with people and situations across a plethora of society
Final year
In your final year, you’ll consolidate your learning, working towards becoming a safe, competent, ethical practitioner who demonstrates sound professional judgement. Learn how to analyse complex issues, and apply your knowledge and skills to resolve them. Gain a critical perspective on complex, uncertain and changing contexts in social work, further your skills working in multi-agency settings and develop your understanding of the international arena. You’ll spend a minimum of 100 days in complex social work settings.
Core modules
SW601
Evidence-Informed Interventions in Social Work Practice
20 credits
The module will identify Evidence-Informed Social Work Practice, as the synthesis of practice wisdom; service user experience; and research evidence. The focus is on Social Workers as consumers of research accessing existing repositories of evidence such as systematic reviews and other research, reported in peer-reviewed journal articles. Students complete systematic literature searches to identify the current available evidence on a specific social work intervention.
100% Coursework
SW602
Wellbeing: Accountability, Risk and Professional Decision-Making
20 credits
The module is designed to enable students to develop and apply their knowledge and understanding of professional social work accountability; risk assessment, risk management; and professional decision making in social work with adults, children and families.
100% Coursework
SW603
Social Work Methods and Approaches
20 credits
This module focuses on the dynamic nature of social work practice by exploring contemporary and emerging issues. Students will explore how social work adapts to new challenges while staying consistent to the ethics, values and compassion in social work practice. Students will consider how social work theories, methods, approaches and new ways of working are adapted in complex or emerging areas both now and in the future.
SW604
Social Work Dissertation
40 credits
This module enables students to build on skills established across the programme. Students will identify an area of social work practice that is pertinent to their current practice or to their professional development. They will identify the rationale for the choice of topic and develop a review of what constitutes Evidence Informed Practice in relation to that topic. They will highlight points of critical appraisal on relevant research studies
100% Coursework
SW605
Integrated Practice II
20 credits
The module enables students to consolidate their professional identity through integration of theory, methods, skills and values in practice. Teaching and practice learning provide students with a repertoire of evidenced informed responses congruent with complex practice situations. The module seeks to prepare students for the socio-legal and procedural aspects of statutory social work.
Professional accreditation
On successful completion of the course, you are eligible to apply for registration with Social Work England.
Placements
You’ll spend over 170 days on placement during the course. You’ll have the chance to experience what it’s like to work in a variety of settings, these may include community-based projects, fostering teams, a variety of mental health teams and services, drug and alcohol teams, older adults, hospital discharge, children and family work, young adults or working with asylum seekers.
Learning support
Our social work team is committed to providing you with the best possible learning experience during your time on the course. As well as the standard teaching, you’ll have the opportunity to get involved in activities working with wider issues locally and globally – giving you a better understanding of the issues relevant to social workers around the world. Possibilities exist (subject to agreement) for undertaking placements in different countries such as Africa or accessing the Erasmus scheme for a European placement in the year following graduation.
Personal holidays
In order to successfully complete your course and be eligible to apply for a professional registration you must complete a specified number of practice placement hours along with your theoretical study. Therefore you’ll only be able to take personal holidays during the specified leave periods for your course. This includes induction week where it is vital you attend all sessions.
Social Work England
The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.
Experience
Hands-on learning
Over the course of your degree, you’ll complete more than 170 days of placements, gaining invaluable experience across a wide range of real-life settings. These may include community-based projects, fostering teams, mental health services, drug and alcohol support teams, older adult care, hospital discharge units, children and family services, young adult teams, and work with asylum seekers.
You’ll engage directly with service users and carers at every stage of your learning, developing practical knowledge and confidence to apply effective strategies in the workplace. Placements take place across all three years, ensuring you graduate with well-rounded hands-on experience. Throughout your training, you’ll also refine your professional skills in an inspiring, purpose-built environment at InterCity Place.
The second year of university provided an eye-opening journey, I would have never expected to gain such a vast range of knowledge and experiences from a degree. My practice placement was at British Red Cross Refugee Services and my degree equipped me with the knowledge to engage with the service users and provide the support they required.
Greta
BA (Hons) Social Work graduate
BA (Hons) Social Work graduate
Social work is a really versatile career and you can go into so many different sectors just from one generic degree. It's a really creative role so every day is different. When you're working with people in a really vulnerable time of their lives, you feel really privileged that they've let you in and they've trusted you and that is a really rewarding part of the role.
Enya
BA (Hons) Social Work graduate
BA (Hons) Social Work graduate
Learn from experienced social work educators
Our social work team brings a wealth of expertise drawn from frontline practice, research and international engagement. Their work spans areas such as child protection, adult safeguarding, mental health, disability and youth justice. You’ll benefit from their deep understanding of the profession and develop a strong foundation across the diverse and evolving landscape of social work. Whatever your career aspirations, our academic staff will support your development through integrated learning, real-world placements and collaborative study – preparing you to make a meaningful impact from day one.
Dr Bartosz Zaniewski
Lecturer in Social Work
Academic Lead
Miss Katy Else
Lecturer in Social Work
BA Programme Lead
Mr Lawrence Badman-Richards
Lecturer in Social Work
Lecturer and Admissions Tutor
Life in Plymouth
Plymouth's maritime history and coastal location have an undeniable influence on life in the city. The walk from our main campus to the seafront is only about one mile, providing loads of opportunity to relax and unwind during your studies. You don’t need to leave the city to get to the coast!
The overall vibe of the city is perfect. You are by the sea so it is still laid back, but you have all the conveniences of living in a city.
Jenna
Current student
Current student
Life in the city
Discover what Plymouth and its unique geographical location have to offer
Explore your accommodation options
Discover our range of student accommodation options and find out how you can get a guaranteed place in halls
Get involved with one of our many student groups
Our large student population, active Students' Union, and abundance of student-led clubs and societies blend to create a busy and vibrant student scene
Careers
Be inspired by our graduates
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![Sara Rodrigues Francisco, BA (Hons) Social Work]()
Sara
Sara explains how her degree at Plymouth prepared her for a dream career.
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![Jonathan Mair - First year BA (Hons) Social Work student (2023)]()
Jonathan
Jonathan talks about his first year studying BA (Hons) Social Work at Plymouth.
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![Harrison Nash]()
Harrison
Harrison tells us about setting up a charity during his degree and moving to South Africa to make a lasting impact upon people’s lives.
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![Karl Knill]()
Karl
Karl talks about the excellent staff, the variety of placements and the community links at Plymouth.
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![Lucinda Beattie at work]()
Lucinda
Lucinda discusses academic and social support at Plymouth to encourage learning and development.
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![Gareth Benjamin]()
Gareth
Gareth reflects on his award-winning career as a social worker specialising in adult mental health.
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![Alison Smith]()
Alison
Alison tells us how all of her experiences have helped to shape who she is personally and professionally.
Social workers support individuals and families through challenging life changes, safeguarding rights and improving outcomes using social care legislation. Whether working with children, adults, or vulnerable groups, they provide advocacy, create safe environments, and ensure voices are heard.
They address diverse societal issues – from homelessness and addiction to mental health and safeguarding – and work with a wide range of clients including older people, refugees, those with disabilities, and young people in the justice system.
Career opportunities span statutory and non-statutory roles in settings such as hospitals, GP surgeries, children’s homes, charities and research. Social workers are united by a shared commitment: to empower people of all ages and backgrounds to live safe, independent, and fulfilled lives.
*Data is from the Graduate Outcomes Surveys covering the three years of 2019/20 – 2021/22. Graduates were surveyed 15 months after graduating. Data displayed is for UK-domiciled, first degree, full-time graduates who are working, studying or looking for work.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
Tuition fees for new full-time students starting in 2025-2026 or
Full-time study
£9,535 per year
£9,535 per year
Part-time study
£795 per 10 credits
£795 per 10 credits
Tuition fee price changes
In November 2024, the UK Government announced an increase to tuition fees and maintenance support for 2025/26 academic year, setting the standard tuition fee and student maintenance loan at £9,535 per year and the University’s tuition fees were increased to this rate.
The UK Government has indicated that further fee increases may be announced this year and in subsequent years. If the UK Government does so, the University may increase annual tuition fees in subsequent years, which may include the fees for the 2026/2027 academic year, in line with the Student Contract and all times in line with the maximum tuition fee caps set by the Government. More information about
fees and costs of studying
.
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2025-2026 academic year.
Full-time study
£18,650 per year
£18,650 per year
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year.
Full-time study
£19,200 per year
£19,200 per year
Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about
fees and costs of studying
.
Fund your studies
As an undergraduate at Plymouth, there are plenty of funding options available, including tuition fee loans, living cost loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
Supporting students with the cost of living
The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
Apply
Places still available
Contact our Clearing hotline to discuss your options and secure your place this September
Entry requirements
Our typical offer
96 UCAS points
96 UCAS points
You may be eligible for a contextual offer
GCSE
5 GCSE’s grade 4/C or above to include Mathematics and English.
Consideration may be given to Functional Skills Level 2 in Mathematics
Consideration may be given to Functional Skills Level 2 in Mathematics
A levels
Typical offer of 96 UCAS points from a minimum of 2 A Levels or level 3 qualifications – social science preferred. General Studies not accepted.
International Baccalaureate
26–30 overall to include 5 at Higher Level. Social Science/Social Care, Psychology, Criminology profile preferred but not required.
Access courses
Pass a named Access to HE (Higher Education) Diploma with at least 33 Level 3 credits at merit/distinction level to include 15 level 3 credits in Science/Social Science (Social Work/Social Care/Psychology/Sociology/Criminology). Will need GCSE English at grade C/4 also Maths at grade C/4 (or equivalent).
T level
Accepted – preference pathways would be Health and Science. Typical offer will be Pass overall with Grade C in Core Component.
BTEC
DMM-DDM – social science preferred.
BTEC National Diploma modules
If you hold a BTEC qualification it is vital that you provide our Admissions team with details of the exact modules you have studied as part of the BTEC. Without this information we may be unable to process your application quickly and you could experience significant delays in the progress of your application to study with us. Please explicitly state the full list of modules within your qualification at the time of application.
Equivalent qualifications may be considered. Alternatively if you have any questions or concerns about meeting the entry requirements listed above we would encourage you to contact the Admissions Team on +44 1752 585858 or email admissions@plymouth.ac.uk, where a member of the team can offer you further advice.
Extended entry requirements
- You must pass
disclosure and barring service and occupational health checks satisfactorily in order to be able to start this course. - If English is not your first language and you do not have GCSE English grade 4/C or above you will have to achieve an IELTS or equivalent qualification at the grades stated below.
- IELTS – 7.0 overall with a minimum of 6.5 in all elements.
- Meeting the academic minimum is the first stage of an application being considered. Applicants must also submit a strong personal statement in order to be considered further.
English language requirements - We welcome applicants with international qualifications. To view other accepted qualifications please refer to our
tariff glossary . - Students must be 18 years old or over at the start date of this programme.
Further information
Further information
Direct entry to year 2
If you have achieved certificated learning in addition to the entry criteria required for your programme of study, it may be possible to accredit this learning towards your chosen course. Full details on how to make an application are available on our open access Moodle site (download details on how to access the site and submit your claim and supporting evidence). Your application will then be assessed and you will receive confirmation by email on the status of your claim.
Deferred entry
Unfortunately, we cannot permit deferred entry. However, if you have a query please refer to an experienced admissions administrator who will be able to explain the UCAS application process in more detail admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.
Ready to apply?
All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS.com. Please refer to the course facts below when completing your application for this course.
UCAS course code
L501
L501
Institution code
P60
P60
Duration
3 years
Course type
Full-time
Study location
Plymouth
Plymouth
Entry requirements
We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
Our typical offer
96 UCAS points
96 UCAS points
BSearch entry requirements for your country
5
English language requirements
To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification.
Ready to apply?
As an international student, you can apply for this course through UCAS or an agent in your country.
Need support with your application?
- Personal statement guidance
- student visa support
- travel and arrival information
- and more.
UCAS course code
L501
L501
Institution code
P60
P60
Duration
3 years
Course type
Full-time
Study location
Plymouth
Plymouth
Visit us at an undergraduate on-campus open day
Open days are the best way to get a feel for studying an undergraduate degree at the University of Plymouth.
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The results of the National Student Survey (NSS) and the Graduate Outcomes survey (GO) are made available to prospective students and their advisors through the Discover Uni website.