Open University has participated in the Teaching Excellence Framework. These ratings were awarded in 2023, for four years.
Course summary
Social workers support and protect some of society’s most deprived and vulnerable people; it’s immensely challenging and rewarding work. It requires a high level of motivation and commitment, and you'll also need a qualifying degree. The BA (Honours) Social Work (England) (Q32) is approved by Social Work England (SWE), and successful completion entitles you to apply to the regulatory body for registration as a social worker. You'll also need to be working in a social care agency, and be supported by your employer, to take this course. Key features of the course
- Continue in your employment while you study, earning while you learn
- Study through work-based and distance learning
- Develop the knowledge and practical skills that underpin effective practice
- Learn to deal professionally with complex, difficult and sensitive issues
- Improve your career progression opportunities within social work
Modules
You’ll start Stage 1 with a module introducing health and social care followed by a module which introduces social work standards and codes of practice. Stage 2 starts with a module covering the law and social work and is followed by a practice module, which includes a 70-day placement. At Stage 3, you’ll choose one module from a choice of four and conclude your degree with a practice module where you will undertake a 100-day placement.
How to apply
To apply for this course you will be taken to the provider's website, where you can find out more information and make an application.
Points of entry
The following entry points are available for this course:
- Year 1
Entry requirements
Qualification requirements
Although some modules in this degree are available to all students, the full degree programme is at present restricted to students who are being supported in their practice by their employing agency. You must also: have GCSE at grades A*-C in English and mathematics or certified equivalent meet the UCAS tariff threshold of 96 points or equivalent show that you can communicate clearly in spoken and written English demonstrate that you have the appropriate personal and intellectual qualities to be a social worker obtain an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) with barred lists (children and adults) check undertake a written test take part in an interview. Entry to the degree must be through your employing agency; you cannot apply direct to the OU. Agencies and individuals interested in taking part in the programme are invited to contact us. Students who get a place on the degree course can pay their own fees or be funded by their employer. Please ask your employer to complete an Expression of interest form located on our Social work website.
Please click the following link to find out more about qualification requirements for this course
http://www.open.ac.uk/courses/social-work/degrees/ba-social-work-england-q32#entry-requirements
Student Outcomes
Operated by the Office for Students
There is no data available for this course. For further information visit the Discover Uni website.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
No fee information has been provided for this course
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
2025/2026 academic year fees are not yet available.
Provider information
Open University
Student Recruitment Team
PO Box 197
Milton Keynes
MK7 6BJ