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, requiring a high level of motivation and commitment. We offer a distance learning, work-based route to the degree in social work alongside our employer partners. It opens up a host of opportunities to people who, for one reason or another, require a more flexible and individualised approach to social work training. Successful graduates are eligible to apply for registration as a qualified social worker with Social Care Wales (SCW). 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
This degree has three stages, each comprising 120 credits. You’ll start Stage 1 with a module introducing health and social care followed by a module which explores the ideas and ways of working with people that underpins social work practice with a range of different service user groups. At Stage 2, you’ll study a module covering the law and social work in England and Wales before taking a practice module, which includes a 90-day placement. Finally, in Stage 3, you’ll choose one module from a choice of four and conclude your degree with a practice module where you will undertake another 90-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
This degree course is restricted to students working or volunteering in social care in Wales. For sponsored students entry has to be made through the employing agency. Non-sponsored students must apply via The Open University in Wales on 029 2026 2728. To study this degree you must: - have a qualification in Maths and Welsh or English (this must be equivalent to grade C at GCSE or above) - show that you can communicate clearly in spoken and written English or Welsh - demonstrate that you have the appropriate personal and intellectual qualities to be a social worker - take part in an interview - obtain an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) with barred lists (children and adults) check and a medical check - (if you are a non-sponsored student) have successfully completed the Certificate of Higher Education in Social Care Practice (Wales) (T34). Following selection you then enter the degree at Stage 2.
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