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. The OU offers a work-based distance learning route to the degree. All social work students in Scotland must be eligible to register with the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC). Successful graduates can apply for registration as qualified social workers with the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC), working in children’s, adult or justice services. To take this course, you need to have at least one year's experience working alongside service users and carers in a supportive capacity. The programme is available to students who may be sponsored but also for those who may be studying independently. You'll need to be released from your substantive post to undertake two contrasting 100-day placements. It should be assumed that these placements will not be in your substantive role. Key features of the course
- Study through work-based and distance learning – this includes undertaking two 100-day work placements
- 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 begin Stage 1 with two introductory modules – one with a focus on health and social care and one with a focus on the social sciences. Next, in Stage 2, you’ll study a module on children and young people followed by a practice-based module. Stage 3 consists of a module on the law and social work, followed by a practice-based module where you’ll undertake a 100-day placement. Finally, in Stage 4, you’ll study either a module with a focus on investigating health and social care or mental health, and complete your degree with another 100-day social work practice 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 in social care in Scotland. For sponsored students entry has to be made through the employing agency: you cannot apply direct to the OU. A limited number of places are available to non-sponsored students – for more information contact The Open University in Scotland. Employing agencies and individuals who are interested in this degree should contact the Social Work Co-ordinator at The Open University in Scotland on 0131 226 3851 or email [email protected]. All candidates for the degree must: have qualifications in English and Maths at the level of Standard Grade Two show that they can communicate clearly in spoken and written English demonstrate that they have the appropriate personal and intellectual qualities to be social workers take part in an interview register with the SSSC as a student social worker – this includes a Disclosure Scotland check. Many students receive credit transfer for study completed elsewhere, enabling them to start this programme at Stage 2. However, some may need to complete additional modules at Stage 1. If you are a non-sponsored student, you must have completed Stages 1 and 2 either by passing the specified OU modules or by being awarded credit transfer for previous study elsewhere. Following a successful interview and selection, you will then enter the degree at Stage 3.
Please click the following link to find out more about qualification requirements for this course
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