Program Overview

Introduction to the University of Kent

The University of Kent is a renowned institution that offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. One of the programs offered by the university is the Social Work BA (Hons) course.

Social Work BA (Hons) Course

The Social Work BA (Hons) course is designed to prepare students for a career in social work. The course is a three-year full-time program that covers various aspects of social work, including social work context, communication and interpersonal skills, law, rights, and ethics, and theoretical perspectives.

Course Structure

The course is divided into three stages, each with its own set of compulsory modules. The modules are designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of social work and its various applications.

• Stage 1:
  • Social Work Context 1
  • Communication and Interpersonal Skills
  • Social Work Context 2
  • Law, Rights, and Ethics
  • Theoretical Perspectives
  • Lifespan Development
• Stage 2:
  • Placement 1 and Practice Skills Development (70 days plus 5-day teaching block)
  • Social Work with Adults and Families
  • Observed Structured Practice Assessment (OSPA)
  • Making Sense of Mental Health
  • Advanced Intervention Skills
  • Social Work with Children and Families
• Stage 3:
  • Critical Policy and Critical Reflection
  • Research for Social Work Practice
  • Social Work Practice in a Multi-agency Context (5-day teaching block)
  • Placement (100 days)

Teaching and Assessment

The course uses a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, tutorials, independent study, and group work. Assessments are also varied and include essays, group work, role-playing, reflective writing, and debates.

Placements

The course includes two placements, one in the second year and one in the third year. The placements provide students with hands-on experience in social work and are an essential part of the course.

Resources and Support

The university provides various resources and support to students, including a partnership initiative group, a centre for child protection, and student focus groups.

Entry Requirements

To be eligible for the Social Work BA (Hons) course, students must meet certain entry requirements. These include:

• UK students: 104-120 UCAS points, with a typical offer of BBB at A level or DDM at BTEC.
• International students: equivalent qualifications, with a minimum IELTS score of 7.0 overall and in each subtest.
• Additional requirements: GCSE English at grade 4 or above, and a valid UK driving license (for placement purposes).

Fees and Funding

The tuition fees for the Social Work BA (Hons) course are:

• UK students: Ł9,790 per year (2026 entry)
• International students: Ł19,300 per year (2026 entry)

The university also offers various scholarships and bursaries to eligible students.

Career Prospects

Graduates of the Social Work BA (Hons) course can pursue a variety of careers in social work, including child and family social work, mental health support, and substance abuse counseling. The course also provides a foundation for roles in international aid, human rights, policy, and human resources.

Why Study at Kent?

The University of Kent is a world-leading research institution that offers a unique and supportive learning environment. The Social Work BA (Hons) course is designed to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to become a qualified social worker. With its strong focus on research, practice, and critical thinking, the course prepares students for a rewarding career in social work.