Step Up to Social Work, PGDip

Program Overview

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Step Up to Social Work, PGDip

Overview

This course is a fast-track social work programme that leads to a postgraduate qualification. It is delivered in partnership with local authorities in the East Midlands and is designed for individuals who do not have a degree in social work.

Attendance and Location

• Attendance: Full-time
• Location: Online learning

Start and Duration

• Start: January 2026
• Duration: 14 months

Delivery

• The course is delivered through a blended learning approach, with some sessions online and some in-person in the East Midlands.

Why Study with Us

• The Department of Education covers the cost of university tuition and provides a tax-free bursary while studying.
• The blended learning format allows for practical experience alongside studies.
• After completing the course, students receive a postgraduate diploma in Social Work, enabling them to register as a Social Worker.

What You'll Do

• Complete two placements with a supporting local authority, with the first placement being 80 days and the second placement being 100 days.
• Study alongside placements, with theory and practice integrated to prepare for life post-qualification.

Modules

Year 1

Compulsory Modules

• Preparing for Social Work Practice
• Social Work Practice Experience 1
• Understanding and Applying Social Work Law and Policy
• Social Work Practice: Experience 2
• Theories for Understanding Self and Others Across the Life Course
• Complexities and Debates in Social Work Practice

Entry Requirements

• A minimum 2:2 undergraduate degree qualification (level 6)
• 6 months' full-time (or equivalent) direct experience, either in a paid or voluntary capacity, of working with vulnerable children, young people and/or families, carers or vulnerable adults
• GCSEs in English or English language and mathematics at grade 4 (C) or above (or an approved equivalent)

Accreditations

• Social Work England

Facilities

• The Library (Preston Campus)
• Student Centre

Academic Expertise

• Jason Loffman, Senior Lecturer
• Charlotte Ennis, Senior Lecturer
• Katie Martin, Senior Lecturer in Social Care and Social Policy
• Che McGarvey-Gill, Lecturer in Mental Health Social Work

Future Careers

• After completing the course, students can apply to register with Social Work England as a qualified social worker, beginning a career as a Social Worker.

Learning and Assessment

• Lectures
• Workshops
• Use of action learning sets and facilitated tutorials
• Student-led projects
• Presentations
• E-learning
• Discussion groups
• Self-directed study
• Essays
• Presentations
• Case studies
• Practice simulations
• Practice placements
• Portfolios

What Our Graduates Say

• "This was a fantastic opportunity to train as a social worker. The team were full of enthusiasm about their teaching and social work practice. My personal tutor was always readily available and incredibly supportive, and his guidance was invaluable. I learnt so much and feel equipped and excited to be starting my social work career." - Mel Lakin, Step Up To Social Work PGDip

School

• This course is delivered by the School of Health, Social Work and Sport.