A Degree in Social Work

Degrees in Social Work and Care are on the increase now that it is imperative that social workers are qualified to degree level to hold a career as a social worker.

Degrees in Social Work
Degrees in Social Care should be considered carefully. Before you make your application, you will need to research. Find out more about your preferred universities, colleges and courses from their websites or by reading their prospectuses.

The first thing you need to do is to check the entry requirements of individual universities. They may specify particular subjects, grades, qualifications and experience.

Social Work Experience
All universities will expect applicants to have had a certain amount of relevant experience and you will be expected to demonstrate that you understand what social work involves. Having experience will allow you to find out about opportunities and to think about your reasons for choosing social work as a career. It will also enable you to gain an understanding of social work practice and an awareness of the personal qualities required. Your experience may include voluntary work, paid work or life experience but must be sufficient to demonstrate your interest and commitment to a career in social work.

Funding: Social Work Bursary Scheme

Financial assistance for social work students is available through bursaries administered by the GSCC on behalf of the Department of Health. Social work students of all ages are able to apply for bursaries as an incentive to train.

There are bursaries available to both undergraduate and postgraduate students, provided they meet residency requirements and other criteria.This contains a contribution towards fees and can be used to pay for tuition fees if you so wish. A travel allowance for attending your practice placements has been built into the bursary. (£575 for full time courses and £287-50 for part time courses). It is expected that the agency offering your placement will contribute towards the travel costs incurred while carrying out your placement duties.

Further Information:
Full details on the Social Work Bursary Scheme can be obtained from the NHS Business Services Authority  http://www.ppa.org.uk/swb or by telephoning the student bursary team on Tel: 0845 610 1122 (lines are open Monday to Friday between 8.00am and 6.00pm and Saturday between 9.00am and 3.00pm)

For more information on a degree in social work contact the General Social Carere Council at: www.gscc.org.uk

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