University of Chester United Kingdom

Social Work BA (Hons) with a Foundation Year

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree With Integrated Foundation Year
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

Prepare for a rewarding career in social work with the BA (Hons) Social Work with a Foundation Year at the University of Chester. This undergraduate degree is designed for individuals passionate about making a tangible difference in people's lives, equipping you with the essential knowledge and practical skills needed for professional social work practice. You will explore critical areas such as person-centred care, mental health awareness, children's development, understanding social inequality, and applying psychological principles in real-world scenarios. This course is ideal if you are seeking a robust academic grounding and a clear pathway into a profession dedicated to supporting vulnerable individuals and communities.

This full-time, four-year programme is studied on campus, offering a comprehensive learning experience that integrates theoretical study with essential practical application. You will engage with core modules covering social work law, ethics, and values, alongside human growth and development, preparing you for direct practice. The curriculum includes two significant practice placements – a 70-day placement in Year 2 and a 100-day placement in Year 3 – providing invaluable hands-on experience with adults, children, families, and organisations. You will graduate eligible to register with Social Work England, ready to embark on your professional journey as a qualified social worker.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Social Work BA (Hons) with a Foundation Year program offers a comprehensive introduction to the field, covering essential university study skills, foundational social science concepts, and core social work principles. Students will explore human growth and development, psychology, sociology, and the legal and ethical frameworks governing social work practice. The curriculum progresses to specialized areas such as adult and child/family social work, organizational dynamics, and research methodologies, culminating in extensive practical placements designed to prepare students for professional roles.

1 Year 1

University Study Skills Compulsory
Independent Project Compulsory
Introduction to the Social Sciences Compulsory
Introduction to Psychology Compulsory
Health Studies Compulsory
Professional Social Work Practice Compulsory
Readiness for Direct Practice Compulsory
Social Work Law and Policy Compulsory
Human Growth and Development Compulsory
Sociology and Social Policy Compulsory
Social Work Values and Ethics Compulsory

2 Year 2

Social Work Practice with Adults Compulsory
Social Work Practice with Children and Families Compulsory
Social Work Theory and Methods Compulsory
Social Care Organisations and Inter-Professional Working Compulsory
Placement 1 Compulsory

3 Year 3

Critical social work practice Compulsory
Placement 2 Compulsory
Approaches to Research Compulsory
Placement 2a Compulsory
Resilience in Practice: Individuals and Organisations Compulsory

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 18,957.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 18,957.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 18,957.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 18,957.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 75,830.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 3,222.00 - USD 4,028.00
Transport USD 806.00 - USD 3,222.00
Utilities & Bills USD 4,028.00 - USD 5,034.00
Estimated Total USD 8,056.00 - USD 11,278.00

Living cost estimates are based on Queens Park campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

89%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accreditation & Assessment ServicesAdult & Continuing EducationEarly Childhood & Primary EducationHigher Education & UniversitiesHome Health & Long‑Term CareMedical Research & Clinical TrialsNursing & Allied HealthPublic Health & EpidemiologyRehabilitation & PhysiotherapySecondary & High School Education

Top Employers Hiring for this course

AQA

NHS

Why Study Social Work BA (Hons) with a Foundation Year at University of Chester

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Chester in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Social Work BA (Hons) with a Foundation Year at University of Chester

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is needed for degree courses.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To enroll, non-native speakers must meet specific English language requirements. For example, acceptable TOEFL scores include a total of 79 with specific minimum section scores.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as Social Workers, Community Support Workers, Case Managers, and Youth Workers.

What will I actually study in this course?

This course provides a foundation year and prepares you for a professional career in social work. You'll engage in placements across diverse organizations, enhancing hands-on experience and community connection.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The intake month for the Social Work BA (Hons) with a Foundation Year is September. Ensure you apply in advance to secure your place for that term.
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