Social work is a protected title in the UK. To practise, you must be registered with Social Work England, and registration requires an approved qualification. That sounds like a closed door. It is not.
The qualification you need
An approved undergraduate degree in social work, or an approved postgraduate route if you already hold a degree in another subject. Both are eligible for Student Finance.
Entry without A-levels
Most approved providers accept an Access to Higher Education Diploma, a relevant Level 3 qualification, or substantial care experience assessed case by case. A Foundation Year is available at several partner universities.
What the course involves
Two assessed placements totalling 170 days, plus academic study in law, human development, safeguarding and professional ethics. Placements are arranged by the university.
Timeline
Three years full time. Part-time routes run over four to six years and are common among people already working in care settings.
What it pays
Newly qualified social workers typically start between £28,000 and £34,000 depending on region and employer, rising with post-qualifying experience.
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