Social Work FAQs
Where can I find out more about careers in Social Work?
If you’re considering a career in social work it’s a good idea to look into the different qualifying study routes, the range of social work roles available, career progression routes and the professional standards that will be expected of you. Below are links where you can find more information on this challenging and rewarding career to help you make an informed decision:
Offers guidance on what to expect from a career in social work, job application and interview advice and up to date information on social work reform.
The regulatory body for the social work profession.
For the latest social work news and jobs.
Prospects – Qualification Routes
An overview of the ways to gain social work qualifications, from degrees to fast-tracking programmes.
Our dedicated page that explains the opportunities on offer through our academic partner, Kingston University.
How long will it take me to qualify as a social worker?
The duration of the course depends on the degree pathway you can take. Your chosen university course page will provide details of course duration. Kingston University’s course duration is as follows:
- Undergraduate degree is three years: BA in Social Work
- Postgraduate Masters degree is two years: Masters in Social Work
- Integrated Degree Apprenticeship is three years: Degree Apprenticeships
- Fast-track Post-Graduate Diploma is 18 months: k.henderson@sgul.kingston.ac.uk
What does the university admissions process involve?
Our academic partner, Kingston University, invites shortlisted candidates to attend assessment days that include a variety of activities. For example, a written test, a roleplay or group exercise, and a face to face interview. The assessment team is made up of academic tutors, experienced professionals, and service users and carers.
Where will I go on placement?
Placements are arranged to best support your identified learning and development needs. You will complete a 70 day and a 100 day placement, usually in a statutory setting with one of our partner agencies:
- Achieving for Children
- Croydon Adult or Children services
- Kingston Adult services
- Merton Adult or Children services
- Surrey Children
- Sutton Adult or Children services
- Richmond Adult services
- Wandsworth Children services
You can find out more about our Partners here.
All placements are overseen by a group of representatives from across the Partnership, responsible for ensuring placement quality assurance and the highest standards of practice education.
What opportunities are there after my degree?
As a Kingston University Social Work student, you will have access to a comprehensive programme of support to prepare you for applying for your first social work role. Our Employment Skills Workshops are facilitated by the Partnership’s employer agencies and cover key behaviour and skills, application/personal statement writing, and interviewing tips for masters and degree level social wok students who are seeking their first social work post.
All our local authority partners offer a comprehensive Assessed and Supported Year in Employment (ASYE) programme for newly qualified social workers in children’s and adults social work.
For more information on any of the above, or if you have other questions for us, please email us at: