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Free Social Work Degree in Durham

CostFREE
Duration3 years
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Apply now →

About this course

Free Social Work Degree Course in Durham. Classes run at New College Durham, full-time over three years.

You'll study the knowledge and skills needed to practise as a social worker. The course covers social work theory, law, ethics, and human development. You'll also complete practice placements, applying your learning in real settings with real clients. The course is awarded by the Open University at Level 6.

When you finish, you'll be eligible to apply for registration with Social Work England and work as a qualified social worker.

Who this course is for

(Please refer to College website)

Entry requirements

Please refer to College website.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop knowledge of social work theory and evidence-based practice.
  • You'll study relevant law, policy, and ethics in social care.
  • You'll learn about human development across the life course.
  • You'll complete supervised practice placements in social work settings.
  • You'll develop skills in assessment, planning, and working with individuals and families.
  • You'll learn to work as an independent, reflective practitioner.

How you will learn

You'll learn through a mix of classroom teaching, seminars, and independent study. Practice placements are a core part of the course and give you hands-on experience in social work settings. Assessment methods include written assignments, reflective practice portfolios, and placement evaluations. The course is delivered full-time during the day at Framwellgate Moor Campus.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. New College Durham will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Social worker, supporting adults or children in statutory or voluntary settings.
  • Children and families social worker, working with local authority children's services.
  • Adult social care social worker, supporting vulnerable adults in the community.
  • Mental health social worker, working within NHS or community mental health teams.
  • Hospital social worker, helping patients with discharge planning and care needs.
  • Youth offending worker, supporting young people in the criminal justice system.

What you could study next

  • Postgraduate Diploma or MA in Social Work, for those who already hold a relevant degree and want to qualify via a different route.
  • Practice Educator qualification, for qualified social workers who want to supervise and assess student placements.
  • Specialist postgraduate study in areas such as mental health, child protection, or systemic practice, to develop expertise in a chosen field.
Apply on newcollegedurham.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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