Key information
- Duration:
- 3 years full time
- Typical A-level offer:
- BBB
- Contextual A-level offer:
- BBC-BCC
- UCAS code:
- L500
- Start date:
- September 2024
- =1st in the UK for Graduate Prospects – Outcomes in Social Work (Complete University Guide 2024)
- 9th in the UK for Social Sciences (The Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject 2024)
- 14th in the UK for Social Work (The Guardian University Guide 2024)
How do you tell a child the reason they’ve been removed from their family without causing more trauma? How do you support a couple living with HIV to adopt or foster? Would you like to develop the skills to support older people who face barriers accessing services?
Social Work at Sussex combines theory with practical experience. This enables you to improve the quality of people’s lives and make a difference to families, individuals and communities. Our teaching methods draw on our research expertise and cutting-edge knowledge. You’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of the realities and complexity of practice in a supportive and caring environment.
As a core part of your qualification, you’ll undertake practice learning placements. You’ll benefit from the partnerships we’ve developed over years of collaboration with local organisations. You’ll be trained to uphold high-quality professional standards and develop emerging professional leadership skills.
The BA in Social Work is a generic social work qualification. This means you’ll gain knowledge in a wide range of areas, ready to work in practice contexts that support, among others:
- vulnerable children, young people and families
- adults and older people
- people experiencing mental health, disability, substance use or homelessness challenges
- asylum seekers and refugees.
When you graduate, you’ll have the skills to work with other professionals and agencies such as the police, schools, healthcare providers, probation services, care home facilities and community centres.
Accreditation
- Approved by Social Work England (SWE) for the purpose of providing eligibility to apply for registration with SWE as a social worker in England. Find out more
We understand that deciding where and what to study is a very important decision. We’ll make all reasonable efforts to provide you with the courses, services and facilities described in this prospectus. However, if we need to make material changes, for example due to government or regulatory requirements, or unanticipated staff changes, we’ll let you know as soon as possible.
There is so much support and encouragement from tutors – this course has changed my life.”Denise Plumstead
Social Work BA
Open Days and virtual visits
Meet us on campus or online
Entry requirements
A-level
| Typical offer | BBB |
|---|---|
| Contextual offer | BBC-BCC Not everyone has the same support to get to higher education – we help you reach your potential. When we receive applications through UCAS, we consider all factors and will sometimes make contextual offers as part of our Access and Participation Plan |
| GCSEs | You must have GCSE (or equivalent) Mathematics and English, both with at least grade 4 (or grade C). We also accept Level 2 Functional skills in English and Mathematics. You should also have a broad range of GCSEs 9-4 (A*-C), including good grades in relevant subjects. |
| Additional requirements | You will need to show evidence of basic IT competence and your personal suitability to enter the social work profession in line with national guidance provided by the relevant professional body and regulator. |
| Extended Project Qualification | We take the EPQ into account when considering your application and it can be useful in the summer when your results are released if you have narrowly missed the conditions of your offer. We do not routinely include the EPQ in the conditions of your offer but we sometimes offer alternative conditions that include the EPQ. If you wish to discuss this further please contact us |
Other UK qualifications
Access to HE Diploma
| Typical offer | Pass Diploma with at least 39 level 3 credits at Merit or above including 21 credits at Distinction |
|---|---|
| Subjects | The Access course should be in the humanities or social sciences. |
| GCSEs | You must have GCSE (or equivalent) Mathematics and English, both with at least grade 4 (or grade C). We also accept Level 2 Functional skills in English and Mathematics.
|
| Additional requirements | You will need to show evidence of basic IT competence and your personal suitability to enter the social work profession in line with national guidance provided by the relevant professional body and regulator. |
Cambridge Pre-U Principle Subjects (including A-level mixes)
| Typical offer | M2 M2 M2 If you have one A-level and two Cambridge Pre-U Principal Subjects we would expect you to have grade B at A-level and, M2 and M2 in two Pre-Us. If you have two A-levels and a Cambridge Pre-U Principal Subject we would normally expect you to have grades BB at A-level and M2 in Pre-U. |
|---|---|
| GCSEs | You must have GCSE (or equivalent) Mathematics and English, both with at least grade 4 (or grade C). We also accept Level 2 Functional skills in English and Mathematics. You should also have a broad range of GCSEs 9-4 (A*-C), including good grades in relevant subjects. |
| Additional requirements | You will need to demonstrate evidence of suitable ability in both Mathematics and English, basic IT competence and your personal suitability to enter the social work profession, in line with national guidance provided by the relevant professional body and regulator. |
International Baccalaureate
| Typical offer | 30 points overall from the full IB Diploma. |
|---|---|
| GCSEs | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). |
| Additional requirements | You will need to demonstrate evidence of suitable ability in both Mathematics and English, basic IT competence and your personal suitability to enter the social work profession, in line with national guidance provided by the relevant professional body and regulator.
|
NCFE CACHE Level 3 Technical Diploma in Childcare and Education ( Early Years Educator)
| Typical offer | Grade A |
|---|---|
| GCSEs | You must have GCSE (or equivalent) Mathematics and English, both with at least grade 4 (or grade C). We also accept Level 2 Functional skills in English and Mathematics. You should also have a broad range of GCSEs 9-4 (A*-C), including good grades in relevant subjects. |
| Additional requirements | You will need to show evidence of basic IT competence and your personal suitability to enter the social work profession in line with national guidance provided by the relevant professional body and regulator. |
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma and one A-level
| Typical offer | Grade B in A-level and Distinction, Merit in Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma |
|---|---|
| Contextual offer | Grade B in A-level and Distinction, Merit (or Merit, Merit) in Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma Not everyone has the same support to get to higher education – we help you reach your potential. When we receive applications through UCAS, we consider all factors and will sometimes make contextual offers as part of our Access and Participation Plan |
| GCSEs | You must have GCSE (or equivalent) Mathematics and English, both with at least grade 4 (or grade C). We also accept Level 2 Functional skills in English and Mathematics. You should also have a broad range of GCSEs 9-4 (A*-C), including good grades in relevant subjects. |
| Additional requirements | You will need to show evidence of basic IT competence and your personal suitability to enter the social work profession in line with national guidance provided by the relevant professional body and regulator. |
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate and two A-levels
| Typical offer | Grades BB in A-levels and Distinction in BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate. |
|---|---|
| Contextual offer | Grades BC in A-levels and Distinction (or Merit) in BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate. Not everyone has the same support to get to higher education – we help you reach your potential. When we receive applications through UCAS, we consider all factors and will sometimes make contextual offers as part of our Access and Participation Plan |
| GCSEs | You must have GCSE (or equivalent) Mathematics and English, both with at least grade 4 (or grade C). We also accept Level 2 Functional skills in English and Mathematics. You should also have a broad range of GCSEs 9-4 (A*-C), including good grades in relevant subjects. |
| Additional requirements | You will need to show evidence of basic IT competence and your personal suitability to enter the social work profession in line with national guidance provided by the relevant professional body and regulator. |
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (formerly BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma)
| Typical offer | DDM |
|---|---|
| Contextual offer | DMM Not everyone has the same support to get to higher education – we help you reach your potential. When we receive applications through UCAS, we consider all factors and will sometimes make contextual offers as part of our Access and Participation Plan |
| Subjects | The BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma should be in Health and Social Care. |
| GCSEs | You must have GCSE (or equivalent) Mathematics and English, both with at least grade 4 (or grade C). We also accept Level 2 Functional skills in English and Mathematics. You should also have a broad range of GCSEs 9-4 (A*-C), including good grades in relevant subjects.
|
| Additional requirements | You will need to show evidence of basic IT competence and your personal suitability to enter the social work profession in line with national guidance provided by the relevant professional body and regulator. |
Scottish Highers
| Typical offer | ABBBB |
|---|---|
| GCSEs | You will need Scottish National 5 in Mathematics and English at grade C |
| Additional requirements | You will need to demonstrate evidence of suitable ability in both Mathematics and English, basic IT competence and your personal suitability to enter the social work profession, in line with national guidance provided by the relevant professional body and regulator. |
T Level
| Typical offer | Pass T-Level with an overall grade of Distinction including grade B in the Core Component
|
|---|---|
| Contextual offer | Merit overall with a grade B in Core Component Not everyone has the same support to get to higher education – we help you reach your potential. When we receive applications through UCAS, we consider all factors and will sometimes make contextual offers as part of our Access and Participation Plan |
| GCSEs | You must have GCSE (or equivalent) Mathematics and English, both with at least grade 4 (or grade C). We also accept Level 2 Functional skills in English and Mathematics. You should also have a broad range of GCSEs 9-4 (A*-C), including good grades in relevant subjects. |
| Additional requirements | You will need to show evidence of basic IT competence and your personal suitability to enter the social work profession in line with national guidance provided by the relevant professional body and regulator. |
Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced
| Typical offer | BBB from the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Skills Challenge Certificate and two A-levels |
|---|---|
| GCSEs | You must have GCSE (or equivalent) Mathematics and English, both with at least grade C (grade 4). We also accept Level 2 Functional skills in English and Mathematics. You should also have a broad range of GCSEs A*-C (9-4), including good grades in relevant subjects. |
| Additional requirements | You will need to show evidence of basic IT competence and your personal suitability to enter the social work profession in line with national guidance provided by the relevant professional body and regulator. |
International Baccalaureate
| Typical offer | 30 points overall from the full IB Diploma. |
|---|---|
| GCSEs | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). |
| Additional requirements | You will need to demonstrate evidence of suitable ability in both Mathematics and English, basic IT competence and your personal suitability to enter the social work profession, in line with national guidance provided by the relevant professional body and regulator.
|
European Baccalaureate
| Typical offer | Overall result of at least 75% |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). |
Other international qualifications
Australia
| Typical offer | Relevant state (Year 12) High School Certificate, and 85% in the ATAR or UAI/TER/ENTER, or a Queensland OP of 5 or better. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Austria
| Typical offer | Reifeprüfung or Matura with an overall result of 2.2 or better for first-year entry. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Belgium
| Typical offer | Certificat d'Enseignement Secondaire Supérieur (CESS) or Diploma van Hoger Secundair Onderwijs with a good overall average. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific knowledge | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Bulgaria
| Typical offer | Diploma za Sredno Obrazovanie with excellent final-year scores (normally 5.5 overall with 6 in key subjects). |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). |
Canada
| Typical offer | Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) 70% from 6 grade 12 U, U/C or M courses. British Columbia Certificate of Graduation BBBBB from 5 grade 12 courses. We also recognise the High School Diploma from other provinces -including Alberta, Manitoba, New Brunswick- where we look for strong performance in grade 12 subjects, and the Diplome d'Etudes Collegiales (DEC) from Quebec. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
China
| Typical offer | If you have the Goakao, we will consider applications for direct entry to first year. You would normally need an overall average of 75%, including required subjects. We are also pleased to consider applications if you are following a recognised International Foundation Year or you have one or more years of Higher Education in China at a recognised degree awarding institution. The Senior High School Graduation alone would not be sufficient for entry to our undergraduate degrees, but you may be eligible to apply for our International Foundation Year. If you successfully complete an International Foundation Year, you can progress on to a relevant undergraduate course at Sussex. Check which qualifications the International Study Centre accepts for the International Foundation Year. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific knowledge | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Croatia
| Typical offer | Maturatna Svjedodžba with an overall score of 4. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Cyprus
| Typical offer | Apolytirion of Lykeion with an overall average of 18 /20. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Czech Republic
| Typical offer | Maturita with a good overall average. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific knowledge | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Denmark
| Typical offer | Højere Forberedelseseksamen (HF) or Studentereksamen with an overall average of at least 7 on the new grading scale. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Finland
| Typical offer | Pass Ylioppilastutkinto with overall final result of at least MMMM |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
France
| Typical offer | French Baccalauréat with overall final result of at least 12/20. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Germany
| Typical offer | German Abitur with an overall result of 2.2 or better. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Greece
| Typical offer | Apolytirion with an overall average of at least 18 will be considered for first-year entry. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Hong Kong
| Typical offer | Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE) with grades of 4,4,4 from three subjects including two electives. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Hungary
| Typical offer | Erettsegi/Matura with a good average of at least 55544. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
India
| Typical offer | Standard XII results 75% - 80% from ISC Indian School certificate of Education (CISCE) |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Iran
| Typical offer | Where direct entry is unsuitable, we'll automatically consider you for one of our Foundation Years. Or you might want to apply to one of our International Foundation Years at the international Study Centre on Campus. Visit isc.sussex.ac.uk/our-courses/international-foundation-year or www.sussex.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/courses/foundation-years |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific knowledge | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Ireland
| Typical offer | Irish Leaving Certificate (Higher Level) at H2,H2,H2,H3,H3 |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You must have at least O4 in Mathematics and English |
Israel
| Typical offer | For first year entry at least 80% (or 8/10) in at least 6 subjects, including one 5 unit subject, in one sitting of the Bagrut. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Italy
| Typical offer | Italian Diploma di Maturità or Diploma Pass di Esame di Stato with a Final Diploma mark of at least 78/100. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Japan
| Typical offer | Where direct entry is unsuitable, we'll automatically consider you for one of our Foundation Years. Or you might want to apply to one of our International Foundation Years at the international Study Centre on Campus. Visit isc.sussex.ac.uk/our-courses/international-foundation-year or www.sussex.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/courses/foundation-years |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific knowledge | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Latvia
| Typical offer | Atestats par Visparejo videjo Izglitibu with very good grades in state exams. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific knowledge | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Lithuania
| Typical offer | Brandos Atestatas including scores of 80-90% in at least three state examinations (other than English). |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific knowledge | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Luxembourg
| Typical offer | Pass the Diplome de Fin d’Etudes Secondaires with 43 points overall. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Malaysia
| Typical offer | Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) with grades of BBB, Matriculation with a least a grade of 3 or UEC with an overall average grade B3 (75%). |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Netherlands
| Typical offer | Voorereidend Wetenschappelijk Onderwijs (VWO), normally with an average of at least 7. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Nigeria
| Typical offer | You are expected to have one of the following:
You must also have a score of C6 or above in WAEC/SSC English. Where direct entry is unsuitable, we'll automatically consider you for one of our Foundation Years. Or you might want to apply to one of our International Foundation Years at the international Study Centre on Campus. Visit isc.sussex.ac.uk/our-courses/international-foundation-year or www.sussex.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/courses/foundation-years |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific knowledge | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Norway
| Typical offer | Norwegian Vitnemal Fra Den Videregaende Opplaering - Pass with an overall average of 4. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Pakistan
| Typical offer | You can apply for direct entry to Year 1 if you are completing at least two years of Bachelor degree studies. You'll normally need to complete a Foundation year after taking Intermediate Certificate or the Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC). You might choose one of our International Foundation Years at the International Study Centre on campus. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Poland
| Typical offer | Pass Matura with least 3 Extended level subjects in the 75th percentile.
|
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Portugal
| Typical offer | Diploma de Ensino Secundario normally with an overall mark of 16/20. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Romania
| Typical offer | Diploma de Bacalaureat with an overall average of 8.0. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Russia
| Typical offer | Applicants who have good grades in the Attestat o Srednem Obrazovami (Certificate of Secondary Education) and who have successfully completed the first year of a Russian University degree, with a minimum GPA of 4.0, will be considered for admission to the first year of our bachelor’s degree courses. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific knowledge | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Singapore
| Typical offer | A-levels, as well as certain certificates and diplomas. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific knowledge | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Slovakia
| Typical offer | Pass Vysvedčenie o maturitnej skúške (Maturita) with an average grade of 2.0 from 4 subjects
|
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Slovenia
| Typical offer | Secondary School Leaving Diploma or Matura with at least 23 points overall. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
South Africa
| Typical offer | National Senior Certificate with very good grades. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific knowledge | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Spain
| Typical offer | Spanish Título de Bachillerato (LOGSE) with an overall average result of at least 7.5 |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Sri Lanka
| Typical offer | Sri Lankan A-levels. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific knowledge | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Sweden
| Typical offer | Fullstandigt Slutbetyg with good grades. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific knowledge | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Switzerland
| Typical offer | Federal Maturity Certificate. |
|---|---|
| Subject-specific knowledge | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). |
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Turkey
| Typical offer | We'll consider students who have taken the Lise Diplomasi or Lise Bitirme, with a score of at least 4/5 or 80/100 in their final year, on a case by case basis for direct entry to year 1. Where direct entry is unsuitable, we'll automatically consider you for one of our Foundation Years. Or you might want to apply to one of our International Foundation Years at the international Study Centre on Campus. Visit isc.sussex.ac.uk/our-courses/international-foundation-year or www.sussex.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/courses/foundation-years |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
USA
| Typical offer | We look at your full profile taking into account everything you are studying, including the high school graduation diploma, Grade 12 GPA, SAT tests and/or ACT grades We are particularly interested in AP tests and would ideally like to see three good AP scores. Advanced Placement Tests with scores of between 5,4,4 to 4,4,4 in three subjects. If you have taken the SAT reasoning tests we'd normally expect a combined score of at least 1300. If you've taken the ACT we'd expect to see a composite score of at least 26.
|
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | You must also have GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics with at least grade 4 in each (or grade C). Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
My country is not listed
If your qualifications aren’t listed or you have a question about entry requirements, contact us
English language requirements
IELTS (Academic)
7.0 overall, including at least 6.5 in each component
Check your IELTS qualification meets all of our language requirements
Other English language requirements
Proficiency tests
Cambridge Advanced Certificate in English (CAE)
185 overall, including at least 176 in each skill.
Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE)
185 overall, including at least 176 in each skill
Pearson (PTE Academic)
67 overall, including at least 62 in all four skills.
Check your Pearson (PTE Academic) qualification meets all of our language requirements
TOEFL (iBT)
95 overall, including at least 22 in Listening, 23 in Reading, 23 in Speaking, 24 in Writing.
Check your TOEFL qualification meets all of our language requirements
Find out more about TOEFL (iBT).
The TOEFL Institution Code for the University of Sussex is 9166.
English language qualifications
Country exceptions
Select to see the list of exempt English-speaking countries
If you are a national of one of the countries below, or if you have recently completed a qualification equivalent to a UK Bachelors degree or higher in one of these countries, you will normally meet our English requirements. Note that qualifications obtained by distance learning or awarded by studying outside these countries cannot be accepted for English language purposes.
You will normally be expected to have completed the qualification within two years before starting your course at Sussex. If the qualification was obtained earlier than this we would expect you to be able to demonstrate that you have maintained a good level of English, for example by living in an English-speaking country or working in an occupation that required you to use English regularly and to a high level.
Please note that this list is determined by the UK’s Home Office, not by the University of Sussex.
List of exempt countries
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Australia
- Bahamas
- Barbados
- Belize
- Canada**
- Dominica
- Grenada
- Guyana
- Ireland
- Jamaica
- New Zealand
- St Kitts and Nevis
- St Lucia
- St Vincent and the Grenadines
- Trinidad and Tobago
- United Kingdom
- USA
** Canada: you must be a national of Canada; other nationals not on this list who have a degree from a Canadian institution will not normally be exempt from needing to provide evidence of English.
Admissions information for applicants
| Disclosure and barring service check | Yes. All candidates offered a place on the course will be required to satisfactorily complete an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, including a check of all cautions and warnings as well as convictions, before their place on the course is confirmed. International students will additionally be required to obtain a recent criminal record certificate from their home country. A list of admissible certificates can be found on the UK Government website: Criminal records checks for overseas applicants. |
|---|---|
| Health check required | Yes |
| Interview | Yes. Find out more about preparing for a Social Work university interview. |
| Specific application procedures | Yes. Find out more about specific entry procedures for this course. |
| Transfers into Year 2 | No |
If your qualifications aren’t listed or you have a question about entry requirements, contact us
For details on any additional costs, check out the Fees and scholarships section.
Modules
This is a single-honours course, allowing you to focus in depth on your core subject.
Find out about our types of undergraduate degrees, their structure, modules and credits
Core modules
Core modules are taken by all students on the course. They give you a solid grounding in your chosen subject and prepare you to explore the topics that interest you most.
Autumn teaching
- Contexts of Social Work
- Human Growth and Development
- Introduction to Professional Learning and Development
Spring and summer teaching
- Developing Capability in Professional Practice
- Law for Social Work
- Values, Ethics and Theories: preparing for complexity in Social Work Practice
Practice learning
There is currently a minimum of 200 days of learning practice:
- 170 days will be as part of a placement (70 days in Year 2 and 100 days in Year 3)
- 30 days will be practice skills workshops (across all your years of study).
In the workshops, you’ll be taught by qualified Social Work practitioners who work locally and teach on topics related to their area of specialism. You’ll:
- get to apply what you’ve learned to your practice
- have the opportunity to reflect on your approaches and experiences in a supportive environment.
Find out more about placements and practice learning at Sussex
We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2023/24. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum. We’ll make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.
We’ll do our best to provide as much optional choice as we can, but timetabling constraints mean it may not be possible to take some module combinations. The structure of a small number of courses means that the order of modules or the streams you choose may determine whether modules are core or optional. This means that your core modules or options may differ from what’s shown here.
Check back in January 2024 for the modules running in the academic year 2024/25.
Core modules
Core modules are taken by all students on the course. They give you a solid grounding in your chosen subject and prepare you to explore the topics that interest you most.
All year
Autumn teaching
Practice learning
There is currently a minimum of 200 days of learning practice:
- 170 days will be as part of a placement (70 days in Year 2 and 100 days in Year 3)
- 30 days will be practice skills workshops (across all your years of study).
In the workshops, you’ll be taught by qualified Social Work practitioners who work locally and teach on topics related to their area of specialism. You’ll:
- get to apply what you’ve learned to your practice
- have the opportunity to reflect on your approaches and experiences in a supportive environment.
Find out more about placements and practice learning at Sussex
We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2023/24. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum. We’ll make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.
We’ll do our best to provide as much optional choice as we can, but timetabling constraints mean it may not be possible to take some module combinations. The structure of a small number of courses means that the order of modules or the streams you choose may determine whether modules are core or optional. This means that your core modules or options may differ from what’s shown here.
Check back in January 2024 for the modules running in the academic year 2024/25.
Study abroad (optional)
Apply to study abroad – you’ll develop an international perspective and gain an edge when it comes to your career. Find out where your course could take you
If your application to study abroad is successful, you’ll have to meet the academic requirements at Sussex and also at the partner university. Find out more about studying abroad as a Sussex student
Practice learning
There is currently a minimum of 200 days of learning practice:
- 170 days will be as part of a placement (70 days in Year 2 and 100 days in Year 3)
- 30 days will be practice skills workshops (across all your years of study).
In the workshops, you’ll be taught by qualified Social Work practitioners who work locally and teach on topics related to their area of specialism. You’ll:
- get to apply what you’ve learned to your practice
- have the opportunity to reflect on your approaches and experiences in a supportive environment.
Find out more about placements and practice learning at Sussex
Support from the Department, talks from service users and placement experiences have fully prepared me for my current job.”Apryl Golding
Social Worker, Brighton & Hove Council
Please note that if you’re receiving – or applying for – USA federal Direct Loan funds, you can’t transfer to the version of your course with an optional study abroad period in any country or optional placement in the USA if the number of credits for the placement/internship exceeds 25% of the total credits for your course. Find out more about American Student Loans and Federal Student Aid
Core modules
Core modules are taken by all students on the course. They give you a solid grounding in your chosen subject and prepare you to explore the topics that interest you most.
All year
Autumn and spring teaching
Practice learning
There is currently a minimum of 200 days of learning practice:
- 170 days will be as part of a placement (70 days in Year 2 and 100 days in Year 3)
- 30 days will be practice skills workshops (across all your years of study).
In the workshops, you’ll be taught by qualified Social Work practitioners who work locally and teach on topics related to their area of specialism. You’ll:
- get to apply what you’ve learned to your practice
- have the opportunity to reflect on your approaches and experiences in a supportive environment.
Find out more about placements and practice learning at Sussex
We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2023/24. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum. We’ll make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.
We’ll do our best to provide as much optional choice as we can, but timetabling constraints mean it may not be possible to take some module combinations. The structure of a small number of courses means that the order of modules or the streams you choose may determine whether modules are core or optional. This means that your core modules or options may differ from what’s shown here.
Check back in January 2024 for the modules running in the academic year 2024/25.
Silver
The student experience and student outcomes are typically very high quality.
This rating was awarded in 2023, for four years.
(Teaching Excellence Framework 2023)
Find out more about our approach to teaching and supporting you to thrive
Our staff
My own research focuses on the history of social work and social workers, and I share all of my research with my students in my teaching.”Dr Russell Whiting
Lecturer in Social Work and Social Care
Learning environment – Dr Russell Whiting, Social Work BA
Fees
- Home students:
- £9,250 per year
- Channel Islands and Isle of Man students:
- £9,250 per year
- International students:
- £25,000 per year
- Study abroad:
- Find out about grants and funding, tuition fees and insurance costs for studying abroad
- Placement:
- Find out about tuition fees for placements
Note that your fees, once they’re set, may be subject to an increase on an annual basis. Find details on our tuition fees page.
Additional costs
Note about additional costs
Please note that all costs are best estimates based on current market values. Activities may be subject to unavoidable change in response to Government advice. We’ll let you know at the earliest opportunity. We review estimates every year and they may vary with inflation. Find out how to budget for student life.
DBS check
The University subsidises the mandatory Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS), with no cost to the student.
Find out about typical living costs for studying at Sussex
Find out about our terms and conditions
Scholarships
Our goal is to ensure that every student who wants to study with us is able to regardless of financial barriers, so that we continue to attract talented and unique people.
-
Chancellor's International Scholarships
£5,000 per year of full time study
-
Climate Leaders Scholarship
£3,000 cash per year of full time study.
Scholarships recipients will be supported to develop a high level project plan and provided with mentoring support.
Careers
Supporting people to make significant life choices as well as promoting human rights, wellbeing and social change is a special position to be in. The role of a social worker is varied and rewarding.
During your course, you’ll be taught by:
- social work academics with specialist research interests and practice expertise
- experienced social work practitioners
- members of our experts by experience network.
This enables you to gain knowledge and skills that will make you highly employable.
Graduate destinations
There continues to be a demand for social workers locally and nationally. Some of our Social Work graduates have even gone on to work in Canada, the USA, New Zealand and Australia.
Recent Social Work graduates who completed placements in children and family settings have started jobs in:
- child protection teams
- adoption and fostering teams
- youth offending services
- disability services.
Recent Social Work graduates who completed placements in adults settings have started jobs in:
- hospital social work
- mental health social work
- drugs and alcohol social work.
(Department of Social Work and Social Care careers database)
Find out more about a career in social work at BBC Bitesize: How to become a social worker: Omar’s story
Working while you study
Our Careers and Entrepreneurship team can help you find part-time work while you study. Find out more about career development and part-time work
I enjoyed the teaching and research-based lectures. I’ve really taken my learning from university into my current practice.”OLIVER TOBUTT
Social Worker, Duty and Assessment Team, East Sussex County Council
Graduate prospects – Dr Russell Whiting, Social Work BA
You will be required to have a satisfactory Health Check.