Social Work BA

We will consider students who have taken GCE A Level examinations or the International Baccalaureate (IB) for entrance to onto our undergraduate programmes. Holders of the Thanawiyah are not normally eligible for direct entry onto our undergraduate courses without the completion of a suitable foundation programme, such as one of our foundation pathways.

English Language

You will need to demonstrate a certain level of English language, either through an English test such as IELTS, TOEFL or PTE, or we may be able to accept your previous or alternative qualifications as evidence. Please view the entry requirements for specific programme requirements, and details on our presessional English language courses.

Number of A levels required:

3

Typical offer:

ABB

Required subjects and grades:

GCSE Mathematics and English at grade C/4 or above is required (or certificated equivalent level two numeracy and literacy qualification)

General Studies:

Not accepted

A minimum of 30 days related practice-based experience is required. This can be in a variety of fields and does not have to be in a social work setting. Personal experience may count towards your practice-based experience but it is important that you are able to evidence some practice-based experience alongside this. This must show a sustained commitment, evidenced by a practice-based reference (as appropriate). If you do not fulfil these requirements or want further advice, please contact us directly.

We will also consider one of the following:

• Pathways to Birmingham plus the equivalent of two grades below standard offer, e.g. BBC instead of ABB.
  
• International Baccalaureate Diploma: 6,5,5 at Higher Level with a minimum of 32 points overall
• An Access Diploma in a related area (social science-based) with a minimum of 60 credits, with 45 at Level 3 of which at least 30 are to be achieved with Distinction and 15 to be achieved with Merit
• BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma = grades DDD
• BTEC Level 3 National Diploma = typical offer is A in A Level + DM
• BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate = typical offer is AB in A levels + D
• Other new UK qualifications will also be considered – eg, Cambridge Pre-U, Advanced Diplomas, AQA Baccalaureate, Open University 60-credit module

Please note, whilst we recognise the value and relevance of Vocational Diploma qualifications (previously known as NVQs) and professional qualifications, we are not able to consider them in place of academic qualifications.

If your qualifications differ from those listed here, please contact the central Admissions team for guidance.

Find out more about the University of Birmingham's Code of Practice on Admissions

1. Applicants must show, in the appropriate section of the application form, that they meet or intend to meet all of the academic criteria.
2. Their ability to meet the academic criteria should be confirmed in their academic reference.
3. In addition to this, applicants must provide details, within their personal statement, of their related personal or social care experience and the influence this has had on their commitment to and understanding of social work. A subsequent practice reference will be required if an offer is made.
4. Their personal statement should also provide evidence of their ability to write in a clear, coherent and accessible style.
5. Shortlisted applicants may be required to read a short academic text and complete a written test on their understanding general issues related to social work.
6. Applicants completing this test may then be invited to undertake an interview.
7. Selected applicants will be required to complete an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and Declaration of Suitability for Social Work form, before registration on the programme.
8. Where an applicant has disclosed a criminal offence they will be asked to provide further details of this offence in a letter to the department.
9. A satisfactory social care practice reference will also be required.
10. All students will be required to sign the Fitness to Practise Code of Conduct on entry.
11. Please note that work experience is not considered in lieu of meeting the academic entry requirements. You will be required to meet the practice element in addition to meeting the academic criteria.

All applicants must confirm prior to interview/offer decision making that they have the ability to use basic IT facilities, including word processing, internet browsing, and the use of email, and be asked to specify how these skills have been obtained.

• Disabilities, long-term mental health conditions and specific learning difficulties at the University
• Social Work England professional standards

International Students

International Baccalaureate Diploma: 6,5,5 at Higher Level with a minimum of 32 points overall.

Standard English language requirements apply
Learn more about international entry requirements (IELTs : 7.0 with no less than 6.5 in any band).

Depending on your chosen course of study, you may also be interested in one of our foundation pathways, which offer specially structured programmes for international students whose qualifications are not accepted for direct entry to UK universities. Further details can be found on Birmingham International Academy web pages.