Skip navigation

Social Work (E85) (Taught)

Course details
  • PgDip
  • 1.5 Years
  • Distance learning
  • February 2027
  • Postgraduate
Course location
Distance learning
Awarded by:
The Open University

Course summary

Social workers play a vital role in supporting society’s most vulnerable people. Our work-based, distance-learning route to the Postgraduate Diploma in Social Work is designed for professionals seeking to advance their careers. In England, the programme is approved by Social Work England (SWE), and successful graduates can apply for registration as qualified social workers. In Scotland, students who meet eligibility requirements can apply for registration with the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) to work in children’s, adult or justice services. Both eligible sponsored and independent students are welcome to apply and take the next step in their social work career.

Key features of the course

  • Approved as a social work qualifying award in England by Social Work England (SWE) and in Scotland by the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC)

  • Includes two substantive work-based practice placements supervised by a practice educator

  • Equips you to engage in critical and reflective professional practice, aligned to the standards and codes of practice in your nation

  • Designed for professionals seeking to advance their careers through work-based learning

  • Progress from this Postgraduate Diploma in Social Work to our MA in Social Work (F80)

Modules

To gain this qualification, you need 120 credits. You’ll study two 60-credit modules and must pass the first before progressing to the second.

You’ll develop and advance your social work practice, combining academic study with work-based learning. This includes two substantial practice placements, alongside compulsory practice skills workshops and a day school (or online alternative) to support your learning.

Entry requirements

Entry requirements vary. For details, visit the qualification description at https://www.open.ac.uk/postgraduate/qualifications/e85

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

No fee information has been provided for this course

Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website.

Additional fee information

As fees for individual modules can vary, the total cost you pay for your qualification depends on the modules you choose to study. For further information about fees, please refer to the course description on The Open University website.

Like this page