BA (Hons) Social and Community Work

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) Social and Community Work program at Goldsmiths, University of London, combines academic study with practical experience to develop students' skills in working with young people and communities. The program emphasizes social justice, equality, and reflective practice, preparing graduates for careers in social work, youth work, community development, and other social professions. Students gain a strong foundation in social sciences, policy analysis, and transferable skills, and have opportunities for placements in professional settings.

Program Outline

It combines academic study of the social sciences with opportunities to apply those skills and knowledge in the real world.

Objectives:

• Develop academic and professional rigor by exploring theoretical perspectives and their practical applications.
• Critically engage with policy, particularly as it affects vulnerable people.
• Develop transferable skills and knowledge for personal and career development.
• Explore reflective and reflexive practice to build independent and collaborative work skills.
• Enhance understanding of equality, diversity, citizenship, and democracy to address these issues creatively in community contexts.

Program Description:

• The program provides a foundation for careers in the public and social professions, and charities sector.
• Students gain a broad introduction to working with young people and communities, combining academic study with placements in professional practice.
• The program serves as a gateway to postgraduate studies in social work, youth work, community work, other social care, and public professions.
• Graduates receive a guaranteed interview for selected MA programs in Community Development, Youth Work, and Counselling and Therapies, offered by the Department of Social, Therapeutic and Community Studies (STaCS).

Outline:

Year 1

• Compulsory Modules:
• Introduction to Community Development & Youth Work
• Introduction to Group Work
• Introduction to Advanced Research Methods
• Introduction to Applied Social Science
• Race, Racism and Professional Practice
• Criminology, Law and Rights
• Social Work with Children and Families
• Identity, Agency & Environment 2
• Assessment:
• A combination of coursework, exams, and presentations.

Year 2

• Compulsory Modules:
• Community Development in Context or Youth Work in Context
• Group Work in Theory
• Group Work in Practice
• Theory, Policy and Politics
• Mental Health, Trauma, and Society
• Applied Research Methods 2
• Personal and Professional Development
• Optional Modules (Choose one):
• Arts in the Community
• Global Youth Work and International Development
• Youth Justice
• Religion, Belief and Spirituality in Professional Practice
• The Goldsmiths Elective
• Assessment:
• A combination of coursework, exams, presentations, and a work placement.

Year 3

• Compulsory Modules:
• Social Justice in Community Development and Youth Work
• Management and Leadership
• Critical Engagement with Social Policy
• Dissertation
• Housing and Homelessness
• Work Placement
• Optional Modules (Choose one):
• Enterprise in Communities
• Conflict Transformation
• Assessment:
• A combination of coursework, exams, presentations, a dissertation, and a work placement.

Teaching:

The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including:

• Lectures: Providing foundational knowledge and introducing key concepts.
• Seminars: Encouraging discussion, critical analysis, and application of theory.
• Workshops: Developing practical skills and applying theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios.
• Independent study: Enabling students to research and explore topics in depth.
• Group work: Fostering collaboration, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Placements: Gaining practical experience in professional settings.

Careers:

Graduates of the program are equipped to pursue careers in various fields, including:

• Social work: Working with individuals and families facing social and economic challenges.
• Youth work: Supporting and empowering young people to reach their full potential.
• Community development: Working with communities to improve their social, economic, and environmental conditions.
• Public and social policy: Advocating for policy changes that promote social justice and address social inequalities.
• Research: Conducting research on social issues and developing evidence-based solutions.
• Management: Leading and managing teams in social and community organizations.

Other:

• The program offers a holistic approach to learning, integrating theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and personal development.
• Students are encouraged to actively engage in their learning, participate in discussions, and contribute to the classroom environment.
• The program emphasizes the importance of ethical practice, social responsibility, and reflexivity.
• Students have opportunities to participate in a range of extracurricular activities, including volunteering, internships, and social action projects.

Annual tuition fees

These are the fees for students starting their programme in the 2024/2025 academic year. Home - full-time: £9250 There may also be specific additional costs associated with your programme.