Social Care

Program Overview

The Social Care B.A. (Hons) program at Liverpool Hope University equips students with the knowledge and skills to thrive in the evolving field of social care. Through a multi-disciplinary approach, the program emphasizes critical thinking, analytical abilities, and communication skills, preparing graduates for careers across diverse social care settings. Students benefit from close collaboration with individuals and organizations in the field, fostering a strong foundation in research-informed and evidence-based practice.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Social Care B.A. (Hons) program at Liverpool Hope University aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in the evolving field of social care. The curriculum focuses on developing critical thinking, analytical abilities, and communication skills, preparing graduates for careers across diverse social care settings. Students benefit from close collaboration with individuals and organizations in the field, fostering a strong foundation in research-informed and evidence-based practice.

Objectives:

• Understand the historical and contemporary context of social care.
• Analyze the social, psychological, and legal aspects of social care.
• Develop critical thinking and analytical skills for effective problem-solving.
• Acquire knowledge of key legislation and policy frameworks governing social care.
• Enhance communication and interpersonal skills for effective engagement with diverse populations.
• Conduct research and critically evaluate evidence-based interventions.
• Foster leadership and management skills for potential career advancement.

Outline:

Year One:

• Introduction to Social Care: Explores the history, principles, and practice of social care across the lifespan, including childhood, adulthood, and later life.
• Social and Psychological Approaches to Social Care: Delves into both psychological and sociological perspectives on social care, examining individual and societal factors influencing human behavior and social interactions.
• Professional Skills, Values, and Ethics in Social Care: Addresses ethical considerations in social care practice, explores communication strategies, and develops professional values and identity.
• Human Rights and Violations: Examines the concept of human rights, analyzes common violations, and explores the realities of vulnerable populations.

Year Two:

• Policy and Context in Social Care: Critically analyzes the historical development of social care policies and examines the impact of legislation on social care provision.
• Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups in Social Care Settings: Explores safeguarding principles and practices, investigates the risk and experience of abuse or neglect, and analyzes balancing safety with individual rights.
• Models and Theories of Intervention: Examines various models and theories applied in social care, explores the impact of societal concepts on intervention approaches, and analyzes the effectiveness of different interventions.
• Work-Based Learning: Provides hands-on experience in social care settings, equips students with professional skills and knowledge, and facilitates the transition into relevant placements.

Year Three:

• Advanced Studies in Social Care: Engages in advanced exploration of contemporary issues in social care, including funding, leadership, management, and ethical dilemmas.
• Management and Leadership in Social Care: Develops leadership skills and theoretical knowledge for various social care settings, analyzes legal and policy frameworks, and critiques leadership styles.
• Contemporary Issues in Adult Social Care: Examines the current state of adult social care, explores funding challenges, analyzes the impact of social and demographic changes, and investigates workforce adaptation strategies.
• Working with Children and Young People: Analyzes the contemporary context of childhood, explores the social and economic influences on children's lives, and examines effective intervention strategies for various settings.
• Advanced Research Courses: Offers specialized research courses led by faculty members, allowing students to delve into specific areas of interest and develop research skills.

Assessment:

Assessment methods vary depending on the module but typically include:

• Essays and written assignments
• Reflective portfolios
• Class presentations and group projects
• Individual and group research projects
• Written exams
• Work-based learning projects
Feedback is provided throughout the program, enabling students to enhance their understanding and improve their performance.

Teaching:

The program utilizes diverse teaching methods, including:

• Lectures by experienced academics and practitioners
• Seminars and tutorials for interactive learning and discussion
• Workshops for practical skill development
• Independent study and research
• Use of online learning resources
• Guest lectures and presentations by professionals in the field
The program emphasizes active learning and encourages students to engage critically with the material.

Careers:

Graduates of the Social Care program pursue various career paths within the social care sector, including:

• Social Worker
• Youth Worker
• Case Manager
• Policy Officer
• Researcher
• Advocacy Worker
• Project Manager
• Care Worker
• Support Worker
• Family Support Worker
• Housing Officer
• Mental Health Worker
• Substance Misuse Worker
• Community Development Worker
• Further opportunities in related fields such as education, healthcare, or criminal justice.

Other:

• The program emphasizes developing leadership potential through the Service and Leadership Award (SALA), which offers extra-curricular service-based experiences and equips students for a rapidly changing world.
• Students have the opportunity to study abroad for a semester or a full year through the university's Study Abroad program.
• The program fosters strong links with employers in the social care sector, providing students with networking opportunities and potential career pathways.

• The tuition fees for the 2024/25 academic year are £9,250 for full-time undergraduate courses.
• If you are a student from the Isle of Man or the Channel Islands, your tuition fees will also be £9,250.
• The University reserves the right to increase Home and EU Undergraduate and PGCE tuition fees in line with any inflationary or other increase authorised by the Secretary of State for future years of study.
• The International Tuition fees for 2024/25 are £12,500.