Qualifying pathways for social workers
To qualify as a social worker in Scotland, you must:
- complete one of the approved social work degree-level (undergraduate or postgraduate) programmes
- complete at least 180 days of assessed practice learning (on placement)
- register with the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) as a student social worker
1. Approved degree programmes
The SSSC is the regulatory body that sets the rules and requirements for qualifying social work programmes. The SSSC must approve all social work programmes in Scotland.
The SSSC publishes information on available programmes.
You can study full-time or part-time. You can choose:
- a traditional degree
- distance learning
- a Graduate Apprenticeship in Social Work (work-based programme)
You may be able to use your existing learning and experience to gain credit towards a qualification. This may shorten the length of time you need to study.
Learn more about social work education routes and practice learning on the SSSC website.
Graduate Apprenticeship in Social Work pilot
A pilot of the Graduate Apprenticeship in Social Work is currently underway at the University of the West of Scotland.
This opportunity allows you to study to become a qualified social worker while employed in a social work role.
The apprenticeship is an integrated, work-based pathway that balances academic study with workplace learning.
Student funding
Undergraduate and postgraduate students can apply for funding from Students Awards Agency for Scotland (SAAS).
Postgraduate students
Some postgraduate students will be eligible for bursaries that are available from the SSSC.
The SSSC publishes information about the financial support available. This includes additional funding to support you when you are on placement, as part of your degree qualification.
2. Practice learning (on placement)
You must complete at least 180 days of assessed practice learning as part of your degree.
Practice learning opportunities (PLOs) are a core part of qualifying social work education. These give students substantial supervised experience in real practice settings.
Universities work with local employers to arrange these PLOs. Students must complete at least 180 days of practice learning, including:
- taking part in day-to-day work
- applying their learning
- being formally assessed
During 2 contrasting PLOs you’ll:
- build your confidence
- broaden your experience
- work with different people and services
This should include at least one PLO in a statutory setting (in a local authority social work team) and a contrasting experience in the third sector.
Each PLO:
- includes observed practice
- offers time for critical reflection
- links theory to practice
You’ll have a different practice educator to support and assess you during each PLO. This ensures effective guidance as you prepare for your career.
3. Register with the SSSC
To undertake practice learning opportunities, you must register as a student social worker on the SSSC website.
When you complete your degree, you'll be able to register with the SSSC as a qualified social worker.