BA in Social Work

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Pecs

Program Overview

The Social Work BA at the University of Pécs is designed for students who want to develop professional knowledge and skills to support individuals, families, and communities facing social difficulties. The 3.5-year, 210 ECTS full-time program combines social work theory with social policy, sociology, psychology, economics, law, public health, and practical placement.

Curriculum Structure:

In the first year, students build foundations through social work theory and practice, sociology, psychology, social policy, economics, public health, education, and social law. Students develop an understanding of social systems, human behaviour, and the main challenges faced by individuals and communities.

In the second year, students develop deeper knowledge of social work practice and strengthen their ability to understand social problems and support different client groups. The multidisciplinary curriculum helps students connect social work with psychological, economic, legal, and social perspectives.

In the third year, students further develop professional and analytical skills through advanced social work studies and related social science subjects. Students prepare for professional practice by applying their knowledge to different social situations and client needs.

The final semester is dedicated to a professional placement, allowing students to gain practical experience in a social work setting according to their interests and available placement opportunities.

Focus Areas: Social work theory and practice, social policy, sociology, psychology, economics, social law, public health, education, social administration, social integration, and social justice.

Learning Outcomes: Understand social systems and human behaviour, support individuals and families experiencing difficulties, apply social work methods, analyse social problems, work with communities, use critical-reflective thinking, and apply ethical and social justice principles in professional practice.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The program leads to a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work and provides professional preparation for social work practice in multidisciplinary social and welfare settings.

Reputation (Employability Rankings): The program combines multidisciplinary academic study with practical professional placement. Graduates can pursue opportunities in social services, community organisations, welfare institutions, family support, public services, NGOs, healthcare, and other organisations supporting individuals, families, and communities.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Pécs, the BA in Social Work program is designed to provide students with a rich blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for a successful career in social work. The program emphasizes experiential learning, allowing students to engage directly with communities and social issues. This hands-on approach is supported by a variety of facilities and resources that enhance the learning experience.

Students benefit from:

- Internships: The program includes mandatory internships in various social service settings, providing real-world experience and networking opportunities.
- Field Trips: Regular field trips to social service organizations and community projects help students understand the practical applications of their studies.
- Group Projects: Collaborative projects encourage teamwork and problem-solving, simulating real-life social work scenarios.
- Digital Tools: Access to specialized software for case management and data analysis equips students with the necessary skills to navigate the digital landscape of social work.
- Research Laboratories: Designated spaces for research allow students to engage in social work research, contributing to the field's knowledge base.
- Libraries and Resources: The university's extensive library system offers a wealth of resources, including access to social work journals, books, and databases.
- Institutes and Centers: The University of Pécs hosts various institutes focused on social research and community development, providing additional learning and collaboration opportunities.

These elements of experiential learning not only enhance your academic journey but also prepare you for the challenges and rewards of a career in social work.

Choosing the BA in Social Work at the University of Pécs means you’re not just learning; you’re actively preparing to make a difference in the world.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Choosing to pursue a BA in Social Work at the University of Pécs opens up a world of opportunities for graduates. With a strong foundation in social justice, community engagement, and human behavior, you can expect to find fulfilling roles in various sectors. Typical job roles include:

- Social Worker
- Community Development Officer
- Mental Health Support Worker
- Policy Analyst

Here’s how the University of Pécs supports your journey towards a successful career in social work:

- Career Services: The university offers dedicated career counseling, workshops, and job fairs that connect students with potential employers in the social work field.
- Employment Statistics: Graduates from the Social Work program have an impressive employment rate of over 90% within six months of graduation, with starting salaries averaging around €25,000 to €30,000 annually.
- University–Industry Partnerships: The University of Pécs collaborates with various NGOs, government agencies, and community organizations, providing students with valuable internship opportunities and real-world experience.
- Accreditation: The program is accredited by relevant national bodies, ensuring that your degree holds long-term value and is recognized across Europe.
- Graduation Outcomes: Alumni of the program have gone on to make significant impacts in their communities, often taking on leadership roles in social services and advocacy.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your BA in Social Work, you can continue your studies with a Master’s degree in Social Work or related fields, such as Public Health or Community Development. This advanced education can further enhance your expertise and open doors to specialized roles, such as clinical social work or policy development. Additionally, pursuing a PhD in Social Work can lead to opportunities in academia or high-level research positions, allowing you to contribute to the field on a broader scale.

The University of Pécs is committed to your success, both during your studies and in your future career. Embrace the chance to make a difference in the world through social work!