The Bachelor of Arts (Hons) programme is designed for students who have completed a first professional qualification in Social Work and wish to undertake further advanced study. The programme can be completed in one year (full time) or over four years (part time). Students can enhance their practice opportunities and pursue topics that are of specific professional and academic interest to them. The aim of the course is to equip them with the necessary skills to write papers for publication. Students are required to complete four courses chosen from those available at 400-level. Students intending to move on to PhD or Masters by thesis studies are normally required to include a research methods paper. The range of courses offered each year will depend upon the needs and interests of the individual students. Individual programmes can be developed in consultation between the department and the student. Some limitations apply. A student may also include one paper at BA(Hons) level from another department in the University with the approval of the Head of School and the head of the other department/school.

Postgraduate study can bring many career benefits eg, specialist skills and enhanced knowledge, entry into specific occupations, higher starting salary/progression rates, research capability/achievement and evidence of high academic attainment/self-discipline.