Entry requirements

All social work candidates must submit the following documents to confirm they meet the academic entry requirements with their application:

  • Numeracy certificate
  • English certificate
  • Evidence of qualifications equal 96 UCAS points
  • IELTS certificate (only if English is not their first language)
  • Fully enhanced DBS which includes both Adults and Children

If you cannot locate your certificates, replacement certificates may be requested on the government website. Original copies of the above documentation will be required if you are invited to attend an Assessment Day.

If you do not meet these entry requirements, you could opt to study on the Open Degree or Cert HE in Health and Social Care and transfer to the Social Work Programme when you have both met the entry requirements and been successful in the selection process.

Pre-requisites to study Where can I get help and evidence of these
Maths GCSE grade C/4 or certified equivalent Most local colleges of further education offer GCSE courses. Alternatively you could undertake a free national test in numeracy through Learn Direct (Level 2 or above). Other qualifications must be benchmarked at QCF Level 2.
English GCSE grade C/4 or certified equivalent Most local colleges of further education offer GCSE courses. Alternatively you could undertake a free national test in literacy through Learn Direct (Level 2 or above). Other qualifications must be benchmarked at QCF Level 2. 
We will also accept any Open University module at foundation level or above with a literacy component (appropriate module codes will be prefixed with an A, D or K)
96 UCAS points (A Level grades CCC) or certified equivalent Details of tariff points awarded to various qualifications can be found at the UCAS website. If you have an overseas qualification you must provide proof of equivalence from UK NARIC. The OU will accept its module K102: Introducing health and social care or "K101: An introduction to health and social care" as a certified equivalent.
International English Language Testing Systems (IELTS) communicating and comprehension skills at Level 7 (if English is not your first language) Details of the test, locations of testing centres and fees can be found on the IELTS website.
Basic IT skills including word processing, internet browsing and use of email You will be asked to complete an IT self-declaration section in your application form (no further evidence is required).
Criminal records check You need your employer to apply for an ‘Enhanced DBS with lists’ check if you don’t already hold DBS check against all parts of the register (children’s and adults) which will be dated within 12 months of you starting your studies.  Please be aware that the OU cannot carry out checks and request a DBS on your behalf.