Social Work, Bachelor of Arts

Who is the Social Work B.A. degree suitable for?

The Social Work B.A. degree at the Akkon University of Human Sciences is aimed at people who want to work as social workers or social pedagogues and wish to apply for state recognition following their studies. The target group specifically includes individuals interested in topics such as social justice, participation, and social change, who enjoy working with diverse people – for example in child, youth, or elderly care institutions, social services, public administration, non-governmental organisations, or educational facilities. Career changers with relevant professional backgrounds and people seeking a practice-oriented approach to social work will also find suitable qualifications in this study programme.

Admission requirements at a glance

The Social Work B.A. programme has no numerus clausus and offers different pathways to admission:

• General university entrance qualification: Abitur or advanced technical college entrance qualification (Fachabitur).
• Subject-specific university entrance qualification: Completed vocational training of at least two years in a related field.
• Special admission via examination: Those with appropriate professional qualifications who have not yet fulfilled the formal requirements can obtain admission eligibility through a separate examination.

Note: If you are unsure whether your professional background is sufficient, you should contact the university’s student advisory service for clarification.

Personal requirements and recommended skills

In addition to the formal admission requirements, applicants should bring the following personal qualities and interests:

• Interest in social issues, social justice, and diversity
• Enjoyment of working with people in different life situations
• Empathy, ability to reflect, and communication skills
• Willingness to engage with counselling, promoting, and supportive processes
• Openness to linking theory and practice, for example through internships or projects
• Motivation for personal development and professional boundaries

The degree is particularly suitable for people who want to actively and solution-orientedly address challenges in social work and are willing to connect knowledge from various disciplines.

What Awaits You in the Bachelor of Social Work?

In the Bachelor's degree programme in Social Work at the Akkon University of Human Sciences, you will acquire practical and solid skills for working with people in a variety of life situations. The goal is qualification as a state-recognised social worker. Theory and practice are closely intertwined.

What Does the Course Content Include?

• Scientific Fundamentals: You will learn scientific working methods and receive sound knowledge in empirical social research, psychology, and sociology.
• Basics of Social Work: Topics such as the history and theories of social work, educational fundamentals, legal aspects (including SozBAG), as well as ethical questions are covered.
• Practical Competence: The focus is on developing counselling skills, methodological knowledge, case and project work, as well as the professional handling of crises and conflicts.
• Specific Specialisations: Digitisation in social work, aspects of diversity, migration and integration, as well as social medicine are addressed in a practice-oriented manner.
• Practical Relevance: In addition to imparting theoretical basics, you will complete a six-month internship and a project module to apply specialist knowledge directly.

How Is the Course Structured?

• Duration and Start: The course lasts 6 semesters (full-time). The start date is 1 October each year.
• Study Format: On-campus study in block sessions at the Berlin location. Teaching takes place in small groups – digital components are also possible.
• Learning Formats: Lectures, exercises, group work, project work, excursions, and guest lectures ensure varied and practice-oriented learning.
• Self-Study: Between block phases, you deepen study content independently, supported by literature, mentoring, and individual guidance from lecturers.
• Examination Formats: Exams, term papers, presentations, oral examinations, creative achievements, and portfolio-based proofs.

What Career Opportunities Do You Have with the Degree?

• State Recognition: As a graduate, you can apply for state recognition as a social worker.
• Diverse Fields of Work: You work in child, youth or elderly welfare, social services, authorities, non-governmental organisations, or educational institutions.
• Paths into Management and Further Education: The Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) entitles you to take up a corresponding Master’s degree programme.
• Practice-Oriented Skills: Thanks to the strong practical foundation, you are also prepared for direct entry into the profession.

Where Do You Study?

• The on-campus teaching takes place at the campus-close location in Berlin.
• Block sessions allow for good planning – alongside your studies, you can take advantage of the capital’s diverse offerings.

What Are the Costs of the Course and How Can You Finance It?

• Tuition Fees: 449 euros per month (fixed price for the duration of the course; 10% discount for employees and volunteers of Johanniter-Unfall-Hilfe e.V.).
• Total Costs: For 6 semesters (36 months), the costs amount to a total of 16,164 euros.
• Discounts and Funding Opportunities: Students can apply for state funding such as BAföG. The university offers advice on financing.