Social Work, Bachelor of Arts

Who is the Bachelor's Degree in Social Work at Akkon University suitable for?

The Bachelor's degree in Social Work at Akkon University in Berlin is aimed at people who want to become social workers or social pedagogues and seek state recognition after their studies. The programme is particularly suitable for those who are passionate about working with people, want to make a difference in society, and enjoy supporting others in challenging life situations. Graduates can take on roles in a wide range of fields of social work – for example, in child, youth and elderly welfare, social services, public administrations, non-governmental organisations, or educational institutions. Both school leavers with university entrance qualifications and applicants with relevant vocational training will find suitable access options within the course.

Admission requirements for Social Work B.A.

No numerus clausus (NC) is required for admission to the Social Work B.A. programme at Akkon University of Human Sciences. The following access routes are available:

• Classical university entrance qualification:
  • General higher education entrance qualification (Abitur)
  • Subject-specific higher education entrance qualification (Fachabitur)
• Subject-specific university entrance qualification (vocational):
  • At least two years of vocational training similar in subject to the degree programme
• Special examination:
  • If vocational qualifications alone are not sufficient, there is the option of obtaining the subject-specific university entrance qualification by passing a special examination.

Details of individual access possibilities can be clarified in advance with student advisory services.

Personal requirements:

• Interest in social issues and social processes
• Empathy and enjoyment in working with people from diverse backgrounds
• Willingness to engage with diversity, social justice and inclusion
• Critical reflection skills and enthusiasm for learning as well as for scientific work
• Motivation to work in different teams and multiprofessional settings
• Resilience and ability to set boundaries as well as to deal with crisis situations

What content can you expect in the Bachelor's degree Social Work?

In the Bachelor's degree programme Social Work at the Akkon University of Human Sciences, you acquire a broad range of knowledge in theory and practice. The course combines scientific foundations with practice-oriented modules. The central content includes, among others:

• Scientific working
• History and theories of social work
• Educational, political science and psychological fundamentals
• Empirical social research
• Ethical and legal framework conditions of social work
• Methods of action including counselling
• Social economics and digitalisation
• Critical diversity studies as well as migration and integration
• Health and social medicine
• Practical phase: A six-month internship as well as interdisciplinary project work

This way, you learn to work with different target groups, design counselling processes and develop professional, life-world-oriented solutions for social challenges.

How does the degree programme proceed?

The degree programme lasts six semesters and starts on 1 October each year. The study format is full-time with block sessions. Most courses take place in person (on site or hybrid/online), supplemented by phases of self-study.

• Block teaching one to two weeks per month
• Remaining time: independent study, internship, projects
• Small groups, lots of personal exchange and individual support
• Teaching methods: lectures, group work, interactive tasks, project work, excursions, guest lectures
• Examination formats: written exams, term papers, project work, presentations, oral exams and creative examination performances

The compulsory internship during the course offers you the opportunity to gain practical experience and to specialise already during your studies.

What career prospects does the degree offer you?

With the Bachelor's degree in Social Work B.A., you receive state recognition as a social worker or social pedagogue. This opens up diverse career perspectives, for example in the following fields:

• Facilities for child, youth or elderly care
• Social services and authorities
• Non-profit organisations and NGOs
• Educational institutions
• Public administration

In addition, you can start a Master's degree after graduation, for example with the aim of an academic career or a leadership position in the social sector.

Where do you study Social Work?

The Social Work degree programme is offered at the Berlin campus of the Akkon University of Human Sciences. Lectures take place on site in Berlin or online (hybrid). The university places great value on small study groups and personal contact.

Costs and financing options

For the Bachelor's degree in Social Work, the monthly tuition fee is 449 Euro throughout the entire duration of the studies. There are no tiered prices. Relatives and volunteers of Johanniter-Unfall-Hilfe e.V. receive a 10 % discount on the tuition fees.

• Tuition fee: 449 Euro per month
• Discount: 10 % for employees/volunteers of Johanniter-Unfall-Hilfe e.V.
• Free additional services: No extra charges for examinations or teaching materials

For financing, you can use various options, such as BAföG, scholarships or education loans.