Social Work for Educators, Bachelor of Arts

Who can study Social Work for Educators?

The Bachelor's degree programme "Social Work for Educators" at the CVJM University is specifically designed for individuals who have already completed training as educators and are actively working in this field. The programme is tailored to people who want to further qualify for the diverse tasks of social work while working – for example, in institutions for child and youth welfare, in social services, or in intercultural contexts. The target group includes both newcomers to the field of education who are aiming for a university degree, as well as experienced practitioners who want to deepen their skills and explore perspectives for leadership roles or specialisations in the social sector.

What are the admission requirements?

• Completed training: The requirement is a qualification as a state-recognised educator with at least level 6 of the German Qualifications Framework (DQR). 69 ECTS from this training will be recognised at the beginning of the studies.
• Professional experience: Ongoing relevant professional experience in the educational or socio-pedagogical field is required, as the programme is designed for working professionals. Alternatively, evidence of accompanying study-related internship can be provided.
• University entrance qualification: In addition to the completed training, a university entrance qualification in the form of a technical college entrance qualification, general university entrance qualification, or an equivalently recognised education is necessary.
• Application deadline and start of studies: The application for studies is possible until 31st January, with studies commencing each summer semester.

Personal requirements:

• Willingness and ability to independently organise flexible online and on-site units.
• Interest in academic further education and in changing perspectives in social work.
• Motivation for continuous reflection and development of one's own practice through theory-practice transfer.
• Ability to work in a team and openness for exchange with fellow students as well as engagement in on-site phases.
• Fundamental interest in social, educational, and legal issues.

What do you learn in the degree programme "Social Work for Educators" (B.A.)?

In the part-time Bachelor's degree programme "Social Work for Educators" at the CVJM University in Kassel, you will intensively engage with central topics of social work. The modular structure allows you to acquire both theoretical and practice-oriented knowledge.

• Methods and Approaches: You will learn about various methods and concepts of social work, from counseling to group work.
• Child and Youth Welfare: You will deal with legal foundations and practical approaches in child and youth welfare.
• Migration, Integration, and Interculturality: Focus areas include working with people of diverse backgrounds and promoting participation.
• Work with Individuals, Families, and Groups: Focus on interdisciplinary and holistic support.
• Management and Organization: You will acquire competencies in leadership, organization, and quality development in social structures.
• Empirical Social Research: Basics of scientific data collection and analysis in professional practice.
• Legal Foundations: Insights into social law, child and youth welfare law, as well as ethical issues.

You will continuously apply the acquired knowledge in practice, and upon completion, you will also receive state recognition as a social worker.

How is your studies structured?

The degree programme is designed for part-time study. Thus, you can continue working as an educator while completing your studies. In total, you will complete 180 ECTS credits within 5 semesters (standard period of study), which is 2.5 years. The programme starts in the summer semester each year.

• Online Modules & On-Site Time: Your study time involves approximately 25-30 hours per week, with the blended learning concept combining on-site and e-learning. About four four-day on-site phases in Kassel are held per academic year.
• Practical Phases: The integrated internship is usually completed within your current professional activity. The university supports you in finding special internship positions, including international ones.
• Specialization & Electives: During the main course of study, you shape your focus through elective modules.

If you need more than 5 semesters, there will be no additional tuition fees.

What career opportunities do you have after graduation?

With a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work and state recognition as a social worker, you open up many career prospects in social work.

• Child and Youth Welfare: Professional in youth welfare offices, counseling centres, child protection, school social work.
• Migration and Integration Work: Participation in projects related to refugee work or intercultural counseling.
• Work with Families and Groups: Support and counseling in social services, family centres, or community work.
• Management & Leadership Roles: Roles as a manager in social organizations or agencies.
• Further Qualification: Access to Master's programmes, e.g. in social management or transformation studies.

By shortening the duration of your studies and gaining recognition for your educator qualification, you save time and entry barriers.

What to expect at the study location Kassel?

The on-site phases take place at the CVJM University in Kassel. The campus enables small study groups with a strong sense of community and personal contact with lecturers. In addition to lectures and seminars, you will participate in devotions, church services, and expert lectures. The close connection of the CVJM to an international network offers special opportunities for practical experiences abroad during the internship. Additionally, you can use catering and accommodation directly on campus.

What are the costs of the studies and how can you finance them?

The degree programme is fee-based, as it is a private university. The monthly tuition fee is 355 euros (from the winter semester 24/25). There are no additional tuition fees if you exceed the standard period of study.

• Savings: By shortening the study duration, you save a total of approximately 6000 euros.
• Additional Costs: There are additional costs for accommodation and meals during on-site phases, e.g. at the CVJM Conference Centre on campus.
• Scholarships and Funding:
  • Partial scholarships through cooperation network (vocational schools and Diakonie Hessen)
  • Germany Scholarship for high-achieving students
  • Grete Lüst Study Fund for financial difficulties

The university provides comprehensive advice on scholarships and financing options.