Social Work, Bachelor of Arts

Who is suitable for the dual Bachelor's degree in Social Work at SRH University?

The dual degree in Social Work (B.A.) at SRH University is aimed at anyone seeking a practice-oriented academic education in the social sector. It is particularly targeted at school graduates with university entrance qualification, individuals with completed vocational training and practical experience in the social field, as well as those already working as educators. The study programme is ideal for anyone who wants to enter the workforce of social institutions directly or expand their career opportunities through an academic qualification.

What are the admission requirements?

To be admitted to the dual Bachelor's degree in Social Work at SRH University, you must meet the following conditions:

• General university entrance qualification (Abitur) or advanced technical college entrance qualification (alternatively, the latest interim report is sufficient if the final qualification has not yet been completed).
• Alternatively, admission is granted to those with a qualification as an educator, a completed advanced training qualification (master craftsman, specialist, business administrator) or a completed vocational training in the social sector plus at least three years of professional experience. Further information can be found under the topic "Studying without Abitur".
• If applicable, a successfully completed selection process is required.
• Additionally, a current CV with passport photo as well as a copy of ID (for international applicants, the National Identity Card) must be submitted.

The dual Bachelor's degree is unrestricted by numerus clausus (NC) and starts in the summer or winter semester. After applying, an individual review of documents takes place and, if necessary, a selection interview.

You need a practical partner for enrolment. If you require support in finding one, the university assists in placing suitable partner institutions in the social sector.

Which personal requirements are helpful?

For a successful degree and later work as a social worker, you should possess the following personal qualities:

• Interest in social issues and societal questions
• Empathy, communication skills and openness to different life circumstances
• Sense of responsibility as well as willingness to engage with people and their individual problems
• Ability to reflect and readiness for self-reflection
• Teamwork skills – as many areas of work take place in multiprofessional teams
• Organisational talent for alternating between theory and practical phases as well as for working independently during your studies
• Basic digital skills (e.g. for documentation or communication)

Previous practical experience in the social, pedagogical or health sector is helpful but not a mandatory prerequisite.

What do you learn in the dual Bachelor's degree in Social Work?

In the dual degree programme Social Work at SRH University, you acquire solid pedagogical knowledge as well as methods and counselling approaches. You engage with related disciplines such as psychology, health sciences, and sociology. This way, you understand the causes of social problems and develop competencies to act effectively in practice.

• Fundamentals of education, upbringing, socialisation
• Psychological and health-scientific basics
• History, theories, and socio-political concepts of Social Work
• Sociological approaches to social problems
• Legal and economic framework conditions of Social Work
• Projects as well as aesthetic-media practice
• Professionalisation and reflection on professional ethical principles
• Interdisciplinary collaboration in multiprofessional teams
• Bachelor’s thesis for the scientific deepening of a topic of your choice

With the degree, you also receive state recognition as a social worker.

How is the dual degree structured?

The dual degree combines theoretical phases at the university with practical phases at the respective practice partner. At the university, you acquire in-depth specialist knowledge and vocational practical skills, which you can apply directly in social work fields. Different time models are available depending on the location:

• Day model: 2–3 days per week at the university, the remaining days in practical placement
• Block week model: several-week theory blocks alternate with practical phases

The programme lasts 6 semesters (180 ECTS) or 7 semesters (210 ECTS, e.g. in Dresden) depending on the location. You start in the summer or winter semester. The study content is designed so that you also deliberately train soft skills such as communication skills and teamwork. The practice-integrated concept enables a seamless transition into your profession.

What career prospects does the degree offer you?

The Bachelor’s degree in Social Work (B.A.) qualifies you for diverse fields of work in public, non-profit, and private institutions. Typical areas of activity include:

• Child and youth welfare
• Family counselling
• Work with people with disabilities
• School social work
• Addiction support and offender support
• Integration projects
• Care for the elderly
• Corporate social work

With the state-recognised degree, you are authorised to work as a social worker. The practical qualification enables a quick entry into the profession and numerous specialisation opportunities.

Where can you complete the dual degree in Social Work?

SRH University offers the dual degree at several locations. Current study locations are:

• Berlin
• Dresden
• Fürth
• Hamm
• Heidelberg
• Cologne
• From 2026 additionally in Leipzig and Munich (in accreditation)

The study content and time models may vary slightly depending on the location.

What costs should you expect – and how is it financed?

The monthly tuition fees differ depending on the campus and amount to:

• Dresden, Fürth: €550 per month
• Berlin, Heidelberg, Leipzig: €590 per month
• Hamm, Cologne, Munich: €690 per month

In addition, there is a one-time enrolment fee of €750 (or €1,000 for international students without a settlement permit). In the dual study model, the practice partner usually covers the tuition fees – this provides financial relief during your studies. No additional examination fees apply.

For living expenses, further financing options such as BAföG, scholarships or education loans may also be available.