Bachelor of Social Work now available through OP

Thursday, 13 September 2012, 10:02 am
Press Release: Open Polytechnic

Date: 13 September 2012

Bachelor of Social Work now available through Open Polytechnic

The Open Polytechnic is currently accepting applications from potential students for their new Bachelor of Social Work. Delivered by distance learning, the first courses are scheduled to be available from November 2012.

The Bachelor of Social Work is intended for those who are employed in the social services sector, or who would like to gain a formal qualification in this field, and provides the necessary skills and knowledge to pathway to registration as a social worker.

“This qualification will provide the skills and experience needed for a rewarding career in social work. Because it is delivered by distance learning it means that people already working in the industry, or employers who wish to upskill their staff, will be able to fit their studies in around work commitments,” says Open Polytechnic Chief Executive Dr. Caroline Seelig.

Made up of 480 credits, the degree can be completed by part-time learning, or four years of full-time study. The qualification incorporates face-to-face components – and includes three workshops, 120 days of work experience, one week of voluntary work, and two noho marae visits - providing students with a sound combination of theoretical and practical knowledge from social sciences and social work theory.

The Open Polytechnic’s Bachelor of Social Work will deliver a current and relevant programme approach and pedagogy with a strong national focus. Graduates will gain the knowledge to help provide a better understanding of community and social issues and can expect to work in a variety of settings including schools, hospitals, retirement homes, family homes, refugee centres, Marae, government agencies, and community forums.

The Open Polytechnic is New Zealand’s specialist provider of distance learning and one of the largest polytechnics in the country. Each year the Open Polytechnic enrols around 41,000 mainly adult learners who are fitting their studies in around work and other commitments to upskill themselves for current or future careers.

For more information on the Bachelor of Social Work, or to enrol, go to: http://www.openpolytechnic.ac.nz/socialwork

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