Study Guide

Description

A description of the field and the area of work targeted by the competence outlined in the curriculum

The foundational values of the Bachelor’s Degree Program in Social Work are rooted in the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights and the ethical guidelines and principles of the International Federation of Social Workers (IFSW). These values encompass human dignity and justice, respect for individual autonomy and privacy, promotion of social inclusion within communities and society, resistance against discrimination and violence, and the reduction of poverty. The fundamental societal values in social work include social justice and the promotion of equality and democracy.

The bedrock of a social worker’s professional identity lies in an awareness of their understanding of humanity and values, which then informs their actions. The development of a professional identity during education contributes to resilience in the face of work challenges. The educational process places particular emphasis on ethics, community, the formation of a robust social work professional identity, and the cultivation of professional agency.

In addition to being central theoretical foundations in social work education, participation and dialogical approaches also guide pedagogical perspectives. Community-oriented, dialogical, and coaching pedagogy is evident in collaborative learning methods, as well as an open and immediate culture of interaction between students and educators. The individuality of each student is taken into account based on their prior studies, goals, choices, and recognition of responsibility. The process of professional growth focuses on the construction of a self-directed and community-oriented social worker’s professional identity—one that is responsible, reflective, ethically sound, and skilled in interpersonal communication.

Qualifications:

A graduate with a degree in social work works as a licensed social care professional under the supervision of the National Supervisory Authority for Welfare and Health (Valvira). In social work studies, one can choose early childhood education courses that lead to eligibility as an early childhood education social worker according to the Early Childhood Education Act (540/2018, §27). The eligibility requirements for early childhood education social work include at least a bachelor’s degree in social and health care, which includes a minimum of 60 credits in early childhood education and social pedagogy, as specified in more detail by a decree of the Finnish Government, or a social work degree supplemented with the mentioned studies.

Employment Outcomes for Graduates:

Social work education prepares graduates to work in various professional roles within the field of social services. However, the specific content of the education may vary slightly depending on the focus areas of different universities of applied sciences. A social worker (sosionomi) can work in areas such as early childhood education, family support, child protection, youth work, well-being services in schools, adult social work, criminal justice, substance abuse and mental health services, disability support, special education, elderly care, and multicultural services.

Social workers may find employment in the public, private, or third sectors (e.g., non-governmental organizations). Job titles can include social worker, service coordinator, service manager, social service advisor, children’s home supervisor, substance abuse and mental health counselor, and early childhood social worker. Some social workers also hold leadership positions in social, educational, and rehabilitation units, particularly as supervisors or team leaders in institutions, residential facilities, or day activity centers.

Structure of Education and the Competence It Brings:

The foundation of social work studies is based on nationally agreed-upon areas of competence. These areas include ethical competence in social work, client work competence, service system competence, critical and participatory societal competence, research and development competence, and leadership competence. The content of the studies is primarily rooted in social and societal sciences. Additionally, the curriculum emphasizes the application of educational, psychological, cultural, physical education, and health science knowledge. In social work education, students also learn about information retrieval, communication, languages, research and development activities, as well as management and entrepreneurship.

A Bachelor of Social Services is an expert in social well-being work, encompassing assistance and support for individuals, as well as promoting human growth and development. Sosionomis enhance people’s everyday coping skills, guide them towards necessary services, and provide services themselves. They play a role as developers of services and work closely with various client groups.

A Bachelor of Social Services work with people of different ages. As a sosionomi, one has the opportunity to influence holistic well-being, functional capacity, and quality of life for individuals. They actively promote equality among people and ensure social safety through a humane and socially just approach. Bachelor of Social Services strengthen people’s participation in communities and society, contributing to their overall functionality.

Student familiarizes themselves with the professional competence required in various areas of social work during their studies. The goal of the studies is to prepare creative, reflective individuals who appreciate their own expertise and have a strong professional identity in the field of social work.

Implementation of Teaching:

The studies emphasize the integration of theory and practice, as well as an investigative approach. Throughout the studies, theories and researched knowledge are applied in practical internships, projects, and development tasks. Students can also deepen their skills in interaction, guidance, investigative methods, and expertise related to social work tasks during internships and project work.

Annual Themes and Competence Across Years:

During the first year of study, the foundation for social work is established. The themes covered in the studies include the theoretical fundamentals of social work, interpersonal encounters, communication, social worker-client interactions, as well as citizenship and membership in society. Throughout the year, students learn various methods of social work with clients and acquire the ability to support clients’ goal-oriented life management. Students also gain an understanding of the societal responsibilities and ethical basis of social work.

In the second year, the focus shifts to social phenomena, competence in the social and healthcare service system, and ethical client work. Alternative professional studies commence, allowing students to develop specialized skills and plan their career paths. Students become proficient in utilizing different forms and methods of social work, while also evaluating and enhancing them. Practical training provides students with professional, theoretically grounded expertise. Additionally, international exchange opportunities are available during this stage of studies.

The third year emphasizes investigative development in social work, working in multifaceted operational environments, as well as competence in teamwork, leadership, and entrepreneurship. During this year, students design and execute projects aligned with TAMK’s strategic goals and workplace needs. Students also complete a work-life-oriented thesis that demonstrates their capacity for developmental and research-oriented approaches.

By the end of the third and fourth years of study, students are equipped to work in various social work roles. These roles involve guiding clients or client groups purposefully, even in demanding and complex situations and contexts. The social worker’s leadership competence is further enhanced through applied internships, and students graduate prepared to transition into professional social work roles.

Objectives

The defined competencies for social work education at the national level include the following: Ethical Competence in Social Work, Client Work Competence, Social Service System Competence, Critical and Participatory Social Competence, Research, Development, and Innovation Competence, Workplace, Leadership, and Entrepreneurship Competence. These competencies are integrated into the curriculum and guide the implementation of education.

Curriculum development and working life cooperation

The curriculum is discussed twice a year in meetings of the Social Services Council. Ongoing collaboration with the working life (including practical training implementation and project work) provides additional information about the changing operating environment and the needs of the workforce. The curriculum has been approved by the 30.4.2024 University Council.

The curriculum takes into account Finland’s social and health policy programs, future challenges, and TAMK’s strategy. It also considers key legislation related to social services, such as the Early Childhood Education Act (540/2018) and the Government Decree on Early Childhood Education (753/2018), nationally defined social work competencies, Tampere University Community’s shared competencies, and the National Qualifications Framework (NQF).