The Diploma in Social Work is an academic and professional qualification where you will experience an integration of practice and research. Social workers are vital in working with other professionals to support some of society’s most vulnerable citizens. The subject matter is interdisciplinary, derived from psychology, sociology, social policy, law, and social work studies.

Why Study Diploma in Social Work at Sierra College?

This innovative and accelerated Diploma in Social Work course offers the opportunity to engage with an intensive and immersive program of teaching and learning that integrates practice placements. Throughout the program, you will develop into a competent and enthusiastic social work practitioner ready to engage with the rigors of this dynamic and exciting profession. This program offers an accelerated route to becoming a professional social worker for highly motivated individuals or career changers looking for new challenges and opportunities. You will be able to develop into an excellent and valued social worker who can work in all statutory social work settings and a wide variety of private and voluntary workplaces in Sierra Leone and abroad. You will also be able to take advantage of high-quality placements in both adult and children’s services. Practice placements will be delivered in carefully planned and supervised hybrid arrangements with face-to-face and online elements.

Teaching and learning will be interactive and blended, using online platforms and on-campus, face-to-face skills classes.

Careers

How can the Diploma in Social Work support your career? Once qualified, our graduates have gone on to work as Social Workers in a range of settings, working closely with vulnerable people from groups such as:

• Senior citizens

• Teenagers with mental health problems

• Young offenders

• Adults with learning disabilities, mental health problems, or physical disabilities

• People with alcohol, drug, or other substance misuse problems

• Children who are at risk of abuse or neglect

Our Social Work graduates have gone on to work in local authorities, charities, voluntary sector organizations, and private/independent sector organizations, with many finding employment with our placement partners across the country.

Program Structure

Year 1

Year one is the foundational course, equipping students with knowledge of social work theory, principles, ethics and values, and techniques in social work. The legal framework for child protection is also covered.

• Semester One: Six modules, including a compulsory fieldwork module. Students are required to complete five core modules and one elective module.

• Semester Two: Six modules, including a compulsory fieldwork module. Students must complete five core modules and one elective module.

Year 2

Year two builds on the foundational courses of year one, providing further in-depth knowledge of social work practice, social work methods, continuum of care, and understanding of supportive supervision.

• Semester Three: Five core courses, three required courses, and one elective module.

• Semester Four: Students undertake a field practicum by initiating a community project. A Mini Research Project is required to pass the diploma course.

In addition, successful completion of the qualification will facilitate continued learning towards a social work qualification or any other social development practice in Sierra Leone. Graduates will be eligible for registration with the appropriate Sierra Leone statutory body regulating social development services and practitioners.

Course Modules

First Semester

Second Semester

Third Semester

Fourth Semester

Prospective Employment or Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Social Work Program at Sierra College can pursue careers in various roles, including:

• Activist

• Addictions Counselor

• Art Therapist

• Career Counselor

• Case Manager

• Charity Organization Director

• Child Protective Services Worker

• Children’s Rights Advocate

• Community Centre Director

• Community Developer

• Disability Counselor

• Employment Advisor

• Family Counselor

• Family Mediator

• Foreign Service Worker

• Foster Care Supervisor

• Fundraiser

• Hospital Social Worker

• Hospital Discharge Planner

• Housing Facilitator

• Human Rights Worker

• Gerontology Social Worker

• Government Worker

• Group Therapist

• Legal Aid Worker

• Marriage Counselor

• Mental Health Counselor

• NGO Worker or Director

• Policy Advisor

• Rehabilitation Consultant

• School Social Worker

• Social Worker

• Women’s Rights Advocate