Social Services
The Degree Programme in Social Services is suitable for those who want to work with people and enhance the social security and functional integrity of both the individual and the family unit.
With different specialization as a graduate, you can work in day care centres, in foster care and youth institutions, as well as organisations. You can also work as personnel for home service duties and the care of the elderly, the handicapped, and those suffering from alcohol and substance abuse.
The work involves supporting, counselling, and providing information to clients in addition to planning, coordinating and developing relevant activities. The programme use problem based learning (PBL) to realise its aims.
Focus on competence
Problem based learning as a resource in working life
Upon completion of studies the student is expected to be able to identify problem areas and formulate questions in different reality based situations in working life. These questions will be a foundation upon which to actively elaborate significant topics. In solving problems the students consistently reflect on the connection between theory and practice. The student has an ability for self-directive learning. The student shows responsibility in the context of professional teamwork. PBL strengthens the student´s ability to manage project work.
Social educational work
The student upon completion of studies is able to identify an individual´s resources and needs in different life situations. She or he is able to meet the client and client groups in a professional way in different social educational activities. The student has a strong readiness to act in order to inspire, support and strengthen an individual´s scope and ability to participate in and control life situations. Moreover the student has a readiness to provide educational leadership. The student also understands changes in society and strengthens her or his readiness and boldness to influence and develop life conditions for individuals at risk. The student knows the social service system and works for the wellbeing and social security of the client.
Gerontology – ageing from an interdisciplinary perspective
Upon completion of studies the student understands ageing and the living conditions of older people in the society of today. The student is able to professionally meet older people in different life situations and fields of activity. The student can supervise, inspire and support the elderly in coping with their lives in terms of their individual needs and resources. The student is able to collaborate and perceive the value of collaboration with relatives and professional occupational groups in the gerontology field. The student can also promote the participation and welfare of older people in society.
Leadership, Change and Development within Service Production in Social and Health Care
The student upon completion of studies is aware of different models for organizations and leadership, and understands how these arise and have an impact on employees. The student is able to indentify the difference between the culture and the structure of the organization, and factors that have an influence in maintaining the culture and structure. The student controls the different stages of project work: planning, structuring, implementing and reporting, and also evaluating. The student is able to plan and develop welfare services and is also prepared to lead activities within the field. The student is aware of and understands why and how work to promote equality is carried out within organizations.
