The course provides a unique integrated and highly flexible course, with opportunities for professional and academic study and development towards a range of professional post-qualifying and academic awards ultimately leading to the Professional Doctorate in Social Work & Emotional Wellbeing.

The academic standard of this Professional Doctorate is equivalent to a conventional PhD, but it enables advanced and intensive learning and research to be rooted in professional practice. Thus it contributes to the professional development of the individual and the wider professional community. The intermediate qualifications similarly support both professional and academic development.

Students on the course undertake work discussion and supervised practice within any of three settings (clinical practice, management/consultation and education/training). They also study theory, observation, policy and research methods. Completion of the doctoral course involves writing an original thesis on an area of professional practice.