The undergraduate study of Social Work (BA) at the University of Applied Sciences Ludwigshafen is characterised by its special focus: social work is understood here as critical science, which is centrally grounded in social inequality and refers in its work on social matters to society at large. In this context, the degree programme deals with how education, law, sociology, economics, and philosophy in general contribute to answering the question of when and why a social fact becomes a social ‘problem’. Such a subject- as well as (social) structure-oriented perspective on the development of key competences for study and practice is intended to teach students about abstract thinking. This prepares them for further studies in the Master’s degree programme (e.g., the research-oriented Master’s in Social Work at the Ludwigshafen University of Applied Sciences).

Right from the first semester, students can put together their own timetable from a large number of parallel groups and elective seminars. The scheduling of the attendance times and the option to study beyond the standard period of study allow for individual and flexible studying, in which at the same time they can focus on their own specialisations. Starting in the fourth study semester, there are seven specialisations (see above) to choose from, which provide a substantive focus, but do not specify a field of activity after graduation. During a practical study semester, students test their knowledge and skills. Thus, under the conditions of professional practice of social work, they receive important stimuli for their further studies and/or their professional activities.

General higher education entrance qualification, or subject-specific higher education entrance qualification

or

vocational training with a qualified result of at least 2.5

or

further vocational qualification through a Master craftsman's examination or comparable examination without grade point average