Frequently asked questions

• Do I need social care experience before I can apply?
• I don’t meet the entry requirements, what should I do?
• I have a criminal record, can I still apply?
• I have dyslexia / a medical condition / a mental health difficulty, who can I speak to for advise?

Do I need social care experience before I can apply?

Ideally, all applicants should have some level of experience, whether it’s voluntary or paid. It may even be experience you can reflect upon where you supported a relative or friend through a particular situation or difficult period.

I don’t meet the entry requirements, what should I do?

It’s a good idea to speak with your local FE college about courses such as ‘Access to Higher Education or Health and Social Care’ or NVQs in Health and Social Care. We can advise you as to which FE colleges in your area provide these courses, which are usually One year full-time or two years part-time.

I have a criminal record, can I still apply?

You will need to declare you have a criminal conviction on your application form and complete a criminal record check. If you are concerned about whether your criminal conviction will prevent you from becoming a social worker, please call the course team, on 01494 522 141, who will offer confidential advice on how to proceed.

I have dyslexia / a medical condition / a mental health difficulty, who can I speak to for advise?

As part of our commitment to widening access and participation, our Disability Service offers advice, guidance and information to both current and prospective students with a disability. We are happy to discuss issues relating to support for your studies and your individual needs at any stage of the application process.

For further information and guidance, just go to bucks.ac.uk/disabilities. Alternatively, email disability.service@bucks.ac.uk or call us on 01494 605 049. Typetalk users please call 01494 522 141.

Contact us

If you have a question that we’ve not answered here, or you’d like more information about the ones we have, please call us on 01494 603 171