Friedensau Adventist University

Bachelor of Arts in International Social Work

First Year

Introductory modules lay the foundation for understanding the field of International Social Work, establishing both theoretical and practical bases for academic and professional success.

The first year introduces you to International Social Work and provides a sociological perspective on society, its inequalities, and contemporary social problems. You will learn academic writing, improve your rhetoric skills, and reflect on the role of ethics, values, and religion.

Second Year

In the second year, you build upon the foundation and delve deeper into contemporary social issues and intervention approaches. You explore the tools and methods that social workers use, along with social research methods. Additionally, you enhance your communication skills and focus on topics such as migration, development, and human rights.

Third Year

The third year starts with a 4-month internship abroad, offering practical experience in international social work. Here you can apply your existing knowledge and learn from professionals in a new context. The Bachelor’s Thesis provides an opportunity to demonstrate your analytical skills or implement a small research project. In addition to these, elective modules enable you to further explore topics of personal interest.

Study Plan

1st Semester

• Sociology
• Academic Writing
• Introduction to International Social Work
• Introduction to Working Fields in ISW

2nd Semester

• International Perspectives on Exclusion and Inclusion
• Ethics, Values and Religion
• Development, Poverty and Global Inequalities
• Comparative Social Welfare Systems
• Methods, Procedures and Techniques

3rd Semester

• Fundamentals of Mental Experience and Action
• Social Research Methods
• Communication
• Policy and Social Work in a Global Context

4th Semester

• Development and Humanitarianism in Practice
• Migration and Refugees
• Human Rights
• Elective

5th Semester

• International Exchange Semester and Internship
• Elective

6th Semester

• Bachelor Thesis
• Sustainability and Society
• Elective

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Our graduates are prepared to work in local and international job positions that require a professional understanding of social problems. They have the skills and abilities to manage social processes and support individuals, groups, and communities. Graduates may work within government, nongovernment or multilateral social protection and development institutions. They may also work in the private sector to support and facilitate employee welfare, or continue their studies within a Master's degree program.
Our program considers current and emerging needs in the field of Social Work. You prepare for a career in a field of growing relevance. You get international exposure, hands-on practice and social research experience; develop innovative problem-solving and project management skills. You have access to our global network of international partners for a semester abroad.

Fields of work

• Children, Youth, Adult and Elderly Social Work in culturally diverse settings
• Community Development
• Social Work in Refugee Contexts
• International Development
• Disaster Response Programs
• Environmental Social Work
• Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Management in the private sector