Vilnius University

What you'll study

The programme combines social science theory, legal and policy studies, research methods and hands-on practice. Typical core topics include introductory social work, sociology, developmental and clinical psychology, social policy and welfare systems, ethics and professional standards, social work methods (individual, group and community), and legislation relevant to social services.

• Research and evidence: research methods, statistics and a small-scale empirical project or bachelor thesis to develop analytical skills for evidence-informed practice.
• Practice-focused modules: interviewing and counselling skills, case management, family and child protection work, gerontological social work, mental health support and community development.
• Law and policy: social security systems, child protection law, disability and employment law as they apply to practice in Lithuania and comparative perspectives.
• Professional development: ethics, interdisciplinary teamwork, reflective practice and communication skills for work with service users and institutions.
• Field education: consecutive supervised placements in social service agencies, schools, municipal departments, NGOs or healthcare settings that build practical competence and professional identity.

Programme delivery typically combines lectures, seminars, small-group skills training, supervised field practicum and independent study. Assessment methods include written assignments, reflective portfolios, practical assessments during placements, project work and a final bachelor paper or project.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally need a secondary school leaving qualification or equivalent recognised by Lithuanian authorities. Proficiency in the language of instruction is required — most undergraduate social work provision at Vilnius University is delivered in Lithuanian; applicants to any available English-language tracks or courses must demonstrate English proficiency to the level specified by the university.

• Academic transcripts from secondary education.
• Evidence of language competence in the programme language.
• Some form of selection may be used (e.g. evaluation of grades, motivation statement, interview or entrance test) depending on national admissions procedures.
• Because the programme includes professional placements, a clean criminal record or a police check and health clearances may be required before entering practice settings.

Career prospects

Graduates qualify to work as practising social workers in a wide range of settings. Typical employers and roles include municipal social services, child protection and family support teams, schools (school social worker roles), probation and community rehabilitation services, health and mental-health services, elderly-care services, NGOs and international development organisations.

• Caseworker or case manager in public social services
• Child and family practitioner, child protection worker
• Community development and outreach worker in NGOs or municipal programmes
• Social worker in healthcare settings, hospitals or mental-health services
• Specialist roles in disability services, gerontology or employment support
• Further study: graduates often progress to master's degrees in social work, social policy, counselling, social gerontology or related fields to gain specialist or clinical qualifications.

Why study at Vilnius University

Vilnius University is a nationally prominent institution with a long academic tradition and a strong presence in social sciences and humanities. The Social Work programme emphasises an interdisciplinary approach, combining theory, law and practical skills, and benefits from academic staff engaged in research on welfare, social policy and community practice.

• Emphasis on supervised, real-world placements that connect students with municipal agencies, hospitals and NGOs across Lithuania.
• Opportunities to gain international experience through student mobility schemes and collaborative projects with partner institutions.
• Access to university research centres and seminars that keep teaching informed by current developments in social policy and practice.
• Support services for students, including academic tutors, career guidance and practicum coordination to help transition into professional roles.