HAN University

What you'll study

The programme combines practical placement experience with theoretical foundations in social work. You will study topics such as case assessment and intervention, counselling techniques, community development, youth and family work, addiction and mental health support, social policy and law, ethics and professional identity. Modules typically include communication and interviewing skills, systemic family work, methods of social work, risk assessment and safeguarding, diversity and intercultural competence, and applied research methods for practice.

Teaching emphasises learning-by-doing: small-group seminars, skills training in simulation labs, project work with local organisations and several supervised field placements across different social care settings. Students complete an integrated final assignment or graduation project that links theoretical knowledge, research and practical placement experience.

Structure

• Core modules on practice methods, social policy and ethics
• Skills courses in communication, conflict mediation and case management
• Applied research and reflective practice modules
• Progressive field placements with direct client responsibility under supervision
• Capstone graduation assignment demonstrating professional competence

Entry requirements

Entry is normally for applicants who hold a recognised secondary-school diploma that qualifies for higher professional education in the Netherlands (HBO) or an international equivalent. Practical experience in voluntary or paid care work is advantageous. Because the programme is taught in Dutch, applicants must demonstrate proficiency in Dutch (for example by a recognised language certificate or prior Dutch-language schooling); international applicants should check HAN's specific language requirements for the programme.

Admission may include an application form, a motivational statement or portfolio, and an interview or selection assessment to evaluate communication skills and vocational motivation. For placement purposes, students must be willing to obtain any required background checks or certificates of conduct (VOG) as requested by placement organisations.

Career prospects

Graduates qualify for professional roles across the social care sector. Typical job titles include social worker, youth worker, family support worker, community development worker, case manager, addiction or mental-health support worker, and municipal or NGO practitioner. With experience, many graduates move into senior practice roles, coordination or management positions, community project leadership, or policy and advisory roles within local government and social-care organisations.

The applied nature of the degree also provides a route to further study, such as post‑graduate certificates, specialised professional training or master's programmes in fields like social work, social policy or community development.

Why study at HAN University

HAN University places strong emphasis on linking education to regional social-care practice. Students benefit from close cooperation with municipal services, care providers and community organisations, giving access to diverse placement opportunities. Teaching is oriented to workplace skills: small-group coaching, simulation facilities and personalised supervision help develop practical competence and professional judgment.

HAN also integrates applied research and innovation into the curriculum, so students learn to use evidence to inform interventions. The campus environment supports interdisciplinary collaboration with related programmes (healthcare, education, social policy), and there are routes for international exchange for students who meet language requirements. Overall, HAN's Social Work programme aims to produce reflective, ethically-minded practitioners ready to work in complex, real-world social-care settings.