StudiumFachbereicheGesellschaftswissenschaften und SozialwissenschaftenSozialwissenschaftenInternational Social WorkThH FriedensauProfilMaster
Course Profile

International Social Work

Theologische Hochschule Friedensau / ThH Friedensau
Bachelor of Arts / Bachelor of Arts
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Professional understanding of social problems

Our Bachelor’s International Social Work (ISW) program offers students the expertise to become social workers without borders. Placing emphasis on our global interconnectedness, students get a chance to explore local social problems from global perspectives, while also appreciating their local context. Our students learn to connect and empower individuals, groups and communities. We address current social issues, such as migration and refugees, sustainability, child protection, human rights and social development.

Why should you choose this study program?

You believe in social justice, enjoy problem-solving, are compassionate and adventurous, you are interested in new cultures, and see yourself, at some point, working outside your home country?
If some of these apply to you, send us your application!

International Learning and Living Community

  • Students and lecturers from over 40 different countries
  • Small classes
  • Lecturers that offer personal coaching and mentoring
  • International, green and eco-friendly campus
  • Various religious and spiritual activities offered on campus

Contact

Head of study program International Social Work
Dr. Phil. Annette Witherspoon
Phone: 03921 916-137
E-Mail: annette.witherspoon@thh-friedensau.de

To website >

 

Study Plan

First Year

Introductory Modules provide the foundation for appreciating the field of International Social Work, establishing the theoretical and Practical basis for academic and professional success.

  • Sociology
  • Introduction to International Social Work
  • Academic Writing and Rhetoric
  • Group Dynamics and guidance
  • Comparative Social welfare Systems
  • Development poverty and Global Inequalities
  • Ethics, Values and Religion
  • International perspectives on Inclusion and Exclusion

Second Year

Build on foundation and dive deeper into contemporary social issues and intervention approaches

  • Social Research Methods
  • Migration and Refugee practice;
  • Sustainability and Society;
  • Family and child welfare;
  • Conflict, Violence and Peacebuilding;
  • Global Pandemics and ISW practice;

Third Year

Professional development

  • Semester Abroad including Internship
  • BA Action research project

Module Handbook >

Contact

Head of study program International Social Work
Dr. Phil. Annette Witherspoon
Phone: 03921 916-137
E-Mail: annette.witherspoon@thh-friedensau.de

To website >

 

Multiple Career prospects

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

Contact

Head of study program International Social Work
Dr. Phil. Annette Witherspoon
Phone: 03921 916-137
E-Mail: annette.witherspoon@thh-friedensau.de

To website >

 

University Entrance Qualification

For studying the Bachelor’s program, a University entrance qualification is required.

  • Applicants from Germany are qualified with an “Abitur” or “Fachgebundene Hochschulreife”. Applicants without Abitur, but who have successfully completed a vocational training can be admitted under certain conditions via an assessment examination or two semesters of trial studying. For details see §3 in the program specific study regulations.
  • Applicants from the EU or Iceland, Lichtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland are qualified with a university entrance qualification that gives access to University studies in their country.
  • Applicants from other countries can check in the official database of the DAAD if their educational degree qualifies for studying a B.A. in Germany.
  • See DAAD Database

Please note: The University signs study contracts for this Bachelor’s program only with applicants who are at least 18 years old.

Language Requirements

Applicants must provide proof of their proficiency in English at the B2 level (CEFR). The following proofs are accepted:

  • The specified minimum English language tests scores from
    • TOEFL iBT: 72
    • IELTS test: 5.5
    • Cambridge English Tests: Total score 160
    • TOIC: 785 listening and reading, 310 speaking and writing
  • A university entrance qualification (e.g. secondary school diploma and certificate) or higher education degree (e.g. bachelors) with English as the language of instruction.
  • German Abitur certificate with a minimum average of 10 points in English over the last 4 semesters before obtaining the Abitur.
  • Upon written request, in individual cases, the examination committee may accept other forms of proof.

Visa

  • Applicants who need a student visa to come to Germany have to open a block account and pay in the minimum amount of money (in 2024: 11208 Euro). They can withdraw from this account each month a twelfth (934 Euro) for their living and study expenses.
  • See Website of the Federal Foreign Office
  • An alternative to a block account is a letter of obligation (“Verpflichtungserklärung”): A family member or friend who already lives in Germany can declare to be financially responsible for you while you study in Germany (if the conditions for this are fulfilled).

Application Procedure

  1. Check academic and financial requirements for admission
  2. Start online application and upload required documents
  3. Submit a completed online application
  4. Check for confirmation email
  5. Receive an admission decision
  6. Make an appointment at the embassy if you need a student visa
  7. Pay tuition fees and deposits
  8. Receive an admission letter and other documents for the embassy
  9. Apply for visa (if applicable)
  10. Arrive on Campus

Contact

Head of study program International Social Work
Dr. Phil. Annette Witherspoon
Phone: 03921 916-137
E-Mail: annette.witherspoon@thh-friedensau.de

To website >