Internationalisation and Social Work 7.5 credits
About the course
This course critically examines relevant questions related to social work in an international context.
It discusses the global processes that shape social work practices and determine the nature of the social issues examined. The course explores different theories of global social work and discourses on social issues, vulnerabilities and interventions within social work, and it critically examines the implications of international theoretical and practical applications.
The course also examines social work in different global socio-political contexts by mapping the structures, cultures and ideologies underlying the different ways in which social work and its professional development are organised. Different models for social work are discussed and contextualised, for example individual-oriented work and international social work.
The course also addresses theoretical perspectives, such as the globalisation of social problems, social justice, oppression, social development, empowerment and anti-discriminatory practices, which enable the ability to critically reflect on the practices of international social work.
It discusses the challenges facing education in social work. It examines the international guidelines for social work and the diversification of social work. It also discusses whether there are or should be universal values applicable to social work (regardless of whether these are reflected in current ethics documents). The course includes a reflection on cultural relativity and multicultural practice in relation to social work.
Apply
-
Spring 2026
-
Internationalisation and Social Work
Second admissions round for EU/EEA citizens
Spring 2026 / Varied / English / Web-based (online)
Application opens 15 September 2025Show more Show less
Starts19 February 2026
Ends23 March 2026
Number of credits7.5 credits
Type of studiesWeb-based (online)
Mandatory meetings3
Other meetingsNone
Study pace100%
Teaching hoursDaytime
Study locationVaried
LanguageEnglish
Application codeUMU-28504
Outline for distance courseThe mandatory meetings take place digitally via Zoom. Other teaching is given via the Canvas learning platform in the form of recorded lectures, web-based seminars and exercises.
Eligibility A minimum of 90 ECTS within the social sciences education in the following subjects: social work, sociology, Psychology, Peace and conflict studies, pedagogic, Gender Studies and social geography, Political science, Law/legal Science or in other courses that are considered equal to thus above, including an individual essay carrying at least 15 credits or 90 ECTS within nursing including an individual essay carrying at least 15 credits. In addition, English is required for basic eligibility for higher education.SelectionAcademic credits
ApplicationThe online application opens 15 September 2025 at 09:00 CET. Application deadline is 15 October 2025. Please note: This second application round is intended only for EU/EEA/Swiss citizens.
Application and tuition feesAs a citizen of a country outside the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland, you are required to pay application and tuition fees for studies at Umeå University.
Application fee: SEK 900
Tuition fee, first instalment: SEK 12,075
Total fee: SEK 12,075
-
How to apply
Apply online via universityadmissions.se
You apply to our programmes and courses via universityadmissions.se – the official website for higher education applications in Sweden. There, you can track your application, check that your documents have been registered, and log in to find our your admission results.
Late applications
Admissions to most programmes and courses typically close after the final application deadline. However, some programmes and courses may still accept late applications if seats are available. These are marked “Open for late application” on universityadmissions.se. Please note that late applications are not guaranteed to be reviewed.
More about application and admission
Explore your future at Umeå University
Join a vibrant academic community where high-quality education meets groundbreaking research in science, technology, humanities, and the arts. At Umeå University, you will learn from passionate, expert teachers and benefit from a close connection between research, education, collaboration, and innovation.
-
World's most satisfied international students
#1 globally in the main categories of Living, Support, and Overall Satisfaction.
-
A university with health at its core
Umeå University is certified as a Healthy Campus, with many initiatives that promote health and well-being.
Questions about the course?
Good to know
How to apply
A step-by-step guide to apply for studies at Umeå University.
International Student Guide
Essential information for your journey to Umeå and your studies here.
Study guidance
A study counsellor can help you with many of your study-related questions.