Example social work training dissertation topic 3:

A change in career: A transition to social work from previous employment – the student’s experience

This dissertation looks at the experience of two trainee social workers who have embarked on a change of career during their 30s. The two students in question are both studying at Manchester Metropolitan University and have given full consent to this study. Notwithstanding issues of ethics and data protection this dissertation provides a unique insight to the challenges and difficulties faced by those who seek to enter the profession after a previous career. Through being based in both theory and practical realities this dissertation makes not only a valuable contribution to existing academic literature but could also be of use to those who, in the future, are also contemplating a change of career into social work.

Suggested initial topic reading:

• Collins, S., Coffey, M. and Morris, L. (2010) ‘Social work students: Stress, support and well-being’ British Journal of Social Work, Vol. 40(3), pp. 963-982.
• Crisp, B.R. and Maidment, J. (2009) ‘Swapping roles or swapping desks? When experienced practitioners become students on placement’, Learning in Health and Social Care, Vol. 8(3), pp. 165-174.