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Chief Social Work Officer Qualification

The Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) worked with universities and other stakeholders to develop a qualification for Chief Social Work Officers (CSWO).

The CSWO postgraduate diploma is delivered by Glasgow Caledonian University, working in partnership with the University of Dundee. It is approved by the SSSC.

The qualification is tailored to the learning needs of CSWOs and offers candidates:

  • a flexible, work-based, part time programme, encouraging a synthesis of current knowledge and skills with exciting new learning.
  • the opportunity to enhance their skills and knowledge.
  • a chance to have their existing skills and abilities recognised and accredited.

It is aimed specifically at those currently in the CSWO role or who aspire to the role.

The qualification is underpinned by the Standard for Chief Social Work Officers and attracts 120 credits at Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) level 11. Beyond the postgraduate diploma, there is also an option to proceed to a Masters.

Learning from the Chief Social Work Officer qualification

"The CSWO Standard aims to reflect the roles and responsibilities of CSWOs and is intended to be a reference point for CSWOs and to be the foundation for the delivery and assessment of the Postgraduate Diploma Chief Social Work Officer."

(The Standard for Chief Social Work Officers, SSSC 2015)

"This new qualification is a significant step to strengthening leadership of the sector in Scotland."

(Alan Baird, Chief Social Work Adviser, 2015)