Faculty-led Program in England & Scotland

SW 3159/5159: Comparative Social Work Practice in the US and UK (3 Credit Hours)

• This course will count towards elective credit for both undergraduate and graduate social work students.
• Although the course will specifically focus on social work practice, this course is open to students of all majors.  Students from other programs are encouraged to participate but should obtain approval from their department for this course to count towards their specific major or minor requirements.
• Talk to your academic advisor about how this course would work for you!

This course will introduce students to social work practices in the United Kingdom (U.K.). Students will be familiarized with U.K. social work approaches to various social welfare areas such as child welfare, mental health, homelessness, foster care, and geriatrics, allowing for comparing and contrasting of social work practices in the U.S. and U.K.

No prerequisites. All majors welcome. Participation in this program requires several class meetings throughout the spring semester, although participants will be enrolled into a summer course. Please contact the program's course leaders for more information on academic requirements.  

NOTES:

• The Study Abroad Center will enroll participants in the course. 
• Students planning to participate in the spring commencement ceremony in May can enroll in this summer term program, however, their degree will not be conferred until the end of the summer term and is contingent on the successful completion of the program and all required coursework.

Embark on a transformative journey through England and Scotland to explore social work practices in diverse settings. This immersive study abroad program offers firsthand engagement with community organizations tackling real-world issues from poverty and child welfare to addiction and geriatric care. Planned highlights include visits to an animal-assisted therapy farm, frontline services serving a variety of populations across the field of social work, and campus engagement with the social work program. Group reflections and cultural excursions, including famous London highlights, Alnwick Castle, and Edinburgh’s historic charm, deepen understanding and inspire global perspectives on equity, care, and social justice.

Studying abroad offers rich cultural immersion, but it may also involve unfamiliar sensory experiences. You might encounter new sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and environmental conditions that differ significantly from what you're used to. These can be exciting but also overwhelming for some individuals, especially those with sensory sensitivities. We encourage all participants to approach these experiences with curiosity and adaptability. If you have sensory sensitivities or specific concerns, please reach out to program staff.

Students will stay in hotels and hostels arranged by the Study Abroad Center while abroad. The cost of these housing accommodations are included in the “Program Cost” line item of the program cost estimate. A few meals are built into the “Program Cost” (example: all breakfasts at hotels and some additional group meals). Students will pay for the remaining meals out-of-pocket while traveling and are encouraged to try the local foods.

Health Preparation for Studying Abroad

Studying abroad is an exciting opportunity, but it also requires careful planning—especially when it comes to your health. To ensure a safe and successful experience, we strongly recommend the following steps:

1. Talk to Your Healthcare Provider Early
At the time you are selecting your study abroad program, schedule an appointment with your primary care provider or specialist to discuss:

• Medication Legality: Some prescription and over-the-counter medications that are legal in the U.S. may be restricted or illegal in other countries. Your provider can help you determine if your medications are permitted in your destination and suggest alternatives if needed.
• Chronic Conditions or Health Concerns: Discuss how your health needs might be affected by travel, climate, time zone changes, or access to care abroad.
• Mental Health Support: If you are currently receiving mental health care, talk with your provider about how to maintain support while abroad.

2. Schedule a Travel Health Consultation (6–8 Weeks Before Departure)
A separate travel health consultation is essential and should be held at least 6–8 weeks before your departure. During this appointment, a travel medicine specialist can:

• Review your destination-specific health risks
• Recommend or administer necessary vaccines
• Provide guidance on food and water safety
• Prescribe medications for travel-related illnesses (e.g., malaria, traveler’s diarrhea)
• Offer tips for managing jet lag, altitude, and other travel-related challenges

These appointments can be held at the UNI Student Health Clinic. For more information on their services, please visit their website.

Accessibility and Study Abroad: Plan Ahead for a Smooth Experience

If you are a student with a disability or accessibility concern—whether related to mobility, learning, mental health, chronic health conditions, or other needs—we encourage you to connect with Student Accessibility Services (SAS) as early as possible, ideally during the program selection process. Early communication allows our team to understand your specific needs and preferences and explore available accommodations in your host country.

Accessibility resources and standards can vary widely by country, so advance planning is essential to help us advocate for your needs and create a positive, inclusive experience abroad.

Reach out to Student Accessibility Services to start a conversation. The sooner we know, the more we can do to support you.

A faculty-led study abroad program combines academic learning with cultural immersion, guided by university faculty. Students earn credit through hands-on experiences and site visits tailored to the destination. The program fosters a strong sense of community through shared housing, group activities, and cultural events, creating lasting bonds among participants. This type of program has limited individual free time and days will be spent primarily with other group members. If you are interested in a more individualized program experience, we encourage you to check out our partner university summer school opportunities.

Study abroad is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be challenged by new experiences in new environments and cultures. UNI study abroad programs are designed to prioritize educational opportunities for students. Students are encouraged to embrace the adventure of exploring how housing, meals, and daily routines differ abroad.

Meet Your Advisor:

Jamie is a full time study abroad advisor who will help you throughout the application process to England and Scotland, including documentation, finances, scholarships, and more. From your first steps meeting until you take off for your new adventure, Jamie will help you every step of the way. 

Identities Abroad

The Study Abroad Center (SAC) wants to support you as you prepare for your study abroad experience. In addition to course planning and arranging accommodations, it is also important to engage in personal reflection before your departure. There may be certain aspects of your identity that could potentially impact your international experience in ways that you have not faced or thought about previously. As we are here to help guide you, you may want to consider meeting with the SAC staff to discuss this as you plan your abroad experience. Please visit our Identities Abroad page for more information and help.

Entry and Exit Requirements 

• Review and follow the travel recommendations of the U.S. State Department for travel to the United Kingdom