STUDY PROGRAMS: SOCIAL CARE
STUDY PROGRAMS: SOCIAL CARE
STUDIES FUNDED EXCLUSIVELY BY THE STATE BUDGET
Qualification: Social Care Worker
Code of study program: 41762
Length of studies: 2 years, 120 ECTS
Level of Education: short cycle professional higher education
Studies are conducted: in Jūrmala (Vidus prospekts 38, Bulduri) and at the Rēzekne Branch (N. Rancāna Street 23a, Rēzekne)
Mode of studies: full-time attendance
Previous education: secondary school
Head of study program: MEd Ina Vīksniņa
DESCRIPTION OF SPECIALTY
A social care worker is a professional who plans and provides social care services for individuals who, due to age or health conditions, are unable to care for themselves or meet their basic needs. Considering the client’s wishes and needs, the social care worker determines whether a comprehensive package of services or individual services is required, organizes and ensures their delivery, and continuously evaluates changes in the client’s ability to care for themselves. Based on these evaluations, the scope and content of services are adjusted accordingly. The social care worker also assesses the client’s satisfaction with the services provided, ensuring that care remains responsive and effective.
Social care workers may be employed in institutions that provide social care services or may work independently as self-employed professionals.
MAIN PROFESSIONAL TASKS OF SOCIAL CARE WORKER
A social care worker evaluates the basic needs of each client by identifying their self-care abilities, diagnosing any lack of basic needs, and assessing the necessity of social care services. The worker plans and organizes the social care services required by the client, determines the scope of services and the people involved, and introduces the client to the conditions for receiving these services. In collaboration with the client, the social care worker develops an individual social care plan, setting goals and tasks, identifying existing and additional resources, and establishing deadlines for implementation.
The worker evaluates the social care services provided, enhances professional knowledge and skills through continuing education, and maintains professional competence. Social care workers operate within multidisciplinary teams, cooperating with other health and social care professionals and institutions, while ensuring confidentiality of information and adhering to non-discriminatory practices.
GOAL OF THE STUDY PROGRAM
The aim of the study program is to prepare qualified and competitive social work specialists who can provide high-quality social care services in line with their professional competencies. Graduates will understand and adhere to the fundamental principles and values of social service provision, as well as identify and organize the necessary resources according to the needs of different client groups and individual requirements.
PRACTICAL IMPLEMENTATION OF STUDY PROGRAM
The implementation of the study program Social Care takes place through a variety of study forms and teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, practical work carried out both individually and in groups, as well as the analysis of practical problems and situations. Practical training is organized both in college classrooms and in social care institutions, where lecturers work with student groups of six to eight participants. During these training sessions, students acquire and strengthen their skills and competences under the guidance of the lecturer.
STUDY COURSES
Introduction to the Specialty and Social Dialogue, General Psychology and Communication, Developmental Psychology Theories, Fundamentals of General and Special Pedagogy, Motivation Theories and the Person‑Centered Approach, Anatomy and Physiology, Civil Protection and First Aid, Research Methodology, Professional Terminology in a Foreign Language, Applied Informatics and Data Processing, Basics of Entrepreneurship and Project Management, Fundamentals of Law and Legal Aspects of Professional Practice, Social Care Service Planning, Social Care I, Social Care II, Fundamentals of Psychiatry and Client Care, Care for Persons with Disabilities, Child Health and Care, Social Gerontology and Client Care, Oncology and Palliative Care, Communication Skills with Client Groups, Social Security and Welfare, Social Services System, Social Work Theories and Methods, Social Work Worldwide and Innovations in the Field, Health Care, Hygiene and Environmental Protection, Principles of Ergonomics and Client Handling, Basics of Massage and Physical Activities, Elective Study Course, Practice, Qualification Practice, Qualification Thesis.
CAREER OPORTUNITIES
Social care services are in high demand in the labor market. Graduates of the program can choose and specialize in providing social services for specific target groups, such as children, seniors, people with disabilities, and others.
FURTHER STUDY OPPORTUNITIES
Graduates of the Social Care study program can continue their education in the bachelor’s study program Social Work.
ERASMUS+ MOBILITY
P. Stradins Medical College of the University of Latvia collaborates with a wide network of Erasmus+ program partners across Europe. While the college does not offer complete study programs in English, it provides diverse and up‑to‑date opportunities for clinical practice and practical training at hospitals, laboratories, within college simulation classes etc. Every year we welcome motivated Erasmus+ students from our partner institutions to gain valuable hands‑on experience with us.
Partner institutions >> LEARN MORE