Preparedness, Career Aspirations and Professional Practice Concerns: Exploring Perspectives of Graduating Social Work Students

This study explores social work students’ preparedness for professional practice, their future career aspirations, and related concerns. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with students just before the completion of a three-year undergraduate social work programme (BA) at a university in Romania. The findings indicate that students are generally satisfied with their degree, valuing its content and outcomes both professionally and personally. Critically analysing their theoretical learning and placement experiences, participants recognise the importance of theory for understanding professional practice-first during practice placements/fieldwork and later as future professionals. At the same time, they mentioned ambivalence about their preparedness to enter the workforce and reported a range of concerns, including fears of professional failure and emotional strain. Many participants also expressed a strong intention to pursue a master’s programme to further develop their competence and sense of professional preparedness. The findings highlight implications for structuring social work curricula to better support students’ transition into professional practice. Moreover, employers receive information regarding early-career professionals’ expectations about induction, supervision, and continuing professional development opportunities.


Keywords: social work education, social work students, preparedness for practice, career aspirations, Covid-19 pandemic