Children's social workers To work with children as a qualified social worker, staff must hold a Diploma in Social Work (DipSW) or an equivalent social work qualification such as a BA honours degree in social work. These degree courses have replaced the DipSW programmes, though the diploma and its equivalents are still recognised as professional qualifications. The full-time degree course takes three years, but graduate entrants can apply to take a masters degree in social work, which generally takes two years. Applicants with relevant work experience and the minimum academic criteria can apply to the Regional Trainee Scheme, where students...