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Social Work in London

This two-week, faculty-led program in London, England, provides students with a global perspective on social work practice and policy. Through site visits to social service agencies and interactions with UK-based social work professionals and students, participants will explore diverse approaches to addressing social issues such as poverty, mental health and human rights. The program includes pre-departure classes on campus followed by two weeks of immersive learning in London.

Course: SW 3905 for undergraduate students (4 credits) or SW 5905 for graduate students (4 credits)

Program Dates:

  • Three on-campus lecture/class meetings on May 6, 8 and 13, 2025
  • Travel to London, UK:  May 17 - May 31, 2025

Application Deadline: January 1, 2025

For more information contact:

Kareen Tonsing, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Social Work, [email protected]

Students will travel to London, one of the most dynamic and culturally diverse cities in the world, where they will explore various social service agencies, engage in discussions with local social work students and professionals and participate in culturally enriching activities. The program includes site visits to government and non-governmental organizations, discussions on social work practices in the UK, and reflection sessions that connect theoretical knowledge with real-world experiences. The program also includes time for students to experience the rich cultural and historical heritage of London.

Requirements: A minimum GPA of 3.0 is recommended. Students who do not meet the GPA requirement may still be eligible and are encouraged to speak with OU’s International Education Office prior to applying.

Courses: Students will receive credit for one of the following courses:

  • SW3905 (Undergraduate): (4 credits) This course introduces students to international social work, focusing on social issues, policies and practices in the UK, with an emphasis on comparative analysis between the US and UK.
  • SW5905 (Graduate): (4 credits) This advanced course is designed for graduate students to critically engage with international social work practices, policies and ethical considerations, with a focus on the UK.

Classes will include pre-departure sessions on campus, followed by experiential learning and site visits in London. The credits earned will count toward major or minor requirements in Social Work and related fields.

While in London, students will stay in university accommodations at Royal Holloway, University of London (RHUL). The program includes accommodation in single rooms with access to the campus cafeteria for meals. Students will also be provided with transportation passes for local travel within London, and some meals will be provided during group activities. https://www.royalholloway.ac.uk/research-and-teaching/departments-and-schools/social-work/

Tuition: 4 Credits
Students will be charged for these credits on their eBill at their standard rate of tuition.

Program Fee: $1,434
To be paid to OU via the MarketPlace payment system, the program fee includes:

  • 13 nights accommodation in London at RHUL
  • Local transportation for site visits and airport transfers
  • Cultural and historical tours, including lunch and a farewell dinner
  • Administration fees charged by RHUL

Additional Costs
Students should budget for the following expenses not covered by the program fee:

  • Airfare: $1,350 - $1,800 (depending on the airline)
  • Meals: $200 (for meals not provided by the program)
  • Personal expenses: $200
  • Passport (if needed): $175

Scholarships and Financial Aid: You are able to use financial aid to cover your full cost of attendance to this program (tuition, program fee, and additional costs). Scholarships are also available through your study abroad application.

International Education

O'Dowd Hall, Room 328
586 Pioneer Drive
Rochester, MI 48309-4482
(location map)
(248) 370-2889


Office hours:
Mon - Fri: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.


Alex Zimmerman, Director
(248) 370-2843
[email protected]