Aftercare for Young People with experiences of Public Care
Summary
This international course explores aftercare for young people leaving public care. You will examine research, practices, interventions and support across countries, with particular attention to vulnerable groups, relationships and the organisation of aftercare. The course combines online learning with an intensive week in Gothenburg and offers an international, comparative perspective on the transition from care to adulthood.
About
Young people who have lived in foster care or residential care, or received child welfare support while living with their parents, may need continued public support as they move into adulthood. This support is often referred to as aftercare, and both its organisation and practice vary between countries.
This second-cycle course provides in-depth, research-based knowledge of aftercare for young people with experiences of public care. Drawing on international expertise and comparative perspectives, the course examines how aftercare can be understood, organised and developed in different welfare and practice contexts.
You will engage with current research and explore aftercare practices in different countries, interventions and support measures, and the organisation of services. Particular attention is given to groups who may face heightened vulnerability during the transition from care, as well as to young people's relationships with biological parents, foster families and other carers.
Throughout the course, you will analyse differences in aftercare practice and discuss how different approaches can be supported by scientific knowledge. You will also critically examine theoretical and professional issues from an international and comparative perspective and consider opportunities and challenges for professional practice in aftercare.
The course is part of a Blended Intensive Programme (BIP) and is also offered as a freestanding course.
Prerequisites and selection
Entry requirements
To be eligible for the course a Bachelor´s degree in Social Work of 180 credits is required (included in a Bachelor or Science in Social Work), alternatively a Bachelor´s degree in a related topics. Furthermore, English skills are required equivalent to English B/English 6.
Selection
Selection is based upon the number of credits from previous university studies, maximum 165 credits.
After graduation
After completing the course, you will have developed advanced knowledge of research and practice in aftercare for young people leaving public care. You will be able to discuss research and relevant interventions, including support needs among vulnerable groups, and to examine the complex relationships that care-experienced young people may have with parents and other carers.
You will also be able to analyse differences in aftercare practices, argue for different approaches on the basis of scientific knowledge, and critically examine theoretical and professional issues from an international and comparative perspective. The course strengthens your ability to assess opportunities and challenges in professional aftercare practice.
The knowledge and analytical skills developed in the course are relevant to social work and related fields involving young people in the transition from public care to adulthood, and can also provide a foundation for further academic study in the area.
