Social Work in Local Communities

My interest is how the program can be implemented at a university of cooperative education.

The Network and Social Space Work study program qualifies students for social work that focuses on where people live and need support: in their local communities. Students learn to analyze life situations, understand social challenges, and develop sustainable solutions together with local stakeholders. The goal is to strengthen participation and actively shape social change processes.

The program focuses on current social issues such as sustainability, diversity, social inequality, and societal change. A particular emphasis is placed on professional networking: students learn to build, manage, and develop social networks, connect stakeholders, and successfully implement shared goals. This is complemented by in-depth competencies in social space analysis, planning, prevention, counseling, and coordination.

Public relations and social communication are also integral parts of the program. Students learn how to raise awareness of social issues, promote participation, and effectively use digital and traditional communication formats.

The result: practical, reflective professionals who understand social spaces, strengthen networks and enable social innovations.

Daniela Steenkamp

Prof. in Dr. in

Faculty of Social Work, Program Director Social Work in Local Communities

DHBW Villingen-Schwenningen