Abstract:

The article examines contemporary educational trends and good practices in the degree programme “Social Activities” in Bulgaria, with an emphasis on curriculum design, practical training and the coverage of risk groups. The aim is to systematise how higher education institutions structure the theoretical and practical components in order to develop professional competences for working with children and families at risk, older people, persons with disabilities, migrants and other vulnerable groups. The methodological approach includes documentary analysis of curricula and syllabi, content analysis of the descriptions of practicums and internships, as well as interviews with university lecturers.

The results indicate a gradual increase and diversification of practical training (hours in practicums, fieldwork, internship programmes), growing alignment with competence-based and person-centred approaches, as well as the emergence of interdisciplinary and community-based forms of learning. At the same time, substantial differences between institutions are evident with regard to the volume and positioning of practical hours and the systematic inclusion of specific risk groups in the learning outcomes.

On this basis, several key conclusions are formulated: the integration between university education and practice in social services is only partially achieved and remains fragmented; preparation for work with at-risk groups depends to a large extent on local initiatives of individual departments and lecturers. In line with these conclusions, the following recommendations are proposed: strengthening partnerships between universities and social service providers through joint practice-oriented networks and clearly defined mentor roles; as well as the systematic introduction of structured seminars that support the development of professional identity among students in “Social Activities”. These measures will enhance the relevance and coherence of social work education in Bulgaria.

Keywords:

Social work, practical training, practicums and internships, risk groups, higher education, social services.