In September 2024, the Autonome Hochschule Ostbelgien (AHS) launched a new bachelor’s degree program in Social Work, tailored to meet the specific needs of the local social sector.

According to the government of the German-speaking Community of Belgium, the program aims to counter the long-standing shortage of professionals in social work and education. These professions have been classified as shortage occupations in the region since 2016. While many local students pursue social work studies in Liège or Aachen, they often do not return to the regional job market.

The program, developed in collaboration with HELMo College in Liège, aims to help mitigate the skills shortage in the region.

In its inaugural academic year, 23 students have enrolled in the new bachelor’s program in Social Work at the AHS. Graduates will be officially recognised as social workers under Belgian law, and the program adheres to EU standards, enabling graduates to pursue careers across Europe.

This initiative not only seeks to strengthen the local labour market but also provides targeted educational opportunities in a vital sector of the community.

For more information: Bachelor Soziale Arbeit - AHS - Autonome Hochschule Ostbelgien

Source: Eurydice Unit Belgium (German-Speaking Community)