Even though European universities have implemented BA/MA-degrees, they are far from comparability of their study systems. Moreover, shortening of practice in BA-systems and an increasing economic pressure make it more difficult for students to get practice experiences abroad.

Demands on a social worker's profession emerge against the background of different social, political and cultural developments in different countries. At the same time, all European countries have to face up to the challenges of globalized economic orientation, closely connected to questions of education, integration and social participation.

Contributions to this volume are products of a dialogue between 6 European Universities, presented and discussed during an international symposium, organized by the department of Social Work of the University of Applied Sciences, Münster.

Social Work scientists coming from Austria, Germany, Norway, Northern Ireland, Poland and Switzerland presented current developments, concepts and approaches within the framework of education, poverty, participation, health and social services and against the background of national developments.