Department of Social Work
The Department of Social Work is known for its outstanding academics and alumni who conduct ground-breaking research in social work, and who were instrumental in establishing social work as a profession in South Africa.
The Department is committed to ongoing and rigorous efforts to promote professional values that are responsive to social development, human rights, social inclusion, and the needs and aspirations of local communities in our teaching, research and social impact. The Department is therefore dedicated to passing on a scholarly theoretical body of knowledge as well as substantive practice experience and wisdom to subsequent social worker generations, by building on the legacy of the founders and alumni of the Department.
Postgraduate Programmes
Master’s in Social Work (MSW)
A research-based programme designed for students to conduct independent studies in a specialised area of social work. This programme includes the completion of a thesis and aims to develop advanced knowledge and critical research skills.
PhD in Social Work
This doctoral programme is awarded upon completing an independent research project that contributes to new knowledge in social work. Students work closely with supervisors to explore and address complex social challenges.