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.

Social Work/Maatskaplike Werk, a journal for the social work practitioner (since 1965), is published quarterly by our department.
The practice education programme of the Department is regarded as the standard bearer of our social impact. Around 300 students are annually placed for continuous practice education at approximately 40 welfare organisations, supervised by some 55 social workers in the field. In total, practice education comprises approximately 100 continuous community projects, 240 small groups of 8 sessions each, continuous intervention with 500 individuals/families, 80 sessions mentoring vulnerable children, and 65 research exercise projects.

Contact us
+27 21 8082069
[email protected]

Physical address
Room 470
Arts and Social Sciences Building
Corner of Merriman Avenue and Ryneveld Street
Stellenbosch

“...our publication, Social Work/Maatskaplike Werk, is an essential resource for professional development and innovation in the field.”

Our Programmes

Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)

This four-year professional programme equips students with the skills, knowledge and attitudes required to practice as social workers. The programme combines theoretical learning with practical experience, preparing students to meet the South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP) standards.

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.