Social work is not only an academic discipline but also a practice-based profession whose goal is to improve the quality of life for all people. Social workers are expected to adhere to the values of social justice, human rights, collective responsibility, and respect for diversity.
It is through the application of principles derived from social work, the humanities, and indigenous knowledge that individuals and organizations are brought together to address issues of human dignity.
The profession aims to improve the health and well-being of people and groups by providing them with access to certain facilities, care, and assistance.
An advanced degree in sociology and a wide range of interpersonal skills and attributes are necessary to succeed in the field of social work.
The following institutions in South Africa offer bachelor, master, and doctoral degrees in social work:
University of Pretoria
Many postgraduate programs are available at the University of Pretoria in the fields of social work and criminology.
Social problems that arise as a result of people’s interactions with their surroundings are studied in the fields of social work and criminology.
The University of Wits
The BA in Social Work is a four-year professional degree program at Wits University. Over the course of the four-year program, you will gain knowledge of social work’s professional ethics and procedures, as well as various intervention models, the legislative framework, research methodologies, and foundational concepts and theories.
University of Stellenbosch
Accreditation: Stellenbosch University offers a bachelor’s degree, which is accredited by the South African Council for Higher Education, and masters and PhD programs that require research projects.
University of Johannesburg
The Auckland Park Campus offers a full-time, four-year degree in this field.
Students in the Faculty of Humanities with majors in Social Work (at the 4th year level) and Psychology and Sociology must register for specific courses (one up to 3rd year level).
There are 140 hours of work-integrated learning in a practical setting at an approved organization and under the supervision of an accredited social worker in the Unisa BSW2605 course. 6. Students enrolled full-time in the BSW program are allowed to register for up to 144 credits per year to account for their practicum experience.
University of Zululand
The University of Zululand is a top-ranked public university in South Africa that offers social work degree programs. Bachelor of Social Work Code, Master of Social Work and Doctor of Philosophy in Social Work are some of the options available to prospective social workers.
The Western Cape University of Technology
This means that students must complete the entire four social work modules and have the option of completing the remaining two psychology modules or the remaining two social sciences modules, if that is their primary focus.
University of Nelson Mandela
Students can choose from a variety of elective courses that can be taken in addition to the core and fundamental courses that are required for graduation. At least one semester of hands-on experience is required as early as the second year of study. Registration as a social worker with the Council for Social Service Professions is possible for graduates of this program.
University of the North-West
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degrees are available from North-West University, which requires four years of full-time study.
The University of the Free State
The University of the Free State’s Department of Social Work offers a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree.
Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to apply for a Master’s degree in Social Work at nearby institutions of higher learning. Admission is based on the subject group’s capacity and a selection process.
What is a Bachelor of Social Work degree?
Bachelor’s degrees in social work prepare students for a career as a social worker by providing them with the necessary education and training. BSW and BASW programs typically prepare students for generalist social work practice by providing a strong academic foundation.
What are the prerequisites for getting into a South African school of social work?
This degree requires a National Senior Certificate, preferably with English as a first language, in addition to proficiency in a second South African language and mathematics (at least standard grade). Do not underestimate the importance of your inherent talents and interests in making up for the lack of formal education.
A successful social worker must be able to meet the following requirements:
- You take pleasure in interacting with people from a wide range of backgrounds and socioeconomic statuses.
- If you’re smart, you’re also sensitive.
- You’re driven by a desire to make a difference in the lives of others.
- Although you’re empathetic and objective, you’re a good listener.
- You are trustworthy and resourceful.
- You have a way of making others feel confident in their own abilities.
- You’re an effective communicator.
- You’re a patient person with a level head.
- In terms of human nature, you’re well versed.
- Empathy comes easily to you.
Social workers’ methods of operation
Social workers work tirelessly to improve the lives and futures of the most vulnerable members of society. The role of a social worker and the field in which they specialize can vary greatly from one position to another, depending on a person’s interests and experience.
Social workers, on the other hand, typically specialize in one of the following fields:
- Welfare of children and families
- Divorce and marital counseling
- Elderly people’s care
- Social work in health care
- A master’s degree is required to practice social work in the field of mental health.
- Working with people who are physically or mentally disabled
- Concentrated on addictions
- Those who have committed crimes
As a general rule, School Social Workers assist parents, students, and school staff in identifying and obtaining services for students who may be experiencing difficulties in their academics. In general and special education, social workers work with students and their families to help them deal with issues of social, emotional, and behavioral dysfunction.
How long does it take to become a social worker in the school setting?
In most cases, it takes four years to complete a BSW program. Full-time study in an MSW program should take about two years to complete. For undergraduate and graduate students, part-time programs are available. Be prepared for a longer learning period with these courses.
In South Africa, how do you become a social worker?
With the South African Council for Social Service Professions, a social worker must be registered to practice (SACSSP). Professional boards for social work and child and youth care work are regulated by the SACSSP, a statutory body. Together with its Professional Boards, the Council works to safeguard social workers’ reputations and the public’s trust.
In order to work as a social worker, you’ll need to earn a bachelor’s degree in social work. Students majoring in social work, psychology, or sociology must take specific courses in the Faculty of Humanities as part of their degree requirements. After completing an internship in the social service sector, students can then apply for certification as a social worker by passing a written exam and passing a background check.
