Social Work Postgraduate Studies
The Master of Social Work (MSW) is a master’s degree in the field of Social Work. It is a professional degree that allows the candidate to specialise in a specific field of social work service delivery after obtaining a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW). The MSW is a one-year, full-time or two-year, part-time degree.
For the PhD with specialisation in Social Work, the candidate is required to hold a master’s degree in Social Work. The candidate will be allowed to develop advanced research competencies in addressing critical social problems of the day. The PhD in Social Work is a two-year, full-time programme or a four-year, part-time programme.
View The Master of Social Work brochure.
View the MSW School Social Work Information.
View PhD with Specialisation in Social Work brochure.
Master of Social Work: Specialising in School Social Work
The Master's specialising in School Social Work is specifically designed to prepare students to provide specialised social services within the school context. Our program focuses on equipping social workers to improve the social functioning of all role-players in the school system, ensuring that every learner has the support they need to succeed.
Programme Philosophy and Impact
By utilising a combination of case, group, or community work, our graduates ensure that children’s right to education is fully realised. The curriculum is built on an ecological systems perspective, allowing social workers to address learners' social, emotional, and behavioural barriers by looking at the child within their broader environment.
In addition to direct learner support, this program trains practitioners to provide essential assistance to parents and educators, fostering a holistic environment for psychosocial well-being.
Curriculum Structure
The degree is completed over two years, moving from theoretical and methodological foundations to practical application and independent research.
Year 1: Foundations of Speciality and Research
The first year establishes the core competencies required for school-based practice and scientific inquiry.
- School Social Work (SWSC7900): This module introduces the specialised role of the social worker in schools. It focuses on identifying and addressing barriers to learning and implementing interventions that support the school ecosystem.
- Research Methodology (SWPR7900): Provides the essential framework for research. Students learn to design and implement studies that contribute to the evidence-based practice of social work.
Year 2: Advanced Practice and Independent Inquiry
The second year is dedicated to clinical immersion and to completing the research cycle.
- Field Instruction (SWPP7900): A practical placement in a school where students apply their skills in a real-world school setting, providing direct interventions for learners, families, and staff.
- Research Project (SWPI7900): The culmination of the degree, where students conduct an independent study on a relevant topic within the field of school social work.
Why Choose This Specialisation?
Graduates of this program emerge as specialist practitioners capable of navigating the complexities of the South African educational landscape. You will be prepared to manage psychosocial challenges, support educators, and advocate for the rights and well-being of every learner.
Requirements:
- Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in Social Work at an exit level eight as prescribed by the South African National Qualifications Framework (NQF). · Applicants must be registered as a social worker with the South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP).
- A minimum of 60% is required for admission to the University of the Free State.
- Applicants must have achieved at least 65% for the BSW research module.
- Experience working in a school environment will be beneficial.
- Employed as a social worker working in a school (full-time or part-time).
- Should be able to work 300 hours in a school to complete the field instruction in the second year.
- Should be able to travel to Bloemfontein to attend face-to-face classes presented in blocks.
Closing date for online applications:
30 September for local students and 31 August for international students.
For further information, you can contact Prof Roelf Reyneke at reynrp@ufs.ac.za
Contact person / Enquiries
Application/enquiries for the postgraduate programme selection should be forwarded to:
Prof Mpumelelo Ncube
T: +27 51 401 7512
E: NcubeME@ufs.ac.za