Department of Social Work

About

The Department of Social Work strives to promote the ideals of democracy, social transformation and social justice. We aim to practically apply the fundamental principle of the University of South Africa’s mission, namely to be “in service of humanity”. Our teaching strives towards academic excellence and relevance congruent with the ethos of the profession of Social Work and within the parameters of the Act on Social Service Professions (Act 110 of 1978 as amended). Our training is student-centred, supportive and empowering in nature.

Social work offers many opportunities for professional and personal development and can be employed in different government deartments, non-governmental organisations, faith and community-based organisations, rehabilitation centres and child and youth care centres, amongst others.

Our goal is to ensure that we produce quality graduates who are proactive global citizens and show a deep sense of appreciation and understanding of both the local and global social and economic issues.

Contact us

The Department of Social Work's offices are in the Theo van Wijk Building, Muckleneuk Campus.

General enquiries:

  • 012 429 3871
  • 012 429 6744

Fax number: 012 429-6973

Mail should be addressed to: 
(Lecturer's name)
Dept of Social Work
PO Box 392
UNISA  0003

Social work as a profession in South Africa

Social work is a profession devoted to helping people function optimally in their environment by providing direct services to people in their homes or places of work, assisting people through social service organisations, and working for policy change to improve social conditions.
Social workers empower people to deal, not only with how they feel about a situation, but also with what they can do about it.

What is the value of the social work profession in society?

There is always a need for social workers in communities to render preventative and care services. Employers in difference sectors value skills that are developed through social work courses. These include interpersonal skills, problem solving, teamwork and time management.

Perspectives from Unisa Social Work students

We asked a group of Unisa social work students to identify the attributes of a good social worker. According to them, a good social worker has:

  • A sound theoretical and practical knowledge base, and undergoes continuing professional training.
  • Effective intervention and administrative skills.
  • A clear set of values that result in ethical behaviour.
  • An attitude of service –is patient, friendly and kind and is able to set boundaries.

Last modified: Mon Aug 07 18:03:37 SAST 2023