A-Z list of colleges in South Africa that offer social work courses
Social work is a respected profession that helps vulnerable people every day. This A-Z list of colleges in South Africa shows top institutions offering the course. For example, the University of the Western Cape (UWC) provides quality undergraduate and postgraduate programs in social work. These include Bachelor of Social Work, Master of Social Work, and PhD in Social Work. Students can choose UWC or any other college that suits them best.
Source: UGC
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Key takeaways
- A-Z list of colleges in South Africa offering social work courses
- 1. Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
- 2. Durban University of Technology (DUT)
- 3. Nelson Mandela University
- 4. North-West University
- 5. Stellenbosch University
- 6. Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
- 7. University of Cape Town
- 8. University of Free State
- 9. University of Johannesburg
- 10. University of KwaZulu-Natal
- 11. University of Limpopo
- 12. University of Pretoria
- 13. UNISA
- 14. University of Western Cape
- 15. University of Zululand
- 16. Wits University
- Social worker college requirements
- How much does it cost to study social work in South Africa?
- What subjects are needed for social workers in South Africa?
- Are there private social work colleges in South Africa?
- Are there TVET colleges in South Africa that offer social work?
- Which course is best for social work in South Africa?
- What is the APS score for social workers?
Key takeaways
- Social work is a respected profession, and South Africa has many colleges offering quality programs.
- Top colleges for social work include the University of the Western Cape, University of Pretoria, and Wits University.
- Graduates can pursue careers in hospitals, NGOs, and other social service sectors across the country.
A-Z list of colleges in South Africa offering social work courses
South Africa country has invested heavily in colleges that offer social work. This a-z list of colleges in South Africa in 2026 and their courses shows the top institutions for these programs. Students can find quality undergraduate and postgraduate options at many competent universities.
1. Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
- Contact: +27 21 460 3000
- Email: info@cput.ac.za
- Physical address: 1 Table View Dr, Bellville, Cape Town, 7535, South Africa
- Website: www.cput.ac.za
Cape Peninsula University of Technology provides quality education and training with practical application. The university offers social work courses under the Faculty of Health & Wellness Sciences, including the Bachelor of Social Work, as well as opportunities for postgraduate studies in social work.
2. Durban University of Technology (DUT)
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- Contact: +27 31 373 2000
- Email: info@dut.ac.za
- Physical address: Steve Biko Rd, Durban Central, Durban, 4001, South Africa
- Website: www.dut.ac.za
Durban University of Technology is committed to providing inclusive and industry-focused education. DUT offers social work programs through its Faculty of Health Sciences, including the Bachelor of Social Work and advanced postgraduate courses.
3. Nelson Mandela University
- Contact: +27 41 504 1111
- Email: info@mandela.ac.za
- Physical address: University Way, Summerstrand, Gqeberha, 6019, South Africa
- Website: www.mandela.ac.za
Named after South Africa’s founding father, Nelson Mandela University offers quality social work programs. Established in 1882, the university provides undergraduate and postgraduate courses in social work through its Faculty of Health Sciences.
4. North-West University
- Contact: +27 18 299 1111
- Email: studies@mynwu.info
- Physical address: Building F1, 11 Hoffman St, Potchefstroom, 2531, South Africa
- Website: www.nwu.ac.za
Having been founded in 2004, North-West University is well-equipped to accommodate the learning needs of over 70,000 students. Social work is among the most famous courses offered at this institution. Students can expect world-class training to be competent employees in the future.
5. Stellenbosch University
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- Contact: +27 21 808 9111
- Email: info@sun.ac.za
- Physical address: Stellenbosch Central, Stellenbosch, South Africa
- Website: www.su.ac.za
Stellenbosch University is a renowned institution offering a Bachelor of Social Work program. The college established its community service department in 1932 and offers a four-year degree program. Stellenbosch University ensures that its students graduate with honesty, integrity, innovation, good leadership and accountability.
6. Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
- Contact: +27 12 382 5911
- Email: info@tut.ac.za
- Physical address: Private Bag X680, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa
- Website: www.tut.ac.za
Tshwane University of Technology provides innovative and practical higher education across multiple campuses. Social work courses are offered through the Faculty of Humanities, with undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
7. University of Cape Town
- Contact: +27 21 650 9111
- Email: admissions@uct.ac.za
- Physical address: Rondebosch, Cape Town, 7700, South Africa
- Website: www.uct.ac.za
The University of Cape Town is the oldest university in the country. It is a world-renowned university consistently ranked among the top universities in Africa and the world. UCT offers social work programs through the Department of Social Development.
This qualification enables students to register as professional social workers with the South African Council for Social Service Professions.
8. University of Free State
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- Contact: +27 51 401 9111
- Email: studentadmin@ufs.ac.za
- Physical address: 205 Nelson Mandela Dr, Park West, Bloemfontein, 9301, South Africa
- Website: www.ufs.ac.za
Established in 1904, the University of Free State was founded in Bloemfontein. It has a community service department with both degree and master's programs. It is a good college for students eager to learn about the courses' research.
9. University of Johannesburg
- Contact: +27 11 559 4555
- Email: mylife@uj.ac.za
- Physical address: Johannesburg, South Africa
- Website: www.uj.ac.za
Founded on January 1, 2005, as a public institution, the University of Johannesburg offers these programs at the Auckland Park Campus. In addition, these courses are found in the Faculty of Humanities. The University of Johannesburg is considered among the top 20 universities in South Africa.
Typically, students can choose to major in this course during their fourth year of study alongside other courses like sociology and psychology.
10. University of KwaZulu-Natal
- Contact: +27 31 260 1111
- Physical address: 238 Mazisi Kunene Rd, Glenwood, Durban, 4041, South Africa
- Website: ukzn.ac.za
The University of KwaZulu-Natal is among the premier institutions of higher learning in South Africa. The institution offers multiple programmes at various levels of academic learning and in various fields. It offers both undergraduate and postgraduate programs in social work.
11. University of Limpopo
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- Contact: +27 15 268 2222
- Email: info@ul.ac.za
- Physical address: University Rd, Sovenga, Polokwane, 0727, South Africa
- Website: www.ul.ac.za
The University of Limpopo focuses on quality teaching and community engagement. The Department of Social Work offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in social work. It prepares students for professional practice and advanced research in social work.
12. University of Pretoria
- Contact: 012 420 3111
- Email: ssc@up.ac.za
- Physical address: Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa
- Website: www.up.ac.za
The University of Pretoria is a convenient institution for various undergraduate and postgraduate social worker courses in college. Since March 4, 1908, it has been in existence and has established itself as a leading research institution.
Prospective graduates can enrol for a Bachelor's in Social Work (BSW) degree at the University of Pretoria. Those seeking postgraduate studies can find several programs.
13. UNISA
- Contact: +27 12 429 3111
- Email: myUnisaHelp@unisa.ac.za
- Physical address: Preller St, Muckleneuk, Pretoria, 0002, South Africa
- Website: www.unisa.ac.za
The University of South Africa (UNISA) is among the oldest in the country, established in 1873. Students looking for colleges that offer social work in Pretoria enrol in this institution for the best programs. UNISA appears on the list of public colleges in South Africa and aims to promote ideals such as justice, democracy, and community service.
14. University of Western Cape
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- Contact: info@uwc.ac.za
- Email: +27 21 959 2911
- Physical address: Robert Sobukwe Rd, Bellville, Cape Town, 7535, South Africa
- Website: www.uwc.ac.za
The University of the Western Cape is one of the top colleges in South Africa, Cape Town, offering social work programs at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. It continues to develop faculties that are research-based and innovative. The University of the Western Cape also encourages students to explore key subjects such as human diversity, human rights, and gender equality, which are essential in social work practice.
15. University of Zululand
- Contact: +27 35 902 6950
- Email: cmd@unizulu.ac.za
- Physical address: Corner Guldengracht & 2 Cent Cir, Road, Richards Bay, 3900, South Africa
- Website: www.unizulu.ac.za
After its inauguration in 1960, the University of Zululand set out to establish itself as one of the top 10 public colleges in South Africa for social work. It has developed a top-notch curriculum for undergraduate and postgraduate studies. The university aims to produce skilled professionals who can address the social challenges facing South Africans.
16. Wits University
- Contact: +27 (0)11 717 1000
- Email: ask.wits@wits.ac.za
- Physical address: 1 Jan Smuts Avenue, Braamfontein 2000, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Website: www.wits.ac.za
Wits University is one of the leading universities in South Africa and a top choice for social work programs. The Bachelor of Social Work degree can be completed in four years. The Department of Social Work emphasizes ethics, intervention models, legislative frameworks, and professional practice to prepare students for careers in the field.
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Social worker college requirements
Social worker course requirements differ from one institution to the other. The major general requirements are:
- National Senior Certificate/National Certificate (Vocational) or equivalent.
- Senior Certificate (pre-2008) with endorsement or an equivalent school-leaving certificate.
- Higher Certificate (NQF 5) or a SAQA-verified equivalent qualification.
- An Advanced Certificate or Diploma in a cognate field.
How much does it cost to study social work in South Africa?
The fees to study social work in South Africa can vary depending on the institution you choose. On average, the social work colleges in South Africa charge fees that may range from R35,000 to R65,000.
What subjects are needed for social workers in South Africa?
Students with disciplines in the arts and humanities can pursue this course. English and mathematics are mandatory subjects.
Are there private social work colleges in South Africa?
Social work education is primarily offered at public universities. However, there are a few private institutions. Students can refer to the list of registered private colleges in South Africa that offer social work diplomas or certificates.
Examples include Varsity College, Boston City Campus, and Damelin, which provide short courses, diplomas, or foundational programs in social work.
Are there TVET colleges in South Africa that offer social work?
Yes, South Africa has several TVET colleges that provide practical and vocational training, though social work programs are mostly found at universities. Students can consult the list of public TVET colleges in South Africa to find accredited institutions for vocational courses and related programs.
Which course is best for social work in South Africa?
This will depend on your goals and interests. Some of the best courses include the Bachelor of Social Work and Bachelor of Applied Social Science. You can also opt to go for short courses in social work, which can provide you with the skills and knowledge to work in a specific area.
What is the APS score for social workers?
Most universities require a minimum APS of 28-32 for admission to a Bachelor of Social Work program.
Social workers help improve the lives of vulnerable people. Before starting this profession, learners should consult an A-Z list of colleges in South Africa that offer social work courses. After completing the program, graduates can find employment in hospitals, NGOs, and other social service areas.
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