Social Work in South Africa: 2026 Master's Guide | Mastersportal

19 Social Work Master's in South Africa

Social Work
University of Pretoria
Pretoria, South Africa
Play Therapy - Play-based Intervention (Coursework)
University of Pretoria
Pretoria, South Africa
Social Work
University of Kwazulu Natal
Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
Religion and Social Transformation
University of Kwazulu Natal
Durban, South Africa
Clinical Social Work (CW)
University of Johannesburg
Johannesburg, South Africa
Social Work
Stellenbosch University
Stellenbosch, South Africa
Social Work
University of the Western Cape
Cape Town, South Africa
Healthcare (Coursework)
University of Pretoria
Pretoria, South Africa
Social Work (Occupational)
University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg
Johannesburg, South Africa

About this page

This page shows a selection of the available English-taught Masters programmes in Social Work in South Africa, as well as help on finding scholarships, admissions essentials and the best universities for you to study at. If you're interested in studying a Social Work degree in South Africa you can view all 19 Masters programmes. You can also read more about Social Work degrees in general, or about studying in South Africa. For more information on finding scholarships, visit our scholarship homepage to start your search.

Why Study Social Work in South Africa

  • Studying Social Work in South Africa is a great choice, as there are 9 universities that offer Master's degrees on our portal.
  • Over 36,000 international students choose South Africa for their studies, which suggests you’ll enjoy a vibrant and culturally diverse learning experience and make friends from all over the world.
  • We counted 607 affordable Master's degrees in South Africa, allowing you to access quality higher education without breaking the bank. Moreover, there are 59 available scholarships you can apply to.

Top Universities for Studying Social Work in South Africa

  1. Subject Ranking in South Africa
    #122
    University Ranking in South Africa
    #357
    University Ranking Worldwide
    Top 2%
  2. Subject Ranking in South Africa
    #205
    University Ranking in South Africa
    #146
    University Ranking Worldwide
    Top 1%
  3. Subject Ranking in South Africa
    #223
    University Ranking in South Africa
    #233
    University Ranking Worldwide
    Top 2%
  4. Subject Ranking in South Africa
    #282
    University Ranking in South Africa
    #289
    University Ranking Worldwide
    Top 2%
  5. Subject Ranking in South Africa
    #359
    University Ranking in South Africa
    #411
    University Ranking Worldwide
    Top 2%

Study in South Africa

South Africa offers very affordable Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees. The ‘Rainbow Nation’ excels in disciplines like Development Studies, Social Sciences, and Natural Sciences. Tuition fees are among the lowest in the world, and many study programmes are taught in English. International students also enjoy low costs of living and have the opportunity to explore South Africa’s beautiful cities and landscape, which includes Table Mountain, the Garden Route, and gorgeous beaches.

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Read more about studying abroad in South Africa
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Is South Africa the right place for you?

Take the test and find out which country is your best fit.

Explore your Social Work degree

Social work is a field focused on helping individuals, families, and communities overcome various challenges and improve their well-being. Specialisations include clinical social work, child and family social work, medical social work, school social work, and geriatric social work. Social work programs cover theoretical frameworks, intervention techniques, policy, law, and ethics. They often include fieldwork or internships for practical experience. Essential skills include empathy, patience, and strong communication. Career options include clinical social worker, child welfare case worker, healthcare social worker, mental health counsellor, and school counsellor, with roles in various settings, from hospitals to schools and government agencies.

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Read more about studying Social Work
1-2 minutes

Is Social Work the best for you?

Take the test and find out if Social Work is the right path for you.

Flexible Learning Options

Discover the perfect learning mode to match your goals and schedule. Choose from full-time study for an immersive experience, part-time to balance work and study, or online programs for ultimate flexibility.

Social Work Scholarships and Financial Aid in South Africa

Explore Social Work Scholarships and Financial Aid in South Africa to fuel your passion and advance your studies. Accessible funding options are here to support your journey in Social Work, making your educational dreams achievable. Start your path to a rewarding career with the right financial support.

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