Subjects Needed to Become a Social Worker - South African Study Choices

Pursuing a career in social work in South Africa is more than just meeting academic requirements—it’s about passion, preparation, and a commitment to making a difference. If you’re curious about this field and want to know exactly how to get started, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

Contents

What Subjects Are Needed to Become a Social Worker?

Your Matric Results Matter

Social work begins with your matric results. To qualify, you need a bachelor’s degree endorsement, which requires solid academic performance. Specifically, you’ll need at least 60% in English and in four additional subjects. This foundation shows your readiness to engage with university-level learning.

But it’s not just about passing—universities use an APS (Admission Points Score) system to evaluate your application. Most institutions require an APS of 30 or higher, so aim to excel in as many subjects as possible.

As Nontuthuko Maseko puts it, “If you really do want to pursue social work as a career, apply on time. As soon as the applications open, go for it.” Deadlines can be tight, and programmes fill up quickly. Don’t wait—start early.

Volunteering and Practical Experience

Before applying, it’s wise to explore the reality of social work. Volunteering offers a glimpse into the challenges and rewards of the profession. This hands-on exposure can help you decide if you’re truly suited for the field.

Nontuthuko shares an important perspective: “Find yourself in spaces where you work with people to figure out if you would make a great fit for the field.” Many first-year students realise through volunteering or shadowing that social work isn’t for them, saving time and effort in the long run.

If you’re still in school or undecided, look for opportunities to work with NGOs, schools, or community projects. These experiences can give you the confidence to commit fully to this career path.

University Selection and the First-Year Process

Once you’ve made the decision, the next step is applying to a university that offers a Bachelor of Social Work degree. Each institution has its own unique selection process, but many include a departmental selection in the first year.

This process evaluates students’ academic performance (usually a minimum of 60% to 65% average), psychometric tests, and even interviews. These tests and interviews assess your readiness to work with people and handle the emotional demands of the profession.

Reflecting on her experience, Nontuthuko notes, “We were all scared, stressed, and didn’t know if we would make the cut. But nothing beats preparation and hard work.”

Registration with the SACSSP

Starting in the second year, you’ll need to register with the South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP). Registration is non-negotiable—it’s illegal to practise social work in South Africa without it.

To register, you’ll need a police clearance and guidance from your university on the process. This certification allows you to practise as a student social worker under supervision.

A Journey Worth Taking

Becoming a social worker is not for the faint-hearted, but it’s one of the most fulfilling careers you can pursue. Whether working in schools, hospitals, NGOs, or rehabilitation centres, the opportunities to make an impact are endless.

As Nontuthuko says, “Wherever you find people, there’s room for a social worker to practise.”

If you’re determined, prepared, and passionate about helping others, the path to becoming a social worker in South Africa is well worth the effort. Take the first step, apply early, and immerse yourself in the experiences that will shape your career and purpose.

What Subjects Are Needed to Become a Social Worker?

To become a social worker in South Africa, the essential subjects and requirements include:

English (Home Language or First Additional Language) with a minimum of 60% in most cases.
APS (Admission Point Score) of at least 30, though higher scores increase your chances of selection.
Life Orientation is typically excluded from APS calculations.
Some universities may require a National Benchmark Test (NBT) in Academic Literacy, especially for redress purposes.

A good overall academic performance is crucial, especially in core subjects, to meet the minimum APS requirements.

University of Johannesburg (UJ) Social Work Requirements

Minimum APS: 31
English: Minimum of 5 (60%+)

To apply for the Bachelor of Social Work at UJ, you’ll need a solid performance in English and a minimum APS score of 31 to qualify.

University of the Free State (UFS) Social Work Requirements

Below are the subjects required to study Social Work Courses at UFS:

Minimum APS: 30
English: Minimum of 5 (60%)

Although the minimum APS is 30, applicants with higher APS scores (35+) are more likely to be selected for the programme. Selection is also based on a motivation letter explaining your understanding of social work and why you want to pursue this field.

University of Cape Town (UCT) Social Work Requirements

Below are the subjects required to study Social Work Courses at UCT:

FPS (Faculty Point Score): 380+
English Home Language: 50%
English First Additional Language: 60%
NBT (National Benchmark Test): Academic Literacy score at Intermediate level

Applicants with higher FPS scores and proficient NBT results are more likely to be accepted. UCT also considers redress policies to ensure fair access for disadvantaged applicants.

University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) Social Work Requirements

Below are the subjects required to study Social Work Courses at WITS:

Minimum APS: 34+
English Home Language or First Additional Language: Level 5 (60%)

Wits offers limited spaces (60 in the first year), and selection is based on academic merit and the university’s transformation policies. Applicants with APS scores of 32-33 may be wait-listed depending on space availability.

Summary of Common Requirements:

English: A strong performance in English Home Language or First Additional Language is compulsory across all institutions.
APS Scores: Each university requires a minimum APS score, ranging from 30 at UFS to 34 at Wits.
Life Orientation: Generally excluded from APS calculations.

Be sure to focus on English and your overall academic performance, as most universities use a points-based system to evaluate applicants. If you’re applying to UFS, remember that a motivation letter is also required, and for UCT, your National Benchmark Test (NBT) score is taken into account.

FAQs

TVET Colleges That Offer Social Work in South Africa

Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges primarily focus on vocational and technical education. While some TVET colleges offer programmes related to community development and social services, they do not typically provide the Bachelor of Social Work degree required to become a registered social worker in South Africa. For instance, institutions like the South African College of Applied Psychology (SACAP) offer a Bachelor of Social Work, a four-year professional degree leading to registration with the South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP).

Can I Study Social Work Courses Without Matric?

A National Senior Certificate (NSC) or equivalent matriculation certificate is generally required for admission into Bachelor of Social Work programmes in South Africa. However, some institutions offer alternative pathways:

Short Learning Programmes (SLPs): Institutions like UNISA offer focused programmes designed to equip learners with specific skills over a shorter timeframe, often requiring a minimum of Grade 10 or equivalent qualification. Bursaries Africa
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): This allows individuals with relevant work experience or prior learning to gain credits towards a qualification. Eligibility criteria vary, so it’s important to research and apply for options that suit your circumstances. Bursaries Africa

It’s important to note that while these pathways provide valuable skills and knowledge, they may not lead to registration as a professional social worker without completing the requisite degree.

How Much Does It Cost to Study Social Worker in South Africa?

The cost of studying social work varies depending on the institution, programme duration, and mode of study (full-time or part-time). On average, tuition fees for a Bachelor of Social Work degree range from R20,000 to R60,000 per year. Additional costs may include registration fees, study materials, and other related expenses. It’s advisable to consult the specific institution for the most accurate and up-to-date fee structures.

Can I Study Social Worker Without Mathematics?

Mathematics is not a mandatory requirement for admission into social work programmes in South Africa. However, institutions typically require:

English Proficiency: A minimum of 60% in English.
Admission Point Score (APS): A minimum APS of 30, though higher scores may enhance admission prospects. Study Choices

It’s essential to verify the specific admission requirements of the institution you intend to apply to, as criteria may vary.

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