The International Federation of Social Workers (IFSW) defines the aims of social work as 'promoting social change, problem solving in human relationships and the empowerment and liberation of people to enhance well-being' by 'intervening at the points where people interact with their environments.' In practice, social work can range from individual one-on-one counselling to helping to formulate social policies that can affect hundreds of thousands. At all times, social work is founded on universal principles of human rights and social justice.
Your studies will encompass the theoretical aspects of psychology (especially developmental and group psychology), human behaviour, law and social work principles, as well as practical techniques in research and data collection, community work, counselling, education, communication and intervention strategies. You will also be expected to undertake work in the field, which will train you to be analytical, resourceful and creative in problem-solving.
Introduction to social work; social work practice; social work research; group work; theories and practice of community work; human behaviour and social environment; psychology; intervention strategies with groups, families, organisations and communities.
The normal duration for this course is three years.
While there are no specific prerequisite subjects for this course, you should have a strong interest in community service.
You can work at academic institutions, think tanks, NGOs, research facilities, government departments, and religious and volunteer organisations.