Doctor of Social Work

Purpose Statement

The Doctor of Social Work is aimed at creating the opportunity for learners to engage in highly advanced and specialized academic or professional study of and research into an aspect of social work and social welfare services. The degree will be conferred only on those learners who have demonstrated the capacity for independent thinking and sustained original research that makes a contribution to the development of well-grounded new knowledge in the field of Social Work.

Qualification Details

• Qualification code: 90037
• Qualification type: Full Research
• NQF level: 10
• Total credits: 360

Admission Requirements

A master's degree in Social Work or a related field with an average of 60% and the applicant must be registered as a social worker with the SASSCP (if resident in South Africa) and proof of such registration must be provided. Applicants residing outside South Africa should provide proof of any social work professional registration or membership in the country of residence. All students with foreign qualifications, including those with qualifications from African countries, must have their qualifications evaluated at SAQA. In addition to the above requirements, applicants must submit a transcript or an academic record, as well as a document describing their intended research. Students will be accepted on the following criteria:

• Suitability and viability of the intended research
• Adequate supervisory capacity and research expertise in the discipline or department
• There is an approved selection procedure which is in line with Unisa's policies on equality and diversity in the discipline or department Applicants who would like to apply for admission through recognition of prior learning (RPL) must be at least 40 years old; and have at least ten years' relevant work, and research experience in the study field in which they would like to apply for admission to a qualification.

Time Limits for this Degree

All master's and doctoral qualifications are structured over a defined period. A student registered for a research doctoral programme must complete the study programme within six years. A student may make application to the Registrar for one additional year of study who will only consider the application if it is recommended by the Executive Dean of the College in which the student is registered.

Doctoral Degree

A doctoral degree will require you to undertake research at the most advanced academic levels culminating in the submission, assessment, and acceptance of a thesis. Coursework may be required as preparation or value addition to the research, but does not contribute to the credit value of the qualification. The defining characteristic of this qualification is that you will be required to demonstrate high-level research capability and make a significant and original academic contribution at the frontiers of the discipline or field. This work must be of a quality to satisfy peer review and merit publication.

Research Focus Areas

Research focus areas for the College of Human Sciences are available, and applicants must align their research outline with one of these areas. Additionally, Unisa's Catalytic Niche Areas should be incorporated into the research, including:

• Marine studies
• Aviation and aeronautical studies
• Automotive
• Energy
• Space study and square kilometre array
• Fourth IR and digitalisation
• Natural sciences (biotechnological studies)
• Health studies/medicine
• Feminist, womanist and bosadi theorisations
• Student support and co-curricular activities

Research Outline

A detailed research outline is required for the qualification, including:

• Title
• Summary of topic
• Short literature review
• Expected contribution of the study
• Methodology to be followed
• Availability of the data
• List of references
• Reasons why you are interested in the topic

Student Fees and Funding Your Studies

• An application fee of R150.00 is required.
• Student fees for the 2025 academic year are available, and the fee information for the 2026 academic year will be available at the time of registration.
• Student funding and bursary opportunities are available.

Application for Admission

Applications for master's and doctoral qualifications are open until 19 December 2025. To apply, you must first apply for a Unisa student number (if applicable) and then apply for admission, uploading all supporting documents within 10 working days.

Registration

Only students whose application for admission was approved and re-registering students (who made sufficient progress during the current academic year) will be allowed to register online within the approved registration period for the 2026 academic year.

Curriculum

Registration and curriculum information are available, including details on coursework and research requirements.

University of South Africa

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Overview:

The University of South Africa (Unisa) is the largest open distance learning institution in Africa and the longest-standing dedicated distance education university in the world. It is a public university with a global reach, enrolling nearly one-third of South African students.

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Services Offered:

Unisa offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Online learning platform:

Unisa provides a comprehensive online learning platform, myUnisa, which allows students to access course materials, submit assignments, communicate with lecturers, and participate in online discussions.

Student support services:

Unisa offers various support services to students, such as academic advising, career counseling, financial aid, and disability support.

Library resources:

Unisa has a vast library collection, accessible both online and through physical branches, providing students with access to a wide range of books, journals, and other research materials.

Regional centers:

Unisa has regional centers across South Africa, offering students access to physical learning spaces, support services, and opportunities for face-to-face interaction.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

As a distance learning institution, Unisa's campus experience is primarily online. Students can expect to engage with their studies through online platforms, participate in virtual discussions, and connect with fellow students through online forums. While there are limited opportunities for face-to-face interaction, Unisa offers regional centers and occasional events that provide opportunities for students to connect with their peers and faculty.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Accessibility:

Unisa offers flexible and accessible learning opportunities for students of all backgrounds and locations.

Global reach:

Unisa's online platform allows students from around the world to access its programs and resources.

Wide range of qualifications:

Unisa offers a diverse range of qualifications, from undergraduate to postgraduate levels, covering various disciplines.

Affordable education:

Unisa strives to provide affordable education options for students, with various financial aid programs available.

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Academic Programs:

Unisa offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines, including:

Accounting Sciences

Agriculture & Environmental Sciences

Economic & Management Sciences

Education

College of Graduate Studies

Human Sciences

Law

Science, Engineering & Technology

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Other:

Unisa is committed to research and innovation, with a focus on addressing societal challenges and contributing to the development of Africa. The university has several research institutes and chairs, and its researchers are actively involved in various national and international collaborations. Unisa also has a strong focus on community engagement and outreach, working to make a positive impact on the communities it serves.