SAQA

All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.

SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY

REGISTERED QUALIFICATION:

Master of Social Work

SAQA QUAL ID	QUALIFICATION TITLE
73021	Master of Social Work
ORIGINATOR
University of KwaZulu-Natal
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY			NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education			HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework
QUALIFICATION TYPE	FIELD		SUBFIELD
Master's Degree	Field 09 - Health Sciences and Social Services		Promotive Health and Developmental Services
ABET BAND	MINIMUM CREDITS	PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL	NQF LEVEL	QUAL CLASS
Undefined	180	Level 8 and above	NQF Level 09	Regular-Provider-ELOAC
REGISTRATION STATUS		SAQA DECISION NUMBER	REGISTRATION START DATE	REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered		EXCO 0733/25	2024-06-30	2027-06-30
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT		LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2027-06-30		2029-06-30

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.

This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification.

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION

Purpose:
The purpose of the Master of Social Work is to provide the learner with in-depth and advanced knowledge, skills and understanding of social work theories, research methods, and evidence-based interventions. The qualification will equip learners with advanced research skills in a chosen field of social work. This qualification will develop the learner with the knowledge base and skills to engage in independent social work research, selecting from a range of appropriate research designs, technologies, methods, and techniques in the chosen focus area of social work.

In addition, the qualification will

equip the learner to engage in research projects that are feasible and methodically sound.

develop the learners' ability to produce and communicate the research findings and conclusions.

advance in-depth knowledge of a specific field of social work and social welfare.

provide the learner with the competencies to effectively, critically, and systematically access, analyse, process, transform, and critically evaluate existing knowledge to achieve an integrated synthesis in the research field.

allow the learner to have access to advance in their careers in PhD and professional development as social work practitioners, researchers, managers, and policymakers.

provide the learners with advanced career opportunities within social work supervisory roles, policy advocacy, and research positions.

provide the learner with advanced research methods that contribute to the development of the social work field.

provide the learner with multidisciplinary versatility that empowers the learner to function in sectors such as healthcare, education, nonprofit organisations, and criminal justice.

provide the learner with opportunities to facilitate networking and career development opportunities with multidisciplinary professionals, agencies, and communities.

Learners will be able to provide their clients, groups, and society with improved speciality knowledge and implement evidence-based strategies or interventions to social work practice. Learners will be able to demonstrate an in-depth understanding of their position concerning major debates within social work and the chosen field of social work and social welfare. Learners will be empowered to engage in scholarly activities to contribute to the advancement of knowledge within the social work discipline. Learners will obtain the required knowledge, skills, and values to practice social work competently and ethically across diverse settings and populations. Learners will develop cultural competence to effectively work with individuals and communities from diverse backgrounds, recognizing and respecting their unique perspectives, values, and experiences.

The qualification will develop the following graduate attributes:

Graduates will demonstrate evidence of original and innovative thinking in research and contribute to the knowledge base of social work fields.

Graduates will develop research organisation skills that they will use to execute their research and research report.

Graduates will demonstrate the technical capabilities that enable ethical collection, analysis, synthesis, and evaluation of data.

Graduates will be active participants in academic activities, including submitting a paper to journals, attending and submitting papers at local and international conferences, symposiums, workshops etc.

Graduates will have the ability to implement innovative and evidence-based social work qualifications or interventions in solving identified problems.

Graduates will demonstrate ethical competence and compliance with research ethics and professional conduct, which will be evident in the in-depth discussion in the thesis.

Graduates will develop the ability to conceptualise and reflect critically, work independently, and arrive at defensible conclusions and solutions, based on appropriately substantiated and defensible premises and analysis.

Rationale:
This qualification is designed to provide the necessary advanced expertise, knowledge, and research skills in social work, thereby promoting the achievement of social work's core purposes. Since social work encompasses such a broad spectrum of themes, fields, and/or interdisciplinary areas, it is essential to provide a qualification that enables learners to acquire advanced skills, research competencies, knowledge, and values in Social Work as well as a degree of independent thinking. Social work plays a major role in addressing the developmental needs of South African society through social work services provided within many sectors such as government departments, businesses, non-governmental organisations, and private practice. Dynamic and professionally sound leadership is vital within these sectors for social work to impact and meet developmental needs in society. This social work qualification is also designed to enable learners to pursue further personal and professional development and to promote life-long learning.

Upon completion of this qualification, the graduates will contribute to addressing various needs of the South African society through social work services provided within related sectors, namely government, business, non-government organisations, and private practice. The social development approach, as the country's adopted social welfare policy directive, strives to integrate economic and social policies within a dynamic development process to achieve social welfare objectives.

The qualification will attract the following prospective learners:

Qualified social work practitioners who are working in various fields of social work (i.e., working with children and families, military social work, medical settings, NGOs, local and international, community development, etc.)

Qualified individuals who possess a Bachelor of Social Work degree and who want to advance their knowledge, including pursuing a career in academia.

Qualified individuals who possess a Bachelor of Social Work but practice as researchers, policymakers, managers, directors, and heads of departments in non-social work settings.

All learners must be registered as qualified social workers with the South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP). Social work education and practice collaborate with various stakeholders from Government departments, Private/ Public organisations, etc. The Schools of Social Work in South Africa have established collaborative linkages with other national and international structures:

Association of South African Social Work Education Institutions (ASASWEI) - The ASASWEI seeks to promote social work education, training, and research in South Africa in collaboration with the international community in pursuit of enhanced psychosocial functioning of individuals, families, groups, organisations, and communities, and of human rights, social justice, and equality of all the people of South Africa.

International Federation of Social Workers (IFSW) - The IFSW and its national members strive for social justice, human rights, and inclusive, sustainable social development through the promotion of social work best practice and engagement in international cooperation. Association of Schools of Social Work in Africa (ASSWA) - The ASSWA seeks to advance social work education in Africa by striving to uphold the social work values, principles, and human rights of all people and social justice. International Association of Schools of Social Work (IASSW).
The IASSW seeks to promote social work education and engage the international social work community.

Graduates will be able to secure employment opportunities that align with personal and professional goals, including positions in direct practice, administration, advocacy, research, or academia.

Graduates will be able to work as managers, directors, heads of departments, coordinators of various qualifications/projects, policy analysts, grant writers/fundraisers, and researchers in all Government and Non-government sectors.

This qualification will allow social work practitioners to be specialists in their field of choice (i. e. School social work, mental health, forensic social work, clinical social work, medical social work, geriatric social work, child and youth social work, disaster and environmental social work, etc.)

Graduates will qualify to be academics, social workers in private practice, and as international social workers.

Graduates will be uniquely positioned to assume leadership roles within organizations, communities, or the broader social work profession to advocate for systemic change, policy reform, and social welfare reforms.

Graduates will be capacitated to foster meaningful change in their professional practice with individuals, families, groups, and communities by addressing social issues, promoting social justice, and advocating for vulnerable populations.

Graduates will be able to engage in continuous professional development that is informed by best practices, current research, and emerging trends in the social work profession.

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
The institution has an approved Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy, which is applicable to equivalent qualifications for admission into the qualification. RPL will be applied to accommodate applicants who qualify. RPL thus provides alternative access and admission to qualifications, as well as advancement within qualifications. RPL may be applied for access, credits from modules, and credits for or towards the qualification.

RPL for access:

Learners who do not meet the minimum entrance requirements or the required qualification that is at the same NQF level as the qualification required for admission may be considered for admission through RPL.

To be considered for admission in the qualification based on RPL, applicants should provide evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates that they have acquired the relevant knowledge, skills, and competencies through formal, non-formal and/or informal learning to cope with the qualification expectations, should they be allowed entrance into the qualification.

RPL for exemption from modules:

Learners may apply for RPL to be exempted from modules that form part of the qualification. For a learner to be exempted from a module, the learner needs to provide sufficient evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates that competency was achieved for the learning outcomes that are equivalent to the learning outcomes of the module.

RPL for credit:

Learners may also apply for RPL for credit for or towards the qualification, in which they must provide evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates prior learning through formal, non-formal, and/or informal learning to obtain credits towards the qualification.

Credit shall be appropriate to the context in which it is awarded and accepted.

Entry Requirements:
The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:

Bachelor of Social Work, NQF Level 8.
Or
Bachelor of Arts Honours in Social Work, NQF Level 8.

RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING?

QUALIFICATION RULES

This qualification consists of the following compulsory module at National Qualifications Framework Level 9, totalling 192 Credits.

Compulsory Module, NQF Level 9: 192 Credits:

Dissertation Research, 192 Credits.

EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES

1. Demonstrate advanced application of research concepts, methods, ethics, theories, and analytical processes concerning a chosen focus area of social work and social welfare.
2. Access, analyse, transform, and critically evaluate existing knowledge.
3. Access, process, produce, and communicate information effectively to colleagues and other groups.
4. Engage in independent social work research and produce findings in the form of a research report, selecting from a range of appropriate research designs, methods, techniques, and technologies in the chosen focus area.
5. Demonstrate in-depth understanding of own position on major debates within social work and the chosen field of social work and social welfare
6. Demonstrate specialist forefront knowledge and expertise in the chosen field of social work and the competency to apply these creatively within the chosen field.
7. Critically analyse and evaluate the outcomes of social work interventions, techniques, strategies, or processes in the chosen field.
8. Demonstrate advanced understanding of social work values, principles of human rights and social justice and competency in their application in the chosen focus field.

ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

Demonstrate advanced understanding of the context (including policy, legislation, and global issues) of appropriate concepts, methods, ethics, theories, and analytical processes in the chosen social work field.

Present, reflect the appropriate application of concepts, methods, ethics, theories, and analytical processes in the chosen social work field.

Critically analyse written work and demonstrate a degree of intellectual independence in the chosen field.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

Access, analyse, and transform systematically current literature and research in a chosen focus area.

Evaluate and demonstrate clear evidence of effective application of the principles of social work research practice.

Justify conclusions and recommendations using appropriate evidence and arguments.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

Discuss, reflect, obtain, process, and communicate information effectively to colleagues and other groups.

Display presentations, analytical skills, and a degree of intellectual independence.

Convey written and oral communication and appropriately highlight the information to specific target groups.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:

Plan and conduct the research inquiry based on a range of appropriate research designs, methods, techniques, and technologies for the specific research problem.

Appropriately identify and demarcate research themes

Analyse the research theme, including a comprehensive and critical review of current literature and investigation.

Select research methods, techniques, and technologies are based on a clear understanding of social work research theory and practice.

Critically and coherently describe research reports, theoretical arguments, the research process, methodology, results, conclusions, and recommendations.

Display research reports skills in extrapolating key findings, justifiable conclusions, and making feasible recommendations.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:

Base motivations on own positions to specific debates and on a sound integration of relevant theory, practice, research, and a degree of independent and creative thinking.

Discuss and demonstrate an understanding of one's position and its feasibility in major debates.

Write clearly in oral formats and cogently communicate explanations of own position

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:

Analyse the problem and issues reflect a purposeful and critical application of advanced theory, current knowledge, and expertise in the focus area.

Intervene and/or recommend and reflect purposeful and creative plans to seek solutions based on theory and proven methods in a chosen field.

Discuss interventions that reflect advanced application of appropriate skills, strategies, and techniques in accordance with corresponding theoretical assumptions in the chosen field.

Research/interventions, include the appropriate and creatively use social work tools and /or data relevant to the chosen field.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:

Evaluate and comprehensively describe outcomes of interventions, techniques, strategies, or processes in relation to the stated goals and in accordance with the corresponding theoretical assumptions.

Evaluate and critically analyse outcomes in accordance with the identified needs and issues within the chosen focus area.

Evaluate and purposefully use as the basis for planning, implementation, and recommendations.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:

Discuss, reflect on the integration of social work values with human rights principles and social justice in the chosen field.

Describe and demonstrate a coherent understanding of the application of social work values, human rights principles and social justice in the chosen focus field.

Analyse and/or practice reflect the purposeful application of social work values, human rights principles, and social justice in the chosen focus field.

Analyse and/ or practices exhibit a critical understanding of the ethical principles guiding social work practice in the chosen field.

INTEGRATED ASSESSMENT
Formative:
Before submission of a dissertation, a learner will be required to complete a research proposal on a selected area of focus. Even though the assessment of the research proposal is provided for in the form of a formative assessment, it serves as the basis for the research study is based.

Summative:
As a research-based qualification, a learner enrolled for this qualification will be required to submit a dissertation manuscript to be examined as provided for in the Rules for Master's Degrees by Research (MR11 Examination)
The college academic affairs board shall appoint for each dissertation two examiners, at least one of whom shall be responsible for external examination.

INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY

Country: Australia
Institution: La Trobe University
Qualification Titles: Master of Social Work (Research)
NQF Level: Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) as Level 9
Duration: 2 years full-time
Entry requirements:

Australian Bachelor's degree with an honours year with at least an H2A result in the relevant discipline.
Or

Bachelor's degree without strengthened by additional qualifications or the demonstrated possession of research skills or publications of an especially meritorious nature, approved by the Board of Graduate Research as an acceptable basis for admission to candidature. Some additional preliminary studies may need to be undertaken.

Learning Outcomes:
Candidates will be able to:

Master theoretical knowledge and reflect critically on theory and its application.

Analyse and synthesise complex information, problems, concepts, and theories, and apply them to established theories from different bodies of knowledge or practice.

Generate and assess complex ideas and concepts at an abstract level.

Design, use, and evaluate research and research methods.

Advanced communication and technical skills to present coherent arguments and disseminate research findings to specialist and non-specialist audiences.

Structure:

A Master's by Research is a research degree.

The qualification is offered on a full-time and part-time basis.

Areas of study include social work practice, social policy, intellectual disability, ageing, child and family welfare, health, and mental health.

Similarities:

La Trobe University (LTU) and the South African (SA) qualifications are offered over two years of full-time study.

The LTU and SA qualifications are registered at AQF/SA NQF Level 9,

Both qualifications require applicants who have completed the Honours Degree in Social Work of four years, Bachelor of Social Work.

Country: United Kingdom
Institution: University of Hertfordshire
Qualification: Master of Social Work by Research
Duration: 24 months full-time and 36 months part-time
Entry Requirements

Honours degree (normally at least 2:1 or above) in an appropriate discipline.

If the proposed research will involve assessment or treatment elements with patients, applicant will need to be registered with the appropriate body.

IT is recommended that the learner have an established track record/experience in the desired area to support his or her application.

Exit Outcomes:
Candidates will be able to:

Master complex research challenges and contribute to new knowledge in a specialised field.

Delve deeply into your chosen subject area, and again, a level of expertise that goes beyond undergraduate studies.

Demonstrate advanced knowledge to tackle specialized professional roles and hone investigative skills in a real-world context.

Analyse complex data and synthesize information to draw meaningful conclusions with solid practical experience.

Develop research skills through practice and extensive research experience.

Demonstrate advanced technical and theoretical knowledge in handling and leading research initiatives. Extensive research experience.

Demonstrate advanced technical and theoretical knowledge in handling and leading research initiatives.

Structure:
A Master's Degree by Research is not a taught course (Code: RSASOCWM)
Learners are expected to initiate their learning and development through seeking out opportunities provided by the University. Research supervisors will assist and support learners throughout their master's journey.

The qualification can be undertaken on a full or part-time basis, and the university, through this qualification, endeavours to provide fully supportive research and learning environment with flexible supervision to enhance learners' learning experience and help them to make the most of their research and learning time.

Assessment:
The qualification is assessed solely based on the final research output, in the form of a substantial written thesis which must be "defended" in a viva. During the qualification, learners are given opportunities to present their work at major conferences and in refereed research publications.

Career Outcomes:
By undertaking a Master's by Research at the University of Hertfordshire, learners will gain not only expertise in their chosen subject area but also a highly competitive candidature for careers in research and academia. This qualification also provides a solid foundation for a PhD level.

Comparison:
The South African (SA) qualification compares with similar qualifications that are offered by credible identified institutions, namely the La Trobe University (LTU) and the University of Hertfordshire (UH) qualifications.

There are diverse reasons for choosing the identified institutions for comparison purposes. La Trobe University offers the Master of Social Work (Research) with the CRICOS code: 055101G. This qualification is regulated and recognised by the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) as pitched at Level 9. LTU qualification is distinguished for its esteemed reputation and significant influence on social work education and research worldwide. It is ranked 31 for social work globally and is respected as a leading institution for Social Work qualifications and postgraduate research. La Trobe excels in engagement and impact, as evidenced by its research awards. The UH qualification is accredited by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), a regulatory body for social work in England. The UH qualification provides internationally recognized research degrees, with a focus on extensive subject expertise and independent research skills. The University of Hertfordshire showcases a commitment to public engagement and is ranked within the top 50% across 170 research topics. Furthermore, the institution is ranked 192 out of 1028 for social work globally. These distinctions highlight both universities as top choices for comparison of MSW (Research) qualification, with each institution offering unique strengths in research and societal contribution

Main Comparison Features:
Purpose of the qualification
There are notable shared similarities and variations in the purpose of the MSW (Research) qualification among the three institutions - SA, LTU, and the UH qualifications aim to enhance learners' expertise in social work through advanced research skills and knowledge. Each qualification prioritizes the development of advanced research skills, such as critical analysis and thinking, implementing evidence-based strategies, and effectively communicating key research findings. However, La Trobe University focuses on mastering research concepts and methods, while the UH qualification places additional emphasis on producing research reports and effectively communicating findings. The SA qualification focuses on equipping learners with the mastery of research concepts and methods,and also producing credible research findings based on a credible research process. Despite these variations, all three qualifications strive to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in specialized areas of social work and social welfare.

Entry requirements
All three qualifications require applicants to have an Honours degree or its equivalent in a relevant discipline. However, there are slight differences in the specific criteria. SA and LTU qualifications require a minimum average of 60% across all modules of the Honours degree, while the UH qualification specifies a 2:1 GPA equivalent to 76% or above. These variations reflect the differing academic standards of these institutions. Furthermore, SA and LTU qualifications offer additional pathways for admission if the standard requirements are not met. The admission decision is made by the senate members based on the applicant's level of competence in the SA qualification or the board of graduate research in the LTU qualification. In contrast, the academic requirements for the MSW (Research) qualification at the University of Hertfordshire do not indicate or provide such flexibility

Exit Level Outcomes (ELOs)
The exit level outcomes of the SA qualification, LTA, and the UH MSW (Research) qualification show significant similarities. All three qualifications highlight the importance of advanced research application in social work and welfare, critical analysis, and reflection on theory and ethical considerations. Furthermore, learners should be able to demonstrate advanced communication skills to effectively communicate research findings.

Levels and Credits
The SA and LTU qualifications are both categorized as Level 9 in their respective national frameworks (NQF and AQF), indicating that they are master's degrees by research. However, there is a difference in the credit requirements between the two. SA qualification mandates a minimum of 180 credits, whereas LTU does not specify its credit requirement. On the other hand, the UH MSW (Research) qualification operates at Level 08 in the Regulated Qualification Framework (RQF) and necessitates a minimum of 150 credits. This reflects a different emphasis on social work at a different academic level.

Types of Assessment
The assessment structure encompasses both formative and summative components. Comparing the SA to LTU qualifications ,it becomes evident that both institutions require learners to complete a research qualification and submit a dissertation for examination. In contrast, the MSW (Research) qualification at the University of Hertfordshire follows a slightly different approach. It evaluates learners based on a final research dissertation defended in a viva, while also incorporating formative assessments such as research seminars or workshops. SA, LTU, and the UH qualifications each emphasize a structured MSW research qualification with varying assessment strategies. The SA qualification utilizes summative (dissertation) as the main assessment for this qualification. The LTU qualification places a strong emphasis on thesis and seminar participation for assessment, whereas the UH qualification concentrates on a thesis defence with additional opportunities for conference presentations and publications. These assessment methods showcase the different focuses of each qualification, whether on ongoing assessment or final high-stakes evaluations.

Duration and Articulation
Regarding the qualification duration, the two institutions are presented differently. On the one hand. Both SA and La Trobe University qualifications provide options for a 2-year full-time or 3-year part-time (or equivalent) leading to a PhD in social work or a related field. The respective qualification frameworks of the SA qualification put the MSW (Research) at NQF level 09 and the La Trobe University at AQF level 09. On the other hand, the University of Hertfordshire's MSW (Research) qualification takes either 24 months full-time or 36 months part-time, and it serves as a pathway towards a PhD at RQF level 8. This highlights the disparities in qualification duration and qualification frameworks among these institutions. The SA, LTU, and the UH qualification provides unique opportunities for learners to enhance their knowledge in social work through research. Although each qualification similarly underscores the advancement of research skills and specialised knowledge, they vary in their specific admission criteria, duration, levels, credits, and slightly in terms of assessment approaches.

The SA MSW (Research) qualification requires applicants to hold a four-year Bachelor of Social Work degree or Honours degree (or its equivalent) with a minimum aggregate of 60%. In exceptional cases, non-standard admissions may be considered based on the level of competence outlined in GR7

LTU in Australia accepts various qualifications, including an Australian Bachelor's degree with Honours or an equivalent qualification, or a Bachelor's degree with significant research skills or outputs. The UH qualification, on the other hand, requires a minimum Honours degree in a relevant field, with additional criteria for involvement in clinical research. Each university has its own unique academic entry requirements that reflect its local academic standards and priorities. The SA qualification is specifically designed to enhance advanced research, analytical, and communication skills within the field of social work. In contrast, the LTU qualification adopts a more comprehensive approach, emphasizing theoretical mastery, the resolution of complex problems, and the application of diverse methodologies across various social work domains. The University of Hertfordshire places great emphasis on tackling complex research challenges and acquiring specialized expertise to further enhance professional and research skills.

Conclusion
In summary, while the SA Master of Social Work by research qualification, LTU, and the UH qualifications share a common goal of enhancing research skills and theoretical knowledge in social work, they tend to have slight variations in various areas - qualification structures, entry requirements, and focus areas, to name a few. These differences highlight the unique educational strategies and learner support needs of each university.

ARTICULATION OPTIONS

This qualification allows possibilities for both vertical and horizontal articulation.

Horizontal Articulation:

Master of Arts, NQF Level 9

Master of Child Care and Protection, NQF Level 9

Master of Arts in Social and Behavioural Studies (HIV-AIDS), NQF Level 9

Master of Social Work in Clinical Social Work, NQF Level 9.

Master of Social Work in School Social Work, NQF Level 9.

Vertical Articulation:

Doctor of Philosophy in Development Studies

Doctor of Philosophy in Social Work, NQF Level 10.

Doctor of Philosophy in Public Health, NQF Level 10.

Doctor of Social Work, NQF Level 10.

Diagonal Articulation:
There is no registered qualification for diagonal articulation.

REREGISTRATION HISTORY

As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Recorded in 2015.

NOTES

N/A

LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION:

NONE