phd social work in nigeria

ACADEMIC CONTENT (Programme)

Existing Curriculum for the Programme/Sub-Discipline/Discipline

(a) Programme Title:

B.Sc Social Work

(b) Programme/Sub Discipline/Discipline Philosophy and Objectives:

Philosophy, Objectives, Vision, Mission of the Department

Philosophy:

The philosophy of the Department is the enhancement of professional capacity and competence of students of the Department through wide exposure to the concepts, theories and practice of social work.

This professional competence training will provide the enabling environment for working effectively in both the public and private sectors of the economy.

Objectives:

The general objective of the Department is to produce students with adequate knowledge and skills in generic social work practice.

Specifically, the objectives are;

• To produce students who can enter direct into social work practice in such public, voluntary and private agencies as general and specialist hospitals, family and child care services, the court and correctional institutions, schools, rehabilitation and care of the destitutes as well as other welfare services.
• To continue to assume leadership roles in rural and urban community development efforts.
• To strengthen and expand Post Graduate Programmes in Social Work.
• To consolidate and sustain responsible positions in the field of social work education and research.

To develop the knowledge and skills of individuals in both public and private sectors to help people cope with the social, economic and political problems of contemporary Nigerian society.

The mission of the Department involves primarily to successfully create the conditions and enabling environment for the realisation of a higher quality of social existence throughout the country. This will be achievement through providing adequate training to students, updating professional knowledge and skills of practitioners and community members to accomplish their life tasks, alleviate their distress and maintain normal functioning in the society. It also involves assisting people develop ability and capacity to map out a prominent planning machinery, develop concrete ways in which people can be brought more effectively into development programme, propose policies as they affect the masses of the people in the material and other conditions of existence.

Departmental Information:

The department of Social Work offers two kinds of programmes

• A 4-year B.Sc (Honours) Social Work and Community development Degree programmes by entrance examination
• A 3-year B.Sc Honours Social Work and Community Development Programme by Direct Entry.

(a) B.Sc Programme

The courses are organised in such a way that students can graduate with emphasis in Social Work and Community development. The programme is aimed at producing Generalist Social workers who can fit into any sector of the economy both within and outside Nigeria. Students are given the opportunity to take relevant courses in the two areas of emphasis.

ACADEMIC STANDARDS FOR POSTGRADUATE PROGRAMMES IN SOCIAL WORK

1.1       Introduction

Social problems are on the increase in Nigeria. Some of these social problems are new (Examples; Terrorism, Migration, Kidnapping, Displacement etc) and so ways of dealing with them are not readily known. Therefore there is an increasing need for human service personnel who can help tackle these problems and lessen the effect on the people. Consequently, there will be rise in the demand for social workers who will be in a position to work with people who are affected by these social problems. Expanded career opportunities in social work are envisaged in Nigeria as in other developing countries. Social workers have opportunities to positively influence the lives of citizen. Employment opportunities for graduates in social work exist in Community Organization, Human Services, Healthcare Facilities, Federal, States, Local Governments, NGOs, Academia and other Educational and Research Settings. Other employment opportunities include business, industry and professional organizations.

The Department offers postgraduate programmes leading to the award of Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) in Social Work, Master of Science (M.Sc) in Social Work and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in Social Work.

1.2       Philosophy

The underlying philosophy the Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) programme, Master of Science (M.Sc), and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programme in Social Work at the University of Nigeria is to produce academics and practitioners equipped with appropriate knowledge, attitude, skills, and competencies to effectively address issues and challenges that come with social problems in Nigeria and globally. It is also a way of producing individuals who are well-grounded in social work concepts, theories, and the methodology needed to analyse and proffer solutions to social problems at the local and global levels; and whose contributions to knowledge and learning will help to fulfil the promise of Social Work practice in Africa and the rest of the world for progressively engendering better human society.

1.3       Objectives

In line with wider objectives of University of Nigeria and the current benchmark of the Nigeria Universities Commission, the Postgraduate (PG) programmes in Social Work are designed to produce academics and practitioners equipped with appropriate knowledge, attitude, skills, and competencies to effectively address issues and challenges that come with social problems in Nigeria and globally. The general objective of the Department is to produce students who can apply social work knowledge and theories in practice situation.

Specifically, the objectives of the postgraduate programmes in Social Work are:

• To produce graduate who are well grounded in theories and practice of Social Work
• To produce graduate with ability to expand the frontier of knowledge as they relate to Social Work.
• To produce graduates with the ability to apply knowledge in ameliorating the effect of social problems on individuals
• To produce students with adequate knowledge and skills not only in general social work practice but in specialized areas of practice
• GENERAL REGULATIONS

2.1      Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) Programme

(a)       Admission Requirements

The criteria for admission into the postgraduate-diploma programme are as follows.

• Candidate must satisfy the matriculation requirements of the University, including English Language.
• A minimum of third-class (Hons.) Bachelor’s degree in Social Work or a related discipline awarded by an approved and accredited university.
• Higher National Diploma (HND) at the lower Credit level or equivalent professional qualifications cognate to Social Work from a recognized institution.
• Degree holders from other disciplines from recognised universities

(b)       Areas of Specialization

There is no area of specialization in postgraduate Diploma (PGD).

(c)        Duration of Programme

• Full–time PGD shall run between 2 (minimum) and 4 (maximum) semesters for the postgraduate diploma
• The part-time PGD shall run for a minimum of four (4) semesters and a maximum of six (6) semesters.

(d)       Requirements for Graduation

A Candidate must have fulfilled the following conditions to be awarded the Post Graduate    Diploma (PGD)

The candidate must pass a minimum of 36 credit units made up of the following:

• 30 units of core courses
• 6  units of project

(e)        Domiciliation of the Programme

The postgraduate diploma programme shall be domiciled in the Department of Social Work, University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

(f)        Students’ Enrolment

The Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) admission is not more than 40% of postgraduate enrolment of the Department in any academic session.

2.2       Master of Science (M.Sc.) Programme

The Department offers Master of Science (M.Sc.) degree programmes in Social Work.

• Areas of Specialization

Candidates can specialize in any area of specialization available in the department and where supervisors are available. They include:

• Social Gerontology
• Community Development
• Medical Social Work
• Social Policy/Industrial Social Work
• Social Work Administration
• Family Social Work
• Psychiatric Social Work
• Clinical Social Work
• School Social Work

2.2.2    Admission

(a) Admission Requirements

The criteria for admission into the M.Sc. programmes are as follows:

• Candidates must satisfy matriculation requirement of the University including mathematics and English language.
• Candidate must have a minimum of second class (lower division) Bachelor’s degree in social work from an approved university, or a postgraduate diploma with a CGPA of not lower than 3.5 on a 5-point scale, or its equivalent, from an accredited university.
• Candidates with a PGD at credit level pass (i.e. 3.5 on a 5point scale) or 60% on weighted percentage average.

(b) Duration of Programme

A full-time MSc programme of the Department runs for a minimum of four semesters and a    maximum of six semesters. The part-time programme runs for a minimum of six semesters and a maximum of eight semesters. For extension beyond the specified maximum period, special permission of the Board of School of Postgraduate Studies shall be required.

(c) Requirements for Graduation

The candidate must pass a minimum of 48 credit units made hours made up of the following:

• 12 units of elective courses
• 6 units of project (a student go through a proposal and if successful, carry out research in any area of specialization after which he/she must submit an acceptable project of 6 credit units)

(d) Domiciliation of the Programme

All Masters Programmes are domiciled in the Department of Social Work, University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

(f) Student Enrolment

Student enrolment into the M.Sc. programme of the Department of Social Work, University of Nigeria, Nsukka are determined by the carrying capacity of the department subject to availability of supervisors.

2.3       Doctor of Philosophy Programme

The Department offers Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree programmes in Social Work.

2.3.1   Areas of Specialization

The core areas in which candidates may specialize are:

• Gerontology
• Social Policy

2.3.2    Admission

            (a) Admission Requirements

The criteria for admission into the Ph.D. programme are as follows.

• Candidate must satisfy the matriculation requirements of the University, including English Language and Mathematics.
• Candidate must have a minimum of Master’s degree in social Work, depending of the specialization the candidate aspires to, from an approved university, with a CGPA of not lower than 3.5 on a 5-point scale, or equivalent, from an accredited university.
• Candidate must demonstrate adequate intellectual capacity, maturity and effective decision making and problem-solving potentials.
• Candidate must write a concept proposal of not less than five A-4 pages in his/her area of specialization.
• For Candidate to be eligible for Ph.D. admission, he or she must have scored nothing less than a ‘B’ in his/her dissertation.

A full-time Ph.D. programme of the Department runs for a minimum of six semesters and a   maximum of ten semesters.

A part-time Ph.D. programme of the Department runs for a minimum of eight semesters and a maximum of twelve semesters.

For extension beyond the specified maximum period, a special permission of the Board of Postgraduate Studies is required.

For a candidate to graduate, he/she must pass a minimum of forty-five credit units made of the following:

• 21 units of course work
• A candidate shall present at least one seminar, submit and defend a thesis proposal.
• 12 units from thesis.
• A candidate must attend a national or international conference, where he or she will present his/her work; and the candidate must publish his/her work in an Impact Factor (recognized by the University) journal to be eligible for graduation.
• A candidate must as part of the minimum credit units take the course PGC. 701 – Synopsis and Grant Writing, and attend a solution-based interactive workshop to be organized by the School of Postgraduate Studies for a practical demonstration and application of the knowledge acquired (from the course, PGC. 701).

All Doctoral Programmes are domiciled in the Department of Social Work, University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

(e) Student Enrolment

Student enrolment into the Ph.D. programme of the Department of Social Work, University    of Nigeria, Nsukka are subject to the carrying capacity of the Department.

• ACADEMIC STANDARDS

3.1.1 Academic Regulations

• Academic session

An academic session shall consist of two semesters. Each semester shall normally comprise of 15 weeks of teaching and two weeks of examinations

• Modular system

All Masters programmes run on a modularized system, commonly referred to as course unit system. All courses are sub-divided into more or less self- sufficient and logically consistent packages that are taught within a semester and examined at the end of that particular semester. Credit units are attached to each course.

• Definition of credit unit

Credit units are weights attached to a course. One credit unit is equivalent to one hour per week per semester of 15 weeks of lectures.

• Course nomenclature

All first semester courses shall end with odd numbers while second semester courses shall end with even numbers

• Stress Areas

Foundation Courses                                                                                                    0

Social problem, policy and legislation                                                                        1

Human behaviour and the social environment                                                            2

Social work intervention techniques and practice                                                      3

Field work and areas of practice                                                                                 4

Community development/organisation                                                                       5               

Research Project                                                                                                         6

• Programme Requirements

    Registration procedure

Students will complete registration for courses for the semester not than two weeks after the start of the semester. A student cannot withdraw from a course after five weeks of lectures in a given semester without permission from the Dean, School of Postgraduate Studies. A student who withdraws after this time or who fails to seek for permission from the Dean shall be deemed to have failed that course. A student who fails to sit for more than two courses at the end of a given semester shall be deemed to have withdrawn voluntarily from the programme.

• Good Standing

To be in good standing, a student must in each semester have a cumulative Grade point of Average (CGPA) of not less than 3.00.

3.2.4 Withdrawal

Candidates with less than 3.00 CGPA shall remain in the programme for the 1 st semester but shall be withdrawn if he/she fails to attain 3.00 CGPA at the end of the second semester.

In order to be eligible for examination in a particular course, a student shall have attended a minimum of 75% of the total periods of formal instructions delivered for the course.

• Course Evaluation

In the Masters Programmes, assessment of student’s achievements shall be based on:

• Course examination
• Term papers/seminars
• Other assignments
• Continuous Assessment

Continuous assessment shall be done through essays, tests, tutorial exercises, quizzes and homework.

• Scores from continuous assessment shall constitute 30% of the final marks for courses which are primarily theoretical and not filed work courses
• Examination, Grading Procedures & Results

(i) Examinations

• In addition to continuous assessment, final examination shall be given for every

Course at the end of every semester.

• The total scores obtainable for every course (except for field work practice) continuous assessment and final examination is 100%

Continuous assessment                    30%

Final examination                            70%

Total                                                100%

Each course shall normally be completed and examined at the end of the semester in which it is offered.

• Field practicum shall be the reverse

Continuous assessment (Field visit)            70%

Final examination                                       30%

Total                                                           100%

(ii) Pass Mark

The minimum mark in any course shall be 50%

• GRADING SYSTEM

Grading of courses shall be done by a combination of percentage marks and letter grades translated into a graduated system or grade point equivalents (GPE). For the purpose of determining a student’s standing at the end of every semester, the GPA system shall be used.  The GPA is computed by dividing the total number of credit points (TCP) by the total number of units (TNU) for all the courses taken in the semester. The credit point for a course is computed by multiplying the number of units for the course by the grade Point Equivalent of marks scored in the course. Each course shall be graded out of a maximum of 100 marks and assigned appropriate Grade point equivalent.

(c) External-Examiner System

An external examiner is invited at the end of the PGD, M.Sc and PhD programmes to assess the courses and projects. The external examiner is an academic in the relevant discipline that is not less than senior lecturer’s rank and who holds a Ph.D in the discipline.

The project shall be subject to oral examination where the student is required to show evidence that he/she carried out the work and had pertinent knowledge of the subject matter. A score is awarded at the end of the examination.

(d) Postgraduate Diploma Classification

The determination of the PGD class for candidates is based on the Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) earned at the end of the programme.

Distinction ……………………………………………….. 4.50 – 5.00

Upper Credit …………………………………………….. 4.00 – 4.49

Lower Credit …………………………………………….. 3.50 – 3.99

Merit ……………………………………………………… 3.00 – 3.49

Fail ……………………………………………………….. 0.00 – 2.99

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Department of Social Work

To be the pace –setting department of Social Works in Nigeria and beyond in producing excellent graduates in research, learning and character.

To provide the platform of high academic standard in both research and learning in Social Works.

Social Work in the University of Lagos started as a Professional Diploma Programme – Social Development and Administration (SDA) in 1969. The B.Sc. Social Work Programme was endorsed by the University of Lagos over 12 years ago. The Senate meeting of 28 March, 2007 in her paper 3955 (k) gave legal and academic teeth to the establishment of the social work programme under the Department of Sociology. The admission quota then was 30. There were just two students admitted to the first session(2007/2008 session). The programme metamorphosed into a Unit but was still operating under the administrative structure and ambit of Sociology Department and coordinated by Dr. C.R. Nwanna till July 31, 2018. The University of Lagos Council approved the establishment of the Department of Social Work and Social Work gained full departmental status on August 1, 2018 as well as approval for B.Sc. Part-Time Programme to be run in the department. Prof FAD Oyekanmi, an eminent demographer, was one of the two foundation professors when the department was created. Prof Fatai Badru was appointed the first substantive Head of the Department on August 1, 2018. The Department has produced three graduates with first class division: one female and two male graduates.

Prof Nwanna C.

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Social Work

Philosophy, objectives, vision, mission of the department.

Philosophy:

The philosophy of the Department is the enhancement of professional capacity and competence of students of the Department through wide exposure to the concepts, theories and practice of social work.

This professional competence training will provide the enabling environment for working effectively in both the public and private sectors of the economy.

Objectives:

The general objective of the Department is to produce students with adequate knowledge and skills in generic social work practice.

Specifically, the objectives are;

1. To produce students who can enter direct into social work practice in such public, voluntary and private agencies as general and specialist hospitals, family and child care services, the court and correctional institutions, schools, rehabilitation and care of the destitutes as well as other welfare services.

2. To continue to assume leadership roles in rural and urban community development efforts.

3. To strengthen and expand Post Graduate Programmes in Social Work.

4. To consolidate and sustain responsible positions in the field of social work education and research.

To develop the knowledge and skills of individuals in both public and private sectors to help people cope with the social, economic and political problems of contemporary Nigerian society.

The mission of the Department involves primarily to successfully create the conditions and enabling environment for the realisation of a higher quality of social existence throughout the country. This will be achievement through providing adequate training to students, updating professional knowledge and skills of practitioners and community members to accomplish their life tasks, alleviate their distress and maintain normal functioning in the society. It also involves assisting people develop ability and capacity to map out a prominent planning machinery, develop concrete ways in which people can be brought more effectively into development programme, propose policies as they affect the masses of the people in the material and other conditions of existence.

Departmental Information:

The department of Social Work offers two kinds of programmes

(a) A 4-year B.Sc (Honours) Social Work and Community development Degree programmes by entrance examination

(b) A 3-year B.Sc Honours Social Work and Community Development Programme by Direct Entry.

(a) B.Sc Programme

The courses are organised in such a way that students can graduate with emphasis in Social Work and Community development. The programme is aimed at producing Generalist Social workers who can fit into any sector of the economy both within and outside Nigeria. Students are given the opportunity to take relevant courses in the two areas of emphasis.

(b) Admission Requirements:

Admissions into the degree programme in the Department in by entrance examination conducted through JAMB. All candidates must satisfy the minimum entry requirements; ie five credits in senior secondary school examination/General Certificate of Education or its equivalent including English language, Mathematics, a science subject and two social sciences subject.

(c) Direct Entry by Diploma- Holders of the 2–year Undergraduate Diploma from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka or any other approved Universities are admitted to pursue a 3-year Programme for the award of B.Sc Degree in Social Work and Community Development.

(d) Programmes/Sub-Discipline/Discipline structure to include period of formal studies in the Universities, industrial training, planned visits and projects.

(e) Course content specifications/syllabus of all courses in the programme Discipline/Discipline:

(f) Attach a list of Titles of Degree project, if any carried out by the students in the programme/Sub-Discipline/Discipline in the last three years:

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PhD Social Work programs in Nigeria

Deadline information, best universities with social work in nigeria.

Bachelor Social Work programs in Nigeria

Master Social Work programs in Nigeria

Most Popular Social Work programs in Nigeria

PhD Social Work programs in Nigeria

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Complete List of Schools Offering Social Work Courses in Nigeria

Social work is a practice-based profession that promotes social change, development, cohesion and the empowerment of people and communities. Social work practice involves the understanding of human development, behavior and the social, economic and cultural institutions and interactions. Social work is a professional discipline which is being offered in many higher institutions across Nigeria.

 What They Do: Social workers help people solve and cope with problems in their everyday lives.

 Work Environment: Social workers work in a variety of settings, including mental health clinics, schools, child welfare and human service agencies, hospitals, settlement houses, community development corporations, and private practices. They generally work full time and may need to work evenings, weekends, and holidays.

How to Become a Social worker

Although some social workers only need a Diploma or bachelor’s degree in social work, clinical social workers must have a master’s degree and 2 years of post-master’s experience in a supervised clinical setting. Clinical social workers must also be licensed in many countries before they can practice but in Nigeria that has not been the case.

Often, when we think of social workers, we think of givers. Social workers strive tirelessly to help others, and you might be wondering what they get out of all this effort for themselves. As it turns out, there are a lot of great reasons to go into this field, and as many social workers will tell you, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. Here are just some of the benefits of pursuing an exciting and fulfilling career in social work.

Benefits of Becoming a Social worker

 It’s a Growing Field

The field of social work is expanding rapidly. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that demand for social workers will increase by 16 percent by 2026, which is faster than for other occupations. That translates to about 110,000 new jobs in the next decade. And with a wide range of job options, it’s likely that you’ll be able to find meaningful work in this field.

 You Have a Variety of Opportunities

While you may assume that social workers only work in social services agencies run by the government, that is not the case. There is a wide range of opportunities and workplaces for social workers. You can find jobs in schools, hospitals, health centers, nonprofit and advocacy agencies, churches and even businesses, such as insurance companies and law firms. And the types of positions vary as well: You could be involved in direct client care, serve in a supervisory role, or focus on policy development, advocacy, grant writing or other aspects of the field. In short, there is no single definition of social work, and you can find a role that interests you and fits your skills and talents.

There is Room to Grow

Once you get your foot in the door of the social work field, you have a great deal of potential for growth, especially if you continue your education and earn an MSW degree. The more education you have, the more positions you will qualify for, including supervisory roles. Depending on their credentials, some social workers may also end up going into private practice.

You Can Make a Difference

You can’t have a discussion about the benefits of a career in social work without addressing the fact that working in the field allows you to make a difference in the lives of individuals and provide a tangible benefit to society. Many people want to make the world a better place, but aren’t sure where to start or what to do. As a social worker, you are in a position to solve specific problems and help others, and there is a good chance that you will end up being the person that changes someone else’s life. While it is a lot of hard work and change doesn’t always happen quickly, just knowing that your work is meaningful to others can help provide you with a purpose and personal fulfillment.

You Can Apply Your Core Values to Your Work

Many social workers enter the profession because its core principles align with their own values and priorities. In fact, many social workers were inspired by their own experiences, which spurred a desire to help others and advocate for the support and services that they themselves didn’t have. Yet even if you don’t have your own challenges to draw upon, working as a social worker allows you to live out the values of equality, justice, fairness, respect, dignity and the right of everyone to health and well-being. If these values align with yours, then consider becoming a social worker.

Schools offering social work in Nigeria

List of educational institutions that offer Social Work in Nigeria include;

Universities

• Ebonyi State University-Abakaliki
• Lagos State University, Lagos
• Nnamdi Azikwe University, Awka, Anambra State
• University of Calabar, Calabar, Cross River State
• University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State
• University of Benin, Benin-City, Edo State
• University of Jos, Jos, Plateau State
• University of Lagos, Lagos State
• University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State
• University of Maiduguri, Maiduguri, Borno State
• Bayero University Kano, Kano State
• Delta State University, Abraka
• University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom
• Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Enugu
• University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Kwara State
• Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti
• Kogi State University, Ayangba
• Nassarawa State University, Lafia
• Ambrose Ali University, Ekpoma, Edo State
• Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomosho, Oyo State
• Babcock University, Ilisha Remo, Ogun State
• Federal University, Lafia.

Polytechnics and Allied Institutions

• Jigawa State Polytechnic, Dutse
• Kano State Polytechnic, Kano
• Kaduna Polytechnic, Kaduna State
• Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin
• Sokoto State Polytechnic, Sokoto
• Ramat Polytechnic, Maiduguri, Borno State
• Plateau State Polytechnic, Jos
• Federal Polytechnic, Auchi, Edo State
• Federal Polytechnic, Offa
• Federal Polytechnic, Mubi, Adamawa State
• Federal School of Social Work, Emene. Enugu State
• Shehu Idris College of Health Science and Technology, Makargi, Kaduna State
• College of Administrative and Business Studies, Potiskum, Yobe State
• Social Development Institute, Ningi, Bauchi State
• Social Development Institute, Kumo, Gombe State
• Social Development Institute, Katsina, Katsina State
• Adamawa State Polytechnic, Numan
• Waziri Umaru Federal Polytechnic, Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State
• Federal Polytechnic, Damaturu, Yobe State
• Niger State Polytechnic, Zungeru, Bida Campus
• Hassan Usman Katsina Polytechnic, Katsina State.

Social Worker Salaries in Nigeria

Overall employment of social workers is projected to grow 11 percent over the next ten years, much faster than the average for all occupations. Employment growth will be driven by increased demand for healthcare and social services, but will vary by specialization. The salary of a social worker in Nigeria depends on several factors such as his/ her employer (NGO, State, Federal, LGA, or International development organization), education, level of experience and location. In general, the average net salary for Social Worker in Nigeria is ₦108,000.

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Professions in Nigeria

Becoming a social worker in nigeria: a step-by-step guide.

Last Updated on September 25, 2023

Introduction

A. importance of social workers in nigeria.

Social workers play a crucial role in Nigeria by addressing the needs of vulnerable populations and promoting social justice.

• Advocate for vulnerable populations.
• Provide mental health support.
• Address societal challenges and inequalities.

B. The Purpose of the Blog Post

This blog post aims to provide a step-by-step guide on becoming a social worker in Nigeria.

• Navigate steps to become a proficient social worker.
• Illuminate pathways for impactful community change.

Understanding the Role of a Social Worker

A. who is a social worker.

A social worker is a trained professional who helps individuals, families, and communities to enhance their well-being and quality of life.

B. The main responsibilities and functions of a social worker

• Assessing clients’ needs and developing individualized plans to address social issues.
• Providing counseling, support, and advocacy to individuals and families in crisis.
• Connecting clients to necessary resources and services, such as healthcare and housing.
• Assisting with navigating the legal system and accessing legal aid if required.
• Collaborating with other professionals and community organizations to develop intervention strategies.
• Educating and empowering clients to make informed decisions and improve their social functioning.

C. The different areas of specialization in social work

Social work offers various areas of specialization, allowing professionals to focus on specific client populations or issues.

These areas include:

• Child and Family Social Work: Supporting families and ensuring the welfare of children in need of protection.
• Mental Health and Substance Abuse: Providing mental health support and substance abuse treatment services.
• School Social Work: Assisting students, parents, and teachers to foster academic and social success.
• Medical and Healthcare Social Work: Offering support to individuals dealing with illness, injury, or chronic conditions.
• Community Development: Collaborating with communities to create and implement programs that address local social issues.
• Geriatric Social Work: Working with elderly individuals to meet their unique social and care needs.
• International Social Work: Providing aid and support to communities in developing countries or during humanitarian crises.

These specializations allow social workers to focus their skills and knowledge on specific areas, enabling them to make a greater impact and provide specialized assistance to those in need.

Basically, understanding the role of a social worker is essential as it helps individuals comprehend the responsibilities and functions involved in this profession.

Additionally, being aware of the various areas of specialization allows social workers to choose their career path and focus on the areas they are most passionate about.

Read: Regulations Impacting Family Therapy Practice in Nigeria

Education and Training

A. educational requirements for becoming a social worker in nigeria.

• To become a social worker in Nigeria, you need to have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in Social Work.
• Other related degrees such as Sociology or Psychology may also be considered.
• It is important to choose a recognized and accredited university to pursue your degree.
• Admission requirements usually include a minimum GPA and sometimes an entrance examination.

B. Importance of Pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work

• A bachelor’s degree in social work provides a solid foundation in the knowledge, skills, and ethics necessary for the profession.
• It ensures that you have a comprehensive understanding of social issues and human behavior.
• Having this degree demonstrates your commitment to the field and enhances your credibility as a social worker.
• Employers often prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree as it reflects a higher level of expertise.

C. Option of Obtaining a Master’s Degree for Further Specialization

• After obtaining a bachelor’s degree, you may choose to pursue a master’s degree in Social Work for further specialization.
• This advanced degree provides more in-depth knowledge and skills in specialized areas of social work.
• A master’s degree opens up opportunities for advanced positions and higher salaries in the field.
• It also allows you to explore research and teaching roles within the social work profession.

D. Potential Scholarships or Grants Available for Aspiring Social Workers

• There are various scholarships and grants available specifically for students pursuing social work education in Nigeria.
• The Nigerian Universities Commission (NUC) and government agencies often offer financial assistance to deserving social work students.
• Non-profit organizations, foundations, and international scholarships can also provide funding opportunities.
• Researching and applying for these scholarships or grants can alleviate the financial burden of your education.

By completing the necessary educational requirements and obtaining relevant degrees, aspiring social workers in Nigeria can lay a strong foundation for their careers.

The bachelor’s degree in Social Work provides a comprehensive understanding of the profession, while a master’s degree offers further specialization and advanced opportunities.

Additionally, the availability of scholarships and grants eases the financial burden, making social work education more accessible.

So, if you are passionate about helping others and making a positive impact on society, pursuing a career in social work in Nigeria can be both fulfilling and rewarding.

Read: Nigeria’s Demand for Marriage & Family Therapists: A Study

Gaining Practical Experience

A. the significance of internships and field placements.

• Internships and field placements provide hands-on experience in social work.
• These opportunities allow aspiring social workers to apply theoretical knowledge in real-life situations.
• Internships and field placements offer the chance to develop essential skills like communication and problem-solving.
• By working directly with clients and communities, interns gain valuable insights into their needs and challenges.
• These practical experiences help social workers understand the realities of the profession and build empathy.

B. How to Find and Apply for Social Work Internships in Nigeria

• Research social work organizations, NGOs, and government agencies in Nigeria offering internships.
• Contact these organizations to inquire about available internship opportunities.
• Prepare a well-written resume and cover letter highlighting relevant skills and experiences.
• Submit the application documents along with any additional requirements requested by the organization.
• Follow up with the organizations to express continued interest in the internship.

C. The Benefits of Volunteering in Relevant Organizations

• Volunteering allows social work aspirants to contribute their skills and time for a good cause.
• It provides an opportunity to collaborate and network with experienced professionals in the field.
• Volunteering enables aspiring social workers to gain practical experience and learn from real-world scenarios.
• Working with relevant organizations exposes volunteers to a diverse range of social issues.
• Volunteering helps develop a strong work ethic, professionalism, and a sense of responsibility.

Engaging in internships, field placements, and volunteering offers crucial practical experiences that play a vital role in shaping the careers of aspiring social workers in Nigeria.

These opportunities allow individuals to apply theoretical knowledge in real-life situations, develop essential skills, and gain valuable insights into the needs and challenges of clients and communities.

To find social work internships, proper research, networking, and a well-crafted application are essential.

Similarly, volunteering in relevant organizations not only contributes to a good cause but also provides opportunities for collaboration, networking, and practical learning.

Overall, practical experience is a key stepping stone toward becoming a successful social worker in Nigeria.

Read: The History and Evolution of Social Work in Nigeria

Licensing and Certification

A. importance of obtaining a social work license in nigeria.

• Obtaining a social work license in Nigeria is crucial for professional recognition and credibility.
• It ensures that social workers adhere to a set of standards and ethical guidelines.
• A license also gives social workers the legal authority to practice their profession.
• Employers and clients can trust that licensed social workers have the necessary qualifications.

B. Necessary steps to obtain a social work license

• The first step is to obtain a bachelor’s degree in social work from a recognized institution.
• After completing the degree, aspiring social workers need to gain relevant work experience.
• They must then apply to the Nigerian Association of Social Workers (NASoW) for registration.
• Applicants will need to submit their educational qualifications, CV, and a completed application form.
• Once the application is approved, they can proceed to take the licensing examination.

Read:  The Path to Becoming a Surgeon in Nigeria

C. Importance of continuing education and professional development

• Continuing education and professional development are essential for social workers in Nigeria.
• They help social workers stay updated with the latest research, techniques, and best practices.
• Continuous learning allows social workers to enhance their skills and provide better services.
• Professional development also helps social workers meet the requirements for license renewal.
• It demonstrates a commitment to maintaining high professional standards and improving practice.

Read: Work-Life Balance Tips for Nigerian Counselors

Finding Job Opportunities

A. job market overview for social workers in nigeria.

The job market for social workers in Nigeria is dynamic and offers various opportunities for those seeking a career in social work.

Social work is a growing field in Nigeria, driven by the need for social services and welfare programs in the country. As a result, job prospects for social workers are expanding.

B. Potential employers for social workers in Nigeria

Government agencies, NGOs, and private organizations are potential employers for social workers in Nigeria.

The government, through various ministries and departments, often hires social workers to implement social policies and work with vulnerable populations.

NGOs and non-profit organizations also play a significant role in providing social services in Nigeria, creating employment opportunities in the sector.

Additionally, private organizations may hire social workers for employee assistance programs or community development initiatives.

C. Tips for searching and applying for job openings

• Utilize online job portals and websites dedicated to social work job listings in Nigeria.
• Join relevant professional associations and networks to access job postings and connect with potential employers.
• Regularly check local newspapers and community bulletin boards for job advertisements.
• Develop a well-written and tailored resume that highlights your relevant skills and experiences.
• Write a personalized cover letter for each application, emphasizing your passion for social work and how you fit the specific job requirements.
• Prepare for interviews by researching the organization and familiarizing yourself with social work practices in Nigeria.

D. Importance of networking and building professional connections

Networking plays a crucial role in finding job opportunities as a social worker in Nigeria.

Building professional connections can lead to job referrals, mentorship opportunities, and access to hidden job markets.

To enhance your networking efforts:

• Attend conferences, workshops, and seminars related to social work to meet professionals in the field.
• Join online forums, social media groups, and professional communities centered around social work in Nigeria.
• Reach out to alumni from your social work program or colleagues from internships for potential job leads.
• Volunteer or engage in community service activities where you can meet professionals in the social work sector.
• Develop strong relationships with your professors, supervisors, and other influential individuals in the field who can provide recommendations or job referrals.

In summary, the job market for social workers in Nigeria is expanding, offering opportunities in government agencies, NGOs, and private organizations.

By utilizing online resources, networking, and tailoring your application materials, you can increase your chances of finding a rewarding job in social work in Nigeria.

Read: Online Counseling in Nigeria: Prospects and Challenges

Overcoming Challenges

A. common challenges faced by social workers in nigeria.

• Heavy workload and limited resources make it difficult to meet the needs of all clients. Social workers often face overwhelming case loads due to the high demand for services and inadequate resources. This makes it difficult to provide comprehensive support to all clients.
• Government bureaucracy and lack of support affect the efficient delivery of social services. Navigating through government bureaucracy is a common challenge for social workers in Nigeria. The lack of political will and support from authorities affects the efficient delivery of social services.
• Stigma and discrimination towards vulnerable populations hinder effective intervention. Vulnerable populations, such as individuals living with HIV/AIDS or people from marginalized communities, often face stigma and discrimination. Social workers must overcome these barriers to effectively intervene and provide assistance.
• Inadequate training and professional development opportunities limit career growth and effectiveness. Limited access to continuous training and professional development hinders the growth and effectiveness of social workers. It is crucial to have regular opportunities for learning and skill enhancement.
• High levels of poverty and inequality create overwhelming demands on social workers. Nigeria’s high poverty rate and income inequality contribute to the overwhelming demands on social workers. The persistent social and economic challenges in the country make it challenging to address the root causes of social issues.

Read:  Step-by-step Guide to Becoming a Nursing Assistant in Nigeria

B. Strategies to Overcome These Challenges

• Advocate for increased funding and resources to improve the quality of social services. Social workers can actively engage in advocacy efforts to secure more funding and resources. This will help improve the quality of social services and alleviate some of the challenges.
• Establish partnerships with local organizations and communities to leverage support networks. Collaborating with local organizations and communities is essential to leverage support networks, share resources, and enhance service delivery.
• Strengthen collaboration between government agencies and NGOs to streamline service delivery. Collaborative efforts between government agencies and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) can streamline service delivery and enhance coordination. This can help address the barriers posed by bureaucracy.
• Develop innovative solutions, such as mobile outreach programs, to reach underserved populations. Social workers can explore creative solutions, such as mobile outreach programs, to reach underserved populations in remote areas. Embracing technology can also facilitate access to resources and services.
• Promote awareness and education campaigns to reduce stigma and discrimination. Social workers can actively promote awareness and education campaigns to reduce stigma and discrimination. By challenging societal norms and stereotypes, social workers can create a more inclusive environment.

C. Self-Care and Managing Burnout

• Practice self-care rituals such as meditation, exercise, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance can help social workers manage stress and prevent burnout.
• Seek supervision and support from colleagues or mentors to share concerns and manage stress. It is important for social workers to seek supervision and support from colleagues or mentors. Regular supervision sessions provide a safe space to share concerns, reflect on experiences, and gain guidance.
• Engage in reflective practices to gain insights into personal and professional growth. Reflective practices, such as journaling or group discussions, can help social workers gain insights into their personal and professional growth. This promotes self-awareness and improves their effectiveness in serving clients.
• Attend workshops and training sessions to enhance skills and stay updated with best practices. Actively participating in workshops, conferences, and training sessions allows social workers to enhance their skills, stay updated with best practices, and expand their professional network.
• Create a support system with colleagues and network with other social workers for peer support. Building a support system with colleagues and networking with other social workers can provide a sense of community and peer support.

Living amidst the diverse sociopolitical landscape of Nigeria, social workers encounter unique challenges in their profession. These challenges can be overcome with the right strategies and a commitment to self-care.

Sharing experiences and learning from others’ expertise can help combat burnout.

By acknowledging and addressing the common challenges, social workers in Nigeria can navigate through obstacles and make a meaningful impact in improving people’s lives.

The commitment to self-care and effective strategies will empower social workers to overcome these challenges and thrive in their profession.

Read: Importance of Culturally Sensitive Counseling in Nigeria

This blog post discussed the step-by-step guide to becoming a social worker in Nigeria.

It reinforced the importance of social workers in Nigeria and the positive impact they can make.

Lastly, aspiring social workers are encouraged to pursue their passion and create a difference in their communities.

A. Summarizing the Main Points

• Understand social work’s significance.
• Pursue relevant education and training.
• Gain practical experience through internships.
• Obtain necessary licensing or certification.
• Cultivate empathy, communication, and problem-solving skills.

B. Reinforcing the Importance of Social Workers

• Catalysts for societal progress.
• Bridge gaps in healthcare, social services.
• Advocates for marginalized voices.

C. Encouragement for Aspiring Social Workers

• Embrace your calling with passion.
• Create positive transformations.
• Impact lives in your community.
• Your journey starts here, make it count!
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• Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) Programme

Entry Requirements

The criteria for admission into the postgraduate-diploma programmes are as follows.

• Candidate must satisfy the matriculation requirements of the University, including English Language.
• A minimum of third-class (Hons.) Bachelor’s degree in Social Work or a related discipline awarded by an approved and accredited university.
• Higher National Diploma (HND) at the lower Credit level or equivalent professional qualifications cognate to Social Work from a recognized institution.
• Degree holders from other disciplines from recognised universities

STRESS AREAS

Foundational Courses

Social problem, policy and legislation

Human behaviour and the social environment

Social work intervention techniques and practice

Field work and areas of practice

Community organisation

Areas of Specialization

The Department runs PGD in Social Work, and Community Development.

Duration of Programme

A full-time PGD programme of the Department runs for a minimum of two semesters and a maximum of four semesters. The part-time programme runs for a minimum of four semesters and a maximum of six semesters

Requirements for Graduation

For a candidate to graduate, he/she must pass a minimum of thirty credit units made of the following:

• 15 units of core courses
• 9 units of elective courses
• 6 units from project.

External- Examiner System

An external examiner is invited at the end of the PGD programme to assess the courses and projects. The external examiner is an academic in the relevant discipline who is not less than senior lecturer’s rank and who holds a PhD in the discipline.

The project shall be subject to oral examination where the student is required to show evidence that he/she carried out the work and had pertinent knowledge of the subject matter. A score is awarded at the end of the examination.

Students’ Enrolment

The Department does not admit more than 40% of its Master’s students population for this programme, i.e. PGD.

• Master’s Programme

The Department offers Master of Science (M.Sc) degree programmes in Social Work. The core areas in which candidates may specialize are

• Gerontology
• Community Development
• Medical Social Work
• Social Policy/Industrial Social Work
• Social Work Administration
• Family Social Work
• Psychiatric Social Work
• Clinical Social Work
• School Social Work

The criteria for admission into the MSc programmes are as follows.

• Candidate must satisfy the matriculation requirements of the Universita minimum of second class (lower division) Bachelor’s degree in social work from an approved university, or a postgraduate diploma with a CGPA of not lower than 3.0 on a 5-point scale, or its equivalent, from an accredited university.
• Candidate with a PGD at credit level pass on weighted percentage average from an accredited university may also be considered.

A full-time MSc programme of the Department runs for a minimum of 12 calender months, and 18 calender months for part time programme.

For a candidate to graduate, he/she must pass a minimum of thirty-three credit units:

• 3 units from seminars
• 6 units of project.

An external examiner is invited at the end of the M.Sc programme to assess the courses and projects. The external examiner is an academic in the relevant discipline who is not less than senior lecturer’s rank and who holds a Ph.D in the discipline.

Doctor of Philosophy Programme

The Department offers Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree programmes in Social Work. The core areas in which candidates may specialize are:

• Social Policy

The criteria for admission into the PhD programme are as follows.

• Candidate must have a minimum of Master’s degree in Social Work, depending of the specialization the candidate aspires to, from an approved university, with a CGPA of not lower than 3.5 on a 5-point scale, or equivalent, from an accredited university.
• Candidate must demonstrate adequate intellectual capacity, maturity and effective decision making and problem-solving potentials.
• Candidate must write a concept proposal of not less than five A-4 pages in his/her area of specialization.

A full-time PhD programme of the Department runs for a minimum of six semesters and a maximum of ten semesters.

For a candidate to graduate, he/she must pass a minimum of thirty-three credit units made of the following:

• 12 units of course work
• 6 units from seminars
• 12 units from thesis.

An external examiner is invited at the end of the PhD programme to assess the courses and projects. The external examiner is an academic in the relevant discipline who is not less than Reader’s (Associate Professor) rank.

A full-time PGD programme of the Department runs for a minimum of two semesters and a maximum of four semesters. The part-time programme runs for a minimum of four semesters and a maximum of six semesters.

• Bachelor of Social Work
• Master’s Program
• PhD Program
• Undergraduate Practicum
• Graduate Practicum
• Field Instructors & Community Partners
• Student Association
• Equity & Inclusion
• Job Opportunities

Social workers and sustainable programme intervention in Nigeria

April 7, 2022

Submission to The Social Lens: A Social Work Action Blog by  Chinwe U. Nnama-Okechukwu a nd Uzoma Okoye , Department of Social Work, University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

Children are categorized as vulnerable in Nigeria if they are abandoned, labourers, in child-headed homes, internally displaced, trafficked, living with HIV, living with aged grandparents, have dropped out of school, or are living with terminally or chronically ill parent(s) or caregiver(s). The list also includes those children who are abused, have a disability-related vulnerability, have parents with a disability, are in abusive alternative care arrangements, are affected by armed conflict, are in need of legal protection, or those who have lost one or both parents due to HIV/AIDS. Current insecurity challenges in different parts of the geopolitical regions in Nigeria have widened the list to accommodate children in internally displaced persons’ camps and children in formal child care institutions.

Studies have shown that poor families in most communities in Nigeria lack social services and still struggle to provide basic needs for their children (Nnama-Okechukwu et al., 2019; Nnama-Okechukwu & Okoye, 2019). This increases child vulnerability, especially when there are no income-generating activities or steady means to provide for basic needs. Given the increasing number of children categorized as vulnerable and those in need of care and protection, there is a need to prioritize resources and develop social intervention programmes to address causative factors.

Various international and local non-governmental organizations are involved in service provision across different programme areas for orphans and vulnerable children in Nigeria. These organizations continue to invest a huge amount of money and resources to implement programmes to develop social protection within communities with the aim of empowering families to adequately care for their children (Nnama-Okechukwu & Erhumwunse, 2021). However, most interventions are not well-coordinated, and impact and learning do not land in the public domain as a result.

The fact is, unfortunately, that the duty of most social welfare agencies in Nigeria has to a large extent been taken over by NGOs and new government departments (Okoye, 2013). This is because professional social workers are often not recruited to superintend sensitive positions in social welfare agencies. When they are recruited, an enabling environment is not always provided for their practice to be visible. Often, programmes and projects are implemented without the contribution of relevant stakeholders. This results in unsuccessful implementation of programmes and projects. A by-product of this lack of involvement is that a large number of unprofessional social workers in many social welfare agencies engage in a variety of unethical practices (Okoye, 2013). Worrisome also is the vast number of professional social workers in Nigeria who are docile about their role in the national discourse on child and family welfare services.

Social workers and social welfare officers are key players in addressing issues around child vulnerability given their community development practice approach. The role and need for government ministries and agencies such as social welfare agencies to assume their role as duty-bearer in child and family welfare programme intervention is very crucial in programme design, implementation and evaluation. This can help those in need develop the capacity to drive the change that they want to see. This will encourage support services through empowerment for vulnerable families. Social workers possess a variety of developmental social work skills such as networking, resource mobilization, capacity building, research, problem solving, monitoring and evaluation. These skills are necessary in promoting discourse at the national level on the vital roles that social workers can play in contributing to the sustainable development agenda on child vulnerability in Nigeria.

For further reading see:

Erhumwunse E.A., Nwanze Anthony, Nnama-Okechukwu C.U., Okoye U.O. (2021). Family strengthening programme: A suitable social protection intervention for vulnerable children and families in Nigeria. Social Work in Developing Societies 3 (2), 1-15

Nnama-Okechukwu, C.U., & Eghosa. A. Erhumwunse (2021). Factors responsible for child vulnerability in Nigeria: Suggestion for programme development. Social Work in Developing Societies. 3(1), 1-17

Nnama-Okechukwu, C.U. & Okoye, U.O. (2019). Rethinking institutional care using family-based alternative child care system for orphans and vulnerable children in Nigeria. Journal of Social Work in Developing Societies, 1(3), 35-57

Nnama-Okechukwu C.U. et al., (2019). An impact study of Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA) in Nigeria. African Population Journal, 33 (2), 4901-4912

Okoye, U.O. (2011). Knowledge and awareness of the child’s right act among residents of a University town in Enugu state, Nigeria. Educational Research, 2 (10), 1595-1601.

Okoye, U.O. (2013). Trend and Challenges in Social Work Practice in Nigeria, in Cree V.E. (eds ). Becoming a Social Worker: Global Narrative London, UK; Routledge. Taylor and Francis Group, pp 149-157.

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