The Bachelor of Social Sciences at NWU is a versatile three-year degree that provides students with an interdisciplinary foundation in the social sciences, combining disciplines such as sociology, psychology, geography, history, economics, and social anthropology to understand human society and its institutions. Offered across the Mahikeng, Potchefstroom, and Vanderbijlpark campuses, the programme equips students to engage critically with South Africa's complex social realities — including inequality, urbanisation, migration, and community change — and to contribute solutions through research, public service, and community engagement. The flexible curriculum allows students to develop a personalised academic profile that matches their interests and career aspirations across a wide range of social science and public service careers.
Relevant language (HL or FAL): Level 4 (50-59%)
APS: 22
Social Researcher – Collect and analyse social data for government departments, the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), NGOs, or market research firms addressing South African social challenges.
Community Development Worker – Facilitate community-based development projects addressing poverty, housing, or social cohesion in South African townships and rural areas.
Government Programme Officer – Monitor and evaluate social development programmes for national or provincial government departments in areas such as education, health, or social welfare.
Human Resources Assistant – Apply social science knowledge to support recruitment, employee wellness, and organisational culture initiatives at South African companies.
Postgraduate Researcher – Pursue Honours and Masters study in sociology, psychology, geography, or a related social science field at a South African university to specialise and advance in a chosen career.
