Social work is a constantly evolving discipline, adapting to emerging social challenges and longstanding issues that resurface due to socio-political and economic changes. One constant, however, is the need for the field to stay attuned to society's rhythm, ensuring professionalism and competence by approaching social problems with a multi-perspective mindset, grounded in interdisciplinary knowledge, evidence-based practice, and rigorous research.

2024 marks the Department’s 72^nd anniversary. Since its inception, NUS Department of Social Work has trained social workers in Singapore who have positively and significantly impacted our society, at both the direct social work practice level, addressing the needs of marginalized or vulnerable groups and individuals, and indirect social work practice level, promoting social justice, inclusiveness and policy changes. Today, the Department remains dedicated to educating and training the next generation of social work leaders to be critical thinkers, skilled and reflective practitioners, and adept practice-researchers. We also emphasize the importance of humility and integrity in our future leaders, encouraging them to stay true to social work values, engage ethically and recognize their own limitations. This fosters collaboration with experts from various sectors to best serve the communities they support.  

Our faculty team brings a wealth of strengths to the department, including extensive practice experience, exceptional research competence, and teaching expertise across various domains. We are deeply committed to ensuring that our teaching is grounded in research and aligned with practical needs. Our diverse academic offerings include the Bachelor of Social Sciences in Social Work (with Honours), Graduate Diploma in Social Work, Master's in Social Work (by coursework), Master's in Social Sciences (by research), and PhD (by research).

Looking forward, we aim to introduce new initiatives that support lifelong learning, including continuing professional education for qualified social workers, as well as social service and health sectors.

Our website is your gateway to all the information you need about us. We warmly invite you to explore it, and we look forward to engaging with you as you learn more about our work and community!

Warm regards,
Lee Geok Ling, Ph.D.
Head, Department of Social Work
National University of Singapore