Career guide

Youth Worker

Social

Works with young people in communities, schools or NGOs - programmes, mentoring, support and referral. Practical, relational work, often in difficult settings.

School subjects

Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy is accepted.

How you qualify

A diploma or degree in Youth Development, Social Auxiliary Work, Community Development or Social Work (NQF 5-7). Note that calling yourself a Social Worker requires SACSSP registration and the four-year BSW - youth work is a related but separate route. Entry requirements differ by institution - confirm directly with the institution.

Where to study

Universities, Universities of Technology and TVET colleges; NGOs as main employers

Before you decide. Entry requirements change every year and differ between institutions. We do not publish admission point scores here, because a number that is right for one university in one year is wrong for another. Confirm the requirements directly with the institution before your subject selection form is signed. In KwaZulu-Natal, applications go through the Central Applications Office (cao.ac.za).

Last verified: 2026-08

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