Journal of Sociology and Social Work

Variations in the Undergraduate Social Work Programs of Seven Universities in Saudi Arabia
Dr. Hind Almaizar

Abstract
Social work education at the undergraduate level became available in Saudi Arabia in 1970s, and was pioneered by King Saud University. At present, seven universities are offering a bachelor’s degree in social work. The present study analyzed the differences in the programs offered by these seven universities. The results showed a large variation among the programs in terms of the proportion of the number of hours allocated for specialized courses and field training to the program’s total number of credit hours. The study proposes that the allocation of hours for these courses must be standardized among Saudi universities. Findings This study gathered information that is summarizing the following: - Introduction to history of Universities in Saudi Arabia - The results of the study showed a large variation in the content of the programs of undergraduate social work programs in seven Saudi universities. - This variation was evident in the total number of credit hours as well as the proportion of the number of hours allocated for specialized courses and field training to the program’s required total number of hours to obtain a degree. - Social workers graduates may obtain the same position (Job Title) although they may differ in their skills and knowledge. Applications Among the seven Saudi universities covered by this study, PNU runs a social work program that is more aligned with CSWE’s accreditation standards. This could be attributed to PNU having a college that focuses solely on social work. In contrast, the social work programs in the other universities are offered alongside other programs under a department or a division in a department.

Full Text: PDF     DOI: 10.15640/jssw.v6n2a3