Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences

Author
Dr. Fr. Wilson Jacob, SVD
HOD

Department of Social and Religious Studies

The Arts (Social Work) program is developed to create professionals in
social work who are qualified to exert transforming influence in the
society through academic teaching, research, community
engagement, and social action.


The program aims to produce professionals who are qualified to
exert a transformative influence in society through academic
teaching, research, community engagement, and social action.
Social work is an evolving profession in PNG, and it plays a significant role in protecting citizens from all forms of exploitation by helping them understand their rights, as well as in rehabilitating
those in society who are troubled.

The units in the program, are
specifically offered in six areas, namely, pastoral care and
counselling skills, public policy and analysis (PNG and
international), issues of marginalization and social justice, including
the social teachings of the Church, advocacy and community
welfare, community development and adult literacy and
empowerment, and gender, peace and conflict studies.
The aim of the program is to contribute to the PNG workforce a
steady stream of graduates who are capable of working in the ever
expanding social and religious sectors in PNG.

 

It is a four-year program and offered in an eight-semester format. 480 credit points are required to complete it successfully. Students need to complete a total of 32 core units during the course period.

Career opportunities and pathways for graduates.

Empower Your Future with a Career in Community Development

Graduates of this program emerge fully equipped to take on impactful roles in a wide range of fields. From project coordination and climate advocacy to rehabilitation services for prisoners and substance abusers, our graduates are at the forefront of positive change. Many also pursue careers as social researchers, community influencers, and development specialists, contributing meaningfully to society at every level.

The program offers professional upskilling that opens doors to diverse employment opportunities across NGOs, government agencies, and private sector initiatives. Whether you're passionate about social justice, sustainability, or transformative community work, this program lays the foundation for a purpose-driven career.

B. Social and Religious Studies

As a program under the Social Sciences, this qualification opens diverse pathways for graduates to make a real difference in their careers and communities. Graduates are well-positioned to contribute to social services and community development initiatives across a wide range of sectors, including corporate organizations, churches, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and government agencies.

Beyond institutional roles, graduates are equipped to provide ethical and visionary leadership within their own communities—driving positive change and helping to improve the overall standard of living.

With the majority of Papua New Guinea’s population residing in rural areas rich in sustainable resources, our graduates play a vital role in advancing the social and economic development of these communities.

Through ongoing professional development, graduates can also access employment opportunities across a variety of sectors, making this program a powerful foundation for a fulfilling and meaningful career.

Entry Requirements

1. School Leaver

Admission Requirements

To be eligible for admission, applicants must have successfully completed Grade 12 national examinations with an overall "B" average. Required subject areas include:

    English (Language and Literature)

    Social Sciences

    Mathematics

    Religious Studies

    Personal Development

Additionally, applicants must have a minimum overall GPA of 2.8.

 2. Non-School Leaver (NSL)

Applicants who are non-school leavers or have been actively working in fields related to the program for at least five years are encouraged to apply. The following criteria apply:

    Work Experience: Applicants must provide evidence of relevant work experience (minimum five years). This must be submitted along with the application form.

    Recommendations: Applications should be supported by written recommendations from community leaders, pastors, or priests.

    Academic Requirements: All applicants must have successfully completed Grade 12 national examinations with an overall "B" average, including passes in English (Language and Literature), Social Sciences, Mathematics, Religious Studies, and Personal Development.

    Matriculation: Applicants who have completed a recognized matriculation program will also be considered.

    Gap Policy: In line with DHERST policy, applicants should not have a gap of more than five years between the completion of Grade 12 (or equivalent) and the time of application.

All supporting documents must be submitted with the application to be considered for admission into the program.

No. It is meant for any students who are interested in the social science program, which includes some religious programs based on the Christian faith.

No.  However, it has some religious subjects from the Catholic Christian tradition.

The primary difference lies in the religious units included in the program.

NO. The SRS equips individuals with the fundamental knowledge necessary to work in social services and community development. It instils the appropriate attitude and aptitude for the person.

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