Social Work Career Scope: Jobs, Placements, Salary 2024, Top Recruiters/Companies
Social Work career scope is immense. Social Work careers create a direct impact on the lives of people and help society move in a more positive direction. Students who choose to pursue a Social Work career can look forward to an honest, fulfilling, and stable career with ample opportunities and scope for growth.
A student can pursue a career as a Social Worker, Lawyer, Human Resource Executive, Project Coordinator, Mental Health Educator, etc. after completing Social Work degrees. Students can expect a salary ranging from INR3-6 LPA in a Social Work career.
Students can pursue further studies like MBA, Masters, and PhD after Social Work degrees. They can also start working in Social Work career fields like Government and Public Service Sector, NGOs, Law, Academia, Human Resources, etc. Some of the top recruiters in the Social Work industry are the NITI Aayog, Goonj, Accenture, Amazon, and the United Nations, etc.
Colleges that offer Social Work degrees include Jamia Millia Islamia, Banaras Hindu University MCC - Madras Christian College, University of Lucknow, University of Mumbai, Amity University, Christ University, Lovely Professional University, etc.
- Social Work Careers: Quick Facts
- Top Job Profiles in Social Work Careers
- 2.1 Government & Private Sector Jobs in Social Work Careers
- Emerging Trends in Social Work Jobs and Careers
- Social Work Career Scope: Jobs, Salary, and Further Education in India
- 4.1 Core Industries in Social Work Careers
- 4.2 Social Work Careers Top Recruiters
- 4.3 Courses after Social Work Degrees
- Social Work Degrees: Top Colleges for Placements In India
- Social Work Career FAQs
Social Work Careers: Quick Facts
- According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the overall employment of social workers is projected to grow 7% from 2023 to 2033.
- The average starting salary of a Social Worker in India is around INR 3 LPA.
- The projected employment growth in the US, through 2023-33 for Mental Health and Substance Abuse social workers is expected to grow at a rate of 11% while it is estimated at 10% for Healthcare social workers and 5% for Child, Family, and Educational social work.
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BSW (Bachelor of Social Work) Degrees
MSW (Master of Social Work) Degrees
Top Job Profiles in Social Work Careers
Social Work is an honorable career field that aims to bring changes in society through various jobs in law, education, governance, etc. that bring changes to the ground level. There is a plethora of job opportunities that students can pursue after completing Social Work courses.
Government & Private Sector Jobs in Social Work Careers
Students can get a job in both, the government as well as the private sectors after completing a Social Work Degrees. Some of the most commonly chosen job profiles are listed below:
| Job Profile |
Description |
Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Social Worker |
In such a job profile, one provides appropriate resources, advice, and support to individuals who are facing difficulties or problems in their personal/ professional lives. A social worker helps individuals cope with any problems they are facing to fulfill their monetary, emotional, and social needs. |
INR 5 LPA |
| Social Educator |
In such a profile one needs to plan and organise events related to social issues. A social educator also needs to conduct committee meetings with the Public Affairs as well as Social Issues departments. |
INR 6 LPA |
| Project Coordinator |
Aspirants are hired at this job profile in an NGO. Project Coordinators need to help in the planning, budgeting, and monitoring process of a project undertaken by an NGO. |
INR 5 LPA |
| Mental Health Educator |
A mental health educator guides their clients and offers them support. They facilitate healing and living a fulfilling life. |
INR 6.5 LPA |
| Health Instructor |
A health instructor helps people suffering from substance abuse and other disorders that may have negative results on their health. They help people develop healthy habits and lifestyles. |
INR 2 LPA |
| Life Coach |
A life coach helps people evolve and become the best version of themselves. They offer support and guidance to their clients. |
INR 6 LPA |
Note: The salaries given above have been taken from ambitionbox.com and may vary depending on the companies offering the jobs
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Emerging Trends in Social Work Jobs and Careers
The several trends and shifts in the traditional forms of social work. These Social Work career trends have been listed below:
Integration of AI Technology: Virtual and AI platforms are increasingly being used to support mental health and therapy processes. They offer convenience and non-judgemental, neutral platforms for the patients. There is vast scope for the integration of AI platforms in Social Work.
Inclusivity: A Social Worker comes across people from diverse walks of life, from different cultures, religions, ethnicities, etc. and it is essential that they use language, techniques, and processes that exude empathy and respect for people from all backgrounds to build trust and a sense of comfort with their clients.
Special Needs School Counselors: As schools become more inclusive for students with different academic calibers, they are increasingly hiring professionals who understand the struggles and teaching techniques for students with special needs.
Working With The Youth: The struggles of the young may vary greatly from those belonging to older age groups. Issues like bullying, gender identity issues, cyber harassment, and addiction issues are real problems being faced by our younger generations and are important issues that must be dealt with.
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Social Work Career Scope: Jobs, Salary, and Further Education in India
There is vast scope for students who wish to pursue Social Work careers. Students can choose to bring changes in the fields of healthcare, administration, environment, education as well as in the industrial sector. There are many options and job opportunities for Social Work graduates to choose from. Read on to find out more about Social Work career scope and opportunities.
Core Industries in Social Work Careers
A Social Work graduate can find themselves working in various industries. The job opportunities are diverse in nature. Students can take a look at some of the commonly chosen job industries for a career in the Social Work sector.
| JOB INDUSTRY |
DESCRIPTION |
AVERAGE SALARY |
|---|---|---|
| Government Organisations |
The Government Ministries and Departments that work towards social welfare and the torchbearers of social justice in India offer several job roles related to Social Work. |
INR 12 LPA |
| Community Service Organisations |
Community Service Organizations, NGOs, and non-profits offer a wide range of job opportunities for Social Work graduates. They can also seek overseas job opportunities by becoming an International Social Worker. |
INR 3 LPA |
| Corporates and Consultancies |
Private companies offer job opportunities in many entry-level and executive-level positions. Employs can work in fields like project management and human resources etc. |
INR 4.4 LPA |
| Educational Institutions |
Social Work graduates can teach various subjects in primary classes, Social Science in middle school, and, Sociology and other Humanities subjects to highschool students. They can also choose to pursue PhD and become professors. |
INR 6 LPA |
Note: This information is sourced from multiple sources on the web. Hence, it may vary.
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Social Work Careers Top Recruiters
The top recruiting companies for students who have completed Social Work degrees include companies like:
| Social Work Career Top Recruiters |
||
|---|---|---|
| Goonj |
Flipkart |
Dabur India Ltd. |
| Reliance Industries |
Amazon |
CRY NGO |
| Deloitte |
Kotak Life Insurance |
TATA Motors |
| Pfizer |
Accenture |
CVS Health |
Courses after Social Work Degrees
Many students choose to further their education after completing an undergraduate degree in Social Work. Higher education opens up a wide horizon of possible career opportunities and helps students develop a deeper knowledge and gain practical skills that can help them in the real world.
Students can combine their knowledge of Social Work with technical degrees like Law, MBA, and PhD to enter various other career fields:
| Courses |
DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|
| Law Courses |
An academic degree that educates students about citizen rights, governance, legal knowledge, etc. |
| MBA Courses |
A 2-year professional, management degree that instructs students on business management, administration, and operation. |
| A specialized, PG program that educates students about the different fields of Social Work. |
|
| PhD Courses |
A doctorate degree, that permits candidates to independently conduct and publish their research. |
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Social Work Degrees: Top Colleges for Placements In India
Many colleges in India offer Social Work courses. Some of the top colleges, with the highest average placement packages have been mentioned in the table below:
| Social Work Colleges |
Average Placement Package |
|---|---|
| INR 18 LPA |
|
| INR 14.55 LPA |
|
| INR 11.75 LPA |
|
| INR 10 LPA |
|
| INR 9.25 LPA |
|
| INR 9.2 LPA |
|
| INR 9 LPA |
|
| INR 8.65 LPA |
Note: The information is sourced from the official website/counseling body and may vary.
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Social Work Career FAQs
What are the entry-level jobs after Social Work courses?
There are many industries where students can pursue a career after completing social work courses. As freshers, students can find employment as medical social workers, project coordinators, or substance abuse counselors. Generally, the average entry-level job salary will range from INR 3 LPA to INR 5 LPA. Once students have gained a little experience, they can choose a more intense job role in fields like prison reformation and rehabilitation, human resources, mental health counseling, and as professors. Students can also start their own NGO.
How can I enhance my chances of getting a job after Social Work courses?
There are many ways through which students can enhance their chances of bagging a job after completing a social work degree. As students, it would be beneficial to pursue internships in fields related to your degree. Work experience in relevant fields can increase your chances of scoring an interview with an employer. Additionally, students should pursue a lot of online or short-term courses that will help them expand their skill set and become well-versed with techniques that can help their Social Work careers. Building a strong resume, that accurately and comprehensively conveys your skills can be very helpful. Students should also try to build a strong network among their peers and school alumni as it will help them connect with like-minded individuals and may open up many job opportunities after Social Work courses.
What is the highest-paying career after Social Work courses?
There are many Social Work careers and employment sectors where students can find a good salary. Careers in human resources and in medical social work are among the highest-paying industries after social work courses. An HR executive can earn a salary ranging from INR 8 LPA to INR 16 LPA after gaining experience in the field. A medical social worker can earn a salary ranging from INR 5 LPA to INR 7 LPA after gaining experience.
Can I continue my education in the Social Work course along with a job?
Yes, continuing to pursue education along with a job can be a great decision for many people, depending on their career aspirations and situation. While a regular, full-time degree has its own perks, it may not be suitable for everyone. There are many students who choose to pursue an online, distance/correspondence degree along with a part-time/full-time job. Students who are interested in distance/correspondence degrees can refer to some options in the table below:
| Distance/ Correspondence College |
Average Fees |
|---|---|
| INR 1,000- 36,000 |
|
| INR 10,400 |
|
| INR 6,000-10,000 |
|
| INR 15,300 |
|
| INR 2,100 |
What are the skills I need to become a Social Worker?
There are many skills that would be helpful for students if they wish to become a social worker. Empathy for others, Communication skills, problem-solving abilities, being a good listener, patience, being inclusive, and holding unconditional positive regard toward the client are all essential skills that are required to become a good social worker.
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Most Popular Courses
Popular Courses
- Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)Amity University, Noida
- Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)St. Joseph’s University
- M.A. in Social WorkJamia Millia Islamia
- Master of Social Work (MSW)Kristu Jayanti College
- Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)IGNOU - Indira Gandhi National Open University
- Masters in Social Work (MSW)PSG College of Arts and Science - PSGCAS
- Discontinued (June 2023) M.S.W. in Human Resource Development and ManagementChrist University
- M.A. in Social Work (Community Organisation, Development Practice)TISS - Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai
- M.A. in Social Work (Children & Families)TISS - Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai
- B.A. (Hons.) in Social WorkUniversity of Lucknow
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336 Colleges
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2 Colleges
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2 Colleges
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2 Colleges
News & Updates
Student Forum
Anything you would want to ask experts?Answered a week ago
There are various advantages to pursuing a Social Work certificate course. Some of these benefits have been listed below:
- A Social Work certification course provides various career opportunities. A certification offers credibility to students who wish to pursue professions in Social Work. It often le
M
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
Pursuing a Social Work certification course offers many benefits and opens doors to a fulfilling career dedicated to helping others. Here are some reasons why students should consider enrolling in a certificate course in Social Work:
- Social Work careers create a positive impact and focus on improving
M
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
Yes! You can surely learn the foundations of Social Work, social justice, human rights, etc. through a certificate-level course, as it allows you to explore the field in a comprehensive manner. The Social Work courses are structured such that it is easy for students to learn about foundational Socia
M
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
Social Work admission in IGNOU is a simple procedure. The students first have to make sure that they fulfill the basic Social Work admission eligibility criteria, after which they can fill out the online application form on the official website of IGNOU. Aspirants must select the certification cours
M
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
Hello! Yes, there are many Social Work courses that are available online for free. You can learn Social Work for free, but the certification is paid. Here are some Social Work online and distance courses that provide certification:
Social Work Online/Distance Courses | Average Fees |
|---|---|
INR 5,400 | |
INR 8,000 | |
INR 18,800 |
M
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
The Social Work Certificate is a course through which students can learn about the foundations and core values of Social Work. The Social Work certificate course duration varies depending on various universities and their curriculum, but generally, it is a 6-month to 1-year course that you can pursu
M
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
For the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) at TISS, students need to select the English Language as a compulsory subject from Section I and a General Test from Section III. This combination applies to both the Tujapur and Mumbai campuses. The selection of these subjects aligns with the core skills requir
Y
Beginner-Level 3
Answered 4 weeks ago
To apply for a Social Work course at IGNOU, you need to follow these steps:
- Visit the official IGNOU website.
- Register on the portal by providing the necessary details.
- Select the programme you wish to apply for (e.g., MSW - Master of Social Work).
- Fill out the application form and submit the required d
A
Contributor-Level 9
Answered 4 weeks ago
Hello!
Yes, studying Social Work from abroad is a popular option among students. Students who are interested, can take entrance exams like IELTS, GMAT, and TOEFL to get admission to Universities outside India, depending on the exams accepted by them.
Some popular universities and institutes for Social
M
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 4 weeks ago
A student who is interested in social work can pursue an MSW course at the Master's level. Masters in Social Work (MSW) courses can be pursued by anyone if they have completed their undergraduate. Students from all specializations, including BSc are welcome to pursue MSW courses if they qualify for
M
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a month ago
MSW (Masters in Social Work) is a professional course, and it's demand is growing with ample scope and opportunities. some of the job opportunities of MSW course are:
- Corporate Social Responsibility
- Education
- Skill Development
- Child Welfare
- Women Empowerment
- Working in Social Enterprise
- Public Health
- Human
N
Beginner-Level 5
Answered 2 months ago
Hello!
A BSW course is an undergraduate degree. It can be pursued by any student who has completed their class 12. Students from all streams can apply for this course but they should have scored at least around 45-50% marks in their exams. Most colleges admit students based on entrance exam ranks or
M
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
A Bachelor of Arts (BA) in a Bachelor of social work degree offered at GKU Bathinda is an undergraduate programme that prepares students to help individuals, families, and communities to increase their well-being. It focuses on community development, social justice, and providing support to those in
V
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
The subjects offered in BA Social Work are closely related to sociology, work practice, and society. The names of some subjects offered in the BA Social Work at Guru Kashi University are:
- Introduction to Social Work Practice
- Introduction to Fieldwork Practices
- Integrated Social Work Practices
- Sociology
V
Contributor-Level 10
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What are the benefits of studying Social Work Certificate courses?