Masters in Social Work: Top colleges to pursue MSW, scope and career options

Masters in Social Work: Top colleges to pursue MSW, scope and career options

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Updated on Jan 27, 2020 18:26 IST

Planning on pursuing a Masters in Social Work? Check out the top colleges offering MSW, the scope in India and the various career options.

Masters in Social Work, Scope, Career

Dedication. Passion. Commitment. If you are planning on pursuing a course in Social Work, the aforementioned words is a must to keep in mind as here you work towards helping the lesser fortune strive forward. In simple words put, social work is an area where trained professionals work for the welfare of individuals and families in society. People work in various organizations, NGOs (non-government organizations) and departments to help bring about a social change which benefits the society and the people.

A career in social work is all about assisting and coming to the aid of people who are in need. It is a selfless job to be precise. On completing a masters in social work, the course will not only provide students with in-depth knowledge but will also give you an idea of what career you would want to take up in the future. In order to pursue a Masters in Social Work, candidates need to meet the eligibility criteria which is set by universities/colleges/institutes.

MSW Eligibility Criteria

If you are planning on pursuing a Master in Social work, students need to meet the basic eligibility criteria set. To apply for a Master in Social Work, candidates need to have a bachelor’s degree in either social work (BSW) or BA or have pursued a course in either psychology, social science, sociology or any other related field.

Top Colleges in India offering MSW

To get admission in MSW, universities and colleges generally conduct entrance exams and interviews. Getting admission in one of the top colleges can expose a student to a world of knowledge, but can also provide students placements in top organizations and NGOs. You can check the list of top colleges offering Masters in Social Work as mentioned below.

University of Mumbai

One of the top universities in India, the University of Mumbai offers students a two-year Masters in Social Work. In order to get admission in the university, candidates will have to appear for an entrance exam which is conducted annually by the varsity. Candidates will have to register and apply online in order to give the entrance exam conducted by the University of Mumbai. Along with theoretical subjects taught, there is plenty of fieldwork as well for students to learn and have a hands-on experience as well.

Christ University

Christ University’s department of social work offers a diverse range of courses for candidates to pursue. The prime objective of the university is to provide students with a sound foundation in the field of social work, its theoretical frameworks and perspectives. The university also aims to develop indigenous knowledge and intervention strategies in the field of social work. For admission in Christ University, candidates have to apply online for admission. The diverse programmes offered by Christ University are as follows:

Programme

Course

Postgraduate

  • Master of Science in Developmental Studies
  • Master of Arts in Applied Sociology
  • Master of Social Work (MSW) Clinical and Community Practice
  • Master of Social Work (MSW) Human Resource Development and Management

MPhil

Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Social Work

Doctoral (PhD)

Doctor of Philosophy in Social Work

Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU)

The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) offers students a variety of courses in social work. Candidates can choose between a regular, diploma and a certificate programme as well. IGNOU’s objective is to promote human resources aiming at improving the quality of life of poorest of the poor and meet the growing demand for professionally trained social workers across the country. For admission, candidates can apply online on the official website of the university.

Programme

Course

Postgraduation

  • Masters of Social Work (Counselling)
  • Master of Social Work

Diploma

Diploma in HIV and Family Education (DAFE)

Certificate

  • Certificate in Tribal Studies (CTRBS)
  • Certificate in HIV and Family Education (CAFÉ)
  • Certificate in Social Work and Criminal Justice System

PG Diploma

Post Graduate in Social Work Counselling

Jamia Millia Islamia

One of the most renowned colleges in the nation, Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) offers candidates admission in various programmes offered by the varsity. Jamia offers the following programmes in social work:

Programme

Course

Postgraduation

  • MA in Social Work
  • MA in Human Resource Management

Doctoral

MPhil/PhD in Social Work

Advanced Diploma

Advanced Diploma in Public Health

In order to get admission in JMI, candidates need to apply and appear for the Jamia Millia Islamia Entrance Exam which is conducted annually in the month of May.

St. Joseph’s College, Bangalore

For candidates who want to take up a specialization in Masters in Social Work, St. Joseph’s College, Bangalore offers candidates MSW in Community Development and Medical Psychiatry. For admission, candidates who are eligible can apply online on the official website of the college. Candidates will be shortlisted and will be called for an interview.

Rabindra Bharati University, Kolkata

Candidates who are looking for diverse courses offered in the department of social work, the Rabindra Bharati University offers aspirants various courses other than MSW such as Human Development Studies, Human Rights and Development. For admission in RBU, candidates will need to apply online and meet the eligibility criteria set by the university. Programmes and courses offered by Rabindra Bharati University is as follows:

Programme

Course

Masters

  • Masters in Social Work
  • Human Rights and Human Development

MPhil

Human Development Studies

Scope of Masters in Social Work

As development grows rapidly in the nation, there are many who aren’t able to cope with the quick change. While many families aren’t able to afford the expenses, many are homeless. Urban poverty is also a complication in society along with illegal activities such as child labour. Other than these dilemmas, there are innumerous problems in today’s society. The need for trained professionals in the field of social work is now imperative in order to tackle the challenges people face on a daily basis. Various organizations, NGOs work on new projects to make people aware, to help them get on their feet and contribute to society. After a candidate has pursued a Masters in Social Work, students can get to work straight away and work with top organisations and NGOs. Who knows, you could be a part of UN or UNICEF someday.

Careers after Masters in Social Work

Careers which students can opt for in the field of social work are as follows:

Teacher

Counsellor

Human Resources

Labour welfare specialist

Child and Family Social Worker

Healthcare Social Worker

Community Social Worker

Health Educator

Research Social Worker

Public Policy Social Worker

Public Health Administrator

Environmental Health Worker

Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Worker

Psychiatric Social Worker

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Rajender

4 years ago

I'm wanted a job social worker

Reply to Rajender