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M-A in Social Work at Barkatullah University, Bhopal
Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Social Work at Barkatullah University, Bhopal Bhopal?
This M.A. Social Work program at Barkatullah Vishwavidyalaya focuses on equipping students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to address complex social issues in India. The curriculum emphasizes community engagement, social justice, and holistic development, preparing professionals to work effectively with individuals, groups, and communities across diverse settings in the Indian landscape. It provides a robust foundation for ethical and impactful social work practice.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from any discipline (Arts, Science, Commerce, BSW) who possess a strong commitment to social change and public service. It also caters to working professionals in the social sector looking to enhance their qualifications and skills, as well as individuals seeking a career transition into roles focused on human well-being and community development within India.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue rewarding career paths in various sectors, including NGOs, government social welfare departments, corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, and international development agencies. Entry-level salaries in India typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience. Roles include community development officers, counselors, project coordinators, and social policy analysts, contributing to India''''s social progress.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Establish a strong theoretical base in social work- (Semester 1)
Dedicate time to understanding the foundational concepts, principles, and historical evolution of social work. Engage actively in classroom discussions and utilize library resources to supplement lectures, internalizing the core ethos of the profession.
Tools & Resources
Core textbooks on Introduction to Social Work, Social Case Work, Community Organization, university library databases, peer study groups
Career Connection
A solid theoretical understanding is crucial for ethical practice, critical thinking, and for clearing initial rounds of interviews for various social development roles.
Develop critical observation and reporting skills in field work- (Semester 1)
Approach Field Work I with an inquisitive mind, meticulously observing agency functions, client interactions, and community dynamics. Document observations and reflections with precision, focusing on linking theoretical knowledge to practical situations in your reports.
Tools & Resources
Field work manual, supervisor guidance, reflective journal, standardized report templates
Career Connection
Enhances analytical abilities and written communication, vital for accurate needs assessment, program documentation, and monitoring and evaluation roles in NGOs and government projects.
Cultivate an interdisciplinary perspective on social issues- (Semester 1)
Actively integrate knowledge from Social Science Perspectives into understanding the multifaceted roots of social problems. Read widely on current affairs and socio-economic challenges in India to contextualize social work interventions effectively.
Tools & Resources
Recommended readings for SW-104, Indian government reports (e.g., NSSO, Census), national newspapers, social science research articles
Career Connection
Enables holistic problem-solving and culturally sensitive interventions, highly valued in diverse social development programs aiming for impact across India.
Intermediate Stage
Master social research methodologies and data application- (Semesters 2-3)
Go beyond theoretical understanding of research methods by actively participating in data collection exercises during Field Work II and III. Practice basic statistical analysis (even manually or using simple software) to interpret social data and inform evidence-based intervention strategies.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks on Social Work Research and Statistics, basic Excel functions, faculty guidance on mini-research projects, online tutorials for data analysis
Career Connection
Equips you for roles in program evaluation, policy research, and needs assessment within NGOs, government bodies, and international development organizations.
Deepen counseling and administrative skills through focused application- (Semesters 2-3)
During Field Work II and III, seek opportunities to practice basic counseling skills under supervision, and observe administrative functions in social welfare agencies. Understand the practical implications of social welfare administration and relevant Indian social legislations.
Tools & Resources
Role-playing exercises, case studies, supervision sessions, agency policy documents, relevant Indian legal texts (e.g., Child Protection Act, PWD Act)
Career Connection
Prepares for direct service roles, case management, and entry-level administrative positions in social welfare organizations and correctional services.
Engage with critical social issues through active learning and advocacy- (Semesters 2-3)
Focus on understanding topics like Human Rights, Social Justice, Tribal & Dalit Studies, and prevalent Social Problems. Participate in discussions, seminars, or awareness campaigns related to these issues to develop a nuanced perspective and foundational advocacy skills.
Tools & Resources
Human rights declarations, relevant Indian legislative acts, documentaries on social issues, guest lectures by activists and policymakers
Career Connection
Develops a strong ethical foundation and advocacy skills, crucial for human rights work, community organizing, and influencing social policy.
Advanced Stage
Execute a high-quality project work/dissertation for specialization- (Semester 4)
Choose a topic for your Project Work / Dissertation that aligns with your specific career interests and contributes meaningfully to social work knowledge. Conduct thorough research, apply appropriate methodologies, and aim for actionable recommendations. Present your findings effectively in a professional manner.
Tools & Resources
Research mentors/faculty advisors, statistical software (if applicable), academic writing guides, university presentation facilities, peer review groups
Career Connection
Showcases your ability to conduct independent research, critically analyze social issues, and contribute to knowledge, highly valued for advanced roles, academia, or further studies.
Maximize learning from intensive Block Placement- (Semester 4)
During Field Work IV (Block Placement), immerse yourself fully in the agency''''s work, taking initiative, managing cases, and contributing to programs. Focus on developing specialized intervention skills in areas like medical/psychiatric social work, gender & development, or disaster management, under expert supervision.
Tools & Resources
Agency staff as mentors, specialized literature in your chosen area, direct client interaction, regular supervision and feedback sessions
Career Connection
Provides crucial hands-on experience, builds confidence, and often leads to pre-placement offers or strong referrals for immediate entry into professional roles in the social sector.
Strategically prepare for career entry and professional growth- (Semester 4)
Actively network with alumni, faculty, and professionals encountered during field work and university events. Refine your CV/resume to highlight social work competencies, practice interview skills, and research potential employers (NGOs, government, CSR). Understand pathways for continuous professional development in social work in India.
Tools & Resources
University placement cell, LinkedIn, career workshops, mock interview sessions, professional social work associations in India
Career Connection
Increases your chances of securing a meaningful first job, establishes professional connections for future opportunities, and lays the groundwork for long-term career success and leadership in the social sector.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Graduate in any discipline (B.A. / B.Sc. / B.Com. / B.S.W.) with minimum 45% marks (40% for SC/ST/OBC).
Duration: 2 years (4 Semesters)
Credits: 82 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SW-101 | Introduction to Social Work | Core | 4 | Social Work Definition and Philosophy, History and Development of Social Work, Principles, Values, and Functions of Social Work, Social Reformers and Movements in India, Contemporary Social Work Perspectives |
| SW-102 | Social Case Work & Social Group Work | Core | 4 | Social Case Work: Philosophy, Principles, Process, Tools and Skills in Case Work Practice, Social Group Work: Meaning, Principles, Models, Role of Worker and Skills in Group Work, Application of Case Work and Group Work |
| SW-103 | Community Organization & Social Action | Core | 4 | Community Organization: Definition, Principles, Models, Role of Social Worker in Community Organization, Social Action: Objectives, Principles, Strategies, Models of Social Action and Contemporary Issues, Community Development Approaches |
| SW-104 | Social Science Perspective for Social Work | Core | 4 | Relevance of Sociology, Psychology, Economics, Political Science to Social Work, Social Structure, Culture, Socialization, Personality Development, Human Needs, Economic Disparities, Poverty, Inequality, State, Governance, and Social Policy |
| SW-105 | Field Work – I | Core | 4 | Orientation to Field Work Practice, Observation and Report Writing, Agency Visits and Institutional Study, Rural and Urban Community Study, Basic Interviewing Skills |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SW-201 | Social Work Research and Statistics | Core | 4 | Social Research: Meaning, Types, Methods, Research Design, Sampling Techniques, Tools and Techniques of Data Collection, Data Analysis, Interpretation, Report Writing, Basic Statistics for Social Work (Measures of Central Tendency, Dispersion) |
| SW-202 | Counseling: Theory and Practice | Core | 4 | Counseling: Definition, Goals, Principles, Counseling Process and Techniques, Skills of a Counselor: Empathy, Active Listening, Types of Counseling (Individual, Group, Family), Ethical Issues in Counseling |
| SW-203 | Social Welfare Administration & Social Legislations | Core | 4 | Social Welfare Administration: Principles, Functions, Structure, Personnel Management, Financial Management in NGOs, Indian Constitution and Social Justice, Major Social Legislations (e.g., Child Marriage Act, Domestic Violence Act), Right to Information Act, Disability Act |
| SW-204 | Human Rights & Social Justice | Core | 4 | Human Rights: Concept, Evolution, Categories, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Human Rights in Indian Context, Social Justice: Principles, Dimensions, Challenges, Role of Social Work in Promoting Human Rights and Social Justice |
| SW-205 | Field Work – II | Core | 4 | Placement in Social Welfare Agencies, Concurrent Field Work Practice, Application of Social Work Methods, Supervision and Reflective Practice, Report Writing and Case Studies |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SW-301 | Rural & Urban Community Development | Core | 4 | Rural Development: Concepts, Strategies, Challenges, Panchayati Raj Institutions and Rural Governance, Urbanization, Urban Problems, and Planning, Slum Development and Urban Poor, Role of Social Work in Rural and Urban Settings |
| SW-302 | Social Development & Planning | Core | 4 | Social Development: Theories, Indicators, Strategies, Concept of Planning, Social Planning Process, Social Policies and Programs in India, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Social Work, Impact Assessment of Development Projects |
| SW-303 | Tribal & Dalit Studies | Core | 4 | Tribal Communities in India: Characteristics, Problems, Culture, Constitutional Provisions for Tribals, Tribal Welfare Policies, Dalit Identity, Caste System, Discrimination, Dalit Movements and Empowerment Strategies, Role of Social Work with Marginalized Communities |
| SW-304 | Social Problems & Social Defence | Core | 4 | Major Social Problems in India (Poverty, Unemployment, Addiction), Crime and Delinquency, Correctional Administration, Domestic Violence, Child Abuse, Elder Abuse, Social Defence Strategies and Prevention Programs, Role of Social Work in Addressing Social Problems |
| SW-305 | Field Work – III (Concurrent Placement) | Core | 4 | Intensive Concurrent Placement in Agencies, Application of Advanced Social Work Interventions, Specific Area-Focused Case Studies, Supervision and Professional Skill Development, Documentation and Process Recording |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SW-401 | Gender & Development | Core | 4 | Gender Concepts: Sex vs. Gender, Patriarchy, Role and Status of Women in Indian Society, Gender Inequality, Violence Against Women, Women''''s Empowerment and Gender Mainstreaming, Role of Social Work in Gender Justice and Development |
| SW-402 | Disaster Management & Rehabilitation | Core | 4 | Disaster: Types, Causes, Impact, Disaster Management Cycle: Preparedness, Response, Recovery, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Strategies, Role of Social Work in Disaster Relief and Rehabilitation, Community-Based Disaster Risk Reduction |
| SW-403 | Medical & Psychiatric Social Work | Core | 4 | Role of Social Worker in Medical Settings, Health Policies and Programs in India, Understanding Various Diseases and Their Psycho-social Aspects, Role of Social Worker in Mental Health Settings, Psychiatric Disorders and Intervention Strategies |
| SW-404 | Project Work / Dissertation | Core | 6 | Formulation of Research Proposal, Data Collection and Analysis, Interpretation of Findings, Report Writing and Documentation, Presentation and Viva-Voce |
| SW-405 | Field Work – IV (Block Placement) | Core | 4 | Intensive Block Placement in a Chosen Agency, Application of Advanced Intervention Skills, Problem-Solving and Decision Making in Practice, Comprehensive Report Writing and Evaluation, Professional Ethics and Accountability |
