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PH-D-SOCIAL-WORK in Social Work at Mahatma Gandhi Central University
East Champaran, Bihar
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About the Specialization
What is Social Work at Mahatma Gandhi Central University East Champaran?
This Ph.D. Social Work program at Mahatma Gandhi Central University focuses on advanced research and critical analysis of complex social issues prevalent in India. It emphasizes developing an in-depth understanding of social work theories, methodologies, and evidence-based interventions relevant to diverse Indian communities. The program aims to foster original contributions to social justice and development policies within the Indian context, preparing scholars for impactful roles.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for master''''s graduates in Social Work or allied disciplines who aspire to contribute significantly to academia, research, and social policy formulation in India. It targets individuals seeking to become leading researchers, academics, or policy analysts committed to addressing pressing social challenges. Professionals looking to enhance their analytical and research skills for leadership roles in development sectors will also benefit.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue rewarding India-specific career paths, including positions as university professors, social science researchers in esteemed institutions, policy analysts for government bodies and NGOs, or consultants for international development agencies operating in India. They will be equipped to drive social change, influence policy reforms, and lead impactful community development projects, commanding competitive salaries ranging from 7-15 LPA.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Advanced Research Methodologies- (Semester 1)
Thoroughly understand diverse research designs, quantitative and qualitative methods, and ethical considerations. Actively participate in seminars and workshops to deepen conceptual clarity and apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios.
Tools & Resources
MGCUB Library databases, UGC-NET research methodology guides, NPTEL courses on advanced research
Career Connection
Essential for conducting credible academic research and effective problem-solving in social policy and development roles in India.
Cultivate Academic Writing and Critical Review Skills- (Semester 1)
Practice rigorous literature review to identify research gaps and write scholarly articles adhering to academic standards and recognized citation styles like APA or Chicago. Engage in peer review to refine writing.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly, Mendeley/Zotero for referencing, MGCUB writing workshops, peer review groups
Career Connection
Crucial for publishing research papers, thesis writing, and securing research grants, enhancing a scholar''''s profile in Indian academia.
Develop Data Analysis Proficiency- (Semester 1)
Gain hands-on experience with statistical software for data processing and analysis. Understand interpreting results to draw meaningful conclusions for pressing social issues within an Indian context.
Tools & Resources
SPSS, R or Python (for social data analysis), MGCUB computer lab, online tutorials from platforms like Coursera
Career Connection
Enables robust evidence-based research and impact assessment, highly valued in academic and social sector organizations across India.
Intermediate Stage
Formulate a Robust Research Proposal- (After coursework, within 1-2 years)
Develop a clear, feasible, and impactful research proposal, defining specific objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes relevant to an Indian social context. Seek continuous feedback from supervisors.
Tools & Resources
Faculty mentors, Departmental research review committees, previous Ph.D. theses from MGCUB and other Indian universities
Career Connection
A strong proposal is fundamental for successful Ph.D. completion and securing research funding or post-doctoral opportunities in India.
Engage in Ethical Fieldwork and Data Collection- (Year 2-3 of Ph.D.)
Strategically plan and execute fieldwork, applying ethical guidelines for data collection. Build rapport with communities and stakeholders for rich qualitative or quantitative data essential for social work research.
Tools & Resources
Interview guides, Survey software (e.g., Google Forms), voice recorders, informed consent forms, community partners and local NGOs
Career Connection
Develops practical research skills essential for social sector jobs, impact assessment, and policy implementation roles throughout India.
Participate in National and International Conferences- (Throughout Ph.D. (Year 2 onwards))
Present preliminary research findings at relevant academic conferences within India and abroad. Network with established scholars and receive critical feedback to refine research directions.
Tools & Resources
MGCUB research grants or travel support, academic societies (e.g., Indian Association of Social Work), conference announcement platforms
Career Connection
Enhances academic profile, fosters collaborations, and opens doors for academic and research opportunities globally and within India.
Advanced Stage
Refine Data Analysis and Interpretation- (Year 3-4 of Ph.D.)
Conduct in-depth analysis of collected data, critically interpret findings, and connect them to existing social work theories and Indian policy frameworks. Ensure conclusions are well-supported by evidence.
Tools & Resources
Advanced statistical/qualitative software (e.g., NVivo, ATLAS.ti), statistical consultants, faculty feedback, specialized methodology textbooks
Career Connection
Produces high-quality, impactful research capable of influencing policy and practice, leading to senior research roles in government or NGOs.
Produce a High-Quality Thesis Manuscript- (Year 4-5 of Ph.D.)
Systematically write and organize the thesis, ensuring logical flow, academic rigor, and strict adherence to university guidelines. Focus on clear articulation of original contributions to the field.
Tools & Resources
MGCUB thesis guidelines and templates, academic writing centers, professional proofreading services, continuous supervisor guidance
Career Connection
The thesis is the cornerstone for academic careers and demonstrates comprehensive, independent research capabilities to potential employers or academic institutions.
Prepare for Viva Voce and Publication- (Final year of Ph.D. and post-defense)
Rigorously prepare for the final thesis defense by anticipating questions and articulating research contributions. Systematically convert thesis chapters into publishable journal articles for peer-reviewed journals.
Tools & Resources
Mock viva sessions with faculty, MGCUB research journals, reputable peer-reviewed journals in Social Work, workshops on academic publishing
Career Connection
Successfully defending and publishing research strengthens academic standing, significantly contributing to securing faculty positions or leadership roles in social research.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s degree in Social Work with at least 55% marks or its equivalent Grade ''''B'''' in the UGC 7-point scale (or an equivalent grade in a point scale wherever grading system is followed) in a relevant subject from a recognized University.
Duration: One Semester (for coursework)
Credits: 16 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SWPHD-C-401 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Approaches to Social Work Research, Research Design, Methods of Data Collection, Data Processing and Analysis, Reporting and Referencing |
| SWPHD-C-402 | Advanced Social Work Theory and Practice | Core | 4 | Historical Evolution of Social Work, Theories of Social Work, Social Work Practice Methods, Social Work with Groups and Communities, Professional Ethics and Values in Social Work |
| SWPHD-D-403 | Review of Literature and Academic Writing | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 4 | Review of Literature: Meaning and Purpose, Types of Literature Review, Tools and Techniques for Literature Review, Academic Writing: Structure and Style, Referencing and Citation Styles |
| SWPHD-D-404 | Computer Applications in Research | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 4 | Introduction to Computer Applications, Data Management Software (e.g., MS Excel, SPSS), Statistical Analysis Software, Presentation Tools, Online Resources for Research |
