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M-S-W in General at Mizoram University
Aizawl, Mizoram
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About the Specialization
What is General at Mizoram University Aizawl?
This Master of Social Work M.S.W. program at Mizoram University focuses on developing skilled social work professionals equipped to address complex societal issues. The curriculum integrates theoretical knowledge with extensive field practice, preparing students for impactful roles in diverse communities. With a strong emphasis on indigenous knowledge and ethical practice, the program is highly relevant to the social development needs across India, particularly in the North Eastern region. It aims to foster critical thinking and compassionate action among future social workers.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from any discipline seeking entry into the dynamic field of social welfare and development. It also caters to working professionals involved in grassroots organizations, NGOs, or public services who wish to enhance their theoretical understanding and practical skills. Individuals passionate about social justice, human rights, and community empowerment, who possess strong communication and empathy, will find this program deeply rewarding. A foundational interest in humanitarian service and problem-solving is a key prerequisite.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as social workers, community development officers, project coordinators, counsellors, and policy advocates. They find opportunities in government welfare departments, national and international NGOs, corporate social responsibility CSR initiatives, hospitals, and educational institutions. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience to INR 8-15 LPA and beyond for experienced professionals in leadership roles within Indian organizations. The program aligns with national goals of inclusive growth and sustainable development.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Immerse in Foundational Field Work- (Semester 1)
Actively engage in all assigned concurrent field work during Semester 1. Focus on diligent observation of agency functioning, client demographics, and basic social problems within local communities. Maintain detailed field diaries, reflecting critically on experiences and connecting initial theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios. Seek regular feedback from field supervisors.
Tools & Resources
Field diaries, Supervision sessions, Agency orientation materials, Introductory social work literature
Career Connection
Establishes initial practical skills, ethical understanding, and direct exposure to diverse social work settings, crucial for building an empathetic and effective professional foundation.
Build a Strong Core Theoretical Understanding- (Semester 1)
Develop a robust understanding of core social work theories, history, philosophy, and foundational social science concepts. Participate actively in class discussions, seek clarification on complex ideas, and engage in peer study groups. Utilize the university library for supplementary readings and academic journals to deepen theoretical knowledge.
Tools & Resources
University library, Prescribed textbooks, Online academic resources like JSTOR, Departmental seminars
Career Connection
Provides the essential theoretical framework for understanding human behavior, social systems, and the rationale behind social work interventions, vital for informed practice.
Cultivate Self-Awareness and Reflective Practice- (Semester 1)
Actively practice self-reflection on personal biases, values, and reactions during classroom learning and field experiences. Engage in critical self-assessment to understand how personal perspectives may influence professional practice. Seek opportunities for personal growth through workshops or group activities focusing on empathy and cultural sensitivity.
Tools & Resources
Reflective journaling, Peer feedback, Self-assessment tools, Mindfulness exercises
Career Connection
Enhances emotional intelligence and ethical decision-making, enabling social workers to build stronger client relationships and navigate complex professional dilemmas effectively.
Intermediate Stage
Apply Practice Models in Field Settings- (Semester 2)
Systematically apply the learned social case work, group work, and community organization models in concurrent field placements. Take initiative in client interactions, group facilitation, and community engagement. Document interventions, analyze outcomes, and critically evaluate the effectiveness of different approaches under supervision.
Tools & Resources
Case study analysis, Supervision reports, Intervention planning tools, Agency forms
Career Connection
Develops practical intervention skills, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to adapt theoretical models to diverse client needs, preparing for direct practice roles.
Develop Research and Data Interpretation Skills- (Semester 2)
Focus on mastering social work research methodologies, data collection techniques, and basic statistical analysis. Actively participate in research projects, surveys, and data-gathering activities. Learn to critically evaluate research findings and use data to inform social work interventions and policy recommendations.
Tools & Resources
SPSS/R basics, Research ethics guidelines, Survey tools, Academic writing workshops
Career Connection
Equips students with crucial analytical and evidence-based practice skills, valuable for program evaluation, policy research, and grant writing roles within NGOs and government.
Engage in Peer Learning and Collaborative Problem Solving- (Semester 2)
Form and actively participate in peer study groups to discuss complex case scenarios, share field experiences, and collaboratively brainstorm solutions to social problems. Utilize these groups for academic support, ethical dilemma discussions, and preparation for presentations or assignments.
Tools & Resources
Group discussion platforms, Case study materials, Collaborative project tools
Career Connection
Enhances teamwork, critical thinking, and collaborative problem-solving skills, which are essential for multi-disciplinary work and effective service delivery in social organizations.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Meaningful Dissertation/Research Project- (Semester 3-4)
Select a relevant research topic in social work, preferably aligned with your career interests. Conduct thorough literature review, design a robust methodology, collect and analyze data rigorously, and present findings in a well-structured dissertation. Leverage this project to gain in-depth knowledge and contribute to the existing body of social work knowledge.
Tools & Resources
Research methodology textbooks, Academic databases, Statistical software, University research ethics committee
Career Connection
Demonstrates advanced research capabilities, critical thinking, and independent problem-solving, opening pathways to research-oriented roles, policy development, or higher academic pursuits.
Strategically Choose Electives for Specialization and Skill Development- (Semester 3-4)
Use the elective choices in Semesters 3 and 4 to build expertise in areas like tribal social work, disaster management, counseling, or industrial social work, based on your career aspirations. Seek additional certifications or workshops in these specialized areas to further enhance skills and marketability.
Tools & Resources
Professional training programs, Online courses (e.g., NPTEL, Coursera), Professional body memberships
Career Connection
Allows for focused skill development in high-demand areas, making graduates highly competitive for specialized roles in NGOs, CSR, health, or correctional services.
Proactively Prepare for Placements and Professional Life- (Semester 3-4)
Actively engage with the university''''s placement cell for resume building, mock interviews, and career counseling sessions. Network with alumni and industry professionals through workshops and seminars. Seek out internship opportunities in organizations aligned with your specialization to gain pre-placement experience and enhance your professional network.
Tools & Resources
Placement cell services, LinkedIn, Professional mentors, Resume and interview workshops
Career Connection
Maximizes chances for securing desirable placements, builds confidence for professional roles, and ensures a smooth transition from academia to the social work profession.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor’s Degree (10+2+3) in any discipline from a recognized University with a minimum of 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/OBC).
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 90 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40% (for theory papers), 100% (for field work, dissertation/project), External: 60% (for theory papers)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSW 101 | Professional Social Work: History and Philosophy | Core | 4 | Social work in India and abroad, Social reform movements, Social work values and ethics, Fields of social work, Philosophical foundations |
| MSW 102 | Basic Social Science Concepts for Social Work | Core | 4 | Sociology concepts, Psychology concepts, Economics concepts, Political science concepts, Anthropology concepts |
| MSW 103 | Social Case Work Practice with Individuals and Families | Core | 4 | Social Case Work, Principles of practice, Models and approaches, Interviewing and assessment, Documentation in social work |
| MSW 104 | Social Group Work and Group Dynamics | Core | 4 | Group work philosophy, Group formation and development, Leadership in groups, Programme planning, Group dynamics |
| MSW 105 | Field Work | Practical/Field Work | 6 | Concurrent field work placement, Observational visits, Agency visits and reports, Skill development exercises, Supervision and reflection |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSW 201 | Social Problems and Social Development | Core | 4 | Poverty and inequality, Health and education challenges, Disability and gender issues, Environmental problems, Theories of social development |
| MSW 202 | Community Organization and Social Action | Core | 4 | Community organization models, Principles of practice, Social action and advocacy, Resource mobilization, Participatory development |
| MSW 203 | Social Work Research and Statistics | Core | 4 | Research methods in social work, Data collection techniques, Sampling procedures, Data analysis and interpretation, Basic statistics for social work |
| MSW 204 | Social Policy and Social Legislation | Core | 4 | Social policy analysis, Welfare state concept, Social legislation in India, Constitutional provisions for welfare, Human rights framework |
| MSW 205 | Field Work | Practical/Field Work | 6 | Concurrent field work placement, Application of social work methods, Skill development through practice, Reporting and documentation, Intensive supervision |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSW 301 | Human Rights and Social Work | Core | 4 | Concept of human rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Human rights in India, Social work and human rights advocacy, Vulnerable groups and rights |
| MSW 302 | Social Welfare Administration and Management | Core | 4 | Principles of administration, Social welfare organizations, Financial management, Program planning and evaluation, Resource mobilization |
| MSW 303 (E) | Tribal Social Work (Elective) | Elective | 4 | Tribal communities in India, Tribal development policies, Social work interventions, Cultural sensitivity in practice, Issues of displacement and identity |
| MSW 303 (E) | Social Work with Children (Elective) | Elective | 4 | Child development theories, Child protection systems, Child rights and legislation, Policies and programs for children, Interventions for vulnerable children |
| MSW 303 (E) | Social Work with Women (Elective) | Elective | 4 | Gender and society, Women''''s empowerment issues, Violence against women, Policies and programs for women, Feminist social work |
| MSW 304 (E) | Counselling: Theory and Practice (Elective) | Elective | 4 | Theories of counselling, Counselling process and skills, Ethical issues in counselling, Crisis intervention, Types of counselling |
| MSW 304 (E) | Disaster Management (Elective) | Elective | 4 | Types of disasters, Disaster preparedness, Disaster response and relief, Rehabilitation strategies, Role of social workers in disasters |
| MSW 305 | Field Work | Practical/Field Work | 6 | Advanced concurrent field work, Specialization area placement, Comprehensive reporting, Skill refinement, Supervised practice |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSW 401 | Livelihood and Entrepreneurship Development | Core | 4 | Livelihood approaches, Microfinance and SHGs, Entrepreneurship for social development, Sustainable livelihoods, Skill development and employment |
| MSW 402 | Medical Social Work and Psychiatric Social Work | Core | 4 | Role of social worker in health settings, Mental health issues, Substance abuse interventions, HIV/AIDS and palliative care, Health policies and programs |
| MSW 403 (E) | Correctional Social Work (Elective) | Elective | 4 | Crime and delinquency, Juvenile justice system, Prison reforms and rehabilitation, Probation and parole, Victim assistance |
| MSW 403 (E) | Social Work with Persons with Disabilities (Elective) | Elective | 4 | Types of disabilities, Rights of PwDs, Inclusion and accessibility, Rehabilitation services, Legislation for persons with disabilities |
| MSW 403 (E) | Industrial Social Work (Elective) | Elective | 4 | Industrial relations, Employee welfare programs, HR policies and practices, Stress management in workplace, Corporate Social Responsibility |
| MSW 404 (E) | Social Work Supervision and Education (Elective) | Elective | 4 | Principles of supervision, Field work education models, Training methodologies, Professional development, Ethical issues in supervision |
| MSW 404 (E) | Project Planning and Management (Elective) | Elective | 4 | Project cycle management, Needs assessment and problem tree, Logical framework approach, Monitoring and evaluation, Proposal writing and fundraising |
| MSW 405 | Dissertation / Research Project | Project | 6 | Research proposal development, Data collection and analysis, Report writing and presentation, Ethical considerations in research, Viva voce examination |
| MSW 406 | Comprehensive Viva Voce | Viva | 2 | Overall understanding of social work theory, Fieldwork experiences and applications, Ethical principles and values, Current social issues and policies, Professional identity and future plans |
