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MASTER-OF-SOCIAL-WORK in Community Development at Montfort College
Bengaluru, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Community Development at Montfort College Bengaluru?
This Master of Social Work (MSW) in Community Development at Montfort College focuses on empowering marginalized communities and fostering sustainable social change. Rooted in Indian societal realities, the program addresses rural and urban development challenges, emphasizing participatory approaches and local governance. It''''s designed to equip professionals with skills to work effectively with communities, NGOs, and government agencies across India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from any discipline seeking to make a tangible impact in social sectors, working professionals in NGOs or CSR roles looking to upskill in community engagement, and career changers transitioning into social development. Candidates passionate about grassroots work, advocacy, and social justice, with a foundational understanding of social issues, will thrive in this specialization.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates can pursue diverse India-specific career paths such as Community Development Officers, Project Coordinators, Social Planners, and Advocacy Specialists within NGOs, government programs, or corporate social responsibility divisions. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, with experienced professionals earning INR 6-12 LPA or more. The program fosters critical thinking and leadership skills crucial for advancing within the social development sector.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Interdisciplinary Foundational Knowledge- (Semester 1-2)
Systematically study core social science theories (Sociology, Psychology, Economics) and human development concepts. Actively participate in class discussions and form peer learning groups to connect these theories to real-world social problems in India. Utilize Montfort College''''s library and online academic resources for deeper understanding.
Tools & Resources
Montfort College Library, Academic journals, Peer discussion forums
Career Connection
A strong theoretical foundation is essential for analytical thinking and developing holistic solutions for community issues, laying groundwork for effective practice.
Develop Observational and Ethical Fieldwork Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Approach Concurrent Field Work I & II with a focus on ethical engagement and keen observation. Maintain detailed reflective journals documenting agency experiences, client interactions, and community observations. Actively seek and integrate feedback from field supervisors to refine professional conduct and practice skills.
Tools & Resources
Fieldwork logbooks, Ethical guidelines for social work, Supervisor mentoring
Career Connection
These fundamental skills are critical for building trust, understanding complex social dynamics, and adhering to professional standards in any community-based role.
Master Social Work Research Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Thoroughly grasp concepts of social work research design, data collection, and basic statistics. Engage actively in exercises and assignments, ensuring a clear understanding of how to critically analyze social issues. This preparation is vital for your later Research Project.
Tools & Resources
Research methodology textbooks, Basic statistical software tutorials (e.g., Excel for data organization), Montfort College workshops on academic writing
Career Connection
Research proficiency enables evidence-based practice, program evaluation, and contributes to informing policy, highly valued in NGOs and government sectors.
Intermediate Stage
Specialize in Community Development Applications- (Semester 3)
Immerse yourself in the Social Work with Communities, Urban and Rural Community Development, and NGO Management papers. Seek out opportunities during Field Work III to directly apply community organization principles, participate in urban/rural development projects, and learn about NGO operations first-hand in Bengaluru.
Tools & Resources
Case studies of successful Indian community development projects, Local NGO directories, Specialized readings on rural/urban planning
Career Connection
Direct application of specialized knowledge during fieldwork provides practical experience, making you highly competent for roles like Project Manager or Community Mobilizer.
Initiate and Structure Your Research Project- (Semester 3)
Begin your Research Project I by identifying a relevant community development problem in India that interests you. Work closely with your faculty mentor to formulate clear research questions, conduct a thorough literature review, and design a robust methodology. This stage is crucial for laying the groundwork for your final dissertation.
Tools & Resources
Academic databases (e.g., Jstor, Google Scholar), Citation management tools (e.g., Mendeley), Faculty mentoring sessions
Career Connection
Successful completion of a research project demonstrates analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills, enhancing your profile for research-oriented or policy advocacy roles.
Build Professional Networks and Attend Sector Events- (Semester 3)
Actively network with professionals in community development through guest lectures, seminars, and workshops organized by Montfort College or local social work associations in Bengaluru. Connect with alumni working in NGOs and government agencies. Leverage these interactions for insights into the sector and potential internship leads.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional association events (e.g., Indian Association of Social Workers), College career fairs
Career Connection
Networking is vital for gaining industry insights, identifying job opportunities, and building a supportive professional community in India.
Advanced Stage
Master Disaster Management & Sustainable Development Goals- (Semester 4)
Focus on integrating concepts from Disaster Management and Social Work and Social Development and Sustainable Development Goals with your field practice. Participate in simulation exercises or workshops related to disaster preparedness/response. Develop proposals aligning community projects with specific SDGs, demonstrating a holistic development approach.
Tools & Resources
UN SDG framework, Disaster management guidelines (NDMA India), Case studies of post-disaster rehabilitation in India
Career Connection
Expertise in disaster management and SDGs is highly relevant for roles in humanitarian aid, sustainable development, and policy implementation in India.
Refine Research and Dissemination Skills- (Semester 4)
Dedicate significant effort to Research Project II, focusing on rigorous data analysis, clear interpretation of findings, and professional report writing. Practice presenting your research findings effectively to different audiences. Consider submitting a paper to a student conference or a departmental journal.
Tools & Resources
Statistical software (e.g., advanced Excel, SPSS), Academic writing guides, Presentation software
Career Connection
Strong research and presentation skills are critical for roles requiring policy analysis, program evaluation, and advocacy, setting you apart in the job market.
Strategize for Career Entry and Placement Success- (Semester 4)
Actively engage with Montfort College''''s placement cell, attending resume building, interview preparation, and group discussion workshops. Research potential employers (NGOs, CSR, government agencies) in the community development sector in India. Tailor your resume and cover letters to specific job descriptions, highlighting your specialization and fieldwork experiences.
Tools & Resources
Montfort College Placement Cell, Online job portals (e.g., Naukri.com, Devex, CSRBox), Mock interview sessions
Career Connection
Proactive career planning ensures a smooth transition from academics to professional practice, maximizing placement opportunities in your chosen field.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- A Bachelor Degree in any discipline from a recognised University with 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/CAT-I/PWD candidates).
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 94 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSW 1.1 | Social Science Perspectives for Social Work | Core | 4 | Sociological Perspectives, Psychological Theories, Economic Development, Political Systems, Culture and Society |
| MSW 1.2 | Human Growth and Development | Core | 4 | Stages of Human Development, Theories of Personality, Biological Foundations of Behaviour, Social Learning Theories, Developmental Challenges |
| MSW 1.3 | Introduction to Social Work Profession | Core | 4 | History and Philosophy of Social Work, Principles and Ethics of Social Work, Methods of Social Work, Fields of Social Work Practice, Social Work in Indian Context |
| MSW 1.4 | Social Work Research and Statistics | Core | 4 | Social Research Process, Research Designs and Sampling, Data Collection Methods, Introduction to Statistics, Data Analysis and Interpretation |
| MSW 1.5 | Concurrent Field Work I | Practical/Fieldwork | 6 | Agency Orientation, Observation Visits, Record Maintenance, Communication Skills, Report Writing |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSW 2.1 | Social Welfare Administration | Core | 4 | Principles of Administration, Organizational Structure, Financial Management, Program Planning and Evaluation, Management of Voluntary Organizations |
| MSW 2.2 | Social Action and Social Movements | Core | 4 | Concepts of Social Action, Theories of Social Movements, Strategies of Social Action, Role of Social Worker, Indian Social Movements |
| MSW 2.3 | Social Policy, Planning and Development | Core | 4 | Concepts of Social Policy, Welfare State and Planning, Models of Development, Human Development Index, Social Legislation in India |
| MSW 2.4 | Social Work with Individuals and Groups | Core | 4 | Casework Process and Principles, Group Work Dynamics, Therapeutic Interventions, Crisis Intervention, Family and Marriage Counselling |
| MSW 2.5 | Concurrent Field Work II | Practical/Fieldwork | 6 | Direct Practice Skills, Group Activities, Community Needs Assessment, Documentation and Report Writing, Professional Supervision |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSW 3.1 | Social Work with Communities | Core | 4 | Community Organization Principles, Models of Community Development, Participatory Approaches, Community Mobilization, Empowerment Strategies |
| MSW 3.2 | Research Project I | Project | 4 | Problem Identification, Literature Review, Research Design Formulation, Data Collection Tools, Ethical Considerations in Research |
| MSW 3.3 | Concurrent Field Work III | Practical/Fieldwork | 6 | Specialization-focused Practice, Advanced Intervention Skills, Advocacy and Lobbying, Resource Mobilization, Program Planning |
| MSW 3.4 CD | Urban and Rural Community Development | Elective (Community Development) | 4 | Concepts of Urbanization, Rural Development Strategies, Sustainable Livelihoods, Panchayati Raj Institutions, Community-Based Organizations |
| MSW 3.5 CD | Non-Governmental Organizations Management | Elective (Community Development) | 4 | Role and Functions of NGOs, NGO Governance and Legal Aspects, Project Management Cycle, Fundraising and Resource Mobilization, Advocacy and Networking |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSW 4.1 | Current Social Issues and Challenges | Core | 4 | Poverty and Inequality, Health and Education Disparities, Environmental Issues, Gender and Development, Human Rights and Social Justice |
| MSW 4.2 | Research Project II | Project | 6 | Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing and Structure, Presentation of Findings, Dissemination Strategies, Policy Implications of Research |
| MSW 4.3 | Concurrent Field Work IV | Practical/Fieldwork | 6 | Independent Practice and Leadership, Policy Advocacy, Program Management, Inter-sectoral Collaboration, Professional Accountability |
| MSW 4.4 CD | Social Development and Sustainable Development Goals | Elective (Community Development) | 4 | Theories of Social Development, Indicators of Development, United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, Human Rights-Based Approach, Social Justice and Equity |
| MSW 4.5 CD | Disaster Management and Social Work | Elective (Community Development) | 4 | Concepts of Disaster and Vulnerability, Disaster Cycle Management, Preparedness and Mitigation, Emergency Response and Relief, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction |
| MSW 4.6 | Open Elective | Elective (Open) | 4 | Interdisciplinary Studies, Skill Enhancement, Emerging Areas, Specialized Topics, Application-oriented Learning |
