

MASTER-OF-SOCIAL-WORK in Family And Child Welfare at Shivaji University, Kolhapur


Kolhapur, Maharashtra
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About the Specialization
What is Family and Child Welfare at Shivaji University, Kolhapur Kolhapur?
This Family and Child Welfare program at Shivaji University focuses on equipping social work professionals with specialized knowledge and skills to address the multifaceted needs of families and children in India. It delves into family dynamics, child development, protection mechanisms, and welfare policies. The program aims to create competent practitioners ready to contribute to improving societal well-being in a rapidly evolving Indian context. This specialization is crucial for addressing pressing issues like child protection, family counseling, and women''''s empowerment across diverse communities.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for passionate individuals holding a Bachelor''''s degree from any faculty, seeking to make a significant impact in the social sector. It targets fresh graduates aspiring to work in child welfare organizations, family counseling centers, NGOs, or government social welfare departments. Professionals already working in related fields who wish to specialize in family and child-centric interventions and enhance their skill sets for leadership roles in Indian social welfare initiatives will also find this program highly beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue rewarding careers as family counselors, child protection officers, project coordinators in NGOs, social workers in adoption agencies, or policy advocates in government sectors. Entry-level salaries in India typically range from INR 2.5 to 4 LPA, growing significantly with experience to 6-10 LPA or more in senior roles. The specialization fosters a deep understanding of Indian social issues, preparing graduates for impactful roles in both urban and rural welfare programs and aligning with national development goals.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build a Strong Theoretical Foundation- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on thoroughly understanding core social work theories, principles, and concepts introduced in the initial semesters. Actively participate in lectures, engage in critical discussions, and read beyond prescribed texts to grasp the Indian socio-cultural context of these theories.
Tools & Resources
University library resources, online academic journals on social work, discussion forums with peers, attending guest lectures by senior social workers
Career Connection
A solid theoretical base is crucial for informed practice, ethical decision-making, and effective problem-solving, which are highly valued by employers in the social sector.
Develop Observational and Communication Skills through Fieldwork- (Semester 1-2)
Maximize learning from initial fieldwork placements by actively observing agency operations, client interactions, and community dynamics. Practice active listening, empathy, and clear communication with beneficiaries and supervisors, meticulously documenting experiences.
Tools & Resources
Fieldwork journal, supervisor feedback sessions, mock counseling sessions with peers, workshops on communication skills
Career Connection
Strong observational skills lead to accurate assessments, while effective communication is paramount for rapport building and intervention success in any social work role.
Engage in Peer Learning and Academic Groups- (Semester 1-2)
Form study groups with classmates to discuss challenging concepts, share insights from fieldwork, and prepare for exams. Organize debates or presentations on contemporary social issues to deepen understanding and develop public speaking skills.
Tools & Resources
Collaborative online platforms for document sharing, library study rooms, academic mentors/seniors
Career Connection
Teamwork and collaborative learning are essential for success in multi-disciplinary social work settings and foster leadership qualities.
Intermediate Stage
Specialize through Electives and Advanced Fieldwork- (Semester 3-4)
Leverage the specialization electives in Family and Child Welfare to gain in-depth knowledge and seek fieldwork placements specifically in organizations dedicated to family counseling, child protection, or adoption services. Actively seek advanced roles and responsibilities in these placements.
Tools & Resources
Networking with alumni in family and child welfare, attending specialized workshops, reading advanced literature on child rights and family therapy
Career Connection
Deep specialization makes graduates highly desirable for targeted roles in government and non-government organizations focusing on family and child welfare.
Develop Research and Data Analysis Competencies- (Semester 3-4)
Approach the research project seriously, focusing on identifying a relevant problem in family and child welfare, designing robust methodology, and effectively analyzing data. Learn to use basic statistical tools and write clear, impactful reports.
Tools & Resources
SPSS or R for basic data analysis, academic writing workshops, guidance from faculty advisors, online courses on research methodology
Career Connection
Research skills are vital for evidence-based practice, program evaluation, and policy advocacy, opening doors to research-oriented positions and higher studies.
Network with Industry Professionals and Participate in Conferences- (Semester 3-4)
Attend local and national conferences, seminars, and workshops related to family and child welfare. Actively engage with guest speakers, presenters, and other professionals to build a network and stay updated on current trends and challenges in the sector.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, professional associations like Indian Association of Social Workers, university career services for event notifications
Career Connection
Networking often leads to internship opportunities, mentorship, and direct job referrals, significantly boosting placement prospects in specialized roles.
Advanced Stage
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- No eligibility criteria specified
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 96 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSW 101 | Introduction to Social Work | Core | 4 | Nature and Philosophy of Social Work, Historical Development of Social Work, Ethics and Values in Social Work, Fields of Social Work Practice, Professional Social Work in India |
| MSW 102 | Social Work with Individuals and Groups | Core | 4 | Casework Process, Social Diagnosis, Therapeutic Communication, Group Work Models, Stages of Group Development, Role of Social Worker |
| MSW 103 | Social Problems and Social Development | Core | 4 | Concepts of Social Problem, Causes and Consequences of Social Problems, Poverty and Inequality, Health and Education, Social Development Theories, Sustainable Development |
| MSW 104 | Community Organization and Social Action | Core | 4 | Community Organization Principles, Models of Community Practice, Social Action Strategies, Participatory Approaches, Role of NGOs, Advocacy |
| MSW 105 A | Social Science Perspectives for Social Work | Elective (Choice Based) | 4 | Sociological Perspectives, Psychological Theories, Economic Influences on Society, Political Systems, Multidisciplinary Approach, Social Change |
| MSW 105 B | History and Philosophy of Social Reform in India | Elective (Choice Based) | 4 | Ancient Indian Social Thought, Bhakti Movement, Colonial Reforms, Gandhi''''s Philosophy, Ambedkar''''s Vision, Post-Independence Social Movements |
| MSW 105 C | Human Rights and Social Justice | Elective (Choice Based) | 4 | Concept of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Rights in Indian Constitution, Social Justice Frameworks, Discrimination and Inequality, Role of Judiciary |
| MSW 105 D | Tribal Welfare | Elective (Choice Based) | 4 | Tribal Communities in India, Tribal Culture and Traditions, Challenges faced by Tribals, Government Policies for Tribals, Tribal Development Programs, Role of NGOs |
| MSW 105 E | Demography and Population Studies | Elective (Choice Based) | 4 | Basic Demographic Concepts, Population Structure and Change, Fertility and Mortality, Migration, Population Policies in India, Family Planning Programs |
| MSW 106 | Field Work | Practice | 2 | Agency Orientation, Observation Visits, Case Studies, Group Activities, Community Surveys, Report Writing |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSW 201 | Social Work Research and Statistics | Core | 4 | Research Design, Data Collection Methods, Sampling Techniques, Data Analysis, Basic Statistical Concepts, Research Report Writing |
| MSW 202 | Social Welfare Administration | Core | 4 | Principles of Administration, Social Welfare Organizations, Program Planning, Financial Management, Resource Mobilization, Supervision in Social Work |
| MSW 203 | Social Action and Social Legislation | Core | 4 | Concept of Social Action, Models of Social Action, Advocacy and Lobbying, Constitutional Provisions, Key Social Legislations in India, Legal Aid Services |
| MSW 204 | Counseling in Social Work | Core | 4 | Principles of Counseling, Counseling Theories, Counseling Process, Crisis Intervention, Therapeutic Skills, Ethical Considerations in Counseling |
| MSW 205 A | Industrial Sociology | Elective (Choice Based) | 4 | Industrial Society, Work and Organization, Industrial Relations, Labor Movements, Globalization and Industry, Corporate Social Responsibility |
| MSW 205 B | Rural Sociology | Elective (Choice Based) | 4 | Rural Social Structure, Agrarian Relations, Rural Development Programs, Panchayati Raj, Rural Migration, Challenges in Rural India |
| MSW 205 C | Urban Sociology | Elective (Choice Based) | 4 | Urbanization Trends, Urban Social Problems, Urban Planning, Slums and Squatter Settlements, Urban Governance, Smart Cities Concept |
| MSW 205 D | Criminology and Correctional Administration | Elective (Choice Based) | 4 | Theories of Crime, Types of Crime, Criminal Justice System, Correctional Services, Rehabilitation of Offenders, Juvenile Delinquency |
| MSW 205 E | Disaster Management | Elective (Choice Based) | 4 | Types of Disasters, Disaster Cycle, Disaster Preparedness, Response and Recovery, Role of Agencies, Community Based Disaster Management |
| MSW 206 | Field Work | Practice | 2 | Agency Placement, Direct Practice Skills, Program Implementation, Data Collection, Supervision Meetings, Professional Development |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSW 301 | Organisational Behaviour & Human Resource Management | Core | 4 | Organizational Structure, Motivation Theories, Leadership Styles, Group Dynamics, HR Planning, Performance Management, Training and Development |
| MSW 302 | Social Policy and Planning | Core | 4 | Concept of Social Policy, Welfare State, Models of Social Planning, Policy Formulation, Implementation and Evaluation, Five Year Plans in India |
| MSW 303 B | Family and Child Welfare | Elective (Specialization) | 4 | Concept of Family, Family Structures, Changing Family Patterns, Child Development, Child Rights, Challenges to Family and Child Welfare in India |
| MSW 304 B | Social Work in Family and Child Settings | Elective (Specialization) | 4 | Intervention with Families, Child Protection Services, Adoption and Foster Care, Juvenile Justice System, Family Counseling, School Social Work |
| MSW 305 | Field Work | Practice | 2 | Specialization-focused Placements, Advanced Practice Skills, Program Evaluation, Advocacy for Families and Children, Inter-agency Collaboration, Supervision and Reflection |
| MSW 306 | Research Project - I | Project | 2 | Research Proposal Development, Literature Review, Methodology Design, Data Collection Tools, Ethical Considerations in Research, Pilot Study |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSW 401 | Gender and Development | Core | 4 | Concept of Gender, Gender Roles and Stereotypes, Gender Inequality, Women''''s Empowerment, Gender Mainstreaming, Policies for Gender Equity |
| MSW 402 B | Theories and Practice of Counseling for Family and Child | Elective (Specialization) | 4 | Family Systems Theory, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Group Counseling for Families, Crisis Intervention in Family Contexts |
| MSW 403 B | Policies and Programs for Family and Child Welfare | Elective (Specialization) | 4 | National Policy for Children, Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS), Women and Child Development Schemes, Child Protection Legislation, NGO Initiatives, Future Directions in Welfare |
| MSW 404 | Field Work | Practice | 2 | Intensive Placement, Professional Development, Leadership in Social Work, Advocacy and Policy Change, Networking, Career Planning |
| MSW 405 | Research Project - II | Project | 2 | Data Analysis and Interpretation, Statistical Software Usage, Report Writing, Presentation of Findings, Recommendations, Ethical Dissemination |




