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MSW in General at Sri Ramakrishna College of Arts and Science (Autonomous)
Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is General at Sri Ramakrishna College of Arts and Science (Autonomous) Coimbatore?
This Master of Social Work (MSW) program at Sri Ramakrishna College of Arts and Science focuses on equipping students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills required for professional social work practice. It addresses diverse social issues prevalent in India, from poverty and injustice to health and mental well-being, fostering a commitment to social change. The program emphasizes field-based learning to prepare graduates for impactful roles in the Indian social sector.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from any discipline seeking entry into the vibrant social work field, driven by a passion for community welfare and human rights. It also suits working professionals, particularly from NGOs or development organizations, looking to formalize their experience and enhance their intervention skills. Individuals aspiring to contribute meaningfully to social development and policy advocacy in India will find this course highly rewarding.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue India-specific career paths in NGOs, government welfare departments, corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, hospitals, and educational institutions. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience. Career growth trajectories often lead to roles like program managers, project coordinators, community development officers, or social researchers, aligning with national development goals.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Core Social Work Competencies- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage in foundation courses like Casework and Group Work, focusing on understanding theoretical principles and their initial application. Participate in all orientation visits and observe experienced social workers to grasp practical nuances. Document observations meticulously to build a strong base for future fieldwork.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks on Social Work Methods, Fieldwork Manuals, Peer Study Groups
Career Connection
A strong foundation ensures you understand core intervention strategies, crucial for effective practice in any social work setting and a prerequisite for higher-level placements.
Develop Empathy and Ethical Practice- (Semester 1-2)
Reflect on case studies and ethical dilemmas discussed in class and during initial fieldwork. Engage in discussions with faculty and supervisors about professional ethics and values in the Indian context. Seek opportunities to understand diverse socio-economic backgrounds and cultural sensitivities, crucial for effective client engagement.
Tools & Resources
Ethical Guidelines for Social Workers (Indian context), Reflective Journals, Supervision Sessions
Career Connection
Cultivating empathy and ethical reasoning is paramount for building trust with clients and organizations, enhancing your credibility and effectiveness as a professional social worker.
Master Research Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Pay close attention to Social Work Research & Statistics. Understand basic research designs, data collection methods, and introductory statistical analysis. Actively participate in practical sessions to build confidence in data interpretation and preliminary report writing. This prepares for the major project work later.
Tools & Resources
SPSS/R for beginners, Research Methodology textbooks, University library resources for journals
Career Connection
Strong research skills are vital for evidence-based practice, program evaluation, and policy advocacy, opening doors to research-oriented roles in NGOs and government bodies.
Intermediate Stage
Specialize through Electives and Advanced Fieldwork- (Semester 3)
Carefully choose electives that align with your career interests (e.g., Child Protection, Disaster Management, CSR). Utilize concurrent and block placements in Semester 3 to gain in-depth experience in your chosen area. Actively seek challenging assignments and take initiative in problem-solving within the agency setting.
Tools & Resources
Elective Course Materials, Specialized NGOs/Agencies for Internships, Mentorship from Field Supervisors
Career Connection
Specialized experience makes you a more attractive candidate for targeted roles. This practical exposure demonstrates your commitment and competence in a particular domain, boosting placement chances.
Network and Attend Workshops- (Semester 3)
Attend social work conferences, seminars, and workshops in Coimbatore and nearby cities. Connect with professionals, alumni, and guest speakers from diverse social work domains. Join professional bodies or student social work associations to expand your network and stay updated on industry trends.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional Social Work Associations (e.g., ISPSW), Departmental networking events
Career Connection
Networking is crucial for uncovering internship opportunities, mentorship, and direct placement leads in the competitive Indian social sector. Strong connections can also lead to collaborative projects.
Enhance Counselling and Communication Skills- (Semester 3)
Actively participate in counselling theory and practice sessions, focusing on developing active listening, empathy, and effective communication skills. Seek feedback from trainers and peers. Practice role-playing and real-life client interactions during fieldwork to refine your interpersonal skills, essential for all social work interventions.
Tools & Resources
Counselling Skills Practice Labs, Supervised Client Interactions, Communication Workshops
Career Connection
Excellent counselling and communication skills are foundational for client engagement, team collaboration, and advocacy, making you effective in any social work role and valued by employers.
Advanced Stage
Execute a High-Quality Dissertation Project- (Semester 4)
Dedicate significant effort to your Project Work (Dissertation) in Semester 4. Choose a relevant social issue, conduct thorough research, analyze data rigorously, and present actionable recommendations. Aim for a publication-worthy report to demonstrate your analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
Tools & Resources
Statistical Software (e.g., R, Python, SPSS), Academic Writing Tools, Faculty Mentors
Career Connection
A well-executed dissertation showcases your research aptitude and critical thinking, which are highly valued by organizations seeking data-driven professionals and can lead to research or policy-oriented roles.
Prepare for Placements and Interviews- (Semester 4)
Update your resume and cover letter tailored to specific social work roles and organizations. Participate in mock interviews, group discussions, and aptitude tests organized by the college''''s placement cell. Identify target organizations (NGOs, CSRs, government bodies) and understand their mission and work.
Tools & Resources
College Placement Cell, Online Job Portals (DevNetJobsIndia, CSRBox), Interview Prep Guides
Career Connection
Proactive and thorough placement preparation significantly increases your chances of securing desirable positions in reputable Indian social sector organizations upon graduation.
Integrate Theory, Practice, and Policy- (Semester 4)
In your final fieldwork and policy courses, consciously integrate theoretical knowledge with your practical experiences and existing social policies. Develop a holistic understanding of social problems, intervention strategies, and policy implications. This demonstrates a mature, comprehensive approach to social work challenges.
Tools & Resources
Social Policy Documents (Government of India), Case Studies of Integrated Interventions, Discussions with Senior Social Workers
Career Connection
This integrated perspective is crucial for leadership roles in program design, management, and policy advocacy, positioning you for higher-level responsibilities in the social development sector.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s Degree from any recognized university with at least 50% marks in aggregate. (Any Graduate with 50% marks for MSW program).
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 106 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 23CSW101 | Social Work Profession & Ethics | Core | 4 | Definition & Philosophy of Social Work, History of Social Work (Global & Indian), Principles, Values & Ethics of Social Work, Primary & Secondary Methods of Social Work, Social Work as a Profession (Scope & Challenges) |
| 23CSW102 | Basic Social Science Concepts | Core | 4 | Sociological Concepts, Social Stratification & Institutions, Psychological Theories & Personality, Economic Concepts & Development, Political Systems & Governance |
| 23CSW103 | Working with Individuals (Casework) | Core | 4 | Social Casework: Philosophy & Principles, Components & Phases of Casework, Psychosocial Study & Assessment, Treatment Approaches & Techniques, Recording in Casework |
| 23CSW104 | Working with Groups (Group Work) | Core | 4 | Social Group Work: Definition & Principles, Types of Groups & Group Dynamics, Stages of Group Development, Role of Social Worker in Group Work, Recording & Evaluation in Group Work |
| 23CSW105 | Social Welfare Administration | Core | 4 | Social Welfare Administration: Concepts & Principles, Management Functions (POSDCORB), Human Resource Management in Social Sector, Financial Management & Resource Mobilization, Public Relations & Advocacy |
| 23CSW106 | Field Work I | Core | 6 | Orientation to Social Work Agencies, Observation & Participation in Agency Activities, Casework & Group Work Practice, Concurrent Fieldwork Planning & Execution, Supervision & Recording Field Work |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 23CSW201 | Community Organization & Social Action | Core | 4 | Community Organization: Concepts & Principles, Models of Community Organization, Phases & Process of Community Organization, Social Action: Goals & Strategies, Advocacy, Lobbying & Networking |
| 23CSW202 | Social Work Research & Statistics | Core | 4 | Social Work Research: Meaning & Scope, Research Designs & Hypotheses, Data Collection Methods (Quantitative & Qualitative), Sampling Techniques & Data Analysis, Report Writing & Research Ethics |
| 23CSW203 | Human Rights & Social Justice | Core | 4 | Human Rights: Concepts & Evolution, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Rights of Vulnerable Groups (Women, Children, Minorities), Social Justice: Principles & Challenges, Constitutional Provisions for Social Justice in India |
| 23CSW204 | Social Legislation & Labour Welfare | Core | 4 | Social Legislation in India, Labour Welfare: Concepts & Approaches, Major Labour Laws (Factories Act, ESI, Maternity Benefit), Industrial Relations & Trade Unions, Employee Grievance & Dispute Resolution |
| 23ESW201A | Social Entrepreneurship & Development | Elective | 4 | Social Entrepreneurship: Concept & Scope, Social Enterprise Models & Challenges, Microfinance & Livelihood Promotion, Social Innovation & Impact Assessment, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) & Partnerships |
| 23ESW201B | Urban & Rural Community Development | Elective | 4 | Rural Community Development: Characteristics & Issues, Urban Community Development: Challenges & Interventions, Development Programs & Policies in India, Participatory Rural/Urban Appraisal (PRA/PUA), Sustainable Livelihoods & Basic Amenities |
| 23CSW205 | Field Work II | Core | 6 | Concurrent Fieldwork Continuation, Application of Social Work Methods, Problem Identification & Intervention, Block Placement Preparation, Supervision & Fieldwork Recording |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 23CSW301 | Counselling Theories & Practice | Core | 4 | Counselling Process & Skills, Major Counselling Theories (Psychoanalytic, CBT, Humanistic), Crisis Intervention & Stress Management, Ethical Considerations in Counselling, Group Counselling & Family Counselling |
| 23CSW302 | Medical & Psychiatric Social Work | Core | 4 | Medical Social Work: Role & Scope, Psychiatric Social Work: Mental Health Disorders, Health Care Systems in India, Rehabilitation & Psychosocial Support, Terminal Illness & Palliative Care |
| 23CSW303 | Disaster Management | Core | 4 | Disaster Concepts & Types, Disaster Management Cycle (Mitigation, Preparedness, Response), Vulnerability & Risk Assessment, Post-Disaster Rehabilitation, Role of Social Worker in Disaster Management |
| 23ESW301A | Corporate Social Responsibility | Elective | 4 | CSR: Concepts, Evolution & Drivers, CSR Policies & Regulations in India, Models & Frameworks of CSR, CSR Implementation & Impact Assessment, Ethical Governance & Sustainability |
| 23ESW301B | Child Rights & Protection | Elective | 4 | Child Rights & UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, Child Protection System in India, Juvenile Justice System, Child Welfare Policies & Programs, Child Labour, Trafficking & Abuse |
| 23CSW304 | Project Work I | Core | 4 | Identification of Research Problem, Literature Review & Conceptual Framework, Research Design & Methodology, Data Collection Tools & Pilot Study, Ethical Guidelines for Research |
| 23CSW305 | Field Work III | Core | 6 | Specialized Fieldwork Practice, Advanced Skill Development, Independent Learning & Practice, Block Placement Experience, Supervision & Advanced Report Writing |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 23CSW401 | Social Policy & Planning | Core | 4 | Social Policy: Concepts & Analysis, Social Planning Process & Models, Welfare State & Social Justice, Key Social Policies in India, Policy Implementation & Evaluation |
| 23CSW402 | Gender & Development | Core | 4 | Gender Concepts & Theories, Patriarchy & Gender Roles, Feminist Perspectives & Movements, Women''''s Empowerment & Self-Help Groups, Gender Mainstreaming in Development |
| 23ESW401A | Human Resource Management in Social Sector | Elective | 4 | HRM Principles & Functions, HR Planning & Recruitment Strategies, Training & Development in NGOs, Performance Management & Appraisal, Employee Relations & Grievance Handling |
| 23ESW401B | Gerontology & Elderly Care | Elective | 4 | Gerontology: Concepts & Theories of Ageing, Issues of Elderly in India (Health, Economic, Social), Policies & Programmes for Elderly Welfare, Care Services & Institutional Care, Social Work Interventions with Elderly |
| 23ESW402A | Family & Child Welfare | Elective | 4 | Family Structure & Dynamics, Family Problems in India (Domestic Violence, Divorce), Child Welfare Services & Institutions, Family Counselling & Therapy, Government Schemes for Family & Child |
| 23ESW402B | Criminal Justice & Correctional Administration | Elective | 4 | Criminology: Concepts & Theories of Crime, Juvenile Delinquency & Justice System, Correctional Institutions & Rehabilitation Programs, Role of Social Worker in Correctional Settings, Victim Assistance & Restorative Justice |
| 23CSW403 | Project Work II (Dissertation) | Core | 6 | Data Analysis & Interpretation, Drawing Conclusions & Recommendations, Dissertation Writing & Formatting, Presentation of Research Findings, Viva-Voce Examination |
| 23CSW404 | Field Work IV | Core | 6 | Advanced Independent Fieldwork Practice, Integration of Theory & Practice, Specialization-focused Field Assignment, Final Fieldwork Report Submission, Viva-Voce Examination & Evaluation |
