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B-A-HONS in Social Work at University of Delhi
Delhi, Delhi
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About the Specialization
What is Social Work at University of Delhi Delhi?
This B.A. (Hons.) Social Work program at University of Delhi focuses on developing skilled professionals capable of addressing diverse societal challenges. It integrates theoretical knowledge with extensive field practicals, making it highly relevant to India''''s dynamic social development sector. The program emphasizes a holistic approach to human well-being and social justice, preparing students for impactful careers. The industry demand for qualified social workers, particularly in NGOs, government welfare schemes, and CSR initiatives, is consistently growing in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for compassionate individuals who aspire to drive positive change in society. It attracts fresh graduates eager to enter social development, community organizing, or counselling fields. It also suits individuals passionate about advocacy, policy implementation, and working with vulnerable populations. Prerequisite backgrounds typically involve strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and a keen interest in human rights and social justice issues.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse India-specific career paths as social workers, counsellors, community development officers, project coordinators, or CSR executives. Entry-level salaries in India typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience and specialization. Graduates can progress into roles like program managers, policy analysts, or even establish their own social enterprises. The curriculum also aligns with the ethical standards of professional social work practice in India.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Social Work Concepts and Ethics- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to thoroughly understand the foundational theories, principles, and ethical guidelines of social work. Engage actively in classroom discussions and utilize supplementary readings provided by faculty. This strong base is crucial for all future practical applications.
Tools & Resources
Departmental library resources, Recommended textbooks on social work ethics, Online articles from reputed journals like Indian Journal of Social Work
Career Connection
A firm grasp of core concepts ensures ethical and effective intervention strategies, essential for building a credible professional profile in social service.
Develop Empathy and Observation Skills through Field Visits- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond theoretical learning, actively seek out and participate in early exposure field visits, even if informal, to NGOs, community centers, or government welfare offices. Practice keen observation and empathetic listening during these visits to understand real-world social challenges.
Tools & Resources
Local NGOs'''' websites for volunteering opportunities, News reports on social issues, Journals for reflective writing
Career Connection
Early exposure builds practical understanding and enhances crucial soft skills like empathy and observation, which are vital for effective client interaction in any social work role.
Engage in Peer Learning and Discussion Groups- (Semester 1-2)
Form small study groups with peers to discuss complex social issues, case studies, and field experiences. Peer learning fosters diverse perspectives and helps clarify challenging concepts while building a supportive academic network.
Tools & Resources
WhatsApp groups for discussion, Google Meet for virtual study sessions, Shared note-taking platforms
Career Connection
Collaborative learning enhances problem-solving and communication skills, which are highly valued in team-oriented social work environments.
Intermediate Stage
Deepen Practical Skills through Mandatory Fieldwork- (Semester 3-5)
Take your mandatory fieldwork placements seriously. Actively engage with the agency, seek feedback from supervisors, and apply theoretical knowledge to real-life cases. Maintain meticulous fieldwork reports and participate fully in supervision sessions.
Tools & Resources
Fieldwork journals/logbooks, Supervisors'''' guidance, Agency documentation templates
Career Connection
Successful fieldwork is the cornerstone of a social work career, providing hands-on experience and often leading to initial job offers or strong professional references for Indian NGOs.
Build a Professional Network within the Social Sector- (Semester 3-5)
Attend workshops, seminars, and conferences related to social work and development in Delhi. Network with guest lecturers, faculty, and professionals during your field placements. Utilize LinkedIn to connect with alumni and sector leaders.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, University alumni network, Event listings from social development organizations
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to internship opportunities, mentorship, and future job prospects in India''''s vast social development landscape.
Specialize through Electives and Certifications- (Semester 3-5)
Carefully choose Discipline Specific Electives (DSEs) that align with your passion (e.g., Health Social Work, Rural Development). Consider pursuing short-term certifications in areas like counselling techniques, project management for NGOs, or data analysis for social research.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses, SWAYAM platforms, Short-term certifications from reputed training institutes
Career Connection
Specialized skills make you a more competitive candidate for niche roles and higher-paying positions within specific domains of social work in India.
Advanced Stage
Undertake Impactful Research and Dissertation- (Semester 6-8)
Choose a research topic for your dissertation that addresses a pressing social issue in India or explores an innovative intervention. Conduct thorough research, data collection, and analysis, aiming to produce findings that can inform policy or practice.
Tools & Resources
Statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R for basic analysis), Research methodology textbooks, Guidance from faculty mentors
Career Connection
A well-executed research project demonstrates critical thinking and analytical skills, making you attractive to research-oriented NGOs, think tanks, or for pursuing higher studies.
Prepare a Strong Portfolio and Placement Strategy- (Semester 6-8)
Compile a professional portfolio showcasing your fieldwork reports, research papers, project work, and certificates. Actively participate in campus placements, mock interviews, and resume-building workshops organized by the university''''s career services.
Tools & Resources
University Career Services, Professional resume templates, Online portfolio builders
Career Connection
A compelling portfolio and well-prepared interview skills are critical for securing desirable job placements in leading social sector organizations and government initiatives in India.
Explore Leadership and Advocacy Roles- (Semester 6-8)
Seek opportunities to lead student initiatives, organize awareness campaigns, or participate in advocacy efforts for social causes. Develop public speaking and negotiation skills to effectively voice concerns and influence change.
Tools & Resources
Debate clubs, Student council roles, Volunteer leadership positions in NGOs
Career Connection
Leadership and advocacy experience is invaluable for roles in social policy, community leadership, and positions requiring strategic influence within the Indian social welfare ecosystem.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed 10+2 examination from a recognized board. Admission based on Common University Entrance Test (CUET) scores, followed by e-counselling/allotment by University of Delhi.
Duration: 4 years / 8 semesters
Credits: 176 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SW-C1 | Introduction to Social Work | Core | 4 | Understanding Social Work, History and Philosophy of Social Work, Social Work as a Profession, Ethics and Values in Social Work, Fields of Social Work Practice |
| SW-C2 | Social Work with Individuals and Families | Core | 4 | Social Casework: Concept and Principles, Stages and Techniques of Casework, Family as a Social Institution, Family Counselling and Therapy, Crisis Intervention in Families |
| AECC-1 | Environmental Science / English Communication | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 4 | Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution, Sustainable Development, Grammar and Vocabulary, Reading and Writing Skills |
| VAC-1 | Value Addition Course (e.g., Constitutional Values and Fundamental Duties, Digital Empowerment) | Value Added Course | 2 | Indian Constitution, Fundamental Rights and Duties, Digital Literacy, Cyber Hygiene, Online Communication |
| GE-1 | Generic Elective (from other disciplines) | Generic Elective | 4 | Basic concepts of chosen discipline, Fundamental theories, Key methods of study, Applications of the discipline, Historical context |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SW-C3 | Social Work with Groups and Communities | Core | 4 | Group Work: Principles and Models, Stages of Group Development, Community Organization: Approaches and Strategies, Community Development in India, Participatory Rural Appraisal |
| SW-C4 | Social Problems and Social Development | Core | 4 | Understanding Social Problems, Major Social Problems in India (Poverty, Unemployment, etc.), Concept and Indicators of Social Development, Approaches to Development, Role of State and NGOs in Development |
| AECC-2 | English Communication / Environmental Science | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 4 | Formal and Informal Communication, Presentation Skills, Report Writing, Public Speaking, Critical Reading |
| VAC-2 | Value Addition Course (e.g., Bhartiya Parampara, Ethics and Values) | Value Added Course | 2 | Indian Traditional Knowledge, Ethical Frameworks, Moral Reasoning, Professional Ethics, Personal Values |
| GE-2 | Generic Elective (from other disciplines) | Generic Elective | 4 | Concepts of chosen discipline, Theoretical perspectives, Research methodologies, Current issues in the field, Practical applications |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SW-C5 | Social Work Research and Statistics | Core | 4 | Introduction to Social Research, Research Design and Methods, Data Collection Techniques, Basic Statistical Concepts, Data Analysis and Interpretation |
| SW-C6 | Human Growth and Development | Core | 4 | Theories of Human Development, Stages of Life Cycle Development (Childhood, Adolescence, Adulthood), Factors Influencing Development, Developmental Tasks and Challenges, Family Life Cycle |
| SW-C7 | Social Legislation and Human Rights | Core | 4 | Concept of Social Justice and Law, Major Social Legislations in India (e.g., Child Protection, Women''''s Rights), Human Rights: Concepts and Evolution, International Human Rights Instruments, Role of Social Worker in Legal Aid |
| SEC-1 | Skill Enhancement Course (e.g., Communication Skills, Professional Ethics) | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Interpersonal Communication, Active Listening, Conflict Resolution, Ethical Dilemmas in Practice, Professional Boundaries |
| GE-3 | Generic Elective (from other disciplines) | Generic Elective | 4 | Advanced concepts in chosen discipline, Analytical frameworks, Case studies relevant to the field, Current debates and trends, Policy implications |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SW-C8 | Social Work with Vulnerable and Marginalized Groups | Core | 4 | Understanding Vulnerability and Marginalization, Social Work with Children, Social Work with Women, Social Work with Persons with Disabilities, Social Work with Elderly |
| SW-C9 | Counselling: Theory and Practice | Core | 4 | Introduction to Counselling, Major Theories of Counselling (Psychodynamic, Humanistic, CBT), Counselling Process and Skills, Ethical Issues in Counselling, Specific Applications of Counselling |
| SW-C10 | Disaster Management and Social Work | Core | 4 | Concept of Disaster and Hazards, Phases of Disaster Management, Role of Social Worker in Disaster Preparedness, Post-Disaster Response and Rehabilitation, Community-Based Disaster Management |
| SEC-2 | Skill Enhancement Course (e.g., NSS/NCC, Yoga, Mediation) | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Volunteerism and Community Service, Leadership Skills, Stress Management Techniques, Well-being Practices, Mindfulness |
| GE-4 | Generic Elective (from other disciplines) | Generic Elective | 4 | Specialized topics in chosen discipline, Interdisciplinary connections, Research frontiers, Emerging trends and challenges, Global perspectives |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SW-C11 | Social Policy and Planning | Core | 4 | Concept and Components of Social Policy, Models of Social Policy Analysis, Social Planning Process, Social Development Planning in India, Role of Social Worker in Policy Advocacy |
| SW-C12 | Social Work Administration and Supervision | Core | 4 | Principles of Social Welfare Administration, Organizational Structure of Social Agencies, Financial Management in NGOs, Human Resource Management in Social Work, Supervision in Social Work Practice |
| SW-DSE1 | Discipline Specific Elective-1 (e.g., Rural Development, Urban Community Development) | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Rural Social Structure, Rural Development Programs in India, Urbanization and its Impact, Urban Poverty and Slums, Community Interventions in Urban Settings |
| SW-DSE2 | Discipline Specific Elective-2 (e.g., Health Social Work, Psychiatric Social Work) | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Health and Illness in Social Context, Role of Social Worker in Healthcare Settings, Mental Health and Illness, Psychiatric Disorders, Therapeutic Interventions |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SW-C13 | Field Work Practicum (Advanced) | Core | 6 | Agency placement and observation, Application of social work methods, Client assessment and intervention, Documentation and reporting, Supervision and self-reflection |
| SW-C14 | Entrepreneurship and Social Work | Core | 4 | Concepts of Social Entrepreneurship, Models of Social Enterprises, Business Plan Development for Social Ventures, Funding and Sustainability of Social Initiatives, Innovation in Social Development |
| SW-DSE3 | Discipline Specific Elective-3 (e.g., Corporate Social Responsibility, Social Work in Education) | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Concept and Scope of CSR, CSR Initiatives in India, Role of Social Worker in Educational Settings, Addressing Learning Difficulties, School-Community Partnerships |
| SW-DSE4 | Discipline Specific Elective-4 (e.g., Women and Child Development, Youth Development) | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Gender and Development, Policies and Programs for Women and Children in India, Challenges of Youth in Contemporary Society, Youth Empowerment Strategies, Adolescent Health and Well-being |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SW-DSE5 | Discipline Specific Elective-5 (e.g., Conflict Resolution, Geriatric Social Work) | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Understanding Social Conflict, Mediation and Negotiation Skills, Aging and Society, Challenges of Elderly Care, Policies for Senior Citizens |
| SW-DSE6 | Discipline Specific Elective-6 (e.g., Social Work with Persons with Disabilities, Industrial Social Work) | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Models of Disability, Rehabilitation Services for PWDs, Industrial Relations, Employee Welfare Programs, Occupational Health and Safety |
| SW-PRJ1 | Research Project / Dissertation - I | Research Project | 6 | Problem Identification and Formulation, Literature Review, Methodology Design, Data Collection Strategy, Ethical Considerations |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SW-DSE7 | Discipline Specific Elective-7 (e.g., Globalization and Social Work, Indigenous Approaches) | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Impact of Globalization on Social Development, International Social Work, Indigenous Knowledge Systems, Community-based Practices, Decolonizing Social Work |
| SW-DSE8 | Discipline Specific Elective-8 (e.g., Digital Social Work, Advocacy and Lobbying) | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Technology in Social Work Practice, Online Advocacy, E-Counselling, Principles of Advocacy, Campaigning and Lobbying Strategies |
| SW-PRJ2 | Research Project / Dissertation - II | Research Project | 6 | Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing and Presentation, Findings and Recommendations, Implications for Policy and Practice, Dissemination of Research |
