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M-A 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 M.A. Social Work program at the University of Delhi focuses on developing competent and ethical social work professionals equipped to address complex societal challenges in India. The curriculum emphasizes a holistic understanding of social issues, integrating theoretical knowledge with extensive field practice. Its interdisciplinary approach and focus on human rights and social justice are key differentiators, meeting the growing demand for skilled practitioners in India''''s diverse welfare and development sectors.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for passionate fresh graduates from any discipline seeking entry into direct social work practice, community development, or policy advocacy. It also suits working professionals, including those from NGO backgrounds or public service, looking to deepen their theoretical knowledge and practical skills for career advancement. Individuals committed to social change, with strong empathy and a desire to serve vulnerable populations, will thrive in this rigorous environment.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse India-specific career paths in NGOs, government social welfare departments, corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, hospitals, and educational institutions. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3.5 to 6 LPA, with experienced professionals earning significantly more (INR 8-15+ LPA). Graduates often take on roles as social workers, project managers, community organizers, counselors, or policy analysts, contributing to India''''s social development landscape.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Active Fieldwork Engagement & Reflection- (Semester 1-2)
Engage fully in all fieldwork activities, maintaining detailed process recordings and actively participating in supervisory sessions. Regularly reflect on field experiences, linking observations to theoretical concepts learned in class to deepen understanding of social realities in India.
Tools & Resources
Fieldwork manual, Supervisors, Reflective journals, Peer group discussions
Career Connection
Develops core intervention skills, ethical practice, and a critical understanding of client systems crucial for entry-level roles in social welfare agencies.
Mastering Core Social Work Theories- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on building a strong theoretical foundation in subjects like Human Growth and Development, and Social Work History. Utilize department libraries, online academic resources, and peer study groups to grasp fundamental concepts and their relevance to Indian society.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks, Research papers, University library resources, Online academic databases
Career Connection
Provides the conceptual framework necessary for effective assessment, planning, and intervention in diverse social work settings.
Developing Communication and Empathy Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in role-plays, group discussions, and presentations to hone communication, listening, and empathetic responding skills. Seek feedback from faculty and peers to refine interpersonal abilities vital for effective client and community engagement in diverse Indian contexts.
Tools & Resources
Role-play exercises, Presentation platforms, Peer feedback sessions, Communication workshops
Career Connection
Essential for building rapport with clients, facilitating group processes, and effective advocacy, directly impacting success in client-facing and community roles.
Intermediate Stage
Strategic Elective Specialization- (Semester 3-4)
Carefully select Discipline Specific Electives (DSEs) and the Open Elective that align with your career goals (e.g., child welfare, mental health, community development). Supplement with online courses or workshops to build expertise in a chosen sub-field relevant to the Indian social sector.
Tools & Resources
Departmental advisors, Online certification platforms (e.g., Coursera, Udemy), Industry workshops
Career Connection
Creates a niche profile, making you more competitive for specialized roles in NGOs, CSR, or government organizations focusing on specific social issues.
Advanced Research and Project Management- (Semester 3-4)
Undertake the Dissertation or Field Work IV with a robust research methodology, focusing on a relevant social problem in India. Actively engage in project planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation, honing practical skills in managing social interventions.
Tools & Resources
Research methodology guides, Statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R), Project management tools, Faculty mentorship
Career Connection
Prepares you for roles in program management, evaluation, policy analysis, and research positions, which often require strong analytical and project management capabilities.
Professional Networking and Advocacy- (Semester 3-4)
Attend conferences, seminars, and networking events organized by the department or external social work bodies in India. Engage with professionals, alumni, and potential employers. Practice advocacy skills through debates and community action, building connections for internships and future job prospects.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional associations (e.g., NAPSWI), Departmental events, Networking apps
Career Connection
Opens doors to internships and job opportunities, fosters mentorship, and builds a professional reputation, accelerating career growth in the social sector.
Advanced Stage
Lifelong Learning and Professional Development- (Semester 6-8)
Commit to continuous learning through advanced certifications, workshops on emerging social issues (e.g., climate change and social work, digital social work), and postgraduate studies. Stay updated on policy changes and best practices in the Indian social welfare landscape.
Tools & Resources
Online professional courses, Professional body memberships, Specialized training programs, Academic journals
Career Connection
Ensures adaptability to evolving social challenges, enhances leadership potential, and positions you for senior management or policy-making roles.
Ethical Leadership and Mentorship- (Semester 6-8)
Develop ethical leadership qualities by volunteering for leadership roles in community projects or professional associations. Actively mentor junior social work students or new professionals, sharing your knowledge and fostering a new generation of ethical practitioners.
Tools & Resources
Leadership development workshops, Mentorship programs, Volunteer opportunities, Ethical guidelines
Career Connection
Cultivates leadership skills, builds professional credibility, and contributes to the growth of the social work profession, opening pathways to influential positions.
Impact-Oriented Advocacy and Policy Influence- (Semester 6-8)
Engage in evidence-based advocacy for policy changes and systemic reform on critical social issues in India. Utilize research skills to inform policy briefs, participate in public discourse, and collaborate with advocacy groups to drive meaningful social impact.
Tools & Resources
Policy research institutes, Advocacy NGOs, Public forums, Social media for advocacy
Career Connection
Enables career progression into policy advisory roles, think tanks, and leadership positions in social justice organizations, influencing national development agendas.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s Degree with minimum 50% marks in aggregate from University of Delhi or any other recognized university, OR Master''''s Degree in any discipline from University of Delhi or any other recognized university, OR Four-year Bachelor''''s Degree (including professional nature) with minimum 50% marks in aggregate.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 102 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSW 101 | Social Work: History and Ideologies | Core | 4 | Evolution of Social Work in UK and USA, Social Reform Movements in India, Philosophical Foundations of Social Work, Professional Values and Ethics, Contemporary Social Work Practices |
| MSW 102 | Social Work Research and Statistics | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Social Research, Research Designs and Methods, Data Collection Tools and Techniques, Basic Statistical Concepts for Social Work, Research Report Writing and Ethics |
| MSW 103 | Human Growth and Development | Core | 4 | Theories of Human Development, Stages of Life Span Development, Bio-Psycho-Social Factors in Development, Developmental Tasks and Challenges, Resilience and Well-being |
| MSW 104 | Working with Individuals: Social Case Work | Core | 4 | Concepts and Principles of Social Case Work, Stages of Case Work Process, Interviewing Skills and Techniques, Psychosocial Assessment and Intervention, Case Work Recording and Evaluation |
| MSW 105 | Field Work I | Practical | 8 | Orientation to Social Work Agencies, Observation and Participatory Immersion, Record Keeping and Documentation, Individual and Group Supervision, Basic Skill Development in Practice |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSW 201 | Working with Groups: Social Group Work | Core | 4 | Concepts and Principles of Social Group Work, Group Dynamics and Stages of Group Development, Models of Group Work Practice, Role of Social Worker in Groups, Program Planning and Evaluation in Groups |
| MSW 202 | Working with Communities: Community Organization | Core | 4 | Concepts of Community and Community Organization, Models and Approaches to Community Work, Community Participation and Empowerment, Resource Mobilization and Networking, Advocacy and Social Action |
| MSW 203 | Social Policy, Planning and Development | Core | 4 | Concepts of Social Policy and Planning, Theories of Development and Underdevelopment, Social Welfare Policies in India, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Role of Social Work in Development |
| MSW 204 | Disaster Management and Social Work | Core | 4 | Concepts of Disaster and Types of Hazards, Disaster Management Cycle (Mitigation, Preparedness, Response, Recovery), Role of Social Work in Disaster Contexts, Community-Based Disaster Risk Reduction, Humanitarian Aid and Rehabilitation |
| MSW 205 | Field Work II | Practical | 8 | Advanced Case Work Practice, Group Intervention Skills, Community Needs Assessment, Program Planning and Implementation, Ethical Dilemmas in Practice |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSW 301 | Social Justice and Human Rights | Core | 4 | Concepts of Social Justice and Equality, International Human Rights Frameworks, Social Exclusion and Discrimination, Rights of Vulnerable Populations, Advocacy and Social Movements for Rights |
| MSW 302 | Social Welfare Administration | Core | 4 | Principles of Social Welfare Administration, Organizational Structure and Management, Financial Management in Welfare Organizations, Human Resource Management in NGOs, Program Evaluation and Accountability |
| MSW 303 | Project Planning and Management | Core | 4 | Project Life Cycle Management, Needs Assessment and Problem Identification, Logical Framework Approach (LFA), Project Implementation and Monitoring, Proposal Writing and Resource Mobilization |
| MSW 304 | Urban and Rural Community Development | Elective (Discipline Specific Elective - I) | 6 | Challenges of Urbanization and Rural Distress, Models of Urban Community Development, Approaches to Rural Development, Sustainable Livelihoods and Microfinance, Participatory Planning and Governance |
| MSW 305 | Social Work with Children and Families | Elective (Discipline Specific Elective - I) | 6 | Child Rights and Protection, Family Structures and Dynamics, Child Welfare Policies and Programs, Intervention with Vulnerable Children, Family Therapy and Counseling |
| MSW 306 | Social Work in Health and Mental Health | Elective (Discipline Specific Elective - I) | 6 | Social Determinants of Health, Public Health Issues and Interventions, Mental Health Disorders and Stigma, Counseling in Health Settings, Addiction and Substance Abuse |
| MSW 307 | Corporate Social Responsibility and Industrial Relations | Elective (Discipline Specific Elective - I) | 6 | Concepts of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Ethical Business Practices, Labor Laws and Industrial Relations, Trade Unions and Employee Welfare, CSR Projects and Impact Assessment |
| MSW 308 | Social Work with Differently Abled Persons | Elective (Discipline Specific Elective - I) | 6 | Models of Disability, Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, Inclusive Education and Employment, Rehabilitation Services, Advocacy for Accessibility and Inclusion |
| MSW 309 | Field Work III | Practical | 8 | Specialized Intervention Skills, Program Design and Implementation, Policy Analysis in Practice, Advanced Advocacy Techniques, Self-Reflective and Ethical Practice |
