

MSW in General at University of Mysore


Mysuru, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is General at University of Mysore Mysuru?
This Master of Social Work (MSW) program at the University of Mysore focuses on equipping students with theoretical knowledge and practical skills for professional social work practice. It emphasizes addressing societal challenges, promoting human well-being, and advocating for social justice within the Indian context. The program is designed to create empathetic and skilled social work professionals demanded across various sectors in India, offering a blend of core and elective subjects.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for humanities and social science graduates seeking entry into social development, counseling, or community engagement roles. It also suits working professionals from NGOs, government agencies, or corporate social responsibility (CSR) departments looking to formalize their expertise. Individuals passionate about bringing positive change and working with vulnerable populations will find this program deeply rewarding, with a minimum bachelor''''s degree required.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse India-specific career paths in NGOs, government welfare departments, hospitals, schools, and corporate CSR. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, with experienced professionals earning INR 7-15 LPA. Growth trajectories include roles like project manager, counselor, community development officer, and policy advocate in Indian organizations, contributing directly to community betterment.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Immerse in Field Work Observations- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in all observation visits and initial agency placements during semesters 1 and 2. Maintain detailed field diaries, reflecting on experiences, challenges, and interventions observed, and seek regular feedback from field supervisors.
Tools & Resources
Field diaries, Agency reports, Supervisory feedback sessions
Career Connection
This builds foundational understanding of diverse social problems and practice settings, essential for identifying future areas of specialization and effective intervention in social work.
Strengthen Theoretical Understanding- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on mastering core social work theories, sociological and psychological concepts. Form study groups to discuss complex topics, apply theories to real-life case studies, and prepare for internal and external assessments effectively.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks and academic journals, Online learning platforms (e.g., NPTEL for social sciences), Peer study groups and faculty consultations
Career Connection
Provides a robust theoretical framework necessary for evidence-based practice, critical thinking, and ethical decision-making in professional social work roles across India.
Develop Core Communication and Soft Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage in soft skills sessions, focusing on public speaking, active listening, and empathetic communication. Practice these skills in class presentations, group discussions, and early field interactions to build confidence and rapport.
Tools & Resources
Soft skills workshops, Role-playing exercises, Feedback from peers and faculty, Communication skill-building apps
Career Connection
Essential for effective client engagement, team collaboration, advocacy, and professional representation in any social work setting, significantly boosting employability.
Intermediate Stage
Deep Dive into Specialization Electives- (Semester 3)
Beyond classroom learning, thoroughly research current trends, policies, and case studies related to your chosen elective (e.g., Medical & Psychiatric, Family & Child, Criminology). Seek out NGOs or professionals working in that specific area for informational interviews.
Tools & Resources
Specialization-specific journals, Government reports on welfare policies, Professional associations (e.g., Indian Association of Medical Social Workers), LinkedIn for networking
Career Connection
Builds specialized knowledge and networks, crucial for securing internships and future employment in the chosen field of social work, aligning with India''''s diverse social needs.
Engage in Community-Based Projects- (Semester 3)
Actively participate in community organization activities and urban/rural development projects. Take initiative in needs assessment, program planning, and mobilization, meticulously documenting processes and outcomes.
Tools & Resources
Local community organizations, Government development schemes (e.g., MGNREGA, NRLM), Project management tools (e.g., Trello for basic project tracking)
Career Connection
Develops practical skills in community engagement, project management, and policy implementation, valuable for roles in community development, NGO management, and CSR initiatives.
Refine Research Skills for Evidence-Based Practice- (Semester 3)
Apply research methodology and statistical knowledge to critically analyze social issues. Start conceptualizing potential dissertation topics early, aligning with specialization interests and current social needs, and consider pilot studies.
Tools & Resources
Statistical software (e.g., basic Excel for data analysis), Academic databases (JSTOR, Google Scholar), University library resources and research ethics guidelines
Career Connection
Equips students for program evaluation, policy research, and contributes to evidence-based interventions, enhancing credibility and impact in the field of social work.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Comprehensive Dissertation/Project- (Semester 4)
Execute a rigorous research project (dissertation) on a relevant social work issue, applying all learned research methods. Aim for practical recommendations or policy implications that can be implemented in the Indian context.
Tools & Resources
Academic advisors and subject matter experts, Advanced statistical software (if needed), Referencing tools (e.g., Mendeley), University''''s research support services
Career Connection
Demonstrates independent research capability and specialized expertise, highly valued for academic pursuits, policy analysis roles, and professional credibility within Indian and international organizations.
Intensify Specialization-Specific Field Placement- (Semester 4)
Leverage the final field work to gain in-depth experience in the chosen specialization. Take on more responsibility, lead interventions, and contribute to agency projects with increased autonomy, seeking opportunities for direct client work.
Tools & Resources
Advanced agency placements aligned with specialization, Mentorship from senior social workers, Case management documentation systems
Career Connection
Crucial for building a strong professional portfolio, securing impactful recommendations, and transitioning smoothly into full-time roles within the chosen specialized domain post-graduation.
Prepare for Professional Roles and Advocacy- (Semester 4)
Actively participate in workshops on career planning, interview skills, and resume building. Understand advocacy mechanisms, human rights frameworks, and disaster management protocols for real-world impact and policy influencing in India.
Tools & Resources
University''''s career services, Mock interviews and group discussions, Networking events with social sector leaders, Professional social work associations
Career Connection
Ensures readiness for the competitive job market, equips with the knowledge to advocate effectively for vulnerable populations, and positions graduates as ethical and informed social work leaders.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- A Bachelor''''s Degree with 45% (40% for SC/ST/Cat-I) aggregate marks in any discipline from a recognized University.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 96 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SWC 401 | Social Work Profession: History and Philosophy | Core | 4 | Social Work Definition and Scope, History of Social Work in UK, USA, and India, Social Reform Movements in India, Philosophy, Principles, and Values of Social Work, Ethics and Professionalism in Social Work |
| SWC 402 | Sociology for Social Work Practice | Core | 4 | Basic Sociological Concepts and Perspectives, Social Institutions: Family, Marriage, Education, Religion, Social Stratification, Class, Caste, and Gender, Theories of Social Change and Development, Rural and Urban Sociology in India |
| SWC 403 | Psychology for Social Work Practice | Core | 4 | Basic Psychological Concepts and Schools of Thought, Theories of Personality and Human Development, Motivation, Learning, and Perception, Stress, Frustration, and Conflict, Mental Health and Abnormal Behavior |
| SWC 404 | Social Case Work and Social Group Work | Core | 4 | Social Case Work: Definition, Principles, and Process, Tools and Techniques of Case Work, Social Group Work: Definition, Principles, and Models, Stages of Group Development and Leadership, Skills in Case Work and Group Work Practice |
| SWC 405 | Field Work | Practical | 4 | Orientation to Social Work Agencies, Observation Visits and Immersion, Concurrent Field Work Placements, Field Work Recording and Supervision, Micro and Mezzo Level Practice Exposure |
| SWS 406 | Soft Skills | Skill Enhancement Course | 4 | Communication Skills: Verbal and Non-Verbal, Interpersonal Skills and Teamwork, Presentation Skills and Public Speaking, Time Management and Goal Setting, Conflict Resolution and Stress Management |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SWC 451 | Community Organization and Social Action | Core | 4 | Community Organization: Concepts, Principles, and Models, Role of Social Worker in Community Development, Social Action: Definition, Strategies, and Ethics, Advocacy and Lobbying for Social Change, Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) and Participatory Learning and Action (PLA) |
| SWC 452 | Social Problems and Social Legislation | Core | 4 | Concept of Social Problems and Social Disorganization, Major Social Problems in India: Poverty, Unemployment, Crime, Social Justice and Constitutional Provisions in India, Social Legislation: Child, Women, SC/ST, Labour Welfare Acts, Human Rights and Social Work Intervention |
| SWC 453 | Social Work Research and Statistics | Core | 4 | Social Research: Meaning, Purpose, and Types, Research Designs: Exploratory, Descriptive, Experimental, Data Collection Methods: Interview, Questionnaire, Observation, Sampling Techniques and Measurement Scales, Basic Statistics: Mean, Median, Mode, Correlation, Regression |
| SWC 454 | Social Welfare Administration | Core | 4 | Social Welfare Administration: Concepts, Principles, and Scope, Functions of Administration: Planning, Organizing, Staffing, Directing, Organizational Structure of Welfare Agencies, Financial Management, Fundraising, and Resource Mobilization, Program Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation |
| SWC 455 | Field Work | Practical | 4 | Block Placement in Social Agencies, Concurrent Field Work with Diverse Populations, Community Study and Project Formulation, Developing Intervention Strategies, Report Writing and Critical Reflection |
| SWS 456 | Computer Application for Social Work | Skill Enhancement Course | 4 | Introduction to Computers and Operating Systems, MS Office Suite: Word, Excel, PowerPoint for Social Work Documentation, Internet and Email for Research and Communication, Data Management Software Basics, Cyber Security and Online Ethics |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SWC 501 | Management of Voluntary Welfare Organizations | Core | 4 | NGOs in India: Role, Importance, and Challenges, Legal Framework for Voluntary Organizations (Societies, Trusts), Strategic Planning and Project Management in NGOs, Fundraising, Grant Writing, and Financial Management, Monitoring, Evaluation, and Accountability in the Voluntary Sector |
| SWC 502 | Urban and Rural Community Development | Core | 4 | Concepts of Urbanization and Rural Development, Theories and Approaches to Community Development, Problems and Challenges in Urban and Rural Areas of India, Government Policies and Programs for Development, Role of Social Worker in Sustainable Development |
| SWE 503(a) | Medical Social Work | Elective - Medical and Psychiatric Social Work Group | 4 | Concepts of Health, Illness, and Wellness, Role of Social Worker in Medical Settings, Psychosocial Aspects of Illness and Disability, Counselling in Health Care Settings, Medical Social Work Interventions and Health Programs |
| SWE 504(a) | Psychiatric Social Work | Elective - Medical and Psychiatric Social Work Group | 4 | Mental Health and Mental Illness Concepts, Psychosocial Assessment and Intervention, Major Psychiatric Disorders and their Management, Role of Social Worker in Psychiatric Settings, Therapeutic Techniques and Rehabilitation |
| SWE 503(b) | Family Welfare | Elective - Family and Child Welfare Group | 4 | Family Structures, Functions, and Dynamics, Family Problems in India: Domestic Violence, Marital Conflict, Family Life Education and Strengthening Families, Marital and Family Counselling Techniques, Government and NGO Programs for Family Welfare |
| SWE 504(b) | Child Welfare | Elective - Family and Child Welfare Group | 4 | Child Rights and Protection in India, Child Development and Needs, Child Abuse and Neglect: Identification and Intervention, Juvenile Justice System and Adoption, Welfare Programs for Children with Special Needs |
| SWE 503(c) | Criminology | Elective - Criminology and Correctional Administration Group | 4 | Theories of Crime Causation, Types of Crime and Criminal Behavior, Criminal Justice System in India, Victimology and Victim Assistance, Juvenile Delinquency and Prevention Strategies |
| SWE 504(c) | Correctional Administration | Elective - Criminology and Correctional Administration Group | 4 | Correctional Philosophy and Methods, Prison System and Prison Reforms in India, Probation, Parole, and Aftercare Services, Role of Social Worker in Correctional Settings, Rehabilitation of Offenders and Reintegration |
| SWC 505 | Field Work | Practical | 4 | Specialization-based Field Placement, Advanced Skill Development in Chosen Area, Case Studies and Intervention Planning, Supervision and Peer Learning, Participation in Agency Programs and Projects |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SWC 551 | Human Rights and Social Work | Core | 4 | Concept and Evolution of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights and International Covenants, Human Rights in the Indian Context: Constitutional Provisions, Role of Social Worker in Human Rights Protection and Advocacy, Human Rights Issues and Challenges in India |
| SWC 552 | Disaster Management and Social Work | Core | 4 | Concepts of Disaster, Hazard, and Vulnerability, Types of Disasters: Natural and Man-made, Disaster Management Cycle: Preparedness, Response, Recovery, Role of Social Worker in Disaster Mitigation and Relief, Psychosocial Support and Rehabilitation in Disasters |
| SWE 553(a) | Counselling | Elective - Medical and Psychiatric Social Work Group | 4 | Counselling Process: Stages and Techniques, Theories of Counselling: Client-Centered, Cognitive-Behavioral, Counselling Skills: Active Listening, Empathy, Confrontation, Ethical Issues in Counselling, Crisis Intervention and Group Counselling |
| SWE 554(a) | De-addiction and Rehabilitation | Elective - Medical and Psychiatric Social Work Group | 4 | Substance Abuse and Addiction: Causes and Consequences, De-addiction Models and Treatment Approaches, Rehabilitation Services for Addicts, Relapse Prevention Strategies, Community-Based De-addiction Programs |
| SWE 553(b) | Counselling | Elective - Family and Child Welfare Group | 4 | Counselling Process: Stages and Techniques, Theories of Counselling: Client-Centered, Cognitive-Behavioral, Counselling Skills: Active Listening, Empathy, Confrontation, Ethical Issues in Counselling, Crisis Intervention and Group Counselling |
| SWE 554(b) | Gerontological Social Work | Elective - Family and Child Welfare Group | 4 | Concepts of Gerontology and Ageing Process, Challenges Faced by Elderly in India: Health, Economic, Social, Policies and Programs for Senior Citizens, Counselling and Care for Older Adults, Institutional and Community-Based Care for the Elderly |
| SWE 553(c) | Counselling | Elective - Criminology and Correctional Administration Group | 4 | Counselling Process: Stages and Techniques, Theories of Counselling: Client-Centered, Cognitive-Behavioral, Counselling Skills: Active Listening, Empathy, Confrontation, Ethical Issues in Counselling, Crisis Intervention and Group Counselling |
| SWE 554(c) | Social Defence | Elective - Criminology and Correctional Administration Group | 4 | Social Defence: Concepts and Objectives, Measures for Prevention of Crime and Delinquency, Role of Police, Judiciary, and Correctional Services, Rehabilitation and Resocialization of Offenders, Social Defence Policies and Programs in India |
| SWP 555 | Dissertation and Viva Voce | Project | 4 | Formulation of Research Proposal, Literature Review and Research Design, Data Collection, Analysis, and Interpretation, Report Writing and Academic Presentation, Viva Voce Examination |
| SWC 556 | Field Work | Practical | 4 | Advanced Level Field Placement, Independent Practice and Professional Skill Consolidation, Ethical Dilemmas in Social Work Practice, Self-Evaluation and Professional Growth, Preparation for Professional Roles |




