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M-S-W in General at Visva-Bharati
Birbhum, West Bengal
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About the Specialization
What is General at Visva-Bharati Birbhum?
This Master of Social Work program at Visva-Bharati University focuses on equipping students with advanced knowledge and practical skills to address complex social issues. It emphasizes a holistic understanding of human behavior, societal structures, and intervention strategies relevant to India''''s diverse socio-cultural landscape. The program is designed to foster compassionate and competent social work professionals who can contribute significantly to community development and social justice within the Indian context, preparing them for a range of roles in both governmental and non-governmental sectors.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for graduates from any discipline seeking to make a meaningful impact in society. It attracts individuals passionate about social change, human rights, and community welfare. Fresh graduates aspiring to careers in social development, counseling, and advocacy, as well as working professionals from allied fields like education or healthcare looking to formalize their social work expertise, will find this program beneficial. Candidates with a strong empathetic drive and a commitment to serving marginalized populations are particularly well-suited.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue rewarding careers in various settings, including NGOs, government social welfare departments, hospitals, schools, corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, and community development projects across India. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3 LPA to 6 LPA, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The program opens pathways to roles like social workers, counselors, project managers, community organizers, and policy advocates, with strong growth trajectories in India''''s expanding social development sector.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Immerse in Foundational Social Work Theories and Ethics- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with core concepts of social work, its history, philosophical underpinnings, and ethical principles. Participate in class discussions, case study analyses, and group assignments to internalize these values. Understand the diverse socio-cultural context of India.
Tools & Resources
Social Work textbooks by Indian authors (e.g., C.P. Goel, G.R. Madan), Relevant academic journals, Online ethics courses
Career Connection
Strong theoretical grounding and ethical awareness are crucial for professional credibility and effective practice, preparing students for ethical dilemmas in real-world scenarios.
Excel in Basic Fieldwork and Observation- (Semester 1-2)
Prioritize concurrent fieldwork placements. Maintain detailed process records, actively participate in supervision sessions, and critically reflect on observational learning. Seek opportunities to interact with community members and understand ground realities firsthand.
Tools & Resources
Fieldwork Manual, Supervision logbooks, Agency reports, Ethnographic observation techniques
Career Connection
Direct exposure to social issues and agency functioning builds practical skills, professional demeanor, and a realistic understanding of social work challenges, essential for future roles.
Develop Strong Communication and Interpersonal Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on enhancing verbal and non-verbal communication, active listening, and empathy through role-plays and group activities. Practice effective report writing and presentation skills. Engage in peer learning and collaborative projects.
Tools & Resources
Communication skills workshops, Public speaking clubs, Peer review groups, Basic counseling techniques manuals
Career Connection
Effective communication is fundamental for client engagement, advocacy, team collaboration, and professional networking, key for any social work role.
Intermediate Stage
Master Core Social Work Methods and Application- (Semester 3)
Deepen understanding and application of Casework, Group Work, Community Organization, and Social Action methods through case studies, simulations, and advanced fieldwork. Identify specific intervention strategies for different client groups in Indian settings.
Tools & Resources
Method-specific textbooks, Role-play scenarios, Community project guidelines, Advanced agency placements
Career Connection
Proficiency in core methods makes graduates highly competent to design and implement interventions in various social welfare and development programs, enhancing employability.
Engage in Social Research and Data Analysis- (Semester 3)
Actively participate in research methods courses, apply statistical tools to social data, and engage in small-scale research projects. Understand the nuances of ethical research practice and data interpretation relevant to India''''s diverse populations.
Tools & Resources
SPSS/R for basic analysis, Survey tools (Google Forms, SurveyMonkey), Academic research papers on Indian social issues
Career Connection
Research skills are vital for evidence-based practice, program evaluation, policy advocacy, and identifying emerging social trends, leading to roles in research and Monitoring & Evaluation.
Explore Specializations and Networking- (Semester 3-4)
Utilize elective courses to explore areas of interest like Medical & Psychiatric Social Work, Industrial Social Work, or Community Development. Attend seminars, workshops, and conferences to network with professionals and learn about emerging trends in Indian social work.
Tools & Resources
Professional social work associations (e.g., BASW India), LinkedIn, Guest lectures, Career fairs
Career Connection
Early specialization and networking can lead to focused career paths, internship opportunities, and mentorship from industry leaders, significantly aiding placement efforts.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a High-Impact Dissertation/Project- (Semester 4)
Choose a dissertation topic that addresses a critical social issue in India, applying robust research methodologies. Ensure the research is ethically sound, contributes to existing knowledge, and potentially informs policy or practice.
Tools & Resources
University research guidelines, Academic supervisors, Statistical software, Access to libraries and databases
Career Connection
A well-executed dissertation showcases independent research capability, critical thinking, and a deep understanding of a social issue, often serving as a strong portfolio piece for higher studies or specialized roles.
Prepare for Professional Roles and Placements- (Semester 4)
Refine resume and cover letter writing, practice interview skills, and attend placement talks. Actively seek internship and job opportunities in relevant NGOs, CSR foundations, or government bodies. Build a professional online presence.
Tools & Resources
Career services cell, Mock interview sessions, Professional networking platforms, Placement brochures
Career Connection
Direct preparation for the job market ensures smooth transition into employment, aligning skills with industry demands and securing desirable placements.
Develop Leadership and Advocacy Skills- (Semester 4)
Engage in leadership roles within student bodies or community projects. Practice advocacy for marginalized groups, learning about policy frameworks and public awareness campaigns in India. Develop capacity for critical policy analysis.
Tools & Resources
Leadership training workshops, Advocacy handbooks, Participation in social justice campaigns, Policy documents
Career Connection
These skills are crucial for future leadership positions, policy-making roles, and driving systemic change within the social development sector, preparing for roles beyond direct practice.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor Degree (10+2+3 pattern) with minimum 50% marks in aggregate from a recognized University/Institute. Specific mention for B.A. (Hons.) / B.Sc. (Hons.) / B.Com. (Hons.) / B.B.A. / B.Ed. / B.S.W. / B.Voc. in Social Work.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 90 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25% (for theoretical papers), External: 75% (for theoretical papers, varying for practical/fieldwork/dissertation)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSW-C101 | Introduction to Social Work | Core | 4 | Social Work Profession, Philosophy, Values and Principles, Social Work as a Helping Profession, Historical Development of Social Work, Indian Social Realities |
| MSW-C102 | Social Science Perspectives for Social Work | Core | 4 | Sociology, Psychology, Economics and Political Science concepts, Interdisciplinary Approach, Theories of Human Behavior, Social Structures and Institutions |
| MSW-C103 | Basic Social Work Methods - I (Casework and Group Work) | Core | 4 | Social Casework, Principles, Techniques and Process, Social Group Work, Stages of Group Development, Role of Social Worker, Recording in Social Work |
| MSW-C104 | Introduction to Human Growth and Development | Core | 4 | Human Development Theories, Stages of Development, Factors Influencing Development, Life Span Approach, Needs and Challenges at different stages |
| MSW-P105 | Field Work Practicum - I | Practical | 4 | Concurrent Fieldwork, Observation Visits, Agency Orientation, Report Writing, Supervision Conferences |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSW-C201 | Basic Social Work Methods - II (Community Organization and Social Action) | Core | 4 | Community Organization, Models, Principles, Strategies, Social Action, Types, Strategies, Role of Social Worker, People''''s Participation and Empowerment |
| MSW-C202 | Social Welfare Administration | Core | 4 | Social Welfare Agencies, Structure and Functions, Principles of Administration, Program Planning and Management, Financial Management in NGOs, Public Relations and Resource Mobilization |
| MSW-C203 | Social Legislation and Human Rights | Core | 4 | Indian Constitution and Social Justice, Social Legislations related to Women, Children, Labour, Scheduled Castes, Tribes, and Other Backward Classes, Human Rights: National and International Instruments |
| MSW-C204 | Research Methods and Statistics in Social Work | Core | 4 | Social Work Research, Nature and Scope, Research Design, Data Collection Methods, Sampling Techniques, Data Analysis, Basic Statistics, Report Writing and Ethics in Research |
| MSW-P205 | Field Work Practicum - II | Practical | 4 | Concurrent Fieldwork, Skill Development, Intervention Strategies, Report Writing, Agency Liaison and Professional Boundaries |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSW-C301 | Social Problems and Interventions | Core | 4 | Major Social Problems in India (Poverty, Unemployment, Health), Causes and Consequences of Social Problems, Intervention Strategies and Role of Social Work, Mental Health, Substance Abuse, Disability |
| MSW-C302 | Counseling: Theory and Practice | Core | 4 | Counseling Approaches and Techniques, Skills and Stages of Counseling, Crisis Intervention, Ethical Considerations in Counseling, Application in various settings |
| MSW-C303 | Introduction to Social Work with Special Populations | Core | 4 | Vulnerable Groups (Children, Women, Elderly, Persons with Disability), Social Exclusion and Discrimination, Policies and Programs for Special Populations, Rights and Issues of Marginalized Communities, Intervention Models for Specific Groups |
| MSW-E304 | Urban & Rural Community Development (Example Elective) | Elective | 4 | Rural-Urban Divide and Development Challenges, Models of Community Development, Participatory Approaches, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Government Schemes for Rural-Urban Development |
| MSW-P305 | Field Work Practicum - III | Practical | 4 | Concurrent Fieldwork, Specialization Areas Exploration, Skill Application and Problem Solving, Project Planning and Implementation, Community Engagement and Resource Mapping |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSW-C401 | Social Policy and Planning | Core | 4 | Social Policy Formulation, Analysis, Implementation, Planning Process, Five Year Plans in India, Social Development Indicators, Advocacy for Policy Change, Role of State and NGOs in Social Policy |
| MSW-C402 | Contemporary Issues in Social Work | Core | 4 | Globalization and its Impact on Social Work, Climate Change and Environmental Justice, Digital Divide and Cyber Social Work, Indigenous Issues and Tribal Welfare, Professional Ethics and Accountability |
| MSW-E403 | Medical & Psychiatric Social Work (Example Elective) | Elective | 4 | Health System in India, Mental Health Issues and Disorders, Role of Social Worker in Health and Psychiatric Settings, Counseling in Medical Context, Rehabilitation and Aftercare Services |
| MSW-D404 | Dissertation | Project | 10 | Research Problem Formulation, Literature Review and Theoretical Framework, Research Methodology and Tools, Data Collection and Analysis, Report Writing and Viva-Voce |
| MSW-V405 | Viva-Voce on Field Work | Viva | 4 | Presentation of Fieldwork Experiences, Learning Outcomes and Challenges, Problem-Solving Approaches in Practice, Professional Growth and Skill Development |
| MSW-P406 | Field Work Practicum - IV | Practical | 4 | Intensive Fieldwork and Internship, Capstone Project or Action Research, Agency Collaboration and Networking, Professional Skill Refinement, Application of Social Work Theories in Practice |
