MSW Course

Masters in Social Work, or MSW. MSocWk, MSocWork, or MSW are all possible abbreviations for master's in social work. The MSW programme is a technical postgraduate programme that covers both the broad and specific elements of professional social work practises in settings such as communities, hospitals, schools, and other social service sectors. In India, the MSW programme lasts two years, broken up into four semesters. After earning a bachelor's degree in a relevant field with at least 50% of the required marks from an accredited university, candidates may enroll in an MSW programme. Either a merit list or an entrance exam are used to determine admission to MSW programmes. In order to qualify for an MSW, students must have graduated from an appropriate programme.

There are four semesters in the MSW Syllabus. Human Growth & Development, Ideology & Ethics of Social Work, Poverty Reduction, Micro Finance, Micro Enterprises, etc. are the main topics covered in the MSW Syllabus. A full-time course and distance learning options for MSW are both available. Among the top colleges for MSW are TISS in Mumbai, Presidency College in Chennai, and Kristu Jayanti College, among others. Average MSW course fee ranges from INR 2,00,000 to INR 4,00,000. Candidates with  MSW degree can work as Healthcare Social Workers, Clinical Social Workers, Therapists, or Social Workers in the Medical Health and Educational sectors, among other jobs. Average MSW salary ranges from INR 4,00,000 to INR 8,00,000.

Master of social work is a postgraduate course. MSW course consists of various studies related to social issues and how to deal with them. MSW course comprises a two year course in which both theoretical as well as practical knowledge is given about social work. Besides that, candidates learn various other necessary skills while studying MSW such as communication skills, adaptive behavior, and other professional skills which help the candidates in pursuing a successful career ahead. Given below are some of the important MSW highlights:

Social work is a fascinating work where people are trained to work for the development of people in the society and how they can make the lives of people better while working for them. There are many aspects of social work such as candidates can work as a counselor also where they will help out people with medical illness or unstable mental setups. On the other hand, social workers can also work in the child care department where they will deal with the development and progress of children in need. Given below are some of the facts as why someone should pursue a career in MSW:

• Opportunity to Serve Others after MSW: As a social worker, candidates have an opportunity to work with people who need help. Through their work, social workers can manage to bring a change in the life of distressed people who need help 
• MSW a Growing Field: Social work field has been considered as one of the fastest growing fields. Social work profession is an everlasting profession because there are always people in society who need help from one or the other situation
• Advanced Education and Training in MSW: More than theoretical knowledge, candidates are offered practical knowledge in the field. Candidates have an opportunity to structure their skills and knowledge even before they graduate
• MSW in Health Care: MSW degree graduates who wish to work in the healthcare, education department can work in departments like drug addiction, or counseling students in the school and can work as a professional social worker in any field as well
• Increased Salary in MSW: Candidates with MSW degree tend to earn more than the social workers who do not have MSW degree. Also, social work is a never ending work which requires more and more people to indulge in order to gain more success by providing better services

Above all, making a contribution to society is one of the most important reasons for working in this field. Selflessness, emotional intelligence, diligence, and strong work ethics are all required in the field of social work. This profession will make the aspirant a better person and provide them with the satisfaction of contributing to society. As a result, if the aspirant has a giving attitude and enjoys selflessly helping others, they should pursue this profession and contribute to the betterment of society.
 

MSW course eligibility criteria is almost same for all the universities and colleges in India. However, MSW eligibility criteria for colleges abroad may vary from college to college.

MSW course eligibility criteria for some of India's top colleges are as follows:

• Candidates must have a  minimum aggregate of 45-50% in a Bachelor of Social Work or an equivalent degree from any reputable University or Institution. If not a percentage, an equal CGPA must exist
• Students with a minimum of 50% in Humanities/Social Science/Science/Management or other fields are also eligible for the MSW programme if they have graduated from a recognised college or institute
• A passing score on the DUET, BHU PET, AMU, TISS NET, or other required entrance exams is required
• Candidates from the reserved category are given a 5% reduction in the minimum percentage of aggregate marks obtained
• This course is open to students of all ages

Note: The aggregate marks requirement for MSW may differ for different colleges and universities. Candidates must check the prospectus or online websites of the colleges and universities in order to get an exact idea about the MSW eligibility criteria.

MSW admission process begins with a minimum aggregate score of 45% to 50% in a Bachelor of Social Work Course from any recognised college or institute, as well as passing marks on college or institution entrance exams. After passing these exams, aspirants are invited to write a written test, participate in group discussions, and have a personal interview. Based on their performance in these rounds, students are chosen for final admission.Students are also admitted to private colleges through management quotas, which have a limited number of seats.

The following table summarises the MSW admissions procedure based on merit and the entrance exam:

Though the admission process varies by college, the steps that one should take in general to gain admission are as follows:

How Do You Apply for MSW?

Aspirants must first use the online portal/offline network to obtain the application form. It must be completed. After that, the aspirant must upload/attach the required documents in accordance with the guidelines and specifications. Because of covid, online is currently the only option. If necessary, apply for a loan and pay the fee if chosen.
 

MSW Selection Process

The decision is made in accordance with the minimum exam scores listed for MSW eligibility criteria. After that is finished, colleges might have an entrance exam. The candidate is chosen after passing those with a respectable/required score. Depending on the ones suggested by the institution, the fee must be paid with or without the loan.

Types of MSW 

MSW courses can be classified according to their mode of study. MSW is taught in a variety of ways by educational institutions in India, including universities, colleges, stand-alone institutes, and MOOC platforms. The space below describes the different types of MSW courses based on the mode of education.

MSW Courses: Various Modes of Study

In India, nearly 550 colleges offer MSW programmes in a variety of educational settings. Candidates can enroll in an MSW programme based on their academic needs, obligations, and eligibility requirements. MSW programmes with various modes of education include the following:

Full-time MSW: Traditional universities offer classroom-based MSW courses. The full-time MSW programme adheres to the traditional education model that is recognised by the UGC.

Distance/Correspondence MSW: This course is the same as a full-time MSW degree course; however, students can complete a distance MSW course and obtain a degree credential without attending college.

Online MSW courses: are typically offered by MOOC platforms in collaboration with world-class universities. Some universities have also established a separate university that offers an online degree programme.

Part-time MSW: These courses have the same course curriculum, but candidates can complete the course by attending college part-time. To alleviate the stress of attending college five days a week, part-time or short-term MSW courses deliver lectures on weekends or any day of the week.
 

Various reputed institutes conduct entrance examinations for provisional admission in MSW course. Given below are some of the important exams which a candidate must appear for in order to get admission in different reputed colleges in India offering MSW:

• Tata Institute of Science and Technology Social Work Entrance Exam.
• Aligarh Muslim University MSW Admission Test
• Jamia Millia Islamia MA Entrance Exam
• Delhi School of Social Work, Delhi University

The MSW syllabus varies depending on the institution, but we have compiled a list of topics that are typically covered in the Social Work curriculum. Find the important MSW topics in the table below.

During MSW course, candidates are required to complete both elective courses and Core subjects. In this section Elective courses and Core courses have been discussed:
 

MSW Core Subjects:

• History of Social Work
• Social Work Research and Quantitative Analysis
• Rehabilitation and Resettlement
• Corporate Social Responsibility

MSW Elective Subjects:

• Social Work Administration
• Disaster, Crisis, and Intervention
• Medical Social Work
• Children, Families, and Couples
• Forensic Populations and Settings

Given below is the list of top MSW course colleges in India. MSW eligibility criteria for these colleges is almost the same. Candidates can apply for admission in these top renowned MSW course colleges after completing their undergraduate course. Candidates can pursue undergraduate course in any subject and still can apply for MSW course. List of top MSW course colleges India is as follows:

• Delhi University, New Delhi
• Tata institute of social sciences, Mumbai
• Madras school of social work, Chennai
• Rajagiri College of social work, Kochi
• Loyola College, Chennai
• Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh
• Jamia Millia Islamia University, New Delhi
• Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi
• Christ University, Banglore 
• Central University of Rajasthan, Ajmer

Candidates have the option of enrolling in MSW programmes at prestigious colleges and universities abroad, including those in the USA, UK, Australia, and Canada. The infrastructure and research facilities at colleges abroad are better. The courses typically last between one and three years.

Before submitting an application to a foreign university, students must follow the following guidelines.

• In comparison to courses offered in India, the cost of the courses is somewhat higher. The average annual cost of the programme fees can reach 45 lakhs.
• Candidates must pass English language proficiency exams like the TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE
• A letter of intent as well as at least two references must be submitted by the candidates
• For the admissions process, candidates may occasionally be required to submit a personal statement and reference list
• For admission to an MSW programme, candidates must have completed 15 years of required education

MSW Course Abroad Colleges

Candidates can pursue MSW degree from abroad as well. There are various foreign institutes who offer MSW courses. Given below are some of the important MSW course colleges mentioned in which candidates can apply for admission. In order to check the MSW eligibility criteria, candidates must visit the official website of the respective institute.

• Alice Salomon University
• University of Kent
• University of Stavanger
• National University of Singapore
• Kingston University London
   

MSW Course Fee Structure  Abroad

MSW Course fee structure for overseas studies has been discussed in this section. Some of the universities also provide scholarships to the deserving candidates. Candidates must visit the official websites of respective universities in order to get an exact idea about the admission process and MSW course fee structure.

Candidates can also pursue MSW course online. Some of these courses are also sponsored. Given below are some of the names of the MSW courses offered by various universities and colleges across the globe:

University of Denver

• Research-driven faculty dedicated to making an impact on social problems
• Prepares you to apply social work skills across practice settings

Simmons University

• Three certificates: Trauma Practice, Mental Health Practice or Practice with Groups and Families.
• Four program tracks: Advanced Standing, Accelerated, Full Time and Extended

Howard University

• Four program tracks: Advanced Standing, Accelerated, Full Time and Extended

University of Southern California (USC)

• Three academic departments: Adult Mental Health and Wellness; Children, Youth – and Families; and Social Change and Innovation
• Features field education in or near students’ own communities.

Fordham University

• Four areas of focus: Individuals and Families, Organizations and Community, Evaluation, and Policy Practice and Advocacy

Syracuse University

• Traditional and Advanced Standing tracks
• Concentrate your degree in integrated practice or clinical practice

Case Western Reserve University

• CWRU’s Mandel School is a top-10 ranked graduate school of social work (2019).
• Three paths of study are available to prepare social work leaders to work in clinical or community practice.

Baylor University

• Ethically integrates faith and social work practice
• Specialize in clinical practice or community practice

Given below are some of the important facts related to MSW fee structure:

• The MSW programme is a two-year programme. It is a postgraduate programme that candidates who want to pursue a career in social work enrol in. Private and public colleges charge different prices for MSW courses. In comparison to public institutions, private colleges are somewhat more expensive. The cost of the MSW course ranges from INR 10,000 to INR 60,000 for government colleges like DU, AMU, and JMI that offer admission. The course fee range for the MSW programme at private colleges is INR 1,00,000 to INR 2,50,000
   
• Candidates also have the option of enrolling in an MSW programme through distance learning, which is less expensive than traditional courses and accessible to all. The requirements for applying to a distance learning MSW programme are almost identical to those for on-campus programmes. IGNOU is one of the best options for those interested in taking a distance learning MSW course (Indira Gandhi National Open University). The requirements for admission are not particularly stringent. Anyone with a minimum overall score may enrol in the IGNOU MSW programme.

Candidates who are keen for higher studies can pursue MPhil in Social Work which is offered by various universities across the country. The field of social work is a right career choice for the candidates who feel a deep sense of responsibility towards the society. After the completion of MSW, candidates can start working as independent social workers or with different organizations and NGOs. The entry-level salary of a social worker is INR 3 lakh to INR 4 lakh. Listed below are the popular job roles for MSW degree holders:

• Social Worker: The main duty of the Social Workers is to fight against different kinds of injustice prevailing in the society. Their main area of function is to provide help to those who have been neglected by the society or are dealing with some grave issues which in long run can implicit severe harmful effects. 
• CSR Representative: The full form for CSR is Customer service representatives. The main role of CSR is to handle customer complaints and progressively work in order to solve those problems. Customer service representatives, customer service advisors, or customer service associates interact with customers to handle complaints, process orders, and provide information about an organization’s products and services. Customer service representatives answer questions or requests from customers or the public.
• Counselors: Counselor is someone who provides counseling to different individuals or groups. In order to become a professional counselor, it is necessary to have MSW degree. Professional counseling is a professional relationship that empowers diverse individuals, families, and groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals.Counselors work with clients on strategies to overcome obstacles and personal challenges that they are facing.
• NGO: Candidates after completing MSW course can work with different Non-governmental Organizations as well. Through this they will get to know about the ground reality and will also be provided with an opportunity to directly interact with the people in need. There are various big NGOs in the world who through their efforts have managed to help lakhs of people globally.
• Journalist: Candidates can also become Journalists. Through this they can propagate their views on various social issues and grievances in the society. Candidates who like writing and doing research oriented work can try their luck in this profession.
• Welfare Officer: Candidates can also become welfare officers and work in improving the social aspects which need a change. 

Given below are some of the suitable employment areas for MSW graduates:

• Counseling Centres
• Correction Cells
• NGOs
• Human Right Agencies
• Old Age Homes
• Natural Resource Management Companies
• Health Industry

MSW Salary 

Candidates must note that the salary offered by MSW course is not lucrative. Candidates are required to have patience, empathy and selflessness in order to pursue a successful career in the social work field. Candidates are expected to work on different social issues and do their best in order to provide the necessary help. MSW course is for the candidates who have compassion for humanity in general.

Given below is the salary structure after the completion of MSW course:

Skills Required for MSW Course 

People looking for jobs in social welfare fields should take the MSW course to advance their careers. For aspiring human rights advocates, social workers, and many other professions, it opens up a wide range of career options. The following are some of the abilities required of MSW graduates:

• Social Sensitivity
• Exceptional Communication Skills
• Tolerance
• Intelligence in Emotions
• Critical Analysis

MSW Scope

Candidates have a variety of employment options after earning their Master of Social Work degree. After completing the course, students have two options: look for employment or continue their education. The scope programme for the Master of Social Work is expanding quickly and will continue to do so in the near future. Graduates of the Master of Social Work programme can work in a variety of public and private sector occupations.

The Master of Social Work programme is one that is always relevant. It is one of the fields that benefits society. Those who accept this responsibility succeed professionally and serve humanity in the best ways possible. Their success in their respective careers will be aided by this course, and they will also enjoy the satisfaction of making others happy.