What is MSW?
Master of Social Work (MSW) is a 2-year postgraduate degree that prepares students for professional practice in social work. The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical fieldwork to develop competent social work professionals.
MSW is offered by universities across India and covers diverse areas including community development, medical social work, psychiatric social work, labour welfare, child welfare, and more.
Eligibility criteria
To pursue MSW, you need a bachelor's degree from a recognized university. Most universities accept graduates from all disciplines — arts, science, commerce, engineering, etc. Some universities may require a minimum percentage (usually 45-55%).
Many universities also give weightage to relevant work experience, volunteering, or NSS/NCC participation during admission.
Admission process
Admission varies by university. Some conduct entrance exams (like TISS NET, BHU PET, JNU entrance), while others admit on merit basis. Common admission components include written tests, group discussions, and personal interviews.
What to expect
The MSW program is a blend of classroom learning and fieldwork. You will study subjects like Social Case Work, Social Group Work, Community Organization, Social Welfare Administration, Research Methods, and specialization-specific subjects. Fieldwork (concurrent and block) is a core component where you apply theory in real-world settings.