Social Work

Today social work has taken an organized form. There are various non-government organizations (NGOs) needing different kinds of experts at all levels. They get proper funding from central and state governments and also from international agencies. One can not only earn name, fame, money and respectability working in these organizations but also get a chance to win various national and international awards. Study of social work as a subject facilitates an entry in this field and also opens up job opportunities. Relevant courses are:

 • Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Social Work (3 years)
 • Master of Arts/Master of Social Work (2 years)
 • Certificate in Social Work (1 year)
 • Post-graduate Diploma in NGO Management (1 year)
 • M.Phil in Social Work (2 years)
 • PhD in Social Word (2 years)

Work

The aim of social work is to solve the social, psychological and economic problems of people and strive for improvement in their lives and society at large. Creating awareness about the welfare schemes of the government, social evils, diseases such as AIDS and cancer and explaining the imperatives of good health and education to people are important components of social work.

Admission

For admission in under-graduate level BA/BSW courses one has to pass class XII while for MA/MSW one needs to be a graduate in any discipline. Preference is given to those with specialization in sociology or social science while entrance test and interview form the basis of admission. To be able to teach in this field, one should have an M.Phil or a PhD degree.

Eligibility

Serving society is an intensely challenging and responsible job. Good communication skills, patience, dedication, emotional strength and an undying desire to help others are essential for this. A social worker should be prepared to work under any kind of circumstances and be capable of taking decisions accordingly.

Study

Under social work, students are taught about community organization, social policy and planning, ecology, political science, health, social problems, women studies, child care, family service, medical and psychology.

Positions

After gaining suitable qualifications and experience one can work as a welfare officer, supervisor, programme manager, social security officer, trainee officer, assistant director or executive director in a social organization or department.

Opportunities

As per estimates, there are roughly 15 lacks registered NGOs in the country and their numbers are increasing rapidly. This sector provides employment to nearly 5 lack people every year. NGOs employ teachers, programme directors and counselors for patients suffering from cancer and other diseases. Apart from this, one can do social service in hospitals, clinics, counseling centers, government and private organizations and multi-national corporations.
Organisations connected with the United Nations such as Unicef, Unesco, WHO and with government agencies such as the Labour Bureau and rural development organizations, programmes for prevention of child exploitation, female emancipation, disaster-hit areas and drug rehabilitation all use the services of social workers. Those with an independent spirit can start their own NGO.

Remuneration

Earnings in this field depend on the organization and the level of experience. International NGOs provide better facilities and salaries.

Institutes
 1. Indira Gandhi National Open University, New Delhi
 2. Jamia Milia Islamia, New Delhi
 3. Department of Social Work, Delhi University
 4. Amity Institute of NGO Management, Noida
 5. Tata Institute of Social Science, Mumbai
 6. Dr Baba Saheb Ambedkar Institute of Social Science, Agra
 7. Madras School of Social Work, Chennai
 8. Patna University
 9. Andhra University
 10. Bangalore University
 11. Nagpur University
 12. Lucknow University