Master of Arts [MA] (Social Work) From Central University of Jammu, Jammu

Master of Arts or MA in Social Work is a post-graduate degree which aims to equip a candidate with the knowledge of social practices and prepares them to work for the welfare of the society. Our country is full of diversity which leads to many such practices which can affect our society. To shield the individuals from ill effects of such practices there are many persons who work as social workers for the welfare of the society.

Social workers work for the resurgence of that section of society which is deprived of its basic amenities. This includes children, women, physically handicaps, backward class people etc.

Minimum eligibility for admission to MA in Social Work is a Bachelor’s degree in any stream.  MA in Social work is a 2 year program, generally divided into 4 semesters which consists of theory and practical knowledge.

Average tuition fee for the course ranges from 20,000 to 30,000 INR for two years.

MA in Social Work makes one eligible for job opportunities in both government and non-government organizations which function in the area of social welfare. The initial salary in the field is not high and can be anywhere between 8,000 INR  to 15,000 INR.

What is MA in Social Work about?

Master of Arts in Social Work is a course which emphasizes on the aspects necessary for humanitarian efforts in a society. No civilization is perfect and every society strives towards equality and justice. Social Work is a domain which focuses on the disadvantaged and the weaker sections of a society and emphasizes on their upliftment. This course aims to provide necessary insight and training which can aid in carrying out social work for welfare of citizens, animals, etc.

Who should opt for the course?

MA Social Work is an ideal course for those with a zeal to bring change in society. Since the course demands a progressive view in its pursuer plus a sensitive view towards the issues of social cause, a person with a heightened sense of responsibility towards citizen and society should opt  or the course. The course also acts as a natural successor for courses like BA Social Work or Bachelor of Social Work.

Duration

MA in Social Work is of 2 years duration and each year is divided in 2 semesters making a total of 4 semesters. Out of these 4 semesters, the last semester is usually dedicated to research and dissertation.

Academic Options after MA Social Work

After an MA in Social Work, there are options in research degree for those looking to pursue an academic career in Social Work. Students willing to continue studies in Social Work can opt for M.Phil. in Social Work which is available at universities like Christ University, Bangalore and Jaipur National University, Jaipur. PhD in Social Work is available at universities such as Bharathiar University and Jamia Millia Islamia Unievrsity. Another option for such candidates can be M.Phil. in Women Studies which is offered by universities such as Jadavpur University and University of Calicut.

Top institutes

Though studies in the field of Social Work is a fairly recent one, many Arts and Humanities Colleges in India offer an MA in Social Work. Some of the top institutes which offer this course are:

Aspirants seeking admission to 2 year full-time MA Program should have passed Bachelor’s Degree (10+2+3) from a recognized University with not less than 50% of total marks (45% in case of SC/ST and persons with disabilities) with concerned subject as one of the subjects.