Social Work Career in India

In a time when more and more individuals pursue the glittering world of corporate, we see a world with a goal of working for the improvement of society. It is possible to serve society in a variety of ways, but the objective is always the same: to directly or indirectly affect the lives of others.

Social work influences numerous aspects of a country's growth. It is regarded as one of the most significant sources for analysing a nation's development. In fact, nations such as Bhutan have begun evaluating the progress of their nation not by Gross Domestic Product (GDP) but by the Happiness Index, often known as "Gross National Happiness."

Many individuals believe that social work consists only of volunteering with non-profit organizations. However, many are oblivious to the fact that it has become a full-fledged career option with great prospects in both government and private organisations.

There are rehabilitation facilities for drug users, orphans, and people with disabilities. Educational and psychological counselling is needed by a significant section of the population nowadays. There are opportunities in areas such as health care, community policing, adoption, environmental preservation, and culture.

The social sector is comprised of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and organizations that provide services to various socioeconomic groups. Many are interested in research and publication, while others are engaged in problem-solving at the local level.

Thus, a young person who is idealistic and wants to serve their nation may be drawn to the social sector. Thankfully, it is no longer a pastime and is becoming more professionalised.

After obtaining a degree or certificate in social work from one of many institutions, it is possible to gain permanent posts in organizations. With the massive injection of funding from the government and outside organisations, salaries have skyrocketed.

Eligibility Criteria

Although there are no prerequisites for entry into the social sector, a Master of Social Welfare (MSW), rural management, or any master's degree in the social sciences is advantageous. Various institutions also offer degrees in environmental and forest management.  Some organisations train their own volunteers.  Various social work courses, their length, and the prerequisites are as follows:

• B.S.W. / B.A. (SW), 3-year Program; Candidates who have completed their 12th standard can apply for this programme.
   
• M.S.W. / M.A. (SW), Duration: 2 years; Eligibility: individuals with a bachelor's degree in any field may apply, but sociology or social sciences graduates are preferred.
   
• M.Phil, Eligibility: Applicants with an M.S.W. degree can apply for this course.
   
• Ph.D., Eligibility: Candidates having an M.S.W or M.Phil degree are eligible to pursue a doctorate in social work.

Career Prospects

Social work is one of those disciplines where job opportunities vary based on a candidate's field of expertise. 

• Medical assistance and psychiatric social work specialists might find employment at hospitals, clinics, counselling centres, mental hospitals, nursing homes, and other similar facilities.
   
• SW specialists in the specific subject of criminology may pursue careers in jails, correctional cells, and similar facilities.
   
• Those with specific expertise in the labour welfare segment may work as labour welfare representatives in the private and corporate sectors, including multinational corporations (MNCs) and the HR departments of labour-centric businesses.
   
• There are also employment possibilities with NGOs trying to improve rural health and sanitation services. Here, a social worker might serve as a community welfare expert.
   
• Professionals in this industry also have the option of entering academia and teaching the general public.
   
• In their development campaigns and programmes, leading international organizations such as WHO, UNESCO, UNICEF, and other international organisations with similar goals aimed at poor countries need social workers. In addition, these organizations pay highly.

Social Work Institutions/ Universities

Some of the famous institutions that offer relevant courses in social work include: 

• The Indian Institute of Social Welfare & Business Management (IISWBM)

• Tata Institute of Social Sciences

• Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Institute of Social Sciences

• University of Delhi

• Loyola College

• University of Rajasthan

• Jamia Millia University

• University of Mumbai

• University of Calcutta

• Guru Nanak Dev University