Department of Social Work, CHRIST (Deemed to be University)

Overview of the Department of Social Work at CHRIST (Deemed to be University)

Located in Bengaluru, Karnataka, the Department of Social Work at CHRIST (Deemed to be University) is committed to producing highly trained social workers equipped to foster social change and uphold the principles of justice, equality, and sustainable development. Known for its quality of education, research, and community outreach, the department aims to nurture socially aware professionals ready to make an impact on both local and global stages.

History and Core Milestones of the Department

Since its inception in 2004, the Department of Social Work has established itself as a key player in addressing societal challenges through education, research, and fieldwork. Notable milestones include:

• 2004: Department of Social Work is officially established.
• 2010: Launch of master’s specializations in clinical and community social work.
• 2015: Recognition for significant community-based initiatives and partnerships with international institutions.
• 2018: Introduction of the Ph.D. program in Social Work.
• 2021: Enhanced collaboration with international research agencies, expanding global learning and engagement opportunities.

Vision and Mission

• Vision: To cultivate socially responsible professionals who contribute to creating a just, humane, and inclusive society.
• Mission: To deliver a high-quality, ethics-focused education in social work, while promoting social equity through research, advocacy, and community outreach.

Academic Programs and Curriculum Overview

The Department of Social Work at CHRIST offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral-level programs designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills to excel in social work. These programs integrate theoretical education with hands-on training to prepare students for diverse social work careers.

Program Details

1. Bachelor of Social Work (BSW): A three-year undergraduate program requiring a 10+2 qualification.
2. Master of Social Work (MSW): A two-year postgraduate program open to graduates from any discipline.
3. M.Phil. in Social Work: A research-oriented program lasting 1-2 years, intended for those with a master’s degree in social work.
4. Ph.D. in Social Work: A doctoral program (3-5 years) focusing on original research for students with a relevant master’s degree.

Specialized Curriculum in Social Work

The curriculum at CHRIST’s Department of Social Work is designed to provide a deep understanding of social issues, along with the tools to address them. Both the BSW and MSW programs emphasize fieldwork and interdisciplinary study, with the MSW program offering specializations in:

1. Clinical Social Work and Counseling
2. Community Development and Social Action

Key Curriculum Highlights

• MSW:
  • Semester 1: Covers social work foundations, human development, research principles, and fieldwork.
  • Semester 2: Focuses on work with individuals, families, and community organization.
  • Semester 3: Offers specialization courses in clinical social work, community health, etc.
  • Semester 4: Includes fieldwork, dissertation, and electives like disaster management and corporate social responsibility (CSR).
• BSW:
  • Year 1: Introduction to social work, psychology, and fieldwork.
  • Year 2: Social group work, human rights, and welfare programs.
  • Year 3: Social work research, community development, and a field practicum.

Advanced Research Programs: M.Phil. and Ph.D.

The M.Phil. and Ph.D. programs are tailored for students interested in conducting research to address complex social issues. These programs foster critical thinking and emphasize the development of practical solutions through rigorous research.

• M.Phil.: Involves coursework followed by a research thesis.
• Ph.D.: Comprises comprehensive research culminating in a doctoral dissertation.

Fieldwork and Internship Opportunities

Fieldwork is an integral part of the department’s curriculum, providing students with real-world experience through partnerships with NGOs, corporate CSR initiatives, hospitals, and government agencies. Key fieldwork components include:

• Concurrent Fieldwork: Conducted during the academic year with social organizations.
• Block Placement: Intensive internships during semester breaks.
• Rural Camps: Aimed at understanding rural community needs and executing development projects.
• International Exposure: Allows students to participate in fieldwork projects abroad.

Research and Innovation at the Department of Social Work

Research is highly emphasized, with students and faculty collaborating on impactful projects addressing pressing social issues. The department’s research centers work on topics such as child welfare, disaster management, and social policy analysis.

• Research Centers:
  • Social Policy and Research: Focuses on public policy, social justice, and poverty alleviation.
  • Family and Child Welfare: Conducts research on family counseling and child protection.
  • Disaster Management and Social Work: Engages in disaster preparedness and rehabilitation studies.
• Recent Research Themes:
  • Urban poverty and homelessness
  • Mental health resilience within communities
  • Sustainable environmental development
  • Gender equality and women’s empowerment

State-of-the-Art Infrastructure

CHRIST (Deemed to be University) provides its Department of Social Work with top-tier resources to enhance students’ learning experiences:

• Library Resources: Access to a wide range of academic texts, journals, and databases like JSTOR and EBSCO.
• Smart Classrooms and Seminar Halls: Equipped with modern audio-visual aids to facilitate interactive learning.
• Accommodation and Amenities: On-campus hostels with Wi-Fi, mess services, recreation rooms, and 24/7 security.

Faculty and Student Engagement

The department’s faculty are experienced professionals and researchers actively involved in community service and policy advocacy. Their extensive field experience enriches classroom discussions, providing students with practical insights into social work.

Extracurricular Activities and Student Life:

• Social Work Club: Organizes outreach programs, awareness campaigns, and skill development workshops.
• Cultural Events: The annual cultural fest, “Darpan,” showcases student talent in music, dance, and theater.
• Community Outreach: Regular participation in slum development projects, health awareness drives, and educational programs for underprivileged children.

Placement Support and Career Prospects

The Department of Social Work maintains a dedicated placement cell that assists students in securing jobs in the social sector, government agencies, and CSR divisions. Services include career counseling, resume writing workshops, and interview preparation.

Top Recruiters and Placement Statistics

• Top Recruiters: Save the Children, UNICEF, Tata Trusts, WHO, Infosys Foundation.
• Placement Statistics: Approximately 85% placement rate, with average salaries between ₹5-6 LPA.

Alumni Network and Notable Achievements

The department has a strong alumni network that offers mentorship, networking, and career guidance to current students. Notable alumni include:

• Ms. Sunitha Krishnan: Founder of Prajwala, an NGO for victims of sex trafficking.
• Mr. Prabhat Kumar: Child Protection Specialist at UNICEF.
• Ms. Rekha Nair: Director of Social Development at Infosys Foundation.

Conclusion

The Department of Social Work at CHRIST (Deemed to be University) is a premier destination for social work education in India, combining academic rigor with a commitment to community service. Through robust academic programs, practical fieldwork opportunities, and extensive research initiatives, the department prepares students to make a significant impact on society.