Madras Christian College’s Department of Social Work
Madras Christian College (MCC), located in Tambaram, Chennai, stands as one of India’s prestigious institutions, recognized for its commitment to academic excellence and social responsibility. Since its establishment in 1985, the Department of Social Work has been a leader in social work education, molding students into compassionate professionals equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to tackle modern social challenges.
With a curriculum that merges theoretical learning, hands-on fieldwork, and research, MCC’s Social Work Department fosters a holistic educational approach. Graduates from this department are valued for their ethical grounding and are employed across sectors such as health, corporate social responsibility, community development, education, and non-governmental organizations.
Vision and Mission
Vision: The department aspires to cultivate socially aware professionals dedicated to promoting social justice and community empowerment.
Mission: Key goals include:
- Offering quality education that highlights critical thinking, ethics, and social responsibility.
- Encouraging research that advances social work theory and application.
- Providing fieldwork opportunities that allow students to gain experience with diverse populations.
- Building partnerships with communities and organizations to drive social progress.
Academic Programs
MCC’s Department of Social Work offers various programs, including undergraduate, postgraduate, and research degrees, each integrating practical fieldwork with a solid theoretical foundation.
Available Programs:
- Bachelor of Social Work (BSW): A 3-year undergraduate program.
- Master of Social Work (MSW): A 2-year postgraduate program with specializations in:
- Community Development
- Medical and Psychiatric Social Work
- Human Resource Management
- M.Phil. in Social Work: A 1-2 year research degree.
- Ph.D. in Social Work: A 3-5 year doctoral program.
Curriculum Highlights
The curriculum combines classroom learning with real-world applications, preparing students to understand and address social issues effectively.
- BSW Program: Focuses on foundational social work skills, including human behavior, community organization, social policies, and welfare programs.
- MSW Program: Offers specialized training in areas such as mental health, human rights, organizational behavior, and advanced social work methods.
Experiential Learning and Fieldwork
Fieldwork is a cornerstone of social work education at MCC, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings. The department offers several types of fieldwork experiences:
- Concurrent Fieldwork: Year-round placements in organizations like hospitals, schools, and NGOs.
- Block Placement: Intensive, full-time internships during semester breaks.
- Rural Camps: Immersive rural development projects addressing issues such as healthcare and education.
- Urban Community Projects: Engagement with marginalized urban populations, focusing on housing, employment, and public health.
Collaborations and Fieldwork Agencies
The Department collaborates with several esteemed organizations for fieldwork placements, including:
- World Vision India
- UNICEF
- Government Hospitals
- Madras School of Social Work
These partnerships ensure that students gain diverse, hands-on experience while contributing to meaningful social initiatives.
Research and Innovation
Research at MCC’s Social Work Department centers on critical societal issues, with faculty and students frequently collaborating on projects that influence social policies and practices. Key research areas include:
- Poverty and Inequality: Strategies for alleviation and empowerment.
- Mental Health: Exploring solutions for underserved communities.
- Gender Studies: Addressing violence, empowerment, and advocacy.
- Disaster Management: Community resilience and preparedness strategies.
Facilities and Resources
MCC’s Department of Social Work is equipped with resources that foster a conducive learning environment:
- Dedicated Library: Houses a vast collection of books, journals, and resources.
- E-Resources: Access to research databases, e-books, and more.
- Classrooms and Seminar Halls: Equipped with audio-visual aids and high-speed Wi-Fi for an interactive learning experience.
Career Opportunities and Placements
MCC’s Social Work graduates are highly sought after by top organizations in healthcare, corporate social responsibility, community development, and international agencies. Recent placement statistics highlight the department’s strong record, with students receiving attractive salary packages and securing roles in reputable organizations.
Top Recruiters Include:
- UNICEF
- World Vision India
- WHO
- Tata Trusts
Alumni Network and Notable Alumni
The department maintains a robust alumni network, with graduates holding significant positions in diverse sectors worldwide. This strong alumni connection fosters mentorship opportunities, where former students often return to guide and support current students.
Notable Alumni:
- Lakshmi Narayan: Senior Manager at Save the Children, leading child rights initiatives.
- Ramesh Kumar: CSR Director at a multinational company.
- Dr. Aruna Iyer: WHO Researcher specializing in public health and welfare.
Conclusion
The Department of Social Work at Madras Christian College is dedicated to training social work professionals who are ethically grounded and committed to societal betterment. With strong academic programs, comprehensive fieldwork experiences, and a focus on social justice, the department prepares its graduates to make a positive impact in various professional fields.
Contact Information: Department of Social Work, Madras Christian College
Velachery Main Road, East Tambaram, Chennai – 600059, Tamil Nadu, India
Phone: +91 44 2239 2346