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What is BSW? Get to know BSW course details and more

The BSW or Bachelor of Social Work is an undergraduate programme that focuses on preparing students for careers in the social work field. It is a professional degree that equips students with the expertise, skills, and ethical framework required to assist people, families, groups, and communities that are in need.

Social work theory, human behaviour, research methodologies, social policy, and practical field works are commonly covered in BSW programmes’ curriculum. The curriculum seeks to provide students with a thorough grasp of social concerns, diversity, social justice, and intervention options to solve the many difficulties that people and communities confront.

Graduates with a BSW degree can work in a variety of organisations, including advocacy organisations, social service organisations, healthcare organisations, educational institutions, and government and non-governmental agencies. They might be employed as programme coordinators, child welfare experts, case managers, community outreach workers, or mental health aides, among other positions.

A BSW degree is sometimes a need for advanced social work roles and licensing, such as becoming a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). For those looking to further their careers in social work, additional schooling can also be done through a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree.

BSW course subjects include

Introduction to Social Work: The fundamental course ‘Introduction to Social Work’ in the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) programme gives students an introduction to the field, its background, core principles, and theoretical frameworks. It provides students with a background in the subject and aids in their understanding of the underlying ideas and principles that drive social work practice.

Social Work Practice: The programme familiarises the students with the practice of social work in various settings through fieldwork, awareness programmes, seminars, workshops etc.

Human Behaviour: It teaches aspects of psychology, and sociology, to better understand and serve society. The programme aims to train students in developing an empathetic approach to various human issues, and social life while attempting to solve them with professional comprehension and perspective.

Social Work Policies: Students are taught about the various legislations and policies laid down by the government for the betterment of its citizens. The subject covers the study of various welfare provisions given to different marginalised groups of society.

Field Practicum: BSW syllabus includes supervised fieldwork at a social services organisation or community organisation that gives students the opportunity to practise using their social work knowledge and abilities. While going through the fieldwork, students shall gain skills in planning, organising, decision-making, and handling regulations. 

Organisational Behaviour & Development: The study of individual and group behaviour inside organisations and how it affects organisational efficiency is known as organisational behaviour. It looks at the psychological, social, and behavioural characteristics of people and groups at work. The students shall be trained in organisational behaviour and the individual dimension of organisational behaviour in this course. They are taught to have knowledge and skills in HR policies, organisational development, and group behaviour.

Sustainable Social Development: This course helps students to understand the different theories of development and social development. It aims to provide insights into various sectors of development from a point of view of Human Development. It gives information on government strategies for social development and different aspects of gender and development.

Public Health: The course also teaches about public health, its assessment, planning and implementation among other things. It evaluates public health and teaches about promoting it among the population with different approaches.

Career Scope of BSW

BSW scope and applications can be found in various departments and across different sectors.  Some of the job roles and responsibilities of Bachelor of Social Work graduates can include:

Direct Social Work Practice: BSW graduates are trained to work directly with people, families, and groups thanks to their knowledge and abilities in this area. They can offer assistance, counselling, supervision of cases, advocacy, and other types of interventions to deal with social problems, enhance general well-being, and assist people in overcoming difficulties.

Community & Nonprofit Organisations: By working with nonprofit organisations and community-based projects, BSW graduates can support societal improvements and community development. They could take part in community organising, advocacy, capacity-building, and programme development and execution.

Government Social Welfare Departments: BSW specialists can work in government departments and agencies that are responsible for social welfare and development. They might help with policy formation, programme implementation, and service delivery in areas including women’s welfare, child welfare, social welfare, and rural development.

Research and Policy Analysis: BSW graduates can do social research and policy analysis. They can help develop evidence-based practices, evaluate social programmes, conduct assessments of needs, and assist in policy formation and implementation.

Education Sector: BSW graduates can work as school social workers or counsellors at schools, colleges, and educational institutions. They can assist kids, handle behavioural and emotional concerns, foster parent-teacher communication, and seek to improve students’ overall well-being. They can also work as additional communication or personality development educators at schools.

Community Development: BSW graduates with a background in social work may work at the grassroots level in both rural and urban areas, assisting community development efforts. They may help with community organising, resource mobilisation, participatory development programmes, and community empowerment.

Health and Mental Health Organizations: BSW-trained individuals can work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and mental health institutions. Individuals and families suffering from health problems or mental health concerns can get psychological assistance, therapy, and advocacy from them. They may also contribute to public health efforts and programmes.

Social Work Entrepreneurship: BSW graduates can also create their own social enterprises or consulting firms. They can offer specialised social work services, creative solutions to social problems, and training and capacity-building programmes for organisations and communities.

Corporate Social Responsibility: Students can also look for jobs in corporate organisations as part of their social responsibility efforts. The CSR department of an organisation is involved in raising awareness and community development programmes where the inputs from BSW graduates are valued.

The salary of BSW graduates also depends on the sector, location, and organisation. However, as freshers, one can expect 15,000-25,000 INR per month which may increase to 40,000-50,000 INR per month with experience and skills.

Thus those who opt for a Bachelor of Social Work have a wide range of opportunities in various sectors for well-paid jobs. To make avail of the immersive BSW programme we offer, join one of the best BSW colleges in Bangalore Acharya’s Bachelor of Social Work degree.