BSW Full Form is Bachelor of Social Work. This course teaches students how to help people and communities solve problems and improve their lives.
Social work is all about helping people and solving problems in society. If you want to build a career where you can make a difference, the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) is a great course to start with.
Mapmycourse has explained everything you need to know about the BSW course in this blog —what it is, how long it takes, the fees, who can apply, and the career opportunities it offers.
What is The Full Form BSW?
The full form of BSW is Bachelor of Social Work. It is a 3-year undergraduate degree program that prepares students to work in the field of social work. The course is designed to teach you how to understand and address the needs of individuals, families, and communities.
In this course, you’ll learn about topics like how people behave, the importance of social justice, and how to support and develop communities. You’ll also get practical experience by working with organizations to see how social work happens in real life.
BSW Course Details
Full form | Bachelor of Social Work |
Degree level | Undergraduate |
Field of studies | Social Work, Sociology, Psychology, and Community Development |
Duration | 3 years (6 semesters) |
Specialization | – Community Development – Women and Child Welfare – Mental Health and Counseling – Public Health – Criminology and Correctional Administration – Rural Development – Human Rights and Social Justice |
Admission Criteria | Entrance Exams/Merit-based |
Eligibility criteria | – Have passed 10+2 from a recognized board – Have secured a minimum of 50% (45% for reserved categories) marks in aggregate |
Entrance exam | CUET, IPU CET |
Fees | INR 25,000 to INR 5 lakh |
Career opportunities | – Social work and counseling – Child and family welfare – Community development – Mental health and disability services – Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) |
What is BSW Course Duration?
The BSW (Bachelor of Social Work) course duration is three years. These three years are divided into six semesters, where you will study different topics and also do practical work.
The course includes both classroom learning and fieldwork to help you understand how social work is done in real life. Some colleges may also offer part-time or distance learning options, which can take a bit longer.
What is BSW Course Fees in India?
The fees for a BSW (Bachelor of Social Work) course in India are usually between INR 25,000 and INR 5 lakh. The exact amount depends on the type of college (government or private) and the mode of study, like regular classes, distance learning, or part-time courses.
Government colleges generally have lower fees, while private colleges can charge more. It’s best to check directly with the college for their specific fee details.
Eligibility Criteria For BSW Course
- Candidates must have passed their 12th (10+2) from a recognized board or institute.
- You must have achieved a minimum 50% aggregate marks (45% for reserved categories)
Note: The qualifying criteria may vary depending on the institute, so it’s important to check specific college requirements.
Admission Process For BSW Course
Step 1: Check Eligibility: You must have completed 10+2 from a recognized board. Most colleges ask for at least 50% to 60% marks, but this may vary depending on the college.
Step 2: Merit-Based Admission: Some colleges give admission based on your Class 12 marks. If your marks are good, you may get selected easily.
Step 3: Entrance Exams: For some colleges, you need to take entrance exams like CUET, PUBDET, or IPU CET. These exams test your general knowledge, reasoning, and awareness about social issues.
Step 4: Fill Application Form: Apply on the college or university’s website. Make sure you provide the correct details and upload all the necessary documents, like your Class 12 marksheet.
Step 5: Selection Process: Colleges will select students based on their merit list or entrance exam scores, depending on the admission method they follow.
Step 6: Counseling and Final Admission: If you are selected, you may have to attend a counseling session or interview. After verifying your documents, you need to pay the admission fee to confirm your seat.
Is Pursuing BSW Course Worth It?
Yes, pursuing a BSW (Bachelor of Social Work) is worth it if you are passionate about helping people and making a difference in society. Here are some reasons why it’s a good choice:
- High Demand: Social workers are in demand in various fields like healthcare, education, rural development, and mental health. Your skills will always be valuable.
- Diverse Career Options: After completing a BSW, you can work in NGOs, government welfare programs, schools, hospitals, or even international organizations like UNICEF and WHO.
- Opportunity to Make an Impact: Social work gives you the chance to improve the lives of individuals and communities, making it a meaningful and fulfilling career.
- Further Studies: A BSW is a stepping stone for higher education, like an MSW (Master of Social Work), which can open up leadership roles in the social sector.
- Stable Income: While social work may not start with the highest salaries, it offers stability and opportunities for growth with experience.
BA in Social Work vs BSW Course
The BA in Social Work and BSW (Bachelor of Social Work) are both courses that prepare students for careers in social work, but they are different in their focus.
A BA in Social Work is a broader course that includes social work along with other arts subjects like history and sociology. It’s a good choice for students who want to explore different areas.
On the other hand, a BSW is a focused course designed specifically for students who want to build a career in social work. It provides more practical training and hands-on experience. Here is a deep comparison between them:
Feature | BA in Social Work | BSW (Bachelor of Social Work) |
Type of Course | General arts course with social work included. | The specialized course focused on social work. |
Curriculum | A mix of arts subjects (like history, sociology) and social work. | Focuses entirely on social work topics like social welfare and community development. |
Practical Training | Limited fieldwork or practical experience. | Includes significant fieldwork and internships. |
Career Orientation | Offers career options in arts and social sectors. | Prepares students for professional roles in social work. |
Flexibility | Good for students exploring different subjects. | Ideal for students fully committed to social work. |
Focus | A balanced mix of arts and social work. | Complete focus on social work education. |
Entrance Exam For BSW Course
Exam Name | Conducting Body | Exam Pattern |
CUET (Common University Entrance Test) | National Testing Agency (NTA) | Objective type (MCQs), sections on language, domain-specific subjects, and general aptitude. |
PUBDET (Presidency University Bachelor’s Degree Entrance Test) | Presidency University, Kolkata | Objective type (MCQs), covering logical reasoning, English, and general awareness. |
IPU CET (Indraprastha University Common Entrance Test) | Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University | Objective type (MCQs), with sections on English, general knowledge, and reasoning. |
Syllabus of BSW Course
Semester 1 | Semester 2 |
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Semester 3 | Semester 4 |
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Semester 5 | Semester 6 |
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Specializations in BSW Course
Specialization | What It Focuses On |
Community Development | Helping communities with housing, sanitation, and education. |
Women and Child Welfare | Supporting women’s rights and child protection. |
Mental Health and Counseling | Helping people with mental health problems through counseling and support. |
Public Health | Promoting health awareness and improving healthcare access. |
Criminology and Correctional Administration | Working with prisoners or juveniles and understanding the justice system. |
Rural Development | Improving lives in villages through education, health, and livelihood programs. |
Human Rights and Social Justice | Fighting for equal rights and helping marginalized communities. |
Different Modes to Pursue BSW Course
1. Regular Mode
n the regular mode, students attend classes on campus. This is a full-time course where you learn through lectures, group discussions, and practical fieldwork. It’s the best choice if you can dedicate your time to studying and want to experience college life while gaining hands-on training.
2. Distance Learning Mode
The distance learning mode is great for students who can’t attend regular classes because of work, family, or other commitments. You’ll study at your own pace using materials provided by the university. Practical work is often more flexible in this mode. Universities like IGNOU are well-known for offering BSW through distance learning.
3. Online Mode
The online mode lets you study from anywhere using the internet. Lectures, assignments, and study materials are shared online, and you can attend classes virtually. Practical training might involve local arrangements or virtual projects. This mode is ideal for students in remote areas or working professionals who need flexibility.
4. Part-Time Mode
In the part-time mode, classes are held in the evenings or on weekends. This option is great for people who are working or have other responsibilities but still want to study. The curriculum is the same as the regular course, but practical work and fieldwork schedules are adjusted to suit part-time learners.
Career Opportunities After BSW Course
Job Role | Industry | Average Starting Salary (per year) |
Social Worker | NGOs, Government Agencies | INR 2.5 – INR 4 lakh |
Community Development Officer | Urban Development, Rural Development NGOs | INR 3 – INR 5 lakh |
Counselor | Healthcare, Education, Rehabilitation Centers | INR 2.5 – INR 4.5 lakh |
Public Health Worker | Public Health Organizations, NGOs | INR 3 – INR 6 lakh |
Child Welfare Officer | Child Welfare Organizations, Schools | INR 3 – INR 5 lakh |
Rehabilitation Specialist | Hospitals, Rehabilitation Centers | INR 3 – INR 6 lakh |
Human Rights Advocate | Advocacy Groups, Human Rights NGOs | INR 4 – INR 7 lakh |
Program Coordinator | NGOs, Welfare Schemes, International Organizations | INR 3.5 – INR 6 lakh |
School Social Worker | Educational Institutions | INR 3 – INR 5 lakh |
Top Colleges which Offer BSW Course
College Name | Fees |
INR 18,600 | |
INR 50,000 | |
INR 1,62,500 | |
Parul University | INR 1,20,000 |
St. Joseph’s University | INR 20,00,00 |
Hindustan College of Arts and Science | INR 79,500 |
Chanakya University | INR 3,00,000 |
Takeout
The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) is a great choice for students who want to help people and bring positive changes to society. This course teaches you how to solve social problems and gives you hands-on experience through fieldwork.
With a BSW degree, you can work in many fields like healthcare, education, community development, and human rights. You can also choose specializations like mental health, public health, or rural development, based on your interests.
FAQ(S)
Q1. What is the full form of BSW?
Ans: The full form of BSW is Bachelor of Social Work.
Q2. What is the duration of the BSW course?
Ans: The course duration is 3 years, divided into 6 semesters.
Q3. What is the fee range for the BSW course?
Ans: The fees range from INR 25,000 to INR 5 lakh, depending on the college and mode of study.
Q4. What career options are available after BSW?
Ans: You can work as a social worker, counselor, public health worker, or community development officer.
Q5. Can I pursue higher studies after BSW?
Ans: Yes, you can go for a Master of Social Work (MSW) or other specializations.