Study load:
Duration:
Medium
Credits:
Intakes:
Sri Lankan Qualifications Framework (SLQF):
Overview
The Master’s Degree Programme in Social Work aims to produce professionally qualified and managerially competent manpower to service the social welfare system and thereby promote social development.
This program is designed to provide advanced knowledge in social work encompassing a qualitative shift from knowledge acquisition to the development of analytical skills, critical appraisal and production of knowledge through critical inquiry. It will provide clear leadership and expertise to professional practitioners and persons in managerial positions.
objective of the course
The Master's program in Social Work has a primary goal of meeting the increasing demand for highly competent social work professionals in both the public and private sectors. It also aims to provide advanced knowledge in social work to graduates from various backgrounds. The program focuses on equipping students with
1. A deep understanding of social work knowledge and research.
2. Strong analytical and conceptual skills for contributing to the field.
3. Advanced knowledge in organizational management related to social work.
4. Academic and professional skills necessary for managerial, planning, and policy-making roles in social work, social welfare, and social development
Students in these programs gain a comprehensive understanding of social work, with MSW students having the option to specialize in research or clinical aspects. Regardless of the chosen program, students develop analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills to make meaningful contributions to the field and positively impact individuals and communities. This program prepare graduates for roles as social work professionals, whether in management, research, or direct clinical support.
Entry Requirements
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria
A bachelor’s Degree from a recognized university or a higher education institute with a minimum of 30 credits in the relevant subject area.
or
A bachelor’s Degree from a recognized university or a higher education institute in the relevant subject area with not less than 03 years of work experience in a human/social service providing organization.
or
A professional qualification equivalent to SLQF level 6 or above in the relevant area of study.
or
Completion of an NVQF level 7 course of study in the relevant subject area.
or
A Commissioned officer in the Armed Services or Police Service with a minimum of 05 years of work experience.
or
An officer of the Sri Lanka Administrative Service or from a parallel all-island Managerial Service with a minimum of 05 years of work experience in a human/social service providing organization.
Career Pathways
Career information
Master of Social Work (MSW) (Two-Year) (SLQF 10) Degree Programme at NISD equips you for a rewarding career helping others and making a positive impact on society. Graduates gain a strong foundation in social work values, ethics, and practices. You'll develop the skills to assess social needs, intervene effectively with individuals, families, and communities, and advocate for social justice. The program also fosters critical thinking and research abilities to inform your practice and contribute to positive change. With this versatile degree, you can pursue diverse career paths including direct practice social work, social work research, community organizing, social policy analysis, and program management. You could find yourself working in government agencies, non-profit organizations, or even starting your own social enterprise. This program opens doors to a fulfilling career where you can use your skills and compassion to make a real difference.
Professions
- Samurdhi officers
- Grama Niladaries
- Community leaders
- Experienced social welfare officers
- Community mobilizers
- Volunteers
- Social welfare officers, in the NGOs
- Probation Officer
- Child Protection Officer
Syllabus
Year 1 - Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject | Status | Credits | DTCH | SLH | FH | TNL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSW511.2 | Introduction to Social Work | HCU | 2 | 30 | 70 | – | 100 |
| MSW512.2 | Sociology for Social Work | HCU | 2 | 30 | 70 | – | 100 |
| MSW513.2 | Psychology / Human Development for Social Work | HCU | 2 | 30 | 70 | – | 100 |
| MSW514.3 | Social Case Work and Case Management | HCU | 3 | 45 | 105 | – | 150 |
| MSW515.2 | Social Work with Social Group | HCU | 2 | 30 | 70 | – | 100 |
| MSW516.2 | Social Work Research Methods – I | HCU | 2 | 30 | 70 | – | 100 |
Year 1 - Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject | Status | Credits | DTCH | SLH | FH | TNL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSW521.2 | International Social Work | HCU | 2 | 30 | 70 | – | 100 |
| MSW522.2 | Human Rights & Social Work | HCU | 2 | 30 | 70 | – | 100 |
| MSW523.2 | Practice Settings in Social Work | HCU | 2 | 30 | 70 | – | 100 |
| MSW524.2 | Social Work with Community | HCU | 2 | 30 | 70 | – | 100 |
| MSW525.2 | Multicultural Social Work Practice | HCU | 2 | 30 | 70 | – | 100 |
| MSW526.2 | Social Work Research Methods – II (Extended Essay – Mandatory for 01 year MSW Graduation) | HCU | 2 | 30 | 70 | – | 100 |
| MSW527.5 | Foundation Field Practicum (Micro & Mezzo) | HCU | 5 | Supervision 1 hour per week | – | 500 | 500 |
Year 2 - Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject | Status | Credits | DTCH | SLH | FH | TNL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSW611.3 | Social Work Management | HCU | 3 | 45 | 105 | – | 150 |
| MSW612.2 | Globalization and Social Development | HCU | 2 | 30 | 70 | – | 100 |
| MSW613.2 | Social Policy & Planning | HCU | 2 | 30 | 70 | – | 100 |
| MSW614.3 | Social Work with Children & Families | HOCU | 3 | 45 | 105 | – | 150 |
| MSW615.3 | Correctional Social Work | HOCU | 3 | 45 | 105 | – | 150 |
| MSW616.3 | Medical & Mental Health Social Work | HOCU | 3 | 45 | 105 | – | 150 |
| MSW617.3 | Geriatric Social Work | HOCU | 3 | 45 | 105 | – | 150 |
| MSW618.3 | Ecological / Environment Social Work | HOCU | 3 | 45 | 105 | – | 150 |
Year 2 - Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject | Status | Credits | DTCH | SLH | FH | TNL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSW626.15 | Thesis | HCU | 15 | – | 1350 | Supervision 1 hour per week | 1350 |
| MSW627.5 | Advanced Field Practicum | HCU | 5 | – | 500 | Supervision 1 hour per week | 500 |
| DTCH – Direct teaching contact hours | SLH – No of hours self-learning | FH – Field Hours | TNL – Total Notional hours |
For more information contact the course coordinator/s:
Mr. V. Jeyaruban
Director (Acting)
Department of Social Work
+94 777 683 675
jeyaruban@nisd.ac.lk
Mrs. Manjula Wijesekara
Senior Lecturer
Department of Social Work
+94 714 452 783
manjula@nisd.ac.lk