Career Option after MSW from IGNOU

Aayushi
Aayushi Madavi
Associate Senior Executive
6 mins readUpdated on Apr 3, 2025 17:45 IST
If you are planning to pursue an MSW course from IGNOU, learn about the course and job opportunities after the course on this page. 
Job opportunities after completing MSW from IGNOU - Social Work is one of the most sought-after distance learning courses among candidates. It is the discipline of Social Science which deals with the improvement of the social structure and welfare of society. The work of the social worker involves working with individuals, families and communities to deal with issues such as poverty, unemployment and education. Students who later become social workers get involved in various activities like counselling, teaching, interpersonal problems, community development, helping the physically or mentally challenged, etc. A Masters in Social Work or MSW is a two-year-long postgraduate course in social work that can set future social workers on the right path and give them the necessary training. Graduates and postgraduates who wish to work for social welfare often choose a distance learning MSW programme at IGNOU (Indira Gandhi National Open University). In this article, we will discuss the MSW course at IGNOU and the jop opportunities for MSW graduates. Read further to learn more. 

Also Read: IGNOU Admission Procedure

MSW from IGNOU

An MSW course offered at IGNOU is minimum two years long. It can also be completed by students in a maximum time of five years. Any student with a bachelor’s or a higher degree from any recognised university is eligible to apply for the course at IGNOU. Once students get admission at IGNOU in the MSW programme, they are provided with ingeniously prepared, elaborate self-instructional print materials. The print materials are also supported with various audio as well as video programmes to help students get a grasp of different topics better.

Apart from theoretical part, MSW from IGNOU also offers students relevant practical experience in the form of internships. The internship is usually 90 days long.

MSW Tuition Fee at IGNOU

Students can check the table below to learn about the IGNOU courses and their total tuition fees.

MSW Courses Total Fees in INR
MSW in Counselling  36K
Master of Social Work (MSW) 36K

Also Read: List of IGNOU Courses Offered in Distance Learning Mode

MSW Placements through IGNOU

Once students obtain their MSW degree from IGNOU, they can avail job opportunities in both public and private sectors. Opportunities in the government sector are mainly in community development projects related to education, health, rural development, child welfare, women's rights, etc. In the private or corporate sector, graduates may find jobs in privately owned NGOs or child welfare and family service agencies. In the private sector, the responsibilities of social workers primarily involve providing mental health, medical health and educational services.

Q:   What all specialisations are available under the BSc programme at IGNOU?
A:

Indira Gandhi National Open University offers BSc and BSc (Hons) course across different durations. The course duration range from three to four years. Check out all specialisations available under BSc in the following table:

BSc Specialisations

Botany

Chemistry

Geography

Geology

Mathematics

Physics

Zoology

PB BSc Nursing

-

In addition to BSc, IGNOU also offers a UG BSc (Hons) programme across two specialisations, namely Anthropology and Biochemistry. 

Q:   What are the top 5 courses in IGNOU?
A:

One of the leading universities in India, IGNOU offers over 200 UG, PG, diploma, certificate and doctoral courses via open and distance learning (ODL) mode. Candidates interested in IGNOU admission can apply through the online admission portal for ODL programmes, i.e. ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in. In addition, the university launched an Online Education portal under its umbrella and now, it offers more than 40 UG, PG, Diploma and Certificate courses via the same. 

Out of all these courses, some of the popular ones are listed below:

  • BA
  • BCom
  • BSc
  • MBA
  • B.Ed

Read more on top IGNOU courses

Q:   Which core subjects are taught in the IGNOU BSc (H) Biochemistry course?
A:

IGNOU BSc course curriculum include subjects categories as core courses, discipline specific courses, ability enhancement courses, skill enhancement courses, and generic electives. Some of the core subjects included in the IGNOU BSc (H) Biochemistry course curriculum are:

  • Molecules of Life
  • Cell Biology
  • Proteins
  • Enzymes
  • Metabolism of Carbohydrates and Lipids
  • Human Physiology
  • Concepts in Genetics
  • Immunology, etc.

IGNOU has a campus placement cell (CPC) through which it conducts placement drives from time to time to help its students get recruited in lucrative jobs related to social work. All students interested in getting placed through IGNOU CPC must fill out the registration form available on the official website of the university. Steps to register for IGNOU placements are given below:

  • Visit the official website of IGNOU
  • Click on the Placement Assistance tab present on the Home Page of the website
  • Click on the Registration Portal tab
  • Download as well as take a printout of the Registration form
  • Fill in all details asked in the form, such as name, email ID, mobile number, gender, marital status, date of birth, programme completed from IGNOU, enrollment number, educational qualification, area of interest of employment, preference of job location, etc
  • Submit the form at the campus placement cell of IGNOU

Candidates who have completed an MSW from IGNOU and are seeking employment opportunities in social work are advised to check the university website regularly for the latest updates on the placement drives organised by the university. However, it is to be noted that registered candidates are also informed about the placement drives through email or SMS by the university.

Job Opportunities for MSW Degree-Holders

After completing an MSW from IGNOU, students can choose to work in various fields as per their specialisation. Those with a specialisation in the medical field can work in hospitals, nursing homes, as well as rehabilitation centres.  

Q:   What are the generic electives offered in the IGNOU BSc (H) Anthropology course?
A:

The Indira Gandhi National Open University offers four generic electives to the BSc (H) Anthropology course aspirants. There is a certain credit attached with each of the subject. Apart from this, the course curriculum also includes ability enhancement compulsory course (AECC). The two AECC subjects included in the curriclum are Environmental Studies and English Communication Skills.

Q:   Can I pursue 2 courses from IGNOU at the same time?
A:

As per the official brochure released, a student is allowed to pursue two academic programmes simultaneously through ODL / Online mode, as per the illustration given below.

CourseDetails
One certificate programme with any
other Programme
Admission in both programmes can be taken in the same
admission cycle
One UG + One PG ProgrammeAdmission has to be taken in two different
admission cycles
*Admission can be taken only in specified courses. Details
are available on IGNOU website
Two UG Programmes
Two PG Programmes

Certain programmes are not allowed under the simultaneous registration. Students are advised to visit
the official prospectus for the same. Additionally, there will be no change in the counseling/ assignment submission/ examination schedule in case dates for the above clash for the courses in which a student has taken admission.

Q:   Is Post Graduate Diploma in Geriatric Medicine available at IGNOU via distance learning mode?
A:
Yes, the Post Graduate Diploma in Geriatric Medicine offered by Indira Gandhi National Open University IGNOU is a distance learning course. IGNOU is a renowned open university in India that offers various programs through distance education, allowing students to pursue their studies without the need for regular classroom attendance. The Post Graduate Diploma in Geriatric Medicine is designed to provide healthcare professionals with specialised knowledge and skills in the field of geriatric medicine, which focuses on the healthcare needs of older adults. The programme aims to enhance the understanding of aging-related issues, promote geriatric care, and develop expertise in the management and treatment of geriatric patients. As a distance learning course, IGNOU's Post Graduate Diploma in Geriatric Medicine offers study materials, online resources, and periodic contact classes to facilitate learning. Students can access the course material, engage in self-study, and submit assignments as per the prescribed schedule. The programme also includes practical training and fieldwork to gain hands-on experience in geriatric care. It's important to note that while the programme is offered through distance learning, there may be certain practical components or clinical requirements that need to be fulfilled. It is recommended to visit IGNOU's official website or contact the university directly for detailed information about the course structure, eligibility criteria, admission process, and any specific requirements. Distance learning programs can be a flexible option for individuals who wish to pursue higher education while managing other commitments. However, it's crucial to ensure that the course meets your specific requirements and aligns with your career goals before enrolling.
Q:   Is IGNOU offered pre primary teacher training or not.
A:

Yes, Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) offers a programme called "Diploma in Early Childhood Care and Education" (DECE) which is specifically designed for individuals interested in pre-primary teacher training. The DECE programme focuses on providing knowledge and skills related to the care and education of young children in the age group of 0-6 years.

Q:   Which course should I pursue after completing MA in Hindi from IGNOU?
A:

You can do PhD in Hindi or an M.Phil in Hindi after completing an MA Hindi course from IGNOU. These courses are useful for you to pursue your career in the teaching profession. You can get a Lecturer job after completing the PhD in Hindi. You can also do an MBA in Finance or Marketing course after an MA in Hindi. If you do it from a reputed institution then there are more job opportunities. The above given are some of the best courses to pursue after an MA in Hindi. You can apply online or offline for admission to the course. The candidates with MA Hindi with 55% marks are eligible for the PhD in Hindi course. Admission to the course will be done through an entrance test and personal interview (on the research subject).

Those who wish to work towards the cause of substance abuse can choose to work at places such as prisons, NGOs and rehabilitation centres. Social workers specialised in substance abuse work towards the treatment of people addicted to drugs and other negative emotions, such as anger and grief.                

Interested students can also work towards the betterment of people suffering from some kind of mental or psychiatric illness. Such candidates can work in mental hospitals, community health centers, charitable trusts for mental health, etc.

MSW degree holders can also work for different child welfare organisations that work towards improving the lives of children neglected by parents or those who belong to low-income families.

Social workers with a degree in MSW from IGNOU can also find jobs in a social work school. In a social work school, candidates can work as counsellors and provide guidance to students on issues related to sex education, health education, crisis intervention, communication between teachers, parents and students, etc.  

Candidates who wish to be self-employed can choose to establish their own NGO, old age home or other related clinics.  

IGNOU: Top Recruiters

Candidates can find the data below to know about the top recruiting companies of IGNOU.

IGNOU Top Recruiters
Tata Consultancy Services HCL
Accenture Infosys
Amazon Cognizant 
EY American Express
Bharat Electronics Confidential
Wipro Technologies Amity University
Antares Systems Ltd. BT Group
Atul Limited -

Read More:

FAQs Related to MSW

Q. What are the scope of Master of Social Work (MSW)?

A. With social awareness booming in the current scenario, the need for professionals in the field is growing day by day. Candidates pursuing a Master of Social Work can make their career in the field of Medicine, Psychiatric Social Work, Human Resource ManagementCriminology, Correctional Administration, NGOs and many welfare communities.

Q. What are the advantages of studying Master of Social Work (MSW)?

A. If your aim is to be a social worker, pursuing an MSW course will enhance your skills and widen your horizons in the field. This field requires licensed people so a master degree can provide you with many opportunities. You may have the opportunity to widen your social work after earning a master's degree in social work and work with people on a variety of mental, physical, and emotional challenges.

Your prospects for a social work job can expand if you pursue a master's degree. You can pursue new opportunities, work in a variety of fields, or refine your current profession.

Q. What is Master of Social Work (MSW)?

A. Master of Social Work (MSW) can be defined as a social science course in which students are taught to use resources to solve the problems of society. MSW course can be completed in a two-year duration. The programme is divided into four semesters. Aspirants can pursue MSW courses after completing a Bachelor's degree in the relevant field.

This profession is suitable for those people who wish to join non-government organisations and help the needy and underprivileged. If you are interested in a career in social work, an MSW degree can provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to make a difference in the lives of others.

Q. Which are the top recruiting companies for MSW?

A. Some of the popular recruiting companies for MSW candidates are:

  • Goonj
  • TeachForIndia
  • CRY
  • UNESCO
  • UNICEF
  • HelpAge India
  • CINI 
About the Author
author-image
Aayushi Madavi
Associate Senior Executive

Aayushi is a BAJMC graduate and an ardent consumer of content with a keen passion for film, TV and books. She specialises in Mass Communication and Humanities related exams, entrances and courses.

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