Department of Social Work

Social Work, as a profession, is committed to the well-being of society, promotes social change, problem-solving in human relationships, and the empowerment and liberation of people from oppression and marginalization. Recognizing the acute shortage of trained social workers in eastern India, particularly West Bengal, St. Xavier's University, Kolkata established its Department of Social Work in 2017, guided by the University's mission of "reaching the unreached." The Department offers a two-year postgraduate (MSW) programme as well as a PhD programme in Social Work. Social Work education at St. Xavier's University, Kolkata is benchmarked to international standards while remaining deeply rooted in the realities of contemporary society. The Master's programme is designed to nurture skilled professionals for the field of development and welfare. Students are oriented to socio-economic realities and emerging developmental issues, equipping them to address concerns related to human rights, development and gender, among others.The programme offers students a transformative experience — one that fosters intellectual growth alongside social and cultural awareness.