Madras School of Social Work

The Madras School of Social Work (MSSW) is a premier autonomous institution in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, dedicated to social work education and social science research. Established in 1952 by Mary Clubwala Jadhav, it holds the distinction of being the first institution for social work education in South India and the fourth in the country.

Recognized by the UGC and accredited with a NAAC ‘A’ grade, the institution is affiliated with the University of Madras. Operating from its urban campus in Egmore, MSSW has consistently ranked among the top social work colleges in India. It is run under the aegis of the Society for Social Education and Research (SSER) and focuses on professional social work, human resource development, and allied social sciences, aiming to transform human potential into socially sensitive change agents.

Institution type: Private (Autonomous, Grant-in-aid & Self-financing)

Established: 1952

Recognition: UGC, NAAC Accredited, University of Madras Affiliation

Campus Location: Egmore, Chennai

Programs offered: UG (BSW, B.Sc.), PG (MSW, M.A., M.Sc.), M.Phil, Ph.D., PG Diploma

Important Admission Dates (Tentative 2026)

MSSW Chennai Admissions 2026

Admissions are merit and entrance-based. Applicants must register through the official MSSW admission portal. For undergraduate programs, admission is primarily merit-based (10+2 marks). For postgraduate programs, the CUET score is mandatory. The selection process for PG courses typically involves an entrance exam, followed by a group discussion and a personal interview for shortlisted candidates.

Courses Offered at MSSW

The institute offers a wide range of specialized professional courses.

Undergraduate Programs:

• BSW: Bachelor of Social Work

• B.Sc.: Psychology

Postgraduate Programs:

• MSW (Aided & Self-Financing): Specializations in Community Development, Medical & Psychiatric Social Work, and Human Resource Management.

• M.A.: Human Resource & Organizational Development, Social Entrepreneurship.

• M.Sc.: Counselling Psychology, Family Counselling.

Research & Diploma:

• M.Phil and Ph.D. in Social Work; PG Diplomas in various specialized social work fields.

Fees Structure at MSSW

Fees vary based on whether the course is aided or self-financed.

Indicative Fee Details:

• MSW: INR 1.1 Lakhs – 2.6 Lakhs (Total course fee)

• M.A./M.Sc.: INR 1.6 Lakhs – 3.0 Lakhs (Total course fee)

• BSW/B.Sc.: INR 1.8 Lakhs – 2.2 Lakhs (Total course fee)

• Hostel Fees: Approximately INR 69,500 per year (including mess and security deposit).

Faculty and Academic Environment

The faculty consists of highly qualified professionals, including doctorates with extensive research experience in sociology, psychology, and organizational development. The curriculum emphasizes experiential learning through field work placements, community outreach, and evidence-based interventions.

Infrastructure and Placements

The Egmore campus is fully Wi-Fi enabled and features a well-stocked computerized library (17,000+ books), modern computer centers, and classrooms equipped with audio-visual aids.

Placements Highlights:

• Average Package: INR 4.0 – 5.0 LPA.

• Key Roles: HR Executive, Social Worker, Counsellor, NGO Program Manager, CSR Manager.

• Recruiters: World Vision, IJM, SOS Children’s Villages, various corporate HR departments, and leading NGOs.

Why Choose MSSW Chennai?

MSSW is a pioneer in professional social work education. With its autonomous status, industry-aligned curriculum, and deep-rooted commitment to social justice and ethical practice, it provides a unique platform for students to gain both academic knowledge and practical intervention skills in a supportive, urban environment.

Madras School of Social Work FAQs

Q1. Is the Madras School of Social Work a Government college?

Ans. No, it is an autonomous private institution; however, it receives grant-in-aid for some of its programs.

Q2. Is CUET mandatory for PG admissions?

Ans. Yes, the CUET scorecard is mandatory for PG program admissions at MSSW.

Q3. Does the college offer hostel facilities?

Ans. Yes, the college provides hostel facilities for students, with annual fees covering boarding, lodging, and security deposits.

Q4. What is the selection process after the entrance exam?

Ans. Shortlisted candidates are invited for a group discussion followed by a personal interview.

Q5. Can I apply for multiple programs in one application?

Ans. Yes, PG applicants can select multiple specializations within the same application form during the online registration process.