The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) offers Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program through distance education mode. IGNOU BSW admission 2025 is an excellent opportunity for students who want to pursue a career in social work. The program aims to develop professional social workers with the necessary knowledge, skills, and attitudes to work with individuals, groups, and communities.
The IGNOU BSW admission process for the July 2025 session is currently open, with the last date for submission of applications being 15th July 2025. Students interested in IGNOU BSW admission should apply before the deadline to avoid any last-minute complications. All IGNOU Admissions 2025 for the July session are starting from the same date that we mentioned. Students are advised to stay updated with the official website.
Get Free Consultation
Still not got the information you are looking for? Get free consultation Now from our experts.
The fee for the BSW program at IGNOU is affordable compared to regular colleges, making it an accessible option for many students. The total program fee is approximately INR 18,600 for the complete three-year course, payable semester-wise.
The BSW program offered by IGNOU is recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and approved by the Distance Education Bureau (DEB). This ensures that the degree has the same value as any regular BSW degree from other recognized universities.
IGNOU also provides placement assistance to its BSW graduates, with many students finding employment in NGOs, government agencies, and international organizations working in the social welfare sector.
IGNOU BSW Highlights
Before applying for the BSW IGNOU course, students should be familiar with the key aspects of the course. Here are the details of BSW course:
Feature | Details |
Course Name | Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) |
Duration | 3 Years (Minimum) / 6 Years (Maximum) |
Provided by | The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU)admission last date |
Course Level | Undergraduate Course |
Eligibility | Class 12 or equivalent |
Learning Mode | Distance Mode |
IGNOU BSW Admission Start Date | June 6, 2025 |
IGNOU BSW Admission Last Date | July 15, 2025 |
Fee Structure | INR 18,600 |
Study Materials | Digital study materials like E-books and PDFs |
Assessment | Assignments, projects, and online exams |
Accreditation/Approvals | UGC-DEB Approved |
Career Opportunity | NGOs, government agencies, and social welfare organizations |
What is BSW Distance Education?
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) through distance education is a flexible undergraduate program designed for students who cannot attend regular college due to various reasons. The IGNOU BSW admission offers students an opportunity to gain knowledge and skills in social work practice while managing their other commitments.
The program helps students understand social problems and develop interventions to address these issues. It combines theoretical knowledge with practical fieldwork, allowing students to apply what they learn in real-world situations. IGNOU BSW syllabus is designed to cover all aspects of social work, including individual, group, and community work, social welfare administration, social policy, and research.
The distance education mode makes it possible for working professionals, homemakers, and students from remote areas to access quality education and prepare for a career in social work. Students can study at their own pace while receiving guidance from experienced faculty through study materials, counseling sessions, and practical workshops.
Eligibility and Duration
The admission criteria ensure that the program is accessible to a wide range of students who wish to pursue a career in social work.
Eligibility Criteria:
- 12th pass or equivalent qualification from a recognized board/university
- No age restriction for admission
- No entrance examination required
- Previous work experience in the social work field is beneficial, but not mandatory
- Basic computer knowledge is recommended
Duration:
- Minimum Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
- Maximum Duration: 6 years
- Students must complete all course requirements, including theory papers, assignments, and fieldwork, within the maximum time limit
- Extension beyond 6 years requires special permission and re-registration
IGNOU BSW Subjects
The BSW program at IGNOU provides a comprehensive understanding of various aspects of social work. While there are no formal specializations at the undergraduate level, the program covers different areas of social work practice.
Areas of Focus | Description |
Family and Child Welfare | Study of family dynamics, child development, and interventions related to child protection and family welfare |
Medical and Psychiatric Social Work | Focus on social aspects of health, illness, and the application of social work in healthcare settings |
Community Development | Understanding community structures, resource mobilization, and sustainable development approaches |
Social Work with the Elderly | Study of gerontological issues and interventions for aging populations |
Rural and Urban Community Work | Addressing specific issues and developing interventions for rural and urban communities |
Fees
The fee structure for the IGNOU BSW program is designed to be affordable and student-friendly. The program follows a semester-wise payment system, allowing students to manage their expenses effectively.
The total fee for the complete BSW program at IGNOU is approximately INR 18,600. This includes registration fees, course fees, examination fees, and study material costs. The fees may be subject to revision by the university for future sessions.
Fee Component | Amount (INR) |
Registration Fee | 300 |
Program Fee (per year) | 6,300 |
Total Program Fee (for 3 years) | 18,600 |
Get Free Consultation
Still not got the information you are looking for? Get free consultation Now from our experts.
Get Free Consultation
Still not got the information you are looking for? Get free consultation Now from our experts.
Advantages of IGNOU BSW
The Bachelor of Social Work program at IGNOU offers numerous advantages over traditional classroom-based programs:
- Flexibility: Students can study at their own pace and convenience, making it ideal for working professionals and homemakers.
- Affordability: The program fees are significantly lower than regular colleges, making quality education accessible to all.
- Recognition: The degree is recognized by UGC and has the same value as a regular BSW degree.
- Comprehensive Study Material: High-quality self-learning materials designed by experts in the field.
- Practical Training: Despite being a distance program, it includes mandatory fieldwork and practical training.
- Network of Study Centers: Access to counseling sessions and practical guidance through study centers across the country.
Why Choose IGNOU BSW?
IGNOU BSW program offers several compelling reasons for students to choose this program:
The course stands out as an excellent choice for aspiring social workers due to its student-friendly approach. The curriculum is designed to balance theoretical knowledge with practical experience, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for the challenges of professional social work. The program offers flexibility in terms of study pace, allowing students to manage their education alongside other commitments.
The affordability of the IGNOU BSW course makes quality education accessible to students from various socioeconomic backgrounds. The university’s extensive network of study centers provides support and guidance to students throughout their academic journey. The program’s recognition by regulatory bodies ensures that graduates have equal opportunities in employment and higher education.
The BSW IGNOU syllabus is regularly updated to reflect contemporary issues and practices in social work, keeping students updated with the latest developments in the field. The program focuses on fieldwork and provides students with real-world experience, enhancing their employability upon graduation.
Online BSW vs Distance BSW Education
Before proceeding with IGNOU BSW admission, it’s important to understand the difference between online and distance education modes.
Parameters | Online BSW | Distance BSW |
Mode of Instruction | Internet-based learning through virtual classrooms | Self-learning through printed/digital study materials |
Interaction | Real-time interaction through video conferencing | Periodic contact sessions at study centers |
Accessibility | Requires continuous internet connectivity | Study materials can be accessed offline |
Flexibility | Scheduled online sessions may have fixed timing | Complete flexibility in study schedule |
Technology Dependency | High dependence on technology | Moderate technology requirement |
Cost | Generally higher due to technology infrastructure | Usually more affordable |
Study Materials | Digital content, video lectures | Printed materials, supplemented by audio-visual aids |
IGNOU primarily offers BSW through the distance education mode, which provides greater flexibility and accessibility to students across diverse geographical locations.
IGNOU BSW Syllabus
The syllabus of the BSW program is comprehensive and covers various aspects of social work education. It is designed to develop both theoretical knowledge and practical skills required for professional social work practice.
First Year (Semester 1 & 2)
Semester | Course Code | Course Title | Credits |
Semester 1 | BSWE-001 | Introduction to Social Work | 4 |
Semester 1 | BSWE-002 | Social Work Case Work and Counselling | 4 |
Semester 1 | BSWE-003 | Social Work with Groups | 4 |
Semester 1 | BSWE-004 | Social Work with Communities | 4 |
Semester 2 | BSWE-005 | Introduction to HIV/AIDS | 4 |
Semester 2 | BSWE-006 | Social Work Practicum | 10 |
Second Year (Semester 3 & 4)
Semester | Course Code | Course Title | Credits |
Semester 3 | BSWE-007 | Social Work and Criminal Justice | 4 |
Semester 3 | BSWE-008 | Social Work with the Elderly | 4 |
Semester 3 | BSWE-009 | Social Work with Persons with Disabilities | 4 |
Semester 3 | BSWE-010 | Social Work with Families | 4 |
Semester 4 | BSWE-011 | Social Work with Children | 4 |
Semester 4 | BSWE-012 | Social Work Practicum | 10 |
Third Year (Semester 5 & 6)
Semester | Course Code | Course Title | Credits |
Semester 5 | BSWE-013 | Social Work Research | 4 |
Semester 5 | BSWE-014 | Social Work with Youth | 4 |
Semester 5 | BSWE-015 | Social Policy and Planning | 4 |
Semester 5 | BSWE-016 | Social Work Administration | 4 |
Semester 6 | BSWE-017 | Social Work in Mental Health Settings | 4 |
Semester 6 | BSWE-018 | Social Work Practicum and Dissertation | 10 |
IGNOU BSW Study Material
IGNOU provides comprehensive study materials to all students who complete their IGNOU BSW admission process. These materials are specially designed for self-learning and cover the entire IGNOU BSW syllabus.
The study materials include printed blocks (books) for each course, which are written in simple language with numerous examples and case studies to facilitate understanding. These materials are prepared by subject experts and undergo rigorous quality checks before distribution to students.
In addition to printed materials, IGNOU also provides digital resources through its eGyankosh portal. Students can download study materials in PDF format from this portal after completing their IGNOU BSW admission.
For practical courses and fieldwork components, IGNOU provides guidelines and workbooks to help students document their field experiences and reflections.
IGNOU BSW vs Other Indian Universities
Here’s a comparison of IGNOU BSW with other government universities offering distance education in management. These institutions provide quality education through distance learning but differ in various aspects.
University | Location | Program Duration | Fees (Approx. in INR) |
Delhi University SOL | Delhi | 3 years | 15,000 |
Nalanda Open University | Patna, Bihar | 3 years | 12,000 |
Karnataka State Open University | Mysore, Karnataka | 3 years | 9,000 |
Yashwantrao Chavan Maharashtra Open University | Nashik, Maharashtra | 3 years | 11,500 |
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Open University | Hyderabad, Telangana | 3 years | 10,000 |
Here’s a comparison with private universities offering distance education in BSW programs:
University | Location | Program Duration | Fees (Approx. in INR) |
Amity University | Noida, UP | 3 years | 30,000 |
Lovely Professional University | Phagwara, Punjab | 3 years | 25,000 |
Annamalai University | Tamil Nadu | 3 years | 18,000 |
Sikkim Manipal University | Gangtok, Sikkim | 3 years | 24,000 |
Alagappa University | Tamil Nadu | 3 years | 16,500 |
IGNOU BSW Admission Process
The IGNOU BSW admission process for July 2025 session is now open. The application fee for the BSW program is INR 300.
Steps for IGNOU BSW Admission:
- Visit the official IGNOU website and navigate to the ‘Admission’ section
- Register on the IGNOU Online Admission System (OAS) by creating a username and password
- Fill in the online application form with accurate personal and educational details
- Select the BSW program (Program Code: BSW) and preferred study center
- Upload scanned copies of required documents (photograph, signature, educational certificates, ID proof, etc.)
- Pay the application and program fees online through credit/debit card, net banking, or UPI
- Submit the completed application form and take a printout for future reference
- Track application status using the registration number provided after submission
- Upon approval, download the enrollment letter and student handbook
- Visit the assigned study center for orientation and collection of study materials
Required documents:
- 10th and 12th mark sheets and certificates
- Category certificate (SC/ST/OBC) if applicable
- Identity proof (Aadhaar card/Voter ID/Passport)
- Recent passport-sized photographs
- Scanned signature
IGNOU BSW Placement
After completing the IGNOU BSW program, graduates can expect reasonable placement opportunities in various organizations working in the social welfare sector. The university’s School of Social Work maintains connections with various governmental and non-governmental organizations to facilitate placements for its graduates.
The placement process typically begins in the final semester of the program. Students receive notifications about job openings and campus interviews through their respective study centers. The university also organizes job fairs and career counseling sessions to help students prepare for employment opportunities.
List of Companies for Placement
Organization Type | Organizations |
Non-Governmental Organizations | CARE India, Oxfam, ActionAid, Save the Children, World Vision |
Government Agencies | Ministry of Social Justice, Ministry of Women and Child Development, NITI Aayog |
International Organizations | UNICEF, UNESCO, WHO, UNDP, ILO |
Healthcare Institutions | AIIMS, Fortis Healthcare, Apollo Hospitals, Max Healthcare |
Corporate Social Responsibility Wings | Tata Trust, Infosys Foundation, Azim Premji Foundation, Reliance Foundation |
Research Organizations | TISS, NISD, ICSSR, IIPA |
Educational Institutions | Schools, Colleges, Special Education Centers |
Counseling Centers | Child Guidance Clinics, Family Counseling Centers, Rehabilitation Centers |
Placement Statistics from Previous Years
Year | Placement Rate | Average Salary (INR) |
2024 | 75% | 3,20,000 – 4,80,000 |
2023 | 72% | 3,00,000 – 4,50,000 |
2022 | 70% | 2,80,000 – 4,20,000 |
2021 | 68% | 2,60,000 – 4,00,000 |
2020 | 65% | 2,40,000 – 3,80,000 |
The placement opportunities after IGNOU BSW admission are quite promising, with many graduates going on to pursue successful careers in various social welfare organizations. Some graduates also opt for higher studies like a Master of Social Work (MSW) to enhance their career prospects further. For students wanting to continue in the same learning format, information about IGNOU MSW Admissions is available on the university’s official website.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the last date for IGNOU BSW admission 2025?
The last date for IGNOU BSW admission for the July 2025 session is expected to be July 15, 2025.
Is the IGNOU BSW degree valid for government jobs?
Yes, the IGNOU BSW degree is recognized by UGC and is valid for government jobs and higher education.
What is the total fee for the complete BSW program at IGNOU?
The total fee for the complete three-year BSW program at IGNOU is approximately INR 18,600.
Can I complete the IGNOU BSW program in less than three years?
No, the minimum duration for completing the BSW program is three years as per UGC guidelines.
Do I need to have a background in social sciences to apply for IGNOU BSW admission?
No, students from any academic background (Arts, Science, Commerce) can apply for the BSW program.
How are the examinations conducted in the IGNOU BSW program?
Examinations are conducted twice a year (June and December) at designated examination centers across the country.
Can I transfer my IGNOU BSW credits to another university?
Yes, IGNOU follows the credit system, and credits can be transferred as per the receiving university’s policies.
Get Free Consultation
Still not got the information you are looking for? Get free consultation Now from our experts.