Master in Social Work [MSW]

The Master in Social Work [MSW] at Central University of South Bihar (CUSB), Gaya, is a 2-year full-time postgraduate programme offered by the Department of Sociological Studies. Spread across 4 semesters, the programme is designed to equip students with professional knowledge, skills, and values for effective social work practice in diverse settings including community development, welfare administration, NGOs, and social policy. The total course fee is Rs. 23,800 for the entire programme, making it one of the most affordable central university PG options. Admission is based on CUET-PG scores (Paper Code: HUQP21), and the programme has an intake of 45 seats. The MSW at CUSB is offered in full-time, on-campus mode and is popular among students aspiring for careers in social welfare, development sector, government social services, and NGOs.

Admissions for the 2026-27 academic session are currently ongoing. CUET-PG 2026 results were declared on April 24, 2026, and CUSB counselling/registration is expected to begin in May-June 2026. Students who have appeared in CUET-PG 2026 with the Social Work paper (Code: HUQP21) should apply on the CUSB admission portal (cusbcuet.samarth.edu.in) once the registration window opens.

Key Points

• The MSW programme is offered by the Department of Sociological Studies, which also offers MA Sociology and PhD in Sociology, providing a strong interdisciplinary academic environment.
• The programme combines theoretical knowledge with field-based practical training, preparing students for direct social work intervention.
• CUSB holds NAAC A++ accreditation and features in the NIRF 151-200 band, adding credibility to the degree.
• The MSW from a central university is recognized for government social welfare department recruitment and NGO sector positions.
• The programme is particularly relevant for students interested in community development, child welfare, women empowerment, and rural development.

CUSB MSW Fees

Fee Structure

• Security Deposit of Rs. 1,000 is partially refundable: Rs. 500 is refunded at the time of leaving the university, and the remaining Rs. 500 is credited as Alumni Fee.
• Fees are paid semester-wise at the time of registration each semester.
• Hostel fees (optional, subject to availability): approximately Rs. 9,000 per semester (Rs. 18,000 per year). Mess charges are additional, approximately Rs. 2,400 to Rs. 3,500 per month. Hostel is not mandatory.

CUSB MSW Admission 2026

Important Dates

Entrance Exam Dates

• CUSB admission registration is done through the university's own portal (cusbcuet.samarth.edu.in) after CUET-PG results.
• Students must apply separately on the CUSB portal using their CUET-PG score.

The dates mentioned above are tentative and subject to change.

Eligibility Criteria

• Bachelor's Degree in any subject from any recognised university with a minimum of 50% marks for General/OBC/EWS candidates.
• Minimum 45% marks for SC/ST/PWD candidates in the qualifying degree.
• Candidates must appear in CUET-PG 2026 with the Social Work paper (Code: HUQP21) to be eligible for admission at CUSB.

Admission Process

• Appear in CUET-PG 2026 conducted by NTA with Social Work as the test paper (Code: HUQP21).
• After CUET-PG result declaration, register separately on the CUSB admission portal (cusbcuet.samarth.edu.in) within the stipulated dates.
• Merit list is prepared based on CUET-PG scores; candidates are called for document verification and counselling.
• Submit required documents (marksheets, category certificate if applicable, CUET-PG scorecard, etc.) at the time of counselling.
• Pay the semester fee to confirm admission and complete enrolment.

CUSB MSW Scholarships 2026

Scholarship Details

• CUSB internal scholarships are applied for directly through the university's Scholarship Cell after joining.
• Government scholarships must be applied for on the National Scholarship Portal (scholarships.gov.in), typically in October-November each year.
• The Azim Premji Scholarship is also available for eligible students; details are available on the CUSB website.
• Students are advised to apply for scholarships promptly as deadlines are strict.

CUSB MSW FAQs

Ques. Is a background in Social Work mandatory to apply for MSW at CUSB?

Ans. No, a background in Social Work is not mandatory. The eligibility for MSW at CUSB requires a Bachelor's Degree in any subject from any recognised university with a minimum of 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PWD). Students from any stream including arts, science, or commerce can apply. However, students with prior exposure to social sciences, community work, or volunteering will find the programme more relatable and their CUET-PG preparation more focused.

Ques. What is the difference between MSW and MA Sociology at CUSB, and which should I choose?

Ans. Both programmes are offered by the Department of Sociological Studies at CUSB. MSW (Master in Social Work) is a practice-oriented professional degree focused on social welfare, community development, counselling, and direct intervention with individuals, families, and communities. It is better suited for those wanting to work in NGOs, government welfare programmes, hospitals, or social service organisations. MA Sociology is more theoretical and academic, focusing on understanding social structures and is better for those interested in research, academia, or civil services. If you want a hands-on career in social service, MSW is the right choice.

Ques. What career opportunities are available after MSW from CUSB?

Ans. Graduates of MSW from CUSB can pursue careers in NGOs and development organisations, government social welfare departments (through state PSC exams), hospitals and psychiatric social work, child welfare and protection agencies, women empowerment and gender-based organisations, corporate CSR departments, and community development projects. Many graduates also qualify for UGC-NET/JRF in Social Work for teaching and research positions. The MSW from a NAAC A++ accredited central university is well-regarded in the development sector.

Ques. Does the MSW programme at CUSB include field work or internship as part of the curriculum?

Ans. Yes, field work and practical training are integral components of the MSW programme. Social work education mandates concurrent field work placements where students are placed in social welfare agencies, NGOs, hospitals, or community organisations to gain hands-on experience. This practical exposure is a key differentiator of MSW from purely academic programmes and is essential for developing professional social work competencies. Students should be prepared for regular field visits and agency placements as part of their coursework.

Ques. Is MSW from CUSB valid for government jobs in social welfare departments?

Ans. Yes, MSW from CUSB, being a central university with NAAC A++ accreditation, is a valid and recognized qualification for government social welfare department positions. Many state governments recruit Social Welfare Officers, Child Development Project Officers (CDPOs), and similar roles through state PSC exams where MSW is an eligible qualification. In Bihar, BPSC conducts recruitment for various social welfare positions where MSW graduates can apply. Additionally, central government schemes like ICDS, NRLM, and various ministry programmes recruit MSW graduates.

Ques. What is the fee structure for MSW at CUSB, and are there any hidden charges?

Ans. The total course fee for the 2-year MSW programme at CUSB is Rs. 23,800, which is among the lowest for a central university PG programme. This includes one-time fees (admission, enrolment, identity card, development fee) paid in Semester I, and recurring semester fees (tuition, computer lab, examination, library, cultural activities, games/athletics fees) paid each semester. The Security Deposit of Rs. 1,000 is partially refundable (Rs. 500 returned on leaving, Rs. 500 credited as Alumni Fee). There are no hidden charges beyond what is listed in the official fee structure. Hostel and mess fees are separate and optional.