St Aloysius Ph.D (Social Work) FAQs
Ques. Can a practising social worker or NGO professional pursue the Part Time PhD in Social Work at St Aloysius University while continuing their field work?
Ans. Yes, the Part Time PhD in Social Work is specifically designed for practising social workers, NGO professionals, healthcare social workers, and community development practitioners who wish to pursue advanced research while continuing their field work. You are not required to leave your job, but you must be present on campus for coursework, seminars, and research-related activities. The Jesuit tradition of St Aloysius University, with its strong emphasis on social justice and community service, makes it a particularly meaningful environment for Social Work research.
Ques. What are the research areas available under PhD Social Work at St Aloysius University?
Ans. Two PhD guides are available: Dr Shwetha Rasquinha specialises in Medical and Psychiatry Social Work and Community Development, covering areas such as hospital social work, mental health interventions, and community-based rehabilitation; Dr Prithwi M specialises in Human Resource Management, Unorganised Laborers, and the Informal Sector, covering areas such as labour welfare, migrant workers, and social protection for informal workers. Candidates are advised to contact the relevant guide before applying to discuss their research proposal and confirm the availability of a research slot.
Ques. With only 2 seats available, how should I prepare for the PhD Social Work admission at St Aloysius University?
Ans. With only 2 seats per intake, the PhD Social Work programme is highly competitive. Candidates with UGC-NET in Social Work are directly called for the interview, bypassing the written test. For non-NET candidates, strong performance in the entrance test (Research Methodology + Social Work subject topics) and a well-articulated research proposal during the interview are critical. It is strongly recommended to contact the PhD guides before applying, develop a clear research proposal aligned with the guide's expertise, and demonstrate your field experience and research motivation during the interview.
Ques. Is a Master's in Social Work (MSW) mandatory for PhD Social Work admission, or can candidates from related fields apply?
Ans. The primary eligibility requirement is a Master's degree in Social Work (MSW) or a related Social Science discipline with at least 55% marks. Candidates with a Master's in Psychology, Sociology, Public Health, or related disciplines may be considered if their academic background is deemed relevant by the university. However, the final decision on eligibility rests with the university. It is advisable to contact the university's Research and Development Cell or the PhD guide directly to confirm eligibility before applying.
Ques. What is the significance of pursuing a PhD in Social Work from a Jesuit institution like St Aloysius University?
Ans. St Aloysius (Deemed to be University) is a Jesuit institution with a 146-year legacy of social service, community engagement, and value-based education. The Jesuit tradition emphasises social justice, care for the marginalised, and holistic human development, which aligns deeply with the values of Social Work as a profession. Research conducted at this institution often has a strong community orientation and practical relevance. The university's location in Mangalore, a diverse coastal city with significant migrant worker populations and healthcare challenges, provides rich opportunities for applied Social Work research.
Ques. What career opportunities does a PhD in Social Work open up, and is it worth pursuing part-time?
Ans. A PhD in Social Work opens up career opportunities in academia (Assistant Professor positions in Social Work departments), senior roles in NGOs and international development organisations, policy research and advisory positions in government and think tanks, and leadership roles in healthcare social work and community development programmes. Pursuing it part-time allows you to continue gaining field experience while building your research credentials, which is a significant advantage in the Social Work field where practical experience is highly valued alongside academic qualifications. The degree from a UGC-recognised Deemed to be University is valid for all academic and professional purposes.







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