College of Social Work (Empowered Autonomous), Nirmala Niketan, established in 1955, is one of India’s leading institutions dedicated to advancing social work, applied social science education, management, research, and community impact. Located in the heart of Mumbai, the College is managed by the Nirmala Niketan Trust and recognized for its commitment to academic excellence, social justice, and transformative field engagement.
With a legacy of seven decades (1955-2025), College of Social Work has built a reputation as a hub for high-quality social work, social science, and management training combining rigorous academic instruction with deep, sustained community immersion. The College holds Empowered Autonomous Status (2024–2034) from the University of Mumbai and is nationally accredited for its progressive curriculum, strong fieldwork ecosystem, and research excellence.
The college offers a comprehensive suite of programs that attract students from across India and abroad, including:
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)
Master of Social Work (MSW)
MA (Social Innovation and Entrepreneurship)
Ph.D
Multiple Diploma and Certificate Programs and Stand Alone Courses
The curriculum is aligned with standards and emphasizes analytical thinking, ethical practice, interdisciplinary learning, and leadership development. Every student undergoes immersive fieldwork placements in urban, rural, and tribal settings—an approach that positions College of Social Work graduates as practice-ready professionals equipped for global social development roles.
College of Social Work is home to several pioneering Field Action Projects that address pressing societal challenges—ranging from children’s rights, youth development, community health, disability inclusion, gender justice, elder care, and livelihood enhancement. The College also hosts the Nirmiti Centre for Social Innovation & Entrepreneurship, which promotes social enterprise, incubation support, community-based innovation, and research-driven problem solving. These initiatives make the institution a preferred partner for collaborative research and development programs.
Why Students Choose College of Social Work?
Nationally recognized autonomous institution with a strong academic reputation
Deep community engagement, offering unmatched field exposure
Global-ready curriculum with contemporary specialisations
Strong research orientation and opportunities for publication
Vibrant student environment, with leadership training, rural camps, practicum, and extension activities
Decades of alumni influence, with graduates working in UN bodies, international NGOs, government institutions, academia, and social enterprises
More information on academic program structure can be found here.
