History

Evolution of the Department of Social Work, The American College, Madurai.

The Postgraduate programme in Social Work is the culmination of a long-standing integral part of the college’s curriculum since 1998. Its inspiration was drawn from Dr A D

Lindsay of Oxford, chairman of a visiting commission on higher education in 1931. He recommended that the American College lead the organisation of extension and research activities in southern India. Consequently, the Extension Department was established in 1934.

The Postgraduate Department of Social Work in The American College addresses relevant social concerns of the contemporary needs by offering a two – year high-quality education and relevant training to students, thereby enhancing their employability through two specialisations: Human Resource Management and Development Management. Several curriculum development efforts have been undertaken to meet the global requirements.

In 2004 a major recognition for the department came forth in the form of a UGC-sponsored Major Research Project on the theme of ‘Population Ageing’ in the northern block of Alanganallur, Madurai district and was sanctioned for a value of 25 lakh rupees. In addition, the department commenced a two-year postgraduate diploma in Population Ageing

between 2004 and 2009. In 2006 a new specialisation ‘Medical & Psychiatric Social Work’ was

added to the department’s curriculum. The department has established mutually beneficial links

with various institutions and stakeholders which has garnered interest and admiration from

potential employers.

The department strives continuously to be a major contributor towards the Institutional Social Responsibility uplifting the stakeholders from all walks of life from service, policy and

international delegations. The department has been in service towards its students and the

academic research fraternity for the past 27 years inspiring countless individuals and communities along the way.

In the year 2026, the Department has commenced Bachelor of Social Work (B.S.W) with the vision of incorporating the Social Work values among the Undergraduate students.

Courses offered: B.S.W.,M.S.W.